Can You Add a Subwoofer to a Bose Car System?
If you are an audiophile just like me, I must say that you’re not satisfied with your current bose system performance. The music feels good with more bass. Therefore, you are looking for a way to add a subwoofer to your Bose Car System ⁽¹⁾.
So can you add a subwoofer to a bose car system? Yes, you can attach the car subwoofer to bose stereo. That’s not rocket science. As an audio expert, I’ve attached the many subs to the car bose amp or replaced the bose sub with a new subwoofer. Are you curious about adding your sub too? Let’s dive in!
What Is a Bose Car Bose System?
Before we go further, it’s essential to know what a bose car system is. Many people need to correct their mistakes about having a bose stereo after reading bose somewhere on the car stereo system. But in reality, they are not using it. Bose car systems can provide a more immersive and enjoyable experience while traveling.
So,These systems offer improved audio clarity and sound quality by leveraging advanced technologies, such as digital signal processors (DSPs), to optimize the system’s performance. Bose Car System also features amplifiers and active equalizers that help shape the audio experience.
Additionally, the systems can include specialized components such as signal-processing technologies that provide an improved audio experience through increased clarity and dynamic range. By utilizing these technologies, Bose car systems deliver superior sound quality compared to conventional speakers. In addition, some models feature advanced features like integrated navigation and iPod connectivity for added convenience.
2 Ways to Connect a Car Subwoofer to Bose Stereo:
There are two methods for easy installation. You can use an external amplifier or make a connection without a new amp!
1. Connecting Through an External Amplifier (Preferably For a Passive Subwoofer):
1.1 If You Want to Add an Extra Subwoofer:
If you want a subwoofer (You can use kickers) while using your current bose subwoofer, too, follow these simple methods:
1. Turn off the Car Ignition:
To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your subwoofer and car audio system, turning off the car ignition before connecting any external components is essential. Turning it off will prevent potential electrical damage or short circuits caused by high voltage spikes when the engine is engaged.
2. Disconnect All Wires:
You can reduce your workload just by disconnecting all the audio inputs and other speaker wires. Doing so will enable you to access the audio components easily.
3. Ground the External Amplifier (Use Amplifier Wiring Kit):
Before making a subwoofer and car bose amp connection, it is essential to ground the amplifier properly. An amp wiring kit provides everything necessary for grounding a sub amp, including the necessary wiring and hardware. To begin, lay out all components from the equipment in an organized fashion on a flat surface near the amplifier.
Start by identifying the fuse holder and running the power wire from the amplifier to it. You should connect the cables firmly without causing strain or damage to either component. Proceed by connecting the ground wire, typically black, to a suitable grounding point near the amplifier.
You can quickly do this by loosening a bolt or screw and attaching the ground wire to it. Ensure you use an excellent fuse on the power wire between your amplifier and battery connection.
4. Connect Subwoofer With External Amp:
You will need to connect the passive subwoofer to the external through speaker wire or RCA patch cable (If RCA inputs are available on the subwoofer) and the correct wiring diagram for your specific subwoofer model. Begin with locating the positive and negative terminals of both the subwoofer and amplifier.
Ensure you use the correct polarity when connecting: positive (red) to positive and negative (black) to negative. Tighten the terminals securely with a screwdriver or other appropriate tool. Once connected, plug one end of the speaker wire into the amplifier’s output, and the other end into the subwoofer’s input. You are now ready to make a connection with your bose car stereo.
5. Connect Bose System With Amp Using LOC:
You can now quickly connect the external amplifier to the bose system. You’ll have to arrange a line output converter (LOC) ⁽²⁾ for this. If you don’t have one, purchase it from a good source. Ensure it has the correct voltage level to match your amplifier’s rating.
Connect the LOC to the vehicle’s stereo system by plugging one end into the head unit speaker-level outputs. Next, locate the RCA preamp outputs on the LOC, and plug a patch cable into it. Finally, connect one end of the patch cable to your amplifier’s input, and from that amp’s output, connect the extra subwoofer you want to add, said at point 4. Now you are ready to enjoy the amplified sound from your bose car system!
6. Connect All the Wires:
Ensure that you have connected all the wires you disconnected before a subwoofer and bose system connection. If not connected properly, you will not be able to hear any sound from your car stereo system.
7. Turn on the Power and Test:
Once all the necessary connections have been made, turning on the power and testing your sound system is essential. Start by turning on the amplifier and then the car’s stereo system. Set all volume levels to low before playing any music or sound files. Then slowly increase the volumes until you reach a comfortable level – making sure not to exceed the recommended level.
1.2 If You Want to Replace Your Bose Subwoofer:
If you want to replace your bose subwoofer, follow all the above methods. You can use a free-air subwoofer if you don’t want to use a car sub-box.
(Note: Using the same-sized subwoofer to your bose sub is essential. Otherwise, you will not be able to place your new car subwoofer in the same spot.)
Follow these simple steps:
1. Turn off the Car Ignition:
As discussed above, it is necessary to turn off your car’s engine before making any changes to your car’s electric components.
2. Disconnect All Wires:
Disconnect all the wires to get easy access to your audio components.
3. Ground the External Amplifier:
For replacing your subwoofer, it is essential to ground your amp. You can follow the above point # 3.
4. Unscrew Your Bose Sub:
Now it’s time to unscrew your old bose subwoofer. It’s a quick method. Locate all the screws around the edges or on the bottom of the unit. Once you have located them all, use a screwdriver to carefully loosen each one in a clockwise direction and keep track of which screws go where.
