Probably, any fan of quality music would like to enjoy their favorite compositions on good and powerful sound equipment. Well, for this, speaker systems with powerful subwoofers appeared. As a rule, the main dilemma when buying such a system is whether to choose a subwoofer - active or passive.
Definition
Passive subwoofer is extremely simple in design - it consists of a cabinet and one or more woofers, which are then connected to an external amplifier. There are also two types of passive subwoofer connections. The first type is the least preferred due to the presence of sound distortion and lower quality of its transmission - in this case, the stereo amplifier signal is fed not only to the subwoofer, but also to the rest of the speakers. Connecting with an electronic crossover filter is much more reasonable because it effectively separates the bass from the signal going to the other speakers.
Part active subwoofer includes both a crossover filter and a power amplifier. In this way, active subwoofer is a mobile combination of several devices that can be found separately. The active subwoofer has line inputs and outputs, as well as the function of adjusting the signal level and crossover frequency. As a rule, a good active subwoofer expands the dynamic range speaker system, which, of course, will have a beneficial effect on the quality of music.
Comparison
First, the active subwoofer with its default settings on average, it is better suited to heavy or dance and rhythmic music, since it transmits bass frequencies better and has more flexible settings and adjustments (except when using an expensive speaker system and very high quality passive sub woofer). Secondly, active subwoofers have their own amplifiers, while passive subwoofers need external amplifiers. However, the system with passive subwoofer it is quite possible to set it up so that it will sound better system with an active subwoofer, but this is a very painstaking and delicate process. In this regard, an active subwoofer is much more convenient, because it is much faster and easier to set up, but many connoisseurs good sound prefer to spare no time and effort to set up passive systems.
Findings site
- The active subwoofer has a built-in amplifier. A passive subwoofer needs to be connected to external audio amplifiers.
- Setting up a speaker system with an active subwoofer is much faster and easier.
- When tuned as accurately and as accurately as possible, a system with a passive subwoofer will usually produce a more spacious and dense sound than a system with an active subwoofer.
In this article, once and for all, we will deal with the questions:
- What is active acoustics and passive acoustics?
- What is their difference?
- Which is better to choose active or passive? And in which case it will be beneficial and why?
Currently, audio equipment stores offer a wide selection of different ones. It is very difficult for a beginner to understand all this diversity, so sometimes when buying they are guided by such secondary things as brands, total power, number of blocks, etc. In fact, first of all, you need to know that all sound systems are divided into two large categories - active and passive. That is, first of all, you need to decide on this particular choice, and then pay attention to other parameters. Let's try to consider this issue in detail, determine the main advantages and disadvantages. Let's try to come to a conclusion: what is better for a beginner and what for a professional.
Active acoustics
Active speakers- differs from passive ones mainly in that they have a specially designed and implemented into the system amplifying block. It serves to ensure that the signal coming from the player can be adapted to the speakers used. Such equipment can be called combined, since two dissimilar devices are combined: speakers and an amplifier. This is very convenient for a person who is not versed in such a technique, since a simple layman will hardly understand what additional equipment he will need to make certain speakers work.
That is first plus active speakers - they are easy to understand for the layman: the acoustics are connected to the player - such a scheme is built in the head of any amateur. The second plus is that modern active systems are equipped not only with an amplifier, but also with a processor ( DSP), which contains all basic settings, that is, the possibility of customization is reduced to a minimum: it can be only 3 knobs: tone, low frequencies, volume.
As a result, each person can easily get quite acceptable sound. 2 wires are used (or paired): signal plus power (this is sometimes considered a disadvantage, but usually there are no special problems with this). The good thing is that on large sites, when the system is placed at a great distance, there is no loss of power. The downside is that active acoustics are practically not adjustable, and a professional will not be able to reveal their capabilities on it.
The second disadvantage is that in the event of a breakdown of the amplifying unit, the speakers also become unusable. For example, if the active system got caught in the rain - hardly anything can help. Passive speakers will simply get wet, they can be dried, because the amplifiers and processors are installed in a dry, safe place somewhere on the stage under a canopy. Often, experts note that even in expensive active systems sound amplification, budgetary amplifiers of average productivity are used. As a result, only mediocre sound clarity can be achieved. Another thing is that for the ears of a mass listener this sound will be quite acceptable. Only a professional can feel the shortcomings.
Passive acoustics
Passive speaker systems are speakers without any built-in modules. It would seem - fine, but such equipment immediately raises questions: what additional unit is needed, where to choose it, is it suitable? And in fact, in this case, you need to either figure it out yourself, or turn to a professional, since on the market you can encounter the widest choice of various amplifiers and processors. It is not always possible to rely on the knowledge of consultants, who in most cases are only superficially familiar with the subject and have one task: to sell the goods by any means.
In other words, passive acoustics is a professional piece of equipment that must be purchased with expertise and is the choice of professional sound engineers and event organizers. You need to understand both columns and additional modules. And that's not all: you still need to choose cables; choose so that the power loss is not too high. This is especially true when the speakers are placed on a large perimeter or far from the stage.
