What is the purpose of the left and right inputs on some subwoofers? An LFE (low-frequency effects) input cable is typically used to link the subwoofer to the receiver, which is more common than you might think. Another way, which makes use of the left and right inputs (RCA connections), is to send low frequencies through the right and left channels of the speaker system, respectively.
Unlocking the Power of LFE in Your Subwoofer Setup
Is it your first time seeing the world of speakers, or are you simply learning something new on your favorite piece of equipment? You might be perplexed as to why there are so many different input and output options available when connecting your subwoofer to its receiver.
Using the more popular LFE cable option, you will most likely not need to use the L and R inputs, which is a good thing. On the other hand, these inputs can be found on the subwoofer regardless of whether the device is equipped with an LFE cable option. If your subwoofer does not have an LFE option, you can use both the Left and Right inputs to create a balanced signal.
What is LFE on a Subwoofer?
If you are new to the audio world, for example, bringing in new equipment to set up a new home theater, you may be perplexed by all of the many acronyms used.
Everything appeared so straightforward before you started attempting to connect the cords to their proper locations. You might know that LFE is an abbreviation for low-frequency effects, but what exactly does that mean?
The LFE cables are used to connect your subwoofer (low-frequency speaker) to the receiver it uses. Because the subwoofer is responsible for low bass tones (in other words, it serves a single purpose), it necessitates using a transmitter that transmits low-frequency audio waves. The left and right channels are merged in an LFE cable, allowing for a single wire to distribute the signals evenly and efficiently to the subwoofer.
More than likely, you will use an LFE input cable to connect your subwoofers to your amplifier. Left and right input are significantly less likely to be used these days; however, they are still possible.
Most individuals have discovered that employing an LFE input in a subwoofer would effectively transmit the necessary sound from the subwoofer to the receiver, resulting in effective audio production.
The subwoofer produces only low-frequency tones, and this is its main function (think of the deep bass in voice-overs during a movie or the low bass that you can hear in a car driving by).
As a result, the subwoofer must be capable of receiving audio signals that are meant for this speaker’s output: the lowest frequencies of audio production. This is made possible by the LFE input of a subwoofer, which allows for a single standardized connection to be used.
Instead of having to sort through a jumble of cords and cables, you can utilize an LFE input to connect your subwoofer to its receiver with a single cable. To avoid confusion regarding which cable goes where this can be beneficial. However, because this is the more usual (and preferred) form of connection, this probably is what you are accustomed to using as well.
What is RCA Input in a Subwoofer?
If, on the other hand, your subwoofer does not have an LFE input connection, you will find that your only alternative is to connect your subwoofer to the RCA (Radio Corporation of America) inputs on the right and left channels.
Even though it is less common and often less favored (since it requires two cables instead of one), it is effective and can achieve the desired result.
To achieve digital transmission of low-frequency signals for the right and left channels in a subwoofer, RCA cables are used with a right and left input cable (or split between the two with a Y-cable). An RCA input cable does not combine these audio signals as an LFE input cable; instead, the RCA input cable places them in specified locations: the right and left input options that connect the subwoofer to its receiver.
The RCA inputs for your subwoofer will be visible in the left and right input options for the subwoofer. Your subwoofer may offer the option of connecting via an LFE cable in addition to the left and right inputs.
Most users will choose to use an LFE cable in this instance, albeit it is not strictly necessary. In contrast to an LFE input, which only has a single wire, the left and right inputs work as a dual set.
Even though it is not significantly more complicated (requiring either one additional connection or the use of a y-cable to connect the right and left), it requires significantly more effort than utilizing an LFE input cable. Additionally, you may discover that the overall audio effects produced by the usage of RCA input are less than satisfactory. However, this is not always the case.
What Cable Do I Need to Connect Subwoofer to Receiver?
Following our discussion of a few acronyms and their various functions, you should have a clearer knowledge of the differences between LFE and RCA input cables in terms of their intended use. However, after reading this, you might still be perplexed as to which wire you’ll need to connect a subwoofer to its receiver.
Use an LFE input cable or an RCA line-in cable to connect a subwoofer to its receiver, depending on your preference (used for left and right input options). If your subwoofer has the option of using an LFE input, this will be your best alternative, assuming that it does. However, if this is not the case, an RCA input will suffice. Make sure you read the instructions that came with your subwoofer for further information on using it.
Identifying your subwoofer’s input and output options should be your first step if you are unsure of the cable you require or if your subwoofer even came with cables.
If you find that your subwoofer and receiver both have an LFE input/output option, this will be the quickest and most straightforward solution for you. If this is not the case, an RCA input cable will link the left and right inputs together.
Consider if it would be worthwhile to invest in a secondary subwoofer if your subwoofer does not have an LFE input option. If your subwoofer does not have an LFE input option, consider whether it would be worthwhile to invest in a secondary subwoofer to employ a dual connection. The use of an equalizer, in this case, will assist your subwoofers in balancing the communicated signals and achieving the desired impact of creating the transmitted audio effectively and efficiently.
Getting started in the realm of dual subwoofers might be intimidating, especially if you are unfamiliar with the technology. However, this is one of the reasons why you should engage or seek guidance from a qualified specialist.