Once all the screws have been removed, gently lift off the top or side panel to access the inner components. Depending on your Bose subwoofer model, you may need a different tool to unscrew the central part of the unit, such as a wrench or pliers.
5. Replace It With New Subwoofer:
Lift the old sub from the box and replace it with your new subwoofer. Now screw all the nuts back into place and tighten them after ensuring that you connect the subwoofer with the speaker wires.
6. Connect Subwoofer With External Amp:
Now connect the subwoofer to the external amplifier, as discussed in the above paragraph point #4.
7. Connect External Amp to Battery Using Power Cable & Fuse:
Connecting an external amplifier to a battery is straightforward but requires a few key components. First, you’ll need a power cable compatible with the amp and battery. You’ll also want to make sure it’s long enough to reach from the amp to the battery.
Next, you’ll need an inline fuse that matches the gauge of the power cable. This will help protect your amp and battery in case of an unexpected surge or electrical spike.
8. Connect External Amp to Bose Car System Using LOC:
Now connect your external amplifier with the Bose system using a line output converter in the same way as discussed above at point #5.
9. Connect All the Wires:
Ensure you connect all your wires correctly to get the sound.
10. Turn the Power On & Test:
Next, please turn the power to the amp and ensure it functions correctly. You can do this by listening for sound or checking for LED indicators if your amplifier has them. If you hear no sound or don’t see any lights come on, then there may be an issue with your connection, and you should recheck all of your wirings. If everything is working correctly, then you’re done!
2. Connection Without Using External Amp:
A powered subwoofer will work like a charm here, as they have a built-in amplifier. Because your bose system doesn’t have enough output energy. However, it will also be great if you use a small-sized subwoofer, such as an 8-inch or 10-inch.
Moreover, you will need all necessary wires and connectors for this job, including RCA cables and speaker wire. You should use shielded cables for any connections involving power-handling components for the best results. Follow the simple steps:
1. Turn off the Car Ignition:
Before making any changes, please turn off your car engine, as it will prevent electrical damage to your car components.
2. Make an RCA Connection:
Once you have all the necessary wiring, connect one end of the RCA cable to your head unit’s output and the other end to the subwoofer input. Make sure that both ends are firmly connected.
3. Make Terminals Connection:
Next, locate your bose speaker output on your car’s stereo system and plug in the speaker wire for your powered subwoofer. Ensure the positive and negative cables are correctly connected to their respective terminals.
4. Power Your Subwoofer:
Finally, connect the subwoofer power cable to your car’s 12v battery or another power source. This will provide electricity to the subwoofer so it can produce sound. It’s only possible to connect it with the battery if you have power connection options available on the powered subwoofer’s back. Also, ensure you make a connection via fuse and ground the subwoofer too. Otherwise, you can rely on bose system for power.
5. Turn the Power on and Test:
Once you’ve connected the subwoofer and wired it up, turn the power on. Test the system to ensure everything works correctly by playing music or testing sound. Adjust your car’s stereo settings until you get the desired sound from your powered subwoofer.
Congratulations! Your powered subwoofer should now be successfully connected without needing an external amplifier. Enjoy your new car audio system!
Recommended Subwoofer for Bose Car System:
General FAQs
Is It Necessary to Get an External Amp to Connect Sub to Bose System?
The short answer to this question is it depends. It really depends on the type of Bose sound system you have and how powerful your subwoofer is. Some Bose systems come with built-in amplifiers, while others may not. If your system already has an amplifier, you likely won’t need an external one for your subwoofer.
On the other hand, if your bose system does not have an amplifier or its amplifier isn’t powerful enough to drive a subwoofer. You will need an external amp to properly connect your sub to the system.
Is It Possible to Add a Subwoofer to the Stock Stereo?
Adding a subwoofer to a stock stereo system can be done, but it can be challenging. It all depends on the stereo system and how much space you have available. You may need to upgrade your head unit or amplifier to get the desired sound with a subwoofer added.
Do Bose Car Speakers Have Good Bass?
The answer is yes. Bose speakers have excellent bass capabilities due to their patented technologies and design features. Their proprietary digital signal processing (DSP) technology helps produce precise, powerful bass output from their small speaker cabinets. The Dynamic EQ also ensures that the subwoofer frequencies don’t overpower or drown out the other sound frequencies in the mix.
Can I Use Just the Subwoofer on My Bose System?
The short answer to this question is yes. You can use just the subwoofer on your bose car system. Some models feature a built-in amplifier that powers the subwoofer independently from the other speakers in the system. This means you don’t need to connect any other bose speakers for it to work. However, depending on the model of your bose amp, you may need to connect it to an aftermarket amp. Check your manual for specific instructions.
do you realize the Bose sub is 9″ not just an easy replacement. what do you suggest for that?
You know, the Bose 9-inch subwoofer is indeed a bit of an outlier in the world of car audio, given its unique size. But that doesn’t mean we’re out of options! If you want a perfect fit and optimal sound, I’d recommend crafting a custom enclosure tailored just for it. That’s my specialty, after all. If you’re leaning towards other standard sizes, like an 8-inch or 10-inch subwoofer, I’ve got adapters that can do the trick. But, to be honest, sometimes modifying the mounting area to accommodate another size can lead to the best results. It’s all about ensuring that deep, resonant bass. And if you’re a die-hard fan of the Bose sound, like many are, we can always hunt down a direct 9-inch Bose replacement. At the end of the day, my goal is to make sure your car’s sound system is complete and harmonious. Because remember, a car without a good subwoofer is like a song without bass!