Trunk subwoofer

Types of Trunk Subwoofers

The trunk subwoofer is a subwoofer designed to fit in tight spaces, like a car's trunk. Subwoofers come in different sizes, features, and power levels, which can help or hinder the listening experience.

• Size

  Trunk subwoofers come in various sizes, ranging from compact 8"" to larger 15"" models. The size of a subwoofer plays a crucial role in its ability to produce low-frequency sounds, which are essential for music genres like dubstep and hip-hop. Larger subwoofers generally have more significant power handling capabilities, allowing them to play louder and deeper bass notes. However, a larger size can make it difficult to find installation space in the trunk, so many fitment experts encourage selecting the right size based on the available space and listening preferences.

• Features

  Some subwoofers come with features to enhance the listening experience. Built-in equalizers allow users to adjust the sound according to specific preferences or tune the stereo system to suit different music styles. Some models also have integrated amplification, which means they can be connected directly to a receiver or preamp without needing a separate power source. This feature provides additional convenience and reduces the number of components required for the audio system. Additionally, remote control functionality allows users to adjust settings from the driver's seat, providing effortless control over the subwoofer's performance.

• Power

  Power is an essential factor when it comes to subwoofers, as it determines volume and also the quality of the bass produced. A higher wattage means more powerful bass is possible, but the available space and budget constraints must be taken into consideration when selecting a trunk subwoofer. The efficiency of a subwoofer is also dependent on its power handling capacity, which influences how well it can convert electrical power into acoustic energy. It also has an impact on the overall sound pressure level and dynamic range of the system.

Function and Features

The most crucial function of a trunk subwoofer is to generate low-frequency sounds or vibrations. It is represented in hertz (Hz) and can range from 20 Hz to 200 Hz. These low-frequency sounds are called bass sounds and enhance a car's audio system by making the music more enjoyable. Bass should be deep and smooth but not overpowering or felt as a physical vibration. Other features of a car trunk subwoofer include;

• Size: Subwoofers come in different sizes, and the size of the trunk subwoofer affects the depth of the bass sound. Common sizes include 8-inch, 10-inch, 12-inch, and 15-inch. The smaller subwoofer can produce frequencies, but larger ones will give more power and louder bass.
• Power: The woofer's power determines how well it plays loudly and the bass extension. The higher the power, the better it can handle the energy from an amplifier without damaging itself.
• Sensitivity and Handling: Sensitivity indicates how effectively a subwoofer converts power into a sound. A better sensitivity rating implies that the subwoofer can produce more noise using less power. On the other hand, handling, usually shown in watts, shows how much power a trunk subwoofer can take before it breaks down.
• Material: The material of the trunk subwoofer affects its durability and sound quality. For example, rubber surrounds are more durable than foam surrounds. Stamped steel frames are more rigid than cast aluminum frames.
• Impedance: This is the resistance of the subwoofer, and it can be either single or dual. Dual impedance gives wiring flexibility for amplifiers that have power for either impedance level.
• Subwoofer enclosure: This is to ensure that the trunk subwoofer functions properly. Enclosure design affects the quality and loudness of the bass. Types of enclosures include ported, sealed, bandpass, and transmission line.

Applications of trunk subwoofers

Trunk subwoofers are useful for many applications. They enhance the music listening experience in the car by providing deep bass sounds. Gamers with PC working from inside the car or gamers who play games from the console in the car will enjoy the trunk subwoofer because it will create bass sounds that will enhance the gaming experience. Cars used for commercial purposes like Uber or Lyft installed with trunk subwoofers give riders a memorable experience, which is why some drivers are installing it.

Besides using trunk subwoofers inside the car, other applications can be experimented with using portable powered subwoofers. They can be taken to parties or outdoor events where music is being played. They are also useful for indoor home environments. Some people use trunk subwoofers as a sound system for home theaters. When watching action movies, the bass emitted from the subwoofer enhances the overall experience, making the sounds feel real.

Musicians performing on the street look for compact and lightweight sound systems to carry around. Trunk subwoofers can be added to their sound setups to create more volume and add depth to the music being played. Portable subwoofers are primarily made for these kinds of scenarios where sound quality is essential, but also portability.

How to choose trunk subwoofers

Trunk subwoofers can transform the audio system in any vehicle. These bass speakers produce deep and powerful low-frequency sounds that make listening to music a more enjoyable experience. When choosing a subwoofer for a car trunk, buyers should consider the following factors;

• Size

  The size of a trunk subwoofer impacts its power handling capabilities, low-frequency range, and overall volume. In general, smaller subwoofers are easy to fit in tight spaces, but they don't produce deep bass. On the flip side, larger subwoofers take up more trunk space but can deliver a more intense bass.

• Power

  When choosing a trunk subwoofer, buyers should look at the subwoofer's RMS and peak power ratings. The RMS power rating is the amount of power that the subwoofer can handle continuously. On the other hand, the peak power rating is the maximum amount of power the subwoofer can handle for a brief moment. A trunk subwoofer with a high RMS and peak power rating can produce higher volume levels without distortion.

• Impedance

  The impedance or the ohm rating of a trunk subwoofer affects its overall sound quality. Subwoofers with lower impedance models like 1 ohm or 2 ohms can draw more current from an amplifier, producing better sound. However, they are more likely to overload if the amplifier isn't designed to handle them. Trunk subwoofers with higher ohm ratings, such as 4-ohm or 8-ohm withstand more power without damage. Unfortunately, they need more power from the amplifier to produce similar sound levels as low-impedance models.

• Type

  Trunk subwoofers come in two main types, ported and sealed. Sealed subwoofer boxes have a compact and airtight enclosure. These boxes produce a tight and accurate bass sound, but they need more power to work. Ported subwoofer boxes have a hole or tube in the enclosure. This design enhances the low-frequency output of the subwoofer at higher volumes.

Trunk subwoofer FAQ

Q1 How does a trunk subwoofer work?

A1 A trunk subwoofer enhances the sound inside a car by producing deep bass notes. It consists of a bass speaker, an amplifier, and a robust box. The bass speaker creates the low-frequency sounds. The amplifier makes the speaker go louder. The sturdy box protects the speaker and amplifier while helping the sound quality.

Q2 What are the benefits of trunk subwoofers?

A2 The goal of a subwoofer is to improve the low-frequency sounds or the bass in a car audio system. So, if a system is set up with a trunk subwoofer, the audio quality while driving will be much better. The bass lines in songs will be richer, and people will hear the vibrations.

Q3 How to choose the right trunk subwoofer?

A3 The right trunk subwoofer will be compatible with the audio system. It will also fit properly inside the trunk. To ensure these two things, buyers must get a subwoofer that matches the car's speakers. Then, they must take the measurements of the trunk so the subwoofer will fit inside without taking up too much space.

Q4 How to install a trunk subwoofer?

A4 Start by disconnecting the car's battery. Then, place the trunk subwoofer in a spot inside the trunk. Run the subwoofer's RCA cables from the stereo to the amplifier. Connect the amplifier's RCA out to the subwoofer. Finally, connect the subwoofer to the amplifier. Then, reconnect the car battery.