Often passive sound reinforcement systems are chosen by the organizers of concerts and other events with loud sound, why? First of all, from a practical point of view. Rain, snow, hail, wind - can only damage the speakers, but they can be easily restored. But the electronics are in a safe place. The columns have a simple design; in principle, they burn out and fail most often additional blocks- and they must be handled very carefully.
For a long time there was no choice: everyone used only passive systems. Now, when an alternative has appeared, competition between an asset and a liability is noticeable. Many want to buy "sound" home or car. Most often, in this case, passive speakers are not recommended. Why? It will be problematic to connect them to a computer and a tape recorder. The child will also connect the active ones. In addition, you not only need to choose and buy an amplifier, but also deal with it, understand the principle of operation, connections, learn how to set it up, etc.
The most complex systems three-lane, they require the installation of a crossover, controllers and other equipment (when it comes to music DJs and other professional sound workers). Here to sort it out common man very difficult and the costs are high. Interestingly, passive acoustics are easier to connect than active ones: you only need one simple cable, without additional food (speaker). Also, such equipment is safer, easier to install a breakdown and easier to fix it. For large events, only such systems are used, since in any case it is necessary to attract professionals who know how to handle this type of device.
If you are not very versed in electronics and sound, you want to buy a sound system for your car home, for organizing a wedding, competition, meeting, presentation, then active acoustics are ideal. If you decide to take sound seriously and for a long time, then you need to pay attention to professional equipment; and further, after consultations and education - to purchase a passive acoustic system. It is not so easy to assemble a circuit and rebuild a system, but in the end, the resulting sound can satisfy any gourmet and music connoisseur.
What is a subwoofer? In essence, a passive subwoofer is a speaker that connects to a computer or speaker system. It is capable of reproducing low-frequency sounds (from five to two hundred Hz). There are passive and active subwoofers. This affects their ability to transmit sound.
For good sound audio system, one large speaker is enough, which can be placed under the table for convenience. By choosing the most suitable location for the subwoofer, you can try to dampen the standing low-frequency waves that appear in a closed small room. Most often, a passive subwoofer is used in home theaters for watching movies with special effects and listening to music. He conveys well
It happens that subwoofer systems do not fit well with the equipment connected to them due to a mismatch in their phase and amplitude-frequency characteristics. To overcome these sonic defects, some subwoofers have the ability to adjust the phase and treble.
Types of subwoofers
There are two types of subwoofers: active and passive. Questions arise about how it differs from passive, what functions do they perform in acoustic systems?
The active subwoofer has a built-in subwoofer. Due to this, it is able to remove low-frequency load from the amplifier. In addition, the active subwoofer has an active crossover that allows you to filter high frequencies, helps to coordinate the operation of the subwoofer with a full range speaker system. Quite often he has additional features settings according to the application conditions. It has a tone and volume control.
Unlike an active subwoofer, a passive subwoofer does not have an amplifier. It is subordinate to the device to which it is connected: to a computer, speaker system. Therefore, it is connected as an addition to the main stereo speakers. It can also be connected to a separate power amplifier. The main disadvantage of a passive subwoofer is that it creates an additional load on the stereo channels, which reduces the volume and dynamics of the audio system. But, the higher the sensitivity of the subwoofer, the less it loads the amplifier.
The design features that a passive subwoofer has make it demanding to be placed in a room. It should be moved until a good bass sound is found. which a subwoofer has can be divided into three types: deep (from twenty to forty Hz), medium (from forty to eighty Hz), and high (from eighty to one hundred and sixty Hz) bass. The sound that a subwoofer transmits depends on the area of the cone. The power and organicity of the bass depends on this.
Subwoofer designs
According to the device, passive subwoofers are distinguished: horn, phase inverter and bandpass. They have their own advantages and disadvantages. horn subwoofer is located on the wall of the sealed box. Closed types of subwoofers can be large, bulky, while still being able to reproduce rich, deep bass.
Bass reflex speakers have a speaker that is located in the case. Most often, there is a hole on one side of it. Subwoofers of these models deliver lower-pitched bass than closed-back speakers because the cone travel is increased. They are more suitable for large rooms, as they are distinguished by high volume.
next view, which may have a passive subwoofer - bandpass. It is a bandpass filter that combines the properties of the two types described above. This is manifested in the fact that the subwoofer consists of two parts: a closed box and a phase inverter. Therefore, there is an increase in sound pressure, but the frequency range becomes smaller.
For home use, closed-type or bass-reflex subwoofers are more suitable. When choosing them, you should pay attention to the following. The subwoofer amplifier should exceed one and a half times the power that the speaker system has. Compliance with this condition will ensure the sound quality.
Which sub to choose
As you know, the debate about which subwoofer is better active or passive still does not fade away. Some dispute the benefits of an active subwoofer, while others vehemently defend this speaker, arguing that it is much easier to install and connect.
We learn from our article which better subwoofer active or passive?
What is the difference between these speakers
Subwoofers tend to reproduce bass. But active and passive speakers are known. Do we know why they are called that?
passive sub
This:
- The ultimate simplicity of design distinguishes a passive subwoofer.
- Such speakers consist of a case and one or more low-frequency heads connected to an external amplifier (see).