While most audio professionals will recommend employing multiple subwoofers to enhance the distributive localization of the music and provide a more immersive surround sound experience, this may not always be feasible for your particular situation.
Are Dual Subwoofers Worth It?
A common recommendation from audio experts is to use two subwoofers, but do you need this configuration for your basic audio demands in your home? You might be wondering if this is a necessary investment or if it is an unnecessary overkill that will increase the cost of your home sound system.
Dual subwoofers will provide a substantially more polished sound experience for low-frequency tones compared to a single subwoofer. Because using two subwoofers eliminates the capacity to localize the sound, you will perceive the bass as more of a “surround sound” effect than you would otherwise hear. With dual subwoofers, the equalization of signals can be completely avoided.
So, yes, dual subwoofers are a good investment if you have the money to spend on the additional equipment and the time to learn how to correctly set up the two subwoofers (or hire someone to do it for you). However, numerous online tutorials will walk you through setting up dual subwoofers, so not understanding how to do so should not prevent you from making the purchase.
A single subwoofer is used to produce the deep bass tones that can be heard emanating from this speaker when it is used. As you work to discover an ideal location for your subwoofer in your home, you should be able to reduce the need for your auditory processing skills to localize the sound in your environment.
This will be accomplished when the subwoofer is positioned in the center of the room, and you can perceive the bass as coming from a “head-on” direction.
When you employ dual subwoofers, on the other hand, you can more easily transition away from localizing the sound and can use the duality of the speakers to improve the surround sound effect further.
It is no longer necessary to locate the center of your living room to place your subwoofer physically; instead, you can use two and angle them so that they work well together in producing the surround sound effect. Gone are the days of carefully squatting in different positions in your living room to determine whether or not the bass can be heard clearly from all directions. Using a dual subwoofer arrangement will completely alleviate this problem for you.
Furthermore, dual subwoofers do not necessitate the equalization of transmitted signals, which is beneficial. Instead of being equalized inside a single speaker system, the dual subwoofer allows the transmitted signals to be equalized more effectively in two low-frequency speakers, which increases the system’s efficiency.
You may need to witness it to believe in the efficiency of employing two subwoofers rather than one to believe it.
While keeping these points in mind, try to put your theory to the test by visiting a friend or an audio store that can demonstrate the difference between using twin and single subwoofers. Adding a subwoofer to your home audio system will almost certainly prove to be a worthwhile investment.
Best Seller List of Subwoofers:
- 10" front-firing spun-copper IMG woofer
- All-digital amplifier with 300 watts peak power
- Volume low pass crossover and phase control
- Line level LFE RCA inputs for maximum receiver compatibility
- Dimensions 14 5" x 12 5" x 16 4"
- 12" high excursion spun-copper Imp woofer
- 29 hertz – 120 hertz plus /- 3 dB
- 400 watt
- Max acoustic output 116dB
- Bass-reflex via rear firing port. Amplifier power (control/peak): 200 watts/400 watts
- This is an 8" powered subwoofer capable of producing 60 watts (RMS) output. The subwoofer has a frequency response range of 50 to 250 Hz with a lowpass crossover filter, which can be adjusted from 50 to 150 Hz. Gain and frequency knobs on the control panel allow you to adjust the crossover filter and the power output for the optimum blend and balance of bass output with your stereo or surround speakers.Waterproof : No
- The subwoofer has multiple input options, which allow it to be used with any existing stereo or 5.1 (or greater) amplifier system. For each input there is a corresponding output.
- High-level inputs accept a full-range signal from the amplifier's stereo speaker outputs. When connecting the unit as part of a 5.1 system, these would be taken off the Front Left and Front Right outputs in parallel to the standard pair of front speakers. The subwoofer provides its own power and includes impedance matching circuitry, so this will not reduce the power output to the front speakers or affect the overall impedance load on the amplifier.
- Additionally, the subwoofer has a set of right/left Line Level inputs. If using a standard stereo system, without a special subwoofer output, you can connect these to the left and right line level outputs on the amp. The subwoofer will then combine the signals to process the mono bass signal it needs to drive the speaker. If you are using an amplifier with a single mono subwoofer line level output, simply use an RCA "Y" cable to split the output and send it to the two line level inputs on the subwoofer.
- The subwoofer is housed in an attractive black wood cabinet that measures 13.75" x 11.75" x 11.75" (H x W x D). The driver and a 2 3/4" sound port are located on the front, covered by a black cloth speaker grill.
