Fixed: Subwoofer Not Working But Speakers Are In 2023

Subwoofers give high-quality audio systems powerful bass and a full sound experience. However, sometimes you may encounter a situation where the subwoofer not working but speakers are.

This can be frustrating and detract from the overall listening experience, leaving the sound feeling unbalanced and lacking depth.

In this post, Hookeaudio will explore some of the possible causes of subwoofer issues, such as connection problems, blown fuses or subwoofers, and damaged speakers.

We will also provide tips on how to troubleshoot and resolve the problem of subwoofer not working amp has power, so you can enjoy the full benefits of your bass system.

Why Subwoofer Not Working But Speakers Are?

Blown Subwoofer

A speaker that isn’t working could be because it’s broken. A blown subwoofer happens when one or more of the parts inside, like the voice coil, cone, or surround, are broken or damaged. This can result in a loss of sound output or distorted audio.

There may be no sound at all, or the music may be muted or distorted, if the subwoofer is blown. A buzzing or rattling noise is another possible result of a blown subwoofer.

Connection Issues

Connection matters can be a common reason why a subwoofer is not working. Here are some possible connection issues that could be causing the problem:

Loose connections: Make sure all subwoofer cables are securely plugged in. If any cables are loose, this could result in no sound output.
Incorrect connection: Ensure that the subwoofer is connected to the appropriate input/output on the amplifier or audio source. Connecting the subwoofer to the wrong input/output could result in no sound or distorted sound output.
Damaged cables: Check the cables connecting the subwoofer to the amplifier or audio source for any signs of damage, such as fraying or cuts. Damaged cables can interfere with the sound signal and make the amp turns on but no sound from sub.
Faulty amplifier: The subwoofer may receive the wrong signal from a malfunctioning amplifier. Check that the amplifier is turned on and configured correctly.
Incorrect settings: Check that the subwoofer settings on the amplifier or audio source are correctly configured. Ensure that the subwoofer volume and crossover frequency are set appropriately.

Protect Mode

Protect Mode is a function that is built into many subwoofers. It turns off the subwoofer when it senses an electrical fault or overload to prevent harm.

In this mode, the subwoofer stops making sound and may flash or turn off.

Here are some reasons why a subwoofer might enter the mode:

Overheating: Protect Mode prevents internal component damage if the subwoofer overheats.
Overload: If the subwoofer is receiving too much power, it may enter Protect Mode to prevent damage to the speaker and other components.
Short circuit: In Protect Mode, the subwoofer protects its electrical components from short circuits in the wire or amplifier.
Faulty components: To prevent additional damage, the subwoofer may enter Protect Mode if a fuse or capacitor blows.

If your subwoofer is in Protect Mode, visit the owner’s manual or manufacturer for help resetting or troubleshooting. If the problem persists, a technician may need to diagnose and repair the subwoofer.

Step By Step To How to Fix Subwoofer No Sound When The Amplifier Has Power

Inspect All The Control Knobs

Inspecting all the control knobs can be a useful step to take when an amp has power but no sound from subwoofers. Here’s what you can do:

Check the volume control knob: Make sure the amplifier’s volume knob is high enough to produce subwoofer sound. There may be no audible output at all if the level is set too low.
Check the crossover control knob: The crossover control knob sets the subwoofer’s sound frequency. Set the crossover control knob to a suitable frequency range for your music or audio. If it is set too high or low, the subwoofer may not produce any sound.
Check the phase control knob: The audio system’s phase control knob controls the subwoofer’s sound waves’ timing. Ensure that the phase control knob is set to the appropriate setting for your stereo system.
Check the power control knob: The power control knob determines the power output to the subwoofer. Ensure that the power control knob is turned up high enough to produce sound from the subwoofer.
Check the gain control knob: The gain control knob controls the subwoofer’s audio signal sensitivity. Make sure the gain control knob is adjusted to a suitable level for the sound system and not too low to prevent the subwoofer from creating sound.

