The equalizer is a useful audio tool that allows the user to adjust the frequency responses of an audio signal. These instruments come in a variety of prices and configurations, but they all perform the same basic function: adjusting the level of sound to different frequencies. Learning how to connect an equalizer to your stereo or car is an easy process that requires a few simple considerations.
Steps
Method 1 of 5: Connect an Equalizer between a Receiver and an Amplifier
Step 1. Connect the equalizer to the receiver for easier connection
Most receivers have preamp input and output connections or tape monitor connections. In most cases, this is the best way to connect an equalizer to the stereo.
Using the Tape Monitor will require connection to the receiver only. Instead, learn how to connect an equalizer to the receiver
Step 2. Purchase 2 pairs of RCA cables
To pass a signal from the stereo receiver to the equalizer and then to the amplifier, you need 2 sets of RCA cables (the same type you normally use to connect source components, such as turntable platter and CD players).
The length of the RCA cables must 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 the other end of the cable to the left and right channel inputs on the equalizer.
- Generally, these channels are located on the back of the equalizer.
- The right channel jacks generally accept the red RCA plug while the left channel should accept the black or white RCA plugs.
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 equalizer to the left and right input channels on the amplifier.
The right channel jacks generally accept the red RCA plug while the left channel should accept the black or white RCA plugs
Step 5. Connect the amplifier to the receiver
The amplifier must remain connected to the receiver with an RCA cable between the amplifier outputs and inputs on the receiver. This actually creates a circuit that starts at the receiver, goes through the equalizer and amplifier and then 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 equalizer knobs to your preference. You should now be able to manipulate the controls on the equalizer to change the frequency response or the sound of the music.
Method 2 of 5: Connect an Equalizer to the Receiver
Step 1. Connect the equalizer to the receiver, if it doesn't have pre-out channels
The equalizer must always be located between the receiver and the amplifier. The amplifier will need built-in preamp input and output connections to work with this method.
Step 2. Purchase 2 pairs of RCA cables
To route a signal from the stereo receiver to the equalizer and back to the receiver, you need 2 sets of RCA cables (the same type you typically use to connect source components, such as turntable platter and CD players).
The length of the RCA cables must 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 tape monitor output channels on the receiver and the other end of the cable to the left and right channel inputs on the equalizer.
Generally, these channels are located on the back of the equalizer
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 equalizer to the tape monitor input channels on the back of the receiver.
The right channel jacks generally accept the red RCA plug while the left channel should accept the black or white RCA plugs
Step 5. Use the equalizer
Turn on the receiver and switch the front panel output control to the "Tape Monitor" setting. This will open the Tape Monitor channels, then the sound will pass 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 the sound of the music.
- To switch to the "Tape Monitor" setting you should press the button on the front panel of the equalizer.
- If you have a tape deck connected to the Tape Monitor channels, you will need to remove it before connecting the equalizer.
Method 3 of 5: Connect an Equalizer directly to the Amplifier
Step 1. Connect the equalizer directly to the amplifier if the receiver does not have pre-amp out channels or tape monitor channels, but the amplifier has pre-amped input and output channels
Most receivers have preamp input and output connections or tape monitor connections. In most cases, this is the best way to connect an equalizer to the stereo. However, if your receiver doesn't have these channels, some amplifiers will allow you to connect the equalizer directly.
Connecting directly to the amplifier will require pre-amped input and output channels on the amplifier
Step 2. Purchase 2 pairs of RCA cables
To pass a signal from the equalizer to the amplifier and back to the equalizer, you need 2 sets of RCA cables (the same type you typically use to connect source components, such as turntable platter and CD players).
The length of the RCA cables must match the distance between the receiver and the equalizer
Step 3. Connect a pair of cables to the preamp out channels on the amplifier and the other end of the cable to the preamp input channels on the equalizer
- Generally, these channels are located on the back of the equalizer.
- The right channel jacks generally accept the red RCA plug while the left channel should accept the black or white RCA plugs.
- Sometimes, the amplifier channels will report the tape monitor output rather than the preamp output, so you can use that too.
Step 4. Connect the other pair of cables from the output channels on the back of the equalizer to the preamp input channels on the amplifier
- The right channel jacks generally accept the red RCA plug while the left channel should accept the black or white RCA plugs.
- Some amplifiers may have a tape monitor input rather than pre-amp input channels, so you can use that too.
Step 5. Turn on the preamp link on the amplifier
Some amplifiers have a switch to turn on the preamp connections. If you are using Tape Monitor channels, you will also need to turn on the Tape Monitor switch. Press the button to activate this link.
Step 6. Turn on the receiver, equalizer and amplifier to use the equalizer
Turn on all three components and 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 the sound of the music.
