Subwoofer Not As Loud As It Used To Be: Causes, Solutions

Last updated on December 29th, 2022 at 09:11 pm

Is your subwoofer not as loud as it used to be? You’re not alone. Many people have this problem and wonder what’s causing it.

There are several possible causes and solutions for that.

In this article, you will know about the reasons why a subwoofer is not as loud as it used to be and how to fix the weak sub.

Reasons why your subwoofer is not as loud as it used to be

Let’s take a look at the causes of the subwoofer not being as loud as it used to be with solutions.

Improper settings on the device

One common reason is the settings on your audio device. If you have your subwoofer set to an extremely low volume or if the crossover frequency is set too low if the sound system isn’t configured properly, this can cause the subwoofer to sound weak.

Solution

If you think the settings on your audio device are causing the subwoofer to sound weak, try adjusting the volume or crossover frequency.

If the subwoofer is not properly tuned, you can try tuning it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

This usually involves playing music or other audio at low volumes for a period of time.

Once the subwoofer is properly tuned, it should sound better and be less weak.

Low bass levels

If the subwoofer bass level is low or set to zero, the sound may not be loud enough.

Solution

You need to increase the bass level. You can do this by using the equalizer on your audio device or by adjusting the settings on the subwoofer itself.

The crossover is set too low

If the crossover is set too low, it can cause the subwoofer to sound weak and thin.

Solution

The solution to this problem is to adjust the crossover setting. This can be done by changing the setting on the subwoofer itself or by using a crossover adjustment tool.

Poor audio sources

If you are using poor-quality audio sources, such as MP3s or streaming services with low bitrates, this can cause the subwoofer to sound weak.

As a subwoofer produces low-frequency sound, if the audio source doesn’t have low -frequency, it can’t produce sound properly.

Solution

If you want to improve the sound quality of your subwoofer, try using higher-quality audio sources. This could involve buying CDs or downloading lossless audio files.

Moreover, ensure the sound source contains low-frequency sounds.

You may also want to consider upgrading your home theater system to one with a better quality receiver and speakers.

The subwoofer is not receiving enough power

This is another common cause why a subwoofer might not be as loud as it used to be.

If the subwoofer is not receiving enough power, it will not be able to produce the same level of sound as it did when it was first installed.

Solution

The best way to solve this problem is to increase the power of the subwoofer.

This can be done by adding an amplifier or by increasing the voltage to the subwoofer.

Faulty or improper amplifier

Another cause can be the amplifier has become faulty. Usually, if an amplifier goes bad, it will not provide enough power to the subwoofer, and as a result, the sound may not remain loud as it used to be. In some cases, the amplifier may not work at all.

The size of the amplifier is also an important factor. If it’s the wrong size it should produce a loud sound.

Solution

If you think that your amplifier is the problem, then you should take it to a technician and have it checked out. If it’s damaged, you need to replace it.

And, if the size isn’t correct, replace it with the proper size amp.

Bad wiring or loose connections

Another reason why a sub is not loud is because of loose connections. If the wires are not connected properly, then the sound will be weaker.

If the wiring of the sub is bad, it can sound weak and distorted.

Solution

If the wiring of the subwoofer is bad, you can try replacing the wires.

Use good quality wires that are properly connected and in good condition. This should improve the sound quality of the subwoofer.

Make sure that all the connections are tight and secure.

Poor room acoustic

If the room is not acoustically treated, the sound of the subwoofer will be reflections and will not be as loud as it used to be.

Solution

The best way to solve this problem is to acoustically treat the room.

This can be done by adding sound-absorbing materials to the walls, ceiling, and floor.

Incorrect placement of the subwoofer

If the subwoofer is not placed in the correct location, it can sound weak and have reduced bass response.

Solution

The solution to this problem is to find the correct placement for the subwoofer.

You can try moving it to a different location.

This might involve changing the position of the subwoofer in the room or changing the orientation of the subwoofer.

Overworked subwoofer

Another reason why your subwoofer might not be as loud as it used to be is that it is overworked.

This means that the subwoofer is being asked to produce too much bass, and as a result, it is not able to keep up.

This can be caused by playing your music too loud, or by having the bass turned up too high.

Also, know about the overheated subwoofer.

Solution

If you think that your subwoofer is overworked, then you should try turning down the volume or the bass.

Poor quality equipment or parts

If you are using poor-quality equipment or parts, then this can b responsible for your subwoofer not being loud enough.

