Unpowered speakers—also known as passive speakers—are speakers that do not contain built-in amplifiers. Because they cannot boost audio on their own, they require external equipment to function properly. Using unpowered speakers is straightforward once you understand how they fit into an audio system. The key idea is that the speakers convert amplified electrical signals into sound, while the amplifier provides the power. This means setup involves connecting the right components in the correct order.
Understand What Unpowered Speakers Are
Unpowered speakers do not have internal amplification, processing, or power supplies. They contain speaker drivers, a crossover network, and an enclosure. Their job is simple: take the amplified signal and turn it into sound. They cannot be plugged directly into a phone, TV, or computer because these devices output a very weak signal that passive speakers cannot use. Instead, the signal must pass through an amplifier first.
1. Connect an External Amplifier
The most important part of using unpowered speakers is pairing them with a suitable external amplifier or receiver. This device takes the low-level audio signal from your source and increases it to a level that can drive the speakers. Common choices include:
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Stereo amplifiers
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AV receivers
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Power amplifiers
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Integrated amplifiers
The amplifier must match the speakers in power (watts) and impedance (ohms). This ensures clean sound without distortion or damage.
2. Use Proper Speaker Wire
Unpowered speakers connect to the amplifier using speaker wire, not RCA cables or headphone jacks. Speaker wire carries the amplified current directly to the drivers. To use it correctly:
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Match the positive (+) and negative (–) terminals on both the amplifier and speaker.
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Ensure the wire gauge is appropriate (14–16 gauge for home use; thicker for long runs).
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Make firm, clean connections to avoid crackling or loss of signal.
A mistake in polarity (reversing + and –) will not damage the speaker, but it will weaken stereo imaging.
3. Connect Your Audio Source to the Amplifier
Your amplifier acts as the “middleman,” so the audio source connects to the amplifier—not directly to the speakers. A source can be:
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A smartphone, computer, or tablet
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A TV or media streamer
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A CD player or turntable
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A DAC or audio interface
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A music server or Bluetooth receiver
Different sources may require different cables (3.5 mm, RCA, optical, HDMI, USB), but everything goes into the amplifier, which then sends the amplified output to the speakers.
4. If Using a Turntable, Use a Phono Preamp
Turntables output a very weak signal that needs phono preamplification. Some amplifiers have a “PHONO” input built in. If not, you need an external phono preamp. Without one, the sound will be extremely quiet and thin. Once the signal is amplified to “line level,” the main amplifier can take over and drive the speakers.
5. Correctly Position the Speakers
Even with perfect wiring, unpowered speakers perform best when placed properly. For optimal sound:
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Position them at ear level
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Leave some distance from walls for cleaner bass
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Space them evenly for balanced stereo
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Angle them slightly toward the listening area
Good placement dramatically improves clarity, bass response, and overall realism.
6. Adjust Levels on the Amplifier
Since passive speakers have no volume controls, all sound adjustments are made on the amplifier. Typical controls include:
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Volume
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Bass and treble (tone controls)
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Balance (left–right)
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Input selection
Some amplifiers include advanced features like EQ, loudness compensation, and source trimming.
7. Optionally Add a Powered Subwoofer
If you want more bass, you can add a powered subwoofer. Because the subwoofer has its own built-in amplifier, it does not draw power from the passive speakers. It typically connects to:
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The amplifier’s subwoofer output (LFE)
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Speaker-level outputs (when no dedicated sub-out exists)
This combination creates a full-range system with deeper low frequencies.
8. Know What You Cannot Do with Unpowered Speakers
A few things simply will not work:
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You cannot plug unpowered speakers directly into a phone.
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You cannot plug them directly into a TV unless the TV has an amplified speaker output.
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You cannot power them from USB ports or headphone jacks.
All passive speakers require amplification before they can make meaningful sound.
Conclusion
To use unpowered speakers effectively, you need an external amplifier or receiver, speaker wires, and a suitable audio source. Once connected correctly and positioned well, passive speakers can deliver exceptional audio quality with flexibility and upgrade potential. Their simplicity, durability, and modular design make them a preferred choice for home audio enthusiasts, studios, and traditional hi-fi systems. With the right setup, unpowered speakers can produce powerful, clear, and immersive sound even without built-in electronics.