Method 4 of 5: Connect a Remote Equalizer in your Car
Step 1. Use this method to connect an equalizer to your car stereo remotely and save space
Some equalizers are designed to be installed in the dashboard while others are designed to be positioned remotely, for example in the trunk. The place of installation depends on the equalizer chosen and your preferences.
- Many people prefer to install their own equalizer in the trunk next to the amplifier, so that they can easily add more amps in the future.
- Some vehicles do not have a place in the dashboard for an equalizer, so the equalizer must be placed elsewhere.
- Equalizers can be installed anywhere between the amplifier and receiver.
- Most remote equalizers will be equipped with remote controls so you can change the controls from the driver's seat.
Step 2. Decide where you want to place the equalizer
Most people prefer to mount it in the trunk, next to the amplifier. In this way, other amplifiers can be added in the future simply by connecting a nearby wire. Other possible solutions are under the car seat.
Remember that wherever the equalizer has been mounted, you will need to connect the wires to the head unit or receiver, as well as to the amplifier
Step 3. Purchase 2 pairs of RCA cables
To route a signal from the stereo receiver to the equalizer and back to the receiver, you need 2 sets of RCA cables (the same type you typically use to connect source components such as turntable platter and CD players).
The length of the RCA cables must match the distance between the receiver and the equalizer
Step 4. Remove the receiver from the dashboard
Remove the receiver from the dashboard so you can reach the electrical wires behind it. Usually, you can take off the plastic cover of the dashboard, then slightly pull the receiver out.
Step 5. Connect the RCA cables to the receiver inside the dashboard
Plug the two RCA cables into the receiver's preamp outputs. Join them with tape to keep them from coming off.
Step 6. Bring the cables to the equalizer and insert them
Lead the cables through the dashboard to the equalizer. You should join the two cables at various points with tape or wire ties. Plug the cables into the preamp inputs on the equalizer.
Step 7. Mount the equalizer on the car
Do not mount the equalizer directly on the metal frame. This will interfere with the sound. It is best to mount it on a platform or some kind of rubber material to avoid interference.
If you are forced to bolt it directly to the metal frame, you should insert rubber parts between the equalizer and the vehicle
Step 8. Turn off the engine
Turn off the engine completely and remove the keys before starting the installation. This way, you will work safely while you connect the electrical wires, thus avoiding the shock.
Step 9. Connect the ground wire
On the equalizer you will see three electrical wires. The black one is the ground wire. Remove a bolt near where you are mounting the equalizer and scrape off any paint covering the space around the bolt. Loop one end of the electrical wire and secure it to the vehicle with bolts.
If there is no other seat available, you will be forced to make a hole in the frame. Be very careful not to damage the fuel tank or brake line while doing this
Step 10. Plug in the power cord
The yellow wire (may be red or another color, so please consult the manual) on the equalizer is the 12V power cord. Connect this cord to the power cord attached to the receiver or to a variable power source 12 V in the fuse box (for example, the windshield wiper fuse).
- If the receiver does not have a wiring diagram indicating which wires are switched power wires, then you will need to use a tester to identify the correct wire. Connect the tester to the cable when the key is in the "off" position and make sure the voltage reads zero. Then, turn the key to "on" and check if 12 V now appears. If the wire follows this pattern, it means that you have found the right power cord.
- Join the electrical wires and cover the exposed metal part with electrical tape. This will prevent uncovered areas from coming into contact with other electrical wires and possibly shorting the system.
- You can also twist the threads together, but they won't be as strong as when they were joined.
- This wire will have to travel from the receiver to the point where the equalizer was mounted.
Step 11. Connect the remote ignition wire
Usually, this wire is blue with a white stripe and should be marked on the equalizer. There should be a blue wire on the receiver (usually blue, but may be another color) going to the amplifier. Connect this wire to the blue wire on the receiver after passing it through the vehicle from where the equalizer is located.
Join or twist the electrical wires together to make a connection, then wrap the connection with electrical tape
Step 12. Test the equalizer by turning on the machine
Put the key in the ignition and turn it to the "on" position. Next, turn on the radio to check that everything is working properly and that the equalizer turns on along with the radio.
Step 13. Replace the receiver
Place the receiver in its holder and replace the cover. Before doing this, make sure all the wires are inside the dashboard.
Method 5 of 5: Connect an Internal Equalizer to the Car Dashboard
Step 1. Use this method to connect an equalizer to the car stereo inside the dashboard if you want easy access to the controls
Some equalizers are designed to be installed in the dashboard while others are designed to be positioned remotely, for example in the trunk. The installation location depends on the chosen device and your preferences.
- Many people prefer to install it in the vehicle's dashboard so that they always have access to the controls.
- Equalizers can be installed anywhere between the amplifier and receiver.
Step 2. Decide where to install it
The best place to install an internal dash equalizer is just above or below the head unit or stereo control