This is because low-quality parts will not be able to handle the power that is being sent to them, and as a result, they will not be able to produce the sound that you want.

Solution

If your subwoofer is not sounding as good as it used to because of the equipment or parts that you are using, then you should try upgrading to better-quality parts.

Damaged surround

The surround of a subwoofer is the part of the speaker that circles the cone. The surround is usually made out of cloth or foam, and it can be damaged if the subwoofer is dropped or hit.

This damage can cause the subwoofer to not sound loud.

Solution

If your subwoofer is sounding weak, the first thing to check is the condition of the surround.

If it appears to be damaged or worn out, you may need to replace the surround in order to restore proper function and sound quality.

You can purchase replacement surrounds from various online retailers or specialty audio stores, and most can be replaced fairly easily.

Alternatively, if the subwoofer is simply old or has been used a lot, it may simply be time for a replacement. weak sound in older, well-worn subwoofers can often be an indicator that it’s time to invest in a new model.

The impedance mismatch between the subwoofer terminals and the amplifier

If the impedance of the subwoofer terminals does not match the impedance of the amplifier, it can cause sound quality issues and make the subwoofer sound weak.

Solution

Make sure that the impedance of the subwoofer and amplifier match before connecting them.

If the impedance does not match, you can try connecting them with an impedance-matching transformer.

This will help to ensure that the subwoofer and amplifier are working together properly and improve sound quality.

If you are still having trouble, you may need to consult a professional for help.

Dust and dirt

Dust and dirt getting into the speaker can also be responsible for a subwoofer not being loud.

If there is too much dust or dirt inside the speaker, it can affect the movement of the speaker cone and cause it to sound weak.

This can also cause the subwoofer to not receive a signal properly.

Weak sound can also be caused by using an inappropriate cleaning solution on the surrounding material.

Solution

One way to address this issue is to regularly clean the surrounding materials and the interior of your subwoofer.

To prevent dust from getting into the speaker, be sure to use a protective cover when your subwoofer is not in use, and also make sure that it is placed in an area with good airflow.

Besides, be sure to clean the surround with a dry cloth or by hand-washing it in lukewarm water.

You can try gently cleaning the surround with a soft cloth to remove any buildup that may be causing a weak sound.

Dried out surround

Another possible cause of a weak subwoofer is that the surrounding itself has dried out.

This can happen if the subwoofer has been exposed to high temperatures, such as in direct sunlight or near a heater.

Solution

If you think that the surround may be dried out, you can try rehydrating it by misting it with water.

Be sure to use distilled water so that there is no risk of damaging the surround.

You can also try using a humidifier in the room where the subwoofer is located to help prevent the surround from drying out.

If this does not work, you may need to replace or repair the surround to restore full functionality to your subwoofer.

Faulty voice coil

Another possibility is that the voice coil has been damaged or is faulty. The Voice coil is an essential part of the subwoofer and it should be working properly to produce good sound.

But, when it has an issue, this can cause the subwoofer to not produce a loud sound and can also cause it to overheat.

Solution

If you think that the voice coil may be the issue, it’s best to take the subwoofer to a professional for repair or replacement.

This is because the voice coil is a delicate and integral part of the subwoofer, and attempting to fix it yourself could do more harm than good.

Cone not centered

If the cone isn’t centered properly, this can cause the subwoofer to sound weak and can also cause it to overheat.

The cone is one of the most important parts of a subwoofer. It is responsible for transferring the sound from the speaker to the air, and if it’s not working properly, the subwoofer will sound poor.

Learn about subs only working when pushing on the cone.

Solution

If the cone on your subwoofer is not centered properly, you can try repositioning it.

This may require some simple adjustments to the surrounding materials or to other components in the speaker system.

However, if this doesn’t resolve the issue, you may need to bring the subwoofer to a professional for repair or replacement.

Damaged cone

A damaged cone can also cause the subwoofer to sound weak.

The cone is responsible for transferring the sound from the speaker to the air, and if it’s not working properly, the subwoofer will sound weak.

If the cone is damaged, you may need to replace it in order to restore proper function and sound quality to your subwoofer.

Know more about damaged subwoofer cones.

Solution

If your subwoofer is sounding weak, the first thing you should do is check for any damage. If you see any damage, such as a hole in the cone or a torn surround, you will need to replace the damaged part in order to fix the problem.

You can purchase replacement parts online or from specialty audio stores, and many can be replaced fairly easily.

If there is no damage to your subwoofer, you may need to try cleaning it or replacing any worn-out parts in order to restore proper function and sound quality.

