An equalizer is a useful piece of audio equipment that allows the user to adjust the frequency responses of an audio signal. They are available in a range of different prices and features, but they all perform the same basic function: adjusting the sound level at different frequencies. Learning how to connect an equalizer to your vehicle or stereo system is a straightforward process that requires a few simple considerations.
Steps
Method 1 of 5: Connect an equalizer between your receiver and amplifier
Step 1. Connect the equalizer to a receiver for an easier connection
Most receivers have either input and output connections for the preamp or connections to the tape control. In most cases, this is the best way to connect an equalizer to your stereo.
Connecting the equalizer to the tape control channels will require a connection only to your receiver. Instead, learn how to connect an equalizer to the receiver
Step 2. Buy 2 pairs of RCA cables
To output a signal from your stereo's receiver to the equalizer and then to the amplifier, you will need 2 sets of RCA cables (the same kind that is generally used to connect source components, such as turntables and turntables).
The length of the RCA cables should match the distance between the receiver and the equalizer
Step 3. Connect a pair of RCA cables between the receiver and the equalizer
Connect a pair of cables to the preamp output channels on the receiver and connect the other end of the cable to the left and right channel inputs on the equalizer.
- You will generally find these channels on the back of the EQ.
- The red RCA plug generally connects to the right channel sockets, while the white or black RCA plugs connect to the left channel.
Step 4. Connect the other pair of RCA cables between the receiver and the amplifier
Connect the other pair of cables from the output channels on the back of the EQ to the input channels on the amplifier.
The red RCA plug generally connects to the right channel sockets, while the white or black RCA plugs connect to the left channel
Step 5. Connect the amplifier to the receiver
The amplifier must remain connected to the receiver with an RCA cable between the outputs and inputs for the amplifier on the receiver. This effectively creates a loop from the receiver through the EQ and amplifier and back to the receiver.
Step 6. Turn on the receiver, equalizer and amplifier to use the equalizer
Turn on all three components and adjust the EQ knobs to your preference. You should now be able to manipulate the controls on the equalizer to change the frequency response or pitch of the music.
Method 2 of 5: Connect an EQ to a Receiver
Step 1. Connect your EQ to a receiver if it doesn't have pre-amp output channels
The equalizer should always be between the receiver and the amplifier. The amplifier will need built-in preamp input and output connections to work with this method.
Step 2. Buy two pairs of RCA cables
To output a signal from your stereo receiver to the EQ and back, you will need 2 sets of RCA cables (the same kind that is generally used to connect source components, such as turntables and turntables).
The length of the RCA cables should correspond to the distance between the receiver and the equalizer
Step 3. Connect a pair of RCA cables between the receiver and the equalizer
Connect a pair of cables to the tape control output channels on the receiver and connect the other end of the cable to the left and right channel inputs on the equalizer.
You will generally find these channels on the back of the EQ
Step 4. Connect the other pair of RCA cables between the receiver and the equalizer
Connect the other pair of cables from the output channels on the back of the EQ to the input channels for tape control on the rear of the receiver.
The red RCA plug generally connects to the right channel sockets, while the white or black RCA plugs connect to the left channel
Step 5. Use the equalizer
Turn on the receiver and move the output control on the front panel to the "tape control" setting. This opens the channels of the tape control and means that the sound will travel through the equalizer before being sent to the amplifier. Adjust the equalizer knobs to your preference.
- You should now be able to manipulate the controls on the equalizer to change the frequency response or pitch of the music.
- To turn on the "tape control" setting, you must press the button on the front panel of the equalizer.
- If you have a tape recorder connected to the tape control channels, you will need to remove it before connecting the equalizer.
Method 3 of 5: Connect an EQ Directly to an Amplifier
Step 1. Connect the EQ directly to an amplifier if the receiver does not have output channels for the preamp or channels for tape control but the amplifier does have input and output channels for the preamp
Most receivers have either input and output connections for the preamp or connections to the tape control. In most cases, these are the best ways to connect an EQ to your stereo. However, if your receiver does not have these channels, some amplifiers allow you to connect the EQ directly.
Connecting the EQ directly to the amp will require input and output channels for the preamp on the amp
Step 2. Buy two pairs of RCA cables
To output a signal from the EQ to the amp and back, you will need 2 sets of RCA cables (the same kind that is generally used to connect source components such as turntables and turntables).
The length of the RCA cables should correspond to the distance between the receiver and the equalizer
Step 3. Connect a pair of RCA cables between the equalizer and the amplifier
Connect a pair of cables to the preamp output channels on the amplifier and connect the other end of the cable to the preamp input channels on the equalizer.
- You will generally find these channels on the back of the EQ.
- The red RCA plug generally connects to the right channel sockets, while the white or black RCA plugs connect to the left channel.
- Sometimes the amp channels will say "tape control out" instead of "pre out" so you can use those too.
