To tell if a subwoofer is blown, listen for distortion or lack of sound. Another way is to check the subwoofer cone for damage or wear and tear.
A subwoofer is an integral part of a sound system, providing the low-frequency bass that brings music to life. If you are experiencing issues with your sound system, it may be due to a blown subwoofer. Two easy ways to tell if a sub is blown include listening for distortion or lack of sound and checking the subwoofer cone for damage or wear and tear.
A blown sub can result from pushing your sound system too hard, or from general wear and tear over time. By identifying the issue, it’s possible to repair or replace the subwoofer and restore your sound system to its former glory.
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Auditory Clues
Scratching or popping sounds coming from your subwoofer is the first indication of a blown subwoofer. You might hear these sounds when playing music or while testing your subwoofer’s sound. Similarly, a distorted, fuzzy or muffled sound output also suggests a subwoofer problem. In some cases, these sounds or signal distortions indicate issues with your amplifier or receiver, not the subwoofer, so it’s essential to run some tests. Try moving the subwoofer to another spot and check the sound. Additionally, you can test the subwoofer’s impedance with a multimeter. If the reading is off or completely open, it means your sub is blown and needs replacement.
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Visual Clues
Visual Inspection of Subwoofer Cone: One of the most common ways to tell if your sub is blown is by performing a visual inspection of the subwoofer cone. If the cone is visibly damaged or distorted, it is likely that the subwoofer is blown and needs to be replaced. Check for any cracks in the cone or any other signs of damage.
Testing Fuse: Another way to detect if your sub is blown is by checking the fuse. A blown fuse indicates that the sub is receiving too much power or that the electrical system is malfunctioning. If there is no continuity in the fuse, it may need to be replaced. Alternatively, if the subwoofer continues to work without the fuse, it is likely not blown.
Checking Speaker Surrounds for Rips or Tears: The speaker surrounds are the flexible rings that surround the subwoofer cone. These are designed to allow the cone to move freely, while also keeping it centered. If the surrounds are ripped or torn, it can cause the cone to rub against the speaker frame, which can lead to blown subwoofers. Inspect the surrounds for any damage or wear and replace if needed.
Digital Multimeter
One of the most common ways to check if your sub is blown is using a digital multimeter. Checking on digital multimeter is simple and easy. Connect the probes of the multimeter onto the sub’s terminals. Ensure that the multimeter is set on the Ohms function. If the screen displays a reading of 1 or OL, then the sub is blown.
Another way to tell if the sub is blown is by suspending the cone. Remove the sub from its enclosure and lay it flat on a surface. Gently press the cone down and feel for any resistance. If there is no resistance, then the sub is blown.
Remember that a blown subwoofer may not necessarily mean that it is damaged. It could be a wiring issue or a problem with the amp. So, it is always important to check and rule out any other potential problems before concluding that your sub is blown.
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Subwoofer Testing
Testing sound of subwoofer: To verify whether the sub is blown or not, test its sound by playing music through it. Listen for distortion, rattling, or crackling sounds that could indicate damage.
Checking for A/C impedance: If you suspect a blown sub, remove it from its enclosure and measure its A/C impedance with a multimeter. A significantly lower reading than the sub’s impedance rating may indicate damage.
Checking for DC resistance: Testing the DC resistance of the voice coil with a multimeter can also help diagnose an issue. If the reading is lower than expected, the sub may be blown.
Testing amplifier and receiver: Finally, if you are still unsure if your sub is blown or not, test your amplifier and receiver to make sure that they are functioning properly. Faulty equipment can often be mistaken for a blown sub.
Conclusion
After analyzing the above-mentioned symptoms, it’s become easier to tell if a subwoofer is blown. By checking the cone for any visible damage, listening for a distorted sound, performing a multimeter test, and checking the enclosure for any leaks, you can detect if your sub is working perfectly or needs replacement.
Remember, a blown subwoofer can ruin your audio experience, so it’s essential to stay alert. By being careful and attentive, you can easily keep your sub in excellent working condition.
