Oz Audio Vector Series Subwoofer User Manual
Size
In most vehicles, an 8” to 12” diameter subwoofer is likely to fit and provide excellent output
when placed in a correctly sized enclosure. Be sure to review the subwoofer’s recommended
enclosure volume before selecting or constructing a subwoofer enclosure. If vehicle space is
limited, it is better to go with a smaller diameter subwoofer with a properly sized enclosure,
rather than squeezing a larger diameter subwoofer into an under-sized enclosure. If space
limitations are not a problem, larger 12” or 15” subwoofers (even multiple subwoofers) are
possible.
RMS Power Handling
Use RMS power ratings to select an amplifier to power your subwoofer. Match the amplifier’s
per channel RMS power with the subwoofer’s RMS power handling. “Peak” or “Max” power
ratings on either the amplifier or subwoofer can be misleading since each manufacturer defines
Peak ratings differently. RMS power handling is a good indication of continuous reliability of
both the subwoofer and amplifier when used in the correct enclosure.
Voice Coils
The decision to purchase a single voice coil (SVC) or dual voice coil (DVC) subwoofer, and
its nominal impedance (Ohms), depends on the “load” of the subwoofer(s) connected to the
amplifier. A general rule of thumb is to choose voice coil configurations that load amplifiers
at 4 ohms (2 ohms on amplifiers that can support it). This allows the amplifier to power the
subwoofer(s) continuously with no overheating or overloading problems. A single subwoofer
with a single voice coil is straightforward (for example – 4 ohms). Multiple SVC and one or
more DVC subwoofers can be wired in series, parallel or series-parallel combinations.
Each wiring design allows for a different configuration of subwoofer(s) to amplifier(s) and is
necessary because not all subwoofer voice coils are the same nominal impedance. See the
series and parallel connections section in this manual for tips on DVC and multiple subwoofer
connections to an amplifier.
Before You Begin - Determine
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