Re: [VAL] Adding a subwoofer

[Uwe Salwender <salwender@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Tom,
You can use any high quality CD Receiver deck for cars, preferably one 
with 4x30W or so output.
Run the main speakers on 2 channels, and the subs on the other two 
channels, crossed over by a suitable small passive x-over.
The fader control then lets you fine tune the subwoofers so you can add 
punch or play very mellow just through your main speakers.
I recommend 2ea. 8in 4%X subs for this application. They would be hooked 
up left and right, just like the main speakers. 4%X impedance will 
tickle more watts out of your deck than 8%X speakers would.
If you want to go bigger, you'll be better off using a 3-channel mobile 
amplifier with active crossover built in. Then you might run into 
battery drain issues when boondocking.
The sound of the system will no doubt be better with the external 
amplifier, even at lower volumes. Headroom in audio is like torque in 
trucks. More is better.
The supply wiring, speaker wiring and overall quality of the components 
will play a large role in the overall sound quality of your system.
Try this source for components and supplies:  www.partsexpress.com
Wishing you much success!
Uwe Salwender
Orange CA