Inspect The Input Cables

Inspecting the cables is another important step to take when trying to fix a subwoofer no sound when the amplifier has power. Here’s what you can do:

Check the cable connections: Plug the input cables into the amplifier’s output and the subwoofer’s input. Loose cables may prohibit the subwoofer from receiving and playing sounds.
Check for damage: Inspect the input wires for any signs of damage, such as fraying or cuts. Damaged cables can interfere with the sound signal and prevent the subwoofer from working correctly.
Try different cables: If you think the input cords are the problem, try an alternative set to connect the amp and subwoofer. This will help you determine whether the issue is with the cables themselves or something else.
Check for compatibility: Ensure that the input wires are compatible with both the amplifier and the subwoofer. Some cables may not work with certain equipment, preventing the subwoofer from producing sound.

Inspect The Wires

Inspecting the wires is another important step to take when trying to fix a subwoofer that is producing no sound when the amplifier is powered. Here’s what you can do:

Check the wiring connections: Make that the speaker wires are securely attached to the subwoofer, amplifier, and output terminals. The subwoofer may not receive the audio signal if the wires are slack.
Check for damage: Inspect the wires for any signs of damage, such as fraying, cuts, or exposed wire. Damaged wires can interfere with the sound signal and result in the amp is on but no bass.
Check for proper polarity: Connect the positive wire to the positive terminal and the negative wire to the negative terminal. If the wires are connected improperly, this could prevent the subwoofer from producing sound.
Check for wire gauge: Make sure the wire gauge matches the amplifier power output and subwoofer impedance. If the wire gauge is too small, it could cause subwoofer turns on but no sound or damage the amplifier.

Inspect The Fuse Of The Subwoofer

Inspecting the fuse of the subwoofer is another important step to take when trying to fix a car subwoofer not working but speakers are. Here’s what you can do:

Locate the fuse: The fuse is normally on the subwoofer’s back near the power cord.
Check for damage: Inspect the fuse for any signs of damage, such as a blown or melted fuse. If the fuse is damaged, it needs to be replaced.
Check the fuse rating: Ensure that the fuse rating matches the power requirements of the subwoofer. If the fuse rating is too low, the subwoofer won’t work, and if it’s too high, it could harm the amplifier.
Replace the fuse: If the fuse is damaged, replace it with a new fuse of the correct rating. Be sure to use a fuse of the same type and rating as the original.

Inspect The Speakers

Inspecting the speakers is a vital step to take when trying to fix subwoofer no power light.

First, connect the speaker wires to the subwoofer’s output terminals and the speakers’ input terminals.

Loose connecting can prevent the subwoofer from producing sound.

Next, inspect the speakers for any signs of damage, such as torn or punctured cones, or damaged voice coils. If the speakers are broken, the subwoofer won’t be able to receive a clean signal.

Also, make sure that the impedance of the speakers fits the output impedance of the amplifier. Mismatched impedance can prevent the subwoofer from producing sound or damage the amplifier.

Lastly, connect the speakers to another audio source to test whether they are producing sound. If the speakers are making sound, the fault is with the subwoofer or amplifier.

By inspecting the speakers, you can identify any issues and take appropriate steps to fix them, ensuring that the subwoofer produces sound as the amplifier is powered.

Check Your Settings

Checking your settings is an essential step to take when trying to fix a subwoofer that is not producing sound when the amplifier has power.

First, turn up the amplifier and subwoofer volume to an audible level. If the noise is too low, it might be hard to hear the subwoofer at all.

Next, check the crossover settings, which determine how loud the subwoofer is compared to the other speakers. If the crossover is set too high, the subwoofer may not produce any sound at all.

Check the phase settings, which control the subwoofer’s sound wave’s timing with the other speakers. The subwoofer might drown out other speakers if the phase is wrong.

Finally, check the amplifier or subwoofer’s input settings to make sure the right source is selected.

You may troubleshoot and fix any difficulties by checking your settings and making sure the volume, crossover, phase, and input settings are accurate.

