Im new to the whole sound system scene...obviously. I just wanted to know, if I get a sub, how do I wire it? To the wires that run to the rear speakers, or does it need to go through an amp to the HU? I have a lot of reading to do, but any help would be appreciated.

Chris

 

You're gonna have to use an amp(the factory head unit won't push a sub). The amp needs a fused power source(battery), a good ground, a turn-on signal(so it doesn't stay on when the car is off), and a signal from the head unit. If you have a factory head unit, you either buy a signal converter that takes the signal going to one of the speakers and turns it into an RCA signal going to your amp. Or you can buy an amp with a low level input which is your speaker wires. I really stress that you should at least have a buddy or two that has done it before help you out or pay someone to install it. You could potentially melt your car's wiring/explode your battery/or on a minor scale, ruin your brand new/existing stereo equipment.

 

Thank you so much for that answer. It still a long ways off because I don't know anything about sound systems, but your post certainly does help. Thanks for not telling me to SEARCH!!! I appreciate it!

Chris

 

Depending on what type of Sub you're looking for, I went with this...

Audiobahn ATB8AT

Great value for the $$$! It comes with everything you need to hook it up. (Upgrade the RCA cables though.) The Sub provides nice clean bass. Installation was a snap. (If you have a HU with preamp outputs.) Whatever Sub you get, just be sure to run the power wire down the driver's side (there's a rubber grommet under the steering wheel that leads to the engine bay thus allowing you to hook it up to the battery) and the RCAs down the passenger's side. That way you won't get any annoying hiss.