- Powerful 12" copper-spun front-firing woofer
- All-digital amplifier delivers 400 watts of dynamic power
- Equally impressive with music and movies; Brushed black polymer veneer cabinet with satin painted plinth
- Low pass crossover and phase control
- Line/LFE inputs for compatibility with most receivers
- POWERED SUBWOOFER FOR EXTRA BASS and PUNCH – A 10-inch Dynamic Balance woofer and a uniquely configured directed port provides accurate bass with added depth that brings your music and movies alive. A perfect solution for your small-to-mid size room.Waterproof : No
- LOUDER CLEARER SOUND EVEN AT HIGH VOLUME – Enjoy a thrilling yet balanced music experience with rich, deep sound, even at low frequencies. BLENDS EASILY WITH ANY SPEAKER and plays the most demanding nodes effortlessly without any distortion
- DOUBLE THE AMPLIFIER POWER TO 100 Watts of Dynamic Power with its in-built 50-watt RMS amp. Sophisticated engineering with best in class resonance-free driver materials make this sub highly durable and FIT FOR EXTENDED USE
- EASY TO INTEGRATE WITH EXISTING SYSTEMS – Hook up this sub to the receiver and upgrade your music sound instantly. Features continuously variable 80-160 Hz crossover and 40-160 Hz (-3dB) frequency response
- A sleek detachable grille on the front, speaker and line-level inputs as well as speaker-level outputs on the back, and a Phase Toggle Switch for multiple subwoofers, make this sub cohesive and complete.
- New twisted flare port contributes to clear and tight bass
- Advanced YST II (Yamaha Active Servo Technology II)
- 8” cone woofer
- Stylish addition to any room
- Dynamic Power: 100W (5 ohms)
- Features: Rockville Rock Shaker 10 Black 600 Watt Powered 10" Home Theater Subwoofer, 600 Watts Peak / 300 Watts RMS, Built-in Class D Amplifier, Enclosure is made of top quality MDF wood. (MDF wood sounds better and lasts longer than particle board), High-grade vinyl enclosure covering with a beautiful finish, The enclosure is built with the perfect air space to maximize sound quality and punch, The rear firing port is engineered for optimal sound
- Class “D” Amplifier Circuitry with Auto-Switching Power Supply, High-grade woofer with foam surround and paper cone, Woofer has a Y30 grade magnet, and 1.5” 4-layer voice coil, Distortion-Free Playback Even at Max Volume Listening! Very Clean Sound!, Enclosure is filled with fire resistant poly cotton, Detachable foam grill
- Inputs / Outputs / Controls: RCA line input, RCA line output, Speaker High level inputs, Speaker High level outputs, Volume control, Phase switch (0°-180°), Crossover Frequency control, Power switch, Standard IEC power cable included
- Specifications: Amplifier: Class D, Woofer Impedance: 4 Ohm, Signal to noise ratio: 85 dB (Maximum output with THD+N
- Rear side of the subwoofer: Subwoofer (LINE) Jack in, Subwoofer (LINE) Jack out, Volume Control, Phase switch (0° - 180°), Frequency control, Power switch, Speaker high level in, Speaker high level out??
- Big sub-low end. 8-inch front-firing driver delivers smooth, accurate sub-low frequencies.
- Bluetooth 5.0 stereo input ensures outstanding wireless audio quality.
- Power to spare: 100W Class AB amplifier (50W RMS) delivers 100 dB SPL peak output (1 meter) output with minimal distortion. That’s plenty loud.
- Deep low frequencies: 30 Hz to 200 Hz frequency response.
- Input gain control gives minus 30 dB to plus 6 dB of continuously variable output
- Rockville Rock Shaker 6.5 Black 200 Watt Powered 8" Home Theater Subwoofer.
- 200 Watts Peak / 100 Watts RMS. Built-in Class D Amplifier. Enclosure is made of top quality MDF wood. (MDF wood sounds better and lasts longer than particle board). High-grade vinyl enclosure covering with a beautiful finish. The enclosure is built with the perfect air space to maximize sound quality and punch. The rear firing port is engineered for optimal sound.
- Class “D” Amplifier Circuitry with Auto-Switching Power Supply. High-grade woofer with foam surround and paper cone. Woofer has a Y30 grade magnet. Distortion-Free Playback Even at Max Volume Listening! Very Clean Sound!. Enclosure is filled with fire resistant poly cotton. Detachable foam grill
- Inputs / Outputs / Controls: RCA line input. RCA line output. Speaker High level inputs. Speaker High level outputs. Volume control. Phase switch (0°-180°). Crossover Frequency control. Power switch. Standard IEC power cable included
- Specifications: Amplifier: Class D. Woofer Impedance: 4 Ohm. THD:
- Complete Sound Package: Complete package subwoofers upgrades your sound system, allowing you to enjoy your time on the road and entertain you during intense traffic
- Car Amplifier: Boss Audio Riot Monoblock A/B MOSFET power Amplifier delivers peak power of 1100 watts, RMS power of 825 watts, bass boost switchable or 18 dB, and Low Pass Filter of 35 Hz to 160 Hz
- Sturdy Dust Caps: Comes with durable polypropylene dust caps that can survive the rigors of most trunks and are lightweight, allowing them to efficiently move using less power
- Power Capacitor: Includes 2 Farad 20V LED Digital Voltage Car Audio Power Capacitor; Can handle 200 watts RMS power, resulting in a power level of 400 watts RMS/800 watts peak for the entire enclosure
- Subwoofer Specs: Measures 13.5 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 29.69 inches tall; Easily installs with the competition quality Sound Storm AKS8 Complete 8 Gauge Amplifier Installation Kit
Last update on 2025-04-17