Step 4. Connect the other pair of RCA cables between the amplifier and the receiver
Connect the other pair of cables from the output channels on the back of the EQ to the input channels for the preamp on the amp.
- The red RCA plug generally connects to the right channel sockets, while the white or black RCA plugs connect to the left channel.
- Some amps may say "tape control out" instead of "pre out channels", so you can use those too.
Step 5. Turn on the connection to the preamp on the amp
Some amplifiers have a switch to turn on the connections to the preamp. If you are using tape control channels, you will also need to turn on the tape control switch. Press the button to turn on this connection.
Step 6. Turn on the receiver, equalizer and amplifier to use the equalizer
Turn on all three components and adjust the EQ knobs to your preference. You should now be able to manipulate the controls on the equalizer to change the frequency response or pitch of the music.
Method 4 of 5: Connect a Remote Mount EQ to Your Car
Step 1. Use this method to connect an equalizer to your car stereo in a remote location for additional space
Some EQs are designed to be installed on the dashboard, while others are designed for a remote location, such as the trunk. The installation location will depend on your choice of equalizer and your particular preferences.
- Many prefer to install their EQs in the trunk near the amplifier so that they have the option of easily adding additional amplifiers later.
- Some vehicles do not have space on the dashboard for an equalizer, so the equalizer must be mounted remotely.
- The equalizers can be installed anywhere between the amplifier and the receiver.
- Most remote mount EQs will come with a remote so that you can change the controls from the driver's seat.
Step 2. Decide where you want to mount the equalizer
Most people prefer to mount the equalizer in the trunk, near the amplifier. This way, additional amplifiers can be easily added by connecting a nearby cable. Another possible location is under a seat in the vehicle.
Remember that regardless of where you mount the equalizer, you will have to run cables to the headunit, or receiver, and to the amplifier
Step 3. Buy two pairs of RCA cables
To output a signal from the stereo receiver to the EQ and back, you will need 2 sets of RCA cables (the same kind that is generally used to connect source components such as turntables and turntables).
The length of the RCA cables should correspond to the distance between the receiver and the equalizer
Step 4. Remove the receiver from the dashboard
Remove the receiver from the dashboard so that you can access the cables behind it. Generally, you can pull the plastic piece that covers the dash and then slightly pull the receiver out.
Step 5. Connect the RCA cables to the receiver on the dash
Connect the two RCA cables to the preamp outputs on the receiver. Glue them so that they do not separate.
Step 6. Take the cables to the equalizer and connect them
Route the cables through the dash to the equalizer. You should use tape or wire ties to join the two wires. Connect the cables to the inputs for the preamp on the equalizer.
Step 7. Mount the equalizer on the vehicle
Do not mount the equalizer directly on the metal chassis. This will interfere with the sound. It is best to mount the equalizer on a platform or some kind of rubber material to avoid interference.
If you have to screw the EQ directly to the metal chassis, you must use rubber pieces between the EQ and the vehicle
Step 8. Turn off the car
Turn off the car completely and remove the keys before starting the installation. This is for your safety while connecting the cables to avoid electric shock.
Step 9. Connect the ground wire
In the equalizer you will see three wires. Black is the ground connection. Remove a screw near the location where you will mount the equalizer and scrape off any paint that covers the location around the screw. Crinkle a ring on the end of the cable and screw it onto the vehicle.
If no location is available, you will need to drill a hole in the chassis. Be very careful not to damage the gas tank or brake line when doing this
Step 10. Connect the power cord
The yellow wire (it can be red or another color - check the manual) at the equalizer is the 12 volt power wire. Connect this wire to either the electrical wire attached to the receiver or to a variable 12-volt power source in the fuse box (such as the windshield wiper fuse).
- If your receiver doesn't have a wiring diagram to show which wires are electrical, you should use a digital multimeter to identify the correct wire. Connect the multimeter to the wire when the car key is in the off position and make sure the voltage says zero. Then start the car and see if the multimeter now says 12 volts. If the wire follows this pattern, you've found the 12-volt electrical wire.
- Splice the wires and wrap the exposed metal completely with electrical tape. This prevents exposed areas from touching other cables and potentially shorting the system.
- You can also crimp the cables to join them, but this is not as strong as splicing them.
- This cable will need to be routed from the receiver to wherever the equalizer is mounted.
Step 11. Connect the remote start wire
This wire will generally be blue with a white stripe and should be labeled on the equalizer. There should be a blue wire at the receiver (usually blue, but can be other colors) leading to the amplifier. Connect this wire to the blue wire on the receiver after routing it through the vehicle from where the equalizer is located.
Splice or crimp the wires to make a connection, and then wrap the connection in electrical tape
Step 12. Test the equalizer by starting the car
Put the key in and start the car. Then, turn on the radio to check that everything is working fine and that the equalizer turns on with the radio.
Step 13. Return the receiver
Place the receiver back on its bracket and snap the dash cover back into place. Make sure you've placed all the wiring inside the dashboard first.
