Crossover means dividing the audio signals into multiple frequency ranges. A car audio system might have either active or passive crossover. But active vs passive, which crossover is good for car audio?
Active crossover needs power and ground connection to produce fine-tuning in music. On the other hand, passive crossover doesn’t require power and ground connection. But passive crossover gives little flexibility and fine-tuning like active crossover.
In this guide, we will compare the characteristics of active and passive crossover filters for car audio. So, let’s dig into the next section!
Contents
What Refers to Active and Passive Crossover?
There is a common query among car enthusiasts: “Do I need a crossover for my car audio? Then, active or passive, what should I choose? Let’s first know the definition of this common crossover.
Active Crossover
Active crossover is an electrical circuitry device. It splits the car audio signals into multiple frequency ranges with additional power. This crossover is available in both digital and analogue versions. The users can process more signals like limiting and equalization from an active crossover.
Passive Crossover
“passive” means it doesn’t require additional power to split audio signals. It only requires connecting by wiring to the power amplifier. Do note that passive crossover is less flexible than active crossover.
A Detailed Comparison of Active vs Passive Crossover for Car Audio
We have made this comparison based on our extensive research. We have researched on Active vs passive crossover car audio forum. Active and passive crossover exists with several individual characteristics, conveniences and inconveniences. Knowing these would be great for choosing the perfect crossover for car audio.
Structural Element
An active crossover consists of capacitors, resistors and op-amp. An active crossover can modify the car’s audio signals before amplification through an additional power supply.
By contrast, the common elements of a passive crossover are inductors, capacitors, coils and resistors. After amplification, it modifies audio signals and is divided into two or multiple frequencies.
Required Amplifier
In active crossover, each audio speaker required a single amplifier. In passive crossover, a single amplifier is enough for multiple speakers.
Potential Signal loss
The possibility of audio signal loss is very low in active crossover. It happens due to the signal dividing after amplification. On the other hand, passive crossover is more prone to loss of audio signal because of pre-amplification.
Flexibility
Active crossover comes with more flexibility than passive crossover. As a result, you will get more precise and fine-tuning from each frequency output. But passive crossover splits audio signals into multiple frequencies from one single channel. So, it can’t produce fine tuning like an active crossover.
Overall System
Active crossover system operated by single amplifiers for single speakers. So, its system is complex. However, it provides more customization.
On the other hand, passive crossover required only one amp channel to operate multiple speakers. So, the system is easier. But you will need more customization options in the passive crossover.
Price Range
Active crossover is expensive. However, its conveniences are worth the higher price. But passive crossover is relatively inexpensive than active crossover.
Installation
Active crossover installation is tricky and sensitive. It would be great to get a professional’s help installing an active crossover board. But the passive crossover is easier to install. It is possible to install it yourself.
Active vs Passive Crossover Car Audio: Which Is the Winner?
From the above discussion, we see that both crossovers have some pros and cons. Active crossover is the winner, considering signal loss, flexibility and fine audio tuning output.
On the other hand, passive crossover is the winner, considering affordability and easier installation. Therefore, it would be great to go with active crossover for fine-tuning. Passive is recommended when required as an affordable option.
Note that many audio enthusiasts think crossover and equalizer are the same things. But a comparison between crossover vs equalizer can let you know the difference. Equalizer works to increase the fine-tuning in a car audio system.
What Are the Best Active And Passive Crossover for Car Audio?
Delve into the world of active and crossover car audio for optimal sound performance on the road. Let’s explore the best car audio!
1. Lanzar 2 And 3 Way Active Crossover
It is an amazing 2- And 3-way crossover system for car audio. It is equipped with adjustable bass sharper and bluetooth connectivity. Besides, it has become one of the most reliable crossovers for durable construction and a wide range of compatibility.
Features
- 2–3-way features allow to use it in 2 or 3 ways according to the user preference
- Asymmetrical function works to customize phase shifts and smoother summation
- Bluetooth wireless connectivity and RCA inputs make it compatible with various devices.
- It accelerates the bass sounds and reduces distortion
- Gold-plated RCA connections and conductive jacks are premia in quality
2. DS18 PRO-CFX 2-Way Car Audio Passive Crossover
DS18 PRO-CFX 2 is the best recommended passive crossover for car audio. It features an incredible bass boost, fine-tuning from the mid-range speakers and tweeters. Additionally, this 2-way passive crossover car audio improves the speaker sound for hi-res and multi-room audio.
Features
- Professional-grade sound stage and two components filtering with precision
- It ensures a lifelike and precise audio experience from a car audio system
- Its 300W RMS capability elevates the music in such a way that you will feel a breathtaking experience
- Eliminates unwanted frequency in impressive ways and improves the speaker quality
- It is compacted and easy to install in a car stereo
Final Words
We hope you understand the comparison between “Active vs passive crossover car audio.” These are two individual devices. Now you can compare on Active vs passive crossover car audio pros and cons. Although their characteristics are individual, their responsibility is similar.
Active crossover car audio is more flexible, customizable, better fine-tuning and retains maximum audio signals. On the other hand, passive crossover is good for affordable price and easy installation.
Which crossover is the winner depends on the user’s preference. However, car audio experts often suggest active crossover due to the additional conveniences.
