Active Subwoofers

Active subwoofers combine the sub, the enclosure and the amplifier in one unit, the simplest way to add bass to a car.

Choose from underseat subwoofers, slim and spare wheel subs, and full-size boot enclosures from JL Audio, Kicker, Alpine, Pioneer, JBL, Focal and more. Many also have a bass remote. Browse all car subwoofers and sub enclosures, or have one fitted at our Nottingham workshop.

Active Subwoofers FAQs

Q: What is an active subwoofer?

A: An active, or powered, subwoofer has its amplifier built in, matched to the speaker and enclosure. You do not need to buy a separate amplifier.

Q: Active or passive subwoofer?

A: Active is the simplest choice and the one we recommend for most people. A passive sub with a separate amplifier and box gives the most output and flexibility for larger systems.

Q: Can I connect an active subwoofer to my factory stereo?

A: In most cars, yes. Many active subs have speaker-level inputs that take a signal from your existing speaker wiring; otherwise a line output converter does the job.

Q: What wiring does an active subwoofer need?

A: A power cable with a fuse from the battery, an earth, a remote turn-on wire and a signal connection. A wiring kit sized to the sub's power covers most of it.

Q: Can CEN fit an active subwoofer?

A: Yes. We supply and fit active subwoofers at our Beeston, Nottingham workshop.