Head Unit Only Has 1 RCA Subwoofer Output
Don’t be shocked if you find out your head unit only has 1 RCA subwoofer output! However, you’re not the only one who thinks I cannot connect a subwoofer to single RCA output. One of my friends recently ran into this problem with his car audio system, which only had one sub-out port. So, he asked for my help. So what I did, was put a Y-adapter device between the head unit and one sub, and it worked like a charm. Now, he’s a happy guy. As a music expert, it’s my duty to share the trick with you too.
What Does It Mean if the Head Unit Only Has 1 RCA Subwoofer Output?
A head unit with a mono output means that it is only capable of sending a mono signal to the powered subwoofer (sub with built-in amp) or an external amplifier. It doesn’t matter how many voice coils a subwoofer has, it will receive a mono signal to work. A single sub-out is sufficient if you want to use only one subwoofer. On the other hand, having multiple outputs can provide several benefits. For instance, it allows you to send different signals to each sub. It also lets you set up a stereo configuration with left and right channels coming from different sides of the vehicle’s soundstage.
How to Connect a Subwoofer to Head Unit Having Single Output?
For a successful connection between the mono amp & subwoofer, you’ll need to use an RCA Y-adapter (AKA Y-splitter cable). Once you get it, follow the steps below:
- Before you do anything, it will be better to turn off the car and remove the key from the ignition, as it will prevent damage to the head unit.
- Find the single subwoofer output on the back of the stereo. It may be marked as a “sub-output” on some head units.
- Now, take the y-adapter splitter and connect the single plug end (male end) of it to the head unit’s single sub-output.
- Now get an RCA cable and put the male ends of the RCA cable into the female outputs of the RCA Y adapter.
- If you’re using an external amplifier, attach the male ends of the RCA cable to the amplifier inputs.
- Connect the RCA cable’s male ends to the subwoofer amplifier’s left and right inputs if you’re using a powered subwoofer. That’s all!
- Now turn on your car stereo and adjust the HPF & LPF settings on the head unit.
Note: RCA Y-adapter is of many types. You should use a splitter with a single male and two female sides for an authentic connection.
Can I Connect Multiple Subwoofers to a Head Unit With Single RCA Output?
Yes, you can connect multiple subwoofers to the head unit with only one subwoofer output. However, you can attach an external amplifier to the head unit using a Y-adapter and then connect the multiple subwoofers to that external amplifier. However, if you’re looking for a way to attach dual subwoofers directly to the head unit with a single output, you will need one more device called an “Audio Distribution Amplifier” ⁽¹⁾ along with the Y-splitter. A subwoofer distribution takes the mono signal from the head unit and then converts it into multiple subs outputs.
Steps to Connect Dual Subs to a Single RCA Output Head Unit:
For a successful connection between dual subwoofers and the head unit having one subwoofer output, follow these steps:
- As mentioned above, you must turn off your car power and remove the key from the ignition. This safety tip can prevent you and your audio system from any damage.
- Locate the single sub-output at the back of your head unit. Once you find it, connect the single male end of the RCA Y-splitter to the head unit output.
- Once you connect the single male end, connect the other male ends of the RCA Y-adapter to the input jacks of the subwoofer distribution amplifier.
- Now you can use the audio distribution amplifier’s dual outputs to connect the dual subwoofers using two RCA cables.
- Now, turn on your head unit and subwoofers. Adjust the crossover settings on the head unit for better sound.
Now, your subwoofer should be working fine. If you see no output, double-check all your connections and ensure you’ve used the correct input and output jacks to avoid any problems.
Some of the Important Things to Consider Before Connecting the Multiple Subs:
Before you attach the dual subs with your head unit, you should be careful about the following factors:
- Impedance: You must ensure that each subwoofer has the same impedance. Also, the total impedance of the subwoofers should fall below the impedance of the stereo. Otherwise, having more impedance of car subwoofers will overheat the head unit, resulting in failure.
- Wiring: Ensure you use high-quality cables to make the right connections. These high-quality wirings will help prevent electrical interference in your car’s audio system.
- Power-handling: Also, make sure that your amplifier or head unit has enough power to drive your subwoofers without causing any trouble.
General FAQs
Why Does My Head Unit Only Have 1 Sub Output?
Your head unit only has one sub-output because it is designed to be a 2-channel amplifier. This will let you use two speakers (or a speaker and subwoofer) with your head unit, but they must be connected to the same output (external amplifier, or you can use a device such as an RCA Y adapter). Additionally, when using one channel for two speakers, the audio signal must be split internally instead of externally. Therefore, having just one subwoofer output simplifies this process and ensures optimal sound quality for your setup.
Why Do Subwoofers Have 2 RCA Inputs?
Subwoofers typically have two RCA inputs because they need a connection to both the left and right audio channels. This helps them get a complete, full-range signal from your entertainment system or amplifier. You can use dual inputs in conjunction with other speakers, such as front and rear speakers, for multi-channel surround sound systems; it also works excellent for stereo setups with just two main speakers. Having two RCA inputs makes connecting your subwoofer straightforward since you won’t need any special adapters or extra wiring – plug in the color-coded cables into the back of your subwoofer!
Can I Use Regular RCA Cable for Subwoofer?
Yes, you can use regular RCA cables for your car subwoofer. The advantage of using a standard RCA cable is that it has better sound quality than other types of cables and provides excellent flexibility in terms of length, allowing you to customize the installation according to your needs. However, remember that using a regular RCA cable may not provide sufficient power for some higher-powered systems. The signal-to-noise ratio may be lower than if you used specialized audio cables. It is recommended to seek professional advice before attempting any such installations.