Alright guys, I'm looking to expand my knowledge on car audio and I'm wanting to look into active setups and how they work, do's and dont's, ect. I'm not trying to look lazy here and not able to do my own research but I cant seem to find some quality websites explaining this when I search it up.

Anything will help, either your own knowledge or websites that you know of.

Thanks

-Mike

From what I have read on the subject the difference between an active and a passive setup is the crossovers.

I have seen active setups using external powered crossovers like the ones from AudioControl, but the most common that I have seen lately, is using the crossovers built into todays modern amps.

From what I have read on the subject the difference between an active and a passive setup is the crossovers.

I have seen active setups using external powered crossovers like the ones from AudioControl, but the most common that I have seen lately, is using the crossovers built into todays modern amps.

Most amps don't have enough on-board crossovers for going active. Sundown, Zed, off the top of my head, do. If you go that route, remember you will be running back and forth when making changes. This may make it harder for you to just sit down and listen between one configuration and another.

Another helpful feature often sought after is: Time Alignment. I don't believe any amp has T/A.

I'm not very up to date as to which headunits offer what features, but I do know Pioneer, and a few other companies make head units that can handle 2way and 3way setups, and have T/A.

Audison and JBL make their processors, bit one, bit ten, and ms8. Rockford has their 360.2, and just came out with a new addition.

I would figure out first what drivers your planning on using, and how many. Then you know what exact crossover features you need, and how extensive of a processor you need (2way, 3way).

Yeah I forgot to mention TA. Active Setups and Sound Processors go hand in hand in the SQ world.

Edited February 16, 201213 yr by denim