Method 5 of 5: Connect an equalizer to your car inside the dashboard
Step 1. Use this method to connect an equalizer to your car stereo inside the dash for easy access to the controls
Some EQs are designed to be installed in the dash, while others are designed for a remote location, such as the trunk. The installation location will depend on your choice of equalizer and your particular preferences.
- Many prefer to install their equalizers on the dashboard of the vehicle so that they can have continuous access to the controls.
- The equalizers can be installed anywhere between the amplifier and the receiver.
Step 2. Decide where you want to install the equalizer
The best place to install an EQ inside the dashboard is just above or below the headunit or headunit of the stereo. Some vehicles have space for this on their dashboard. Other vehicles do not have space and the equalizer can be mounted under the dash. The final option is to design a space on the board to suit your EQ.
- If you have room on the dash, you will simply need an installation kit to mount the equalizer. These kits are brackets that hold the headunit to the dash and require only a few screws to attach. The kit will come with specific instructions for assembly.
- If you don't have space on your dashboard, you will need an under-dash mounting kit. These kits are generally designed to be used under the dash on the driver's side, although other options are available. There are many different designs for under-dash kits, so choose the one that you prefer and that works well with your vehicle.
- If you want to have a custom installation, it is best to leave the work to a professional audio installer.
Step 3. Buy two pairs of RCA cables
To output a signal from the stereo receiver to the EQ and back, you will need 2 sets of RCA cables (the same kind that is generally used to connect source components, such as turntables and turntables).
The length of the RCA cables should correspond to the distance between the receiver and the equalizer. To avoid cable clutter, it's best to buy "patch" cables, which are only about 1 foot (30 cm) long
Step 4. Remove the receiver from the dashboard
Remove the receiver from the dashboard so that you can access the cables behind it. Generally, you can pull the plastic piece that covers the dash and then pull the receiver slightly outward.
Step 5. Connect the RCA cables to the receiver on the dash
Connect the two RCA cables to the preamp outputs on the receiver. Glue them so that they do not come apart.
Step 6. Take the cables to the equalizer and connect them
Route the cables through the dash to the equalizer. You should use tape or wire ties to join the two wires. Connect the cables to the preamp inputs on the equalizer.
Step 7. Mount the equalizer
Mount the equalizer in your chosen location. You just have to attach a few screws to mount the equalizer.
Step 8. Turn off the car
Turn off the car completely and remove the keys before starting the installation. This is for your safety while connecting the cables to avoid electric shock.
Step 9. Connect the ground wire
In the equalizer you will see three wires. Black is the ground connection. There will also be a black ground wire on the back of the receiver, and you must splice (or crimp) these wires to join them. After making the connection, wrap it in electrical tape.
- If you can't find a black wire on the receiver, remove a screw near the location where you will mount the equalizer and scrape off any paint that covers the location around the screw. Crinkle a ring on the end of the cable and screw it onto the vehicle.
- If no location is available, you will need to drill a hole in the chassis. Be very careful not to damage the gas tank or brake line when doing this.
Step 10. Connect the power cord
The yellow wire (it can be red or another color - check the manual) at the equalizer is the 12 volt power wire. Connect this wire to either the electrical wire attached to the receiver or to a variable 12-volt power source in the fuse box (such as the windshield wiper fuse).
- If your receiver doesn't have a wiring diagram to show which wires are electrical, you should use a digital multimeter to identify the correct wire. Connect the multimeter to the wire when the car key is in the off position and make sure the voltage says zero. Then turn the key on and see if the multimeter now says 12 volts. If the wire follows this pattern, you've found the 12-volt electrical wire.
- Splice the wires and wrap the exposed metal completely with electrical tape. This prevents exposed areas from touching other cables and potentially shorting the system.
- You can also crimp the cables to join them, but this is not as strong as splicing them.
- This cable will have to be routed from the receiver to wherever the equalizer is mounted.
Step 11. Connect the remote start wire
This wire will generally be blue with a white stripe and should be labeled on the equalizer. There should be a blue wire at the receiver (usually blue, but can be other colors) leading to the amplifier. Connect this wire to the blue wire on the receiver after routing it through the vehicle from where the equalizer is located.
Splice or crimp the wires to make a connection, and then wrap the connection in electrical tape
Step 12. Test the equalizer by starting the car
Put the key in and start the car. Then, turn on the radio to check that everything is working fine and that the equalizer turns on with the radio.
Step 13. Return the receiver
Place the receiver back on its bracket and snap the dash cover back into place. Make sure you've placed all the wiring inside the dashboard first.
Advice
- Receivers without a loop in the tape control can still be connected to an equalizer if there are separate input and output sockets between the preamp and power amp stages. Connect the equalizer as indicated above, placing it in the transmission path between the stages.
- If there are no input and output channels for the preamp or tape control on both the receiver and the amp, you will need to install custom components. Hire a professional to do this installation.