Whether the subwoofer phase should be normal or reverse depends on a few factors, including the type of subwoofer enclosure, the location of the subwoofer in the car, and the listener’s preference.
Normal phase
In normal phase, the positive terminal of the subwoofer is connected to the positive terminal of the amplifier, and the negative terminal of the subwoofer is connected to the negative terminal of the amplifier. This is the most common phase setting for subwoofers, and it is typically recommended for sealed and ported subwoofer enclosures.
Reverse phase
In reverse phase, the positive terminal of the subwoofer is connected to the negative terminal of the amplifier, and the negative terminal of the subwoofer is connected to the positive terminal of the amplifier. This phase setting is sometimes used to improve the bass response of a subwoofer in a car audio system. However, it is important to note that reversing the polarity of a subwoofer can also cause phase cancellation, which can result in a loss of bass and clarity.
Factors to consider when choosing the subwoofer phase
When choosing the subwoofer phase, there are a few factors to consider:
- Type of subwoofer enclosure: Sealed and ported subwoofer enclosures typically work best with normal phase. However, some ported subwoofer enclosures may benefit from reverse phase.
- Location of the subwoofer in the car: If the subwoofer is located in the trunk of the car, reverse phase may be helpful in improving the bass response. However, if the subwoofer is located in the passenger compartment of the car, reverse phase may cause phase cancellation.
- Listener’s preference: Ultimately, the best way to choose the subwoofer phase is to listen to music and experiment with both normal and reverse phase to see which one sounds better to you.
How to test the subwoofer phase
To test the subwoofer phase, simply play a piece of music with a lot of bass and flip the polarity switch on the subwoofer amplifier. If the bass sounds stronger and more defined in one position, that is the correct phase setting. If the bass sounds weaker and muddier in one position, that is the incorrect phase setting.
Conclusion
There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to subwoofer phase. The best way to choose the subwoofer phase is to experiment and find the setting that sounds best to you.
