Crossover/Equalizer Installation Guide
Almost four basic kinds of crossovers are available in the market while only two, passive crossovers and active crossovers are the most popular and common ones found in each car stereo system. The reason for it is plain and simple as passive crossovers are easy to install and cheap while active crossovers are the best you can find. The installation of crossovers is pretty simple then installing rest of the equipment as less wiring is used in it even though the procedure of installing each of them is a bit different. Further installation of the two basic kinds of crossovers is discussed with general tips.
A crossover is basically like traffic police in the whole stereo system. It tells how many notes to send to which particular equipment making sure they can handle them easily and efficiently. If the crossover goes down then audio jam packed traffic will take place while the entire system can goes down as well. Not a lot of hassle is gone through while installing a crossover as few screws can fix the crossover in its place while trunk is the best place for it if you have the two amplifiers. Installing a crossover in the trunk also gives you the benefit of future amplifier addition. Now the two main kinds of crossovers which are passive crossovers and active crossovers are most likely to be bought by people but both have a little difference in getting installed. Basically the installation of a crossover is a one time thing as it is most likely to create less trouble unless you want to tweak the sound for a change.
Passive Crossover Installation: The passive crossover is made of passive components and installed after an amplifier and before your speakers. To install them you need to first disconnect all the speakers whether it is in the dashboard, doors or at behind the backseat. Take out the wire from the positive channel of the speaker and connect the crossover wire instead of it. Then connect the crossover wire into the speakers and reinstall your speakers again.
Active Crossover Installation: This crossover requires a little bit of more work than passive crossover. Active crossover is installed between your amplifiers and receiver. 12-volt power, turn-on lead and ground also have to be connected in this. One thing to remember for installing either of these crossovers is that no different cable wires are needed for them as crossovers don’t use heavy power for working neither heavy current passes through them. An 18-guage wire is perfect for connecting crossovers unlike gauges needed for amplifiers.
The procedure for installing crossovers is simple than installing other audio equipment. You can set the settings according to your requirement and taste and change them whenever you want. Another thing to remember before finding a spot for your crossover is do not install it right next to the car body as it is going to invite a lot of irritating noise. Rather fix it to a cardboard and then place it against the car body. Any complications faced while installing a crossover can be solved by reading the manual guide or asking for some help from a professional. Usually it is best that you consult the same manufacturing shop where you bought the crossover from. After completing the installation enjoy the accurate, tight and fine sound production from your stereo system.