Note. Passive subs can have two types of connections. The first method involves transmitting the stereo amplifier signal not only to the sub, but also to the rest of the speakers. The second method involves connecting with a crossover filter that qualitatively separates the bass and signal.
active sub
So:
- The composition of the active subwoofer includes a crossover filter and a power amplifier. This is a very mobile combination of several devices that meet separately.
- The active subwoofer has line inputs and outputs, as well as a special function for adjusting the signal level and crossover frequency.
- A high-quality active sub is able to significantly expand the dynamic range, which naturally has a beneficial effect on the quality of music.
Comparison
So:
- Active sub first better fit for dance and rhythmic music. This speaker, with all its standard settings, has more flexible options and adjustments.
- Secondly, active speakers, having their own amplifiers, are no match for passive ones. If they are of high quality, they are much better than passive ones, because they do not have their own amplifier.
Note. It is not uncommon to tune a passive subwoofer so that that speaker sounds even better than an active speaker, but this is considered to be a very delicate and painstaking process.
- Thirdly, an active subwoofer is easier to install (see), because it is much faster and easier to set up.
Difference
To be more precise, the difference between these two speakers will look like this:
- An active subwoofer is better than a passive one, because it has a built-in amplifier. And to connect a passive subwoofer, you will need to look for external sound amplifiers.
- It is much easier and faster to set up speakers with an active subwoofer than with a passive one.
- A speaker with a passive subwoofer, if tuned accurately and efficiently, sparing no time and effort, will give more surround sound than a system with an active subwoofer.
Note. It can also be said that the active subwoofer is chosen by beginners and those who are not so interested in the depth of sound. On the contrary, those who are looking for more than just loud sound or ease of installation will be happy with a passive subwoofer.
Important information
So:
- It will be interesting to know that an active subwoofer is the same passive one, but it is equipped with an additional bass amplifier.
- Today, active subwoofers are more popular than passive ones, and this determines their cost. It is the popularity of the active subwoofer that makes many people think that it is a priori better than the passive one.
- If you have a separate amplifier, then there is nothing better than purchasing a passive subwoofer.
- In no case should you go on about bright advertising. Today, every manufacturer can shamelessly lie, if only his products were purchased from him.
It is recommended not to believe the words, but to refer to the reputation of the company and judge, as they say by deeds. By following exactly this advice, you can find exactly the subwoofer that suits you.
How to choose the right subwoofer for your speaker system
So, the difference between an active and passive subwoofer is known. Now we will learn how to choose the right subwoofer for your speaker system.
Analysis of the existing acoustic system
First of all, you need to analyze what is available. If simple speakers and an amplifier are available, then it does not make sense to buy an expensive and powerful subwoofer, since it will not sound good anyway.
Note. According to professionals, before buying a subwoofer, you need to set up the speakers in such a way that it gives out bass of relatively good quality.
Such a bass, of course, is not the main one and is also called "acoustic". By installing a subwoofer, you can get high-quality lower bass, which, in addition to the sounds of the speakers, will give excellent sound.
Allegedly, the fact that an expensive and good subwoofer is able to give both lower and upper bass is not justified by practice.
Sub choice
The second stage involves deciding whether an active or passive sub will be selected. As mentioned above, the first option is easy to install in a car, because it will just need to be connected to the speakers. But, oddly enough, an active sub has its drawbacks.
Disadvantages of an active sub:
- Such an active speaker gives a worse sound than a thoroughly tuned passive one.
- Often, in the manufacture of active subs, cheap components are used that make the sound rough.
- As a rule, an active subwoofer is cheaper than a passive one, precisely because of the low-quality materials used in its production.
Subwoofers are designed for high-quality bass reproduction. However, few people know how these speakers differ and which ones are better.
Passive type devices are characterized by extreme simplicity and reliability of design. They consist of a one-piece body and several heads (most often one) that are connected to an external amplifier. The equipment may have two different types connections. The first option is that the stereo amplifier signal is transmitted not only to the speaker, but also to other speakers. The second method involves connecting using a crossover filter. This element designed to effectively and efficiently separate the signal from the bass.
Active subwoofers have a power amplifier and the aforementioned separator filter. As a result, the equipment is a combination of several devices that can be purchased separately. It is equipped with line outputs and inputs, as well as additional option, which allows you to adjust the crossover frequency and signal level. A high-quality device is able to expand the range of the entire speaker system, which will ultimately have a positive effect on the purity of the sound of a piece of music.
What kind of subwoofer is best?
It is easier and more practical to purchase an active type device. It is suitable for rhythmic and dance music. wide functionality consist in various settings and adjustments of frequency and volume. These speakers boast their own amplifiers, which are not found in any passive models.
Active subwoofers are easier to connect and set up. Despite this, many music lovers prefer to purchase other types of devices. Although they require external audio amplifiers, they can be adjusted manually. This is a painstaking and delicate process, but the result can be higher than with active speakers. The cost of passive devices is usually lower.
If you are a beginner and poorly versed in audio technology, we recommend buying active subwoofers. If you are a music lover with extensive experience, take a look good speakers passive type and customize them to your own taste and preference. Then you will be guaranteed a real surround sound.