Too small enclosure

Another reason can be that the enclosure it is in is too small. If the subwoofer is not able to breathe or move freely, this can cause it to sound weak.

Solution

If you think that the enclosure may be the issue, you can try repositioning it. This may require some simple adjustments to the surrounding materials or to other components in the speaker system.

You can also try changing the size or shape of the enclosure. This may require some more extensive modifications, but it can often improve the sound quality of your subwoofer.

The enclosure is not airtight

Another common cause of weak subwoofers is that the enclosure is not airtight. If there are any cracks or holes in the enclosure, it can allow air to leak out and prevent the subwoofer from achieving the correct bass response. This can make the subwoofer sound weak and lifeless.

Solution

Inspect the enclosure for any cracks or holes. If you find any, seal them up with silicone caulk or another type of sealant.

Improperly sealed enclosure

Another cause could be that the enclosure is not properly sealed. If the subwoofer is unable to move freely because of air leaks or gaps, this can cause it to sound weak.

Solution

To fix this problem, you have to seal any leaks or gaps in the enclosure. This can be done with a variety of materials, such as silicone sealant, weatherstripping, or duct tape.

You will also need to make sure that the enclosure is properly sealed when it is not in use. This can be done by using a cover or by storing it in a closed area.

Old or damaged cables

If the cables connecting the subwoofer to the amplifier are old or damaged, this can cause the subwoofer to sound weak.

Solution

If you think that the cables may be the issue, you can try replacing them with new ones. You can purchase new cables online or from specialty audio stores.

If you are not sure how to replace the cables, you can consult a professional for help.

Voice coil shorting out

The voice coil shorting out is another cause. This can happen if the subwoofer is turned on and off too rapidly, or if it is turned up too high.

Solution

If you are still having problems with a weak subwoofer, you may need to seek professional help.

A technician can diagnose the issue and provide recommendations for repairing or replacing your subwoofer.

They can also help you find replacement parts or upgrade your existing speakers if necessary to restore proper function and sound quality.

A blown fuse

A blown fuse can also cause a subwoofer to sound weak. This is usually caused by an amplifier that is turned up too high or a power surge.

Solution

If you think that the amplifier may be the issue, you can try replacing the fuse. You can purchase replacement fuses from most hardware stores.

If you are not sure how to replace the fuse, consult a professional.

Damage incurred from long-term use or improper handling of the subwoofer

If the subwoofer has been damaged from long-term use or improper handling, this can cause it to sound weak.

Solution

If the subwoofer is damaged, you may need to replace it in order to restore proper function and sound quality.

You can purchase a new subwoofer online or from specialty audio stores.

If you are not sure how to install a new subwoofer, you should contact a professional.

How to fix a weak subwoofer?

If you suspect that your subwoofer is weak or experiencing other problems, there are a few things you can try to resolve the issue.

1. First, ensure that the motor of the subwoofer is running properly and all connections are proper.

2. Next, make sure that your subwoofer is receiving proper power and isn’t being overloaded by signals from other devices.

3. If you have multiple speakers connected to the same receiver or amplifier, you may want to check if any of them are overloading the system.

4. If your subwoofer is still not loud enough after ensuring that it’s receiving proper power, you may need to adjust the settings on your receiver or amplifier.

5. If you’re using a home theater receiver, there may be a setting for “subwoofer mode” or “LFE crossover” that you can adjust. For example, if you set the crossover frequency too high, your subwoofer may struggle to play lower frequencies.

6. If you’re still having problems with a weak subwoofer, it may be time to consider getting it repaired or replaced. You can contact the manufacturer of your subwoofer for information on warranty coverage and repair services. Alternatively, you can try contacting local audio repair shops to see if they can help.

Ultimately, the key to solving a weak subwoofer is identifying and addressing the underlying cause of the problem.

By taking steps to ensure that your subwoofer has proper power and settings, you may be able to resolve any weak sound issues on your own.

However, if these measures don’t work, it may be necessary to seek professional assistance.

Know about the subwoofer pulsing with no sound.

Also, check out what to do if your subwoofer doesn’t hit too hard.

Conclusion

There are several reasons why your subwoofer is not loud enough such as improper settings on your audio device, insufficient power supply, faulty amplifier, incorrect placement of the subwoofer in your home theater setup, or issues with the sub itself.

With some troubleshooting techniques or careful adjustment of your audio settings or by fixing the damaged part, you can fix a weak subwoofer and get it working properly again.