Look for Short Circuits

Looking for short circuits is an important step to take when trying to fix a subwoofer that is not producing sound when the amp has power.

Short circuits can develop if the positive and negative wires or the speaker frame are connected. This overloads the system and disables the subwoofer.

Turn off the amplifier and unplug the subwoofer to check for shorts. Inspect the subwoofer wiring for exposed wires or damaged insulation.

Check the wires’ connections to the input terminals and the speaker frame.

If you see damage or short circuits, you may need to repair or replace the wiring or call an expert.

What If Your Subwoofer Has Turned On But No Sound Is Coming Out?

If your subwoofer is on but not making sound, there are various possible causes and troubleshooting steps:

Check the volume: Ensure that the volume on the subwoofer and amplifier is turned up to an audible level.
Check the cables: Make sure the subwoofer and amplifier cables are securely connected in and not damaged.
Check the input settings: Verify that the input source on the amplifier or subwoofer is correctly selected.
Check the crossover settings: Adjust the crossover settings to ensure that the subwoofer is playing at an appropriate frequency range.
Check the phase settings: Adjust the phase settings to ensure that the subwoofer’s sound wave timing is synchronized with the other speakers in the system.
Check the subwoofer cone: Inspect the subwoofer’s cone for any damage or blockages that may be preventing sound from being produced.
Check the amplifier settings: Make sure the subwoofer is powered by the amplifier.

If these measures don’t work, the subwoofer or amplifier may need professional repair or replacement.

FAQs

Why Won’t My Subwoofer Work?

Subwoofers can malfunction due to connection issues, blown fuses, protect mode activation, broken cables, improper settings, and damaged speakers. Finding the problem and troubleshooting can fix the subwoofer.

Why is the Car Subwoofer Not Working but the Speakers Are?

If the speakers function but the subwoofer doesn’t, it may be damaged or unpowered. Some possible causes include blown fuses, loose connections, and faulty wiring. Checking the power source, amplifier settings, and cables can help troubleshoot and resolve the issue.

Checking the settings and making sure the automobile bass system’s subwoofer is properly setup may also fix the problem.

How To Tell If Subs Are Blown?

Distortion, crackling, loss of bass, and speaker cone tears or punctures are indicators of blown subs.

Additionally, the subwoofer may not work entirely or produce very weak or muffled sounds. Testing the subwoofer with a multimeter or performing a visual inspection of the speaker cone can also help confirm if the subs are blown.

If you suspect that your subs are blown, it may be necessary to replace or repair them to restore their functionality.

Why Does My Subwoofer Stop Working Randomly?

Short-circuiting is the most frequent cause of speaker failure. The signal won’t ever reach the subwoofer if there is a short in the wires carrying it. Electrical current and signal cannot enter the subwoofer if the terminals on the subwoofer are shorted.

Why is there no power to amp?

Power Cord: Check if the power cable is plugged in correctly and if it is not damaged. Try plugging the amp into a different outlet to see if there’s an issue with the amp light not coming on.
Fuse: Check if the amp has a blown fuse. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one of the same type and rating.
Remote Wire: Check if the remote wire is connected correctly. This wire is typically connected to the head unit or a separate remote turn-on lead, and it signals the amp to turn on when the head unit is turned on.
Ground Wire: Check if the ground wire is connected securely to a metal point on the vehicle’s chassis. A poor ground connection can prevent the amp from turning on.
Overheating: If the amp has overheated, it may not turn on until it has cooled down. Check if the amp has proper ventilation and if there’s anything blocking the cooling vents.
Internal Issues: If none of the above reasons apply, there may be internal issues that make the amp not getting power. In this case, it may be necessary to take the amp to a professional for repair or replacement.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, a subwoofer broken but speakers are is a common issue that can be caused by several factors.

You can fix your subwoofer and experience the full range of sound in your sound system by troubleshooting. You can find the problem by examining connections, wiring, and the subwoofer.

This post’s subwoofer troubleshooting tips can fix a subwoofer that stopped operating but the amp was on.