Many people don’t have any clue what they’re doing when it comes to measuring a subwoofer. In order to get the most out of your system, however, it’s important to get a precise measurement of your speaker. With this article, Hooke Audio will tell you exactly how to measure a subwoofer.
What Subwoofer Aspects Should You Measure?
You need to measure the subwoofer’s diameter, mounting height, and depth in order to determine its overall size. Sub measurements go beyond, so it doesn’t matter if you need a sub 10” or 12″. Below is a description and illustration of each.
Speaker diameter – the measurement of the outside diameter of the speaker frame, excluding any mounting lugs present. You can find a replacement speaker that is the same size as your old one by measuring the diameter of the speaker. It will fit into the existing mounting space.
Cutout diameter – This indicates the measurement of the sub, including the mounting holes. This is necessary for the surround to be clear of the speaker’s mounting plane.
Mounting height – This measurement indicates how far the front-end of the subwoofer projects from the front mounting surface. You can ensure that the sub does not project too high.
Mounting depth – This refers to the length of the subwoofer’s rear. This will allow you to determine the distance between the rear of the speaker and the front mounting plane.
How To Measure A Subwoofer
Method 1 – Measure Dimensions Of The Subwoofer
Step 1 – Remove the Subwoofer Driver From the Old Enclosure
Turn off the subwoofer, and then remove it from the mounting or enclosure. This can be done with a screwdriver.
Remove the covers from the subwoofer’s back and loosen the screws. Once you’re done, remove the sub from the enclosure and disconnect all wires. Make sure the driver is removed completely from the enclosure.
Step 2 – Measure the Subwoofer’s Mounting Depth
To measure the depth of the mounting in inches, place the sub upright.
The mounting depth is the distance between the speaker’s back and the mounting frame.
Let’s now discuss how to calculate the depth of subwoofer mounting. Start measuring from the bottom to the mounting frame, which is the flat metal or plastic plate surrounding the cone.
Two measurements should be taken: the subwoofer’s top mounting depth and bottom mounting depth. This refers to the distance from the counting frame to the sub.
Step 3 – Measure the Mounting Heights
This is done by measuring the mounting frame of the subwoofer from the bottom to its highest projection point.
Place the subwoofer so that the wide end of the cone faces upwards. With the driver upright, calculate the distance with a ruler or tape measure. Measure the size from the bottom to the metal or plastic surrounding the cone. This is known as the mounting frame.
Measure from the bottom of the mounting plate to the highest point on the sub. Then, examine it from the side. This will allow you to determine how far it extends beyond the mounting frame.
This measurement is necessary to ensure that your sub is safe. You could endanger the sub if the height exceeds the limit. You shouldn’t place the sub too high. It shouldn’t be too tall, or it could cause serious damage.
Step 4 – Measure the Cutout Diameter
This is how to calculate the diameter of the subwoofer. To ensure that the cone’s largest part faces down, flip the sub speaker upside-down. Measure the size from one mounting hole to the other of your driver’s widest parts. Keep track of the dimensions to ensure you don’t forget the details later.
Let’s now discuss how to measure a square Subwoofer. You should calculate the width of the sub from the largest point on each side, even if it is not round. Measure the distance from the four mounting holes to measure diagonally.
Method 2 – Measure Mounting Holes
You can determine the dimensions of mounting holes for new subwoofers so you can select a subwoofer that fits your enclosure.
The above method is more valuable than the one described because you can drill new holes to support the subwoofer if needed.
This method can also be used to measure your subwoofer accurately. Here’s how to test it:
Step 1 – Determine the Mounting Hole’s Outer Diameter
Find the largest area of the hole, and place your ruler or measuring tape across it. Measure from the edge of the mounting hole to its opposite side. It should be larger or equal to the baffle cutout diameter on the subwoofer.
If the hole is not circular, make sure to check the largest point on all sides.
Step 2 – Determine the Inner Diameter of the Hole
If you notice recessed lips at the location where you plan to mount your subwoofer, this is a crucial step.
This is a common problem that causes the mounting frame to lay flush. Measure the inner diameter by placing your ruler on the opposite side of the hole. Measure straight across the enclosure hole to determine the length.
Subwoofer closures are designed with a recessed lip. You should locate the largest point on each side of the hole that is not round.
The cutout diameter of a recessed lip should be slightly smaller than normal. It won’t fit into the mounting hole. This could cause severe damage.
Step 3 – Measure the Subwoofer Space Depth
To make the best purchase decision, you should know the depth of the space in which the sub will be placed.
You can calculate it by sticking the ruler inside the mounting hole. Record the measurement once the ruler reaches the surface’s end. This is how much you can charge for your subwoofer.
The mounting height of your sub should not exceed the space’s depth. To ensure that the sub fits perfectly within the enclosure, measure the space.
Step 4 – Determine the Unique Features Of The Screw Pattern
Examine the layout of your old enclosure. Find the distance between different screw holes and the one opposite.
Determine the distance between each screw. Note down your findings and compare them to the subwoofers that you are going to use.
As mentioned above, if the pattern of the screws is not compatible, you can always drill new ones.
Measure the Subwoofer Box Cubic Feet
Your enclosure’s air space has a significant impact on your sound. Subwoofers that sound better in bigger boxes will produce deeper bass, while those with smaller enclosures will be able to hear more. To calculate how many cubic feet your enclosure holds, multiply the enclosure’s height, width, length. This is the total volume of your box. Divide this number by 1,728.
What is the Subwoofer Impedance and Why is it Important?
Before purchasing a subwoofer, you should be aware of its impedance. This information may be found on the magnet’s back or on the backside of the speaker. It is also possible to double-check the Ohms by using a multimeter to calculate them. It is crucial to know the impedance as it will determine the load the amplifier receives from the sub. It’s more than just the size. Make sure that your sub has the same impedance as the one you have before the replacement subwoofer to prevent overloading the amp.
How Do You Measure A Subwoofer Size?
The difference in the measurement of a subwoofer or any loudspeaker driver is illustrated below. The measurement of a 13-inch woofer is the diameter of the circular metal frame that surrounds the front of the driver. Measurements are therefore taken externally using the diameter of the outer frame.
Conclusion
Subwoofers are an essential part of any sound system, but knowing how to measure them correctly is also crucial. If the dimensions are measured incorrectly, the driver won’t be able to move enough air to create adequate sound levels. Hopefully, this article can support you built your own subwoofer with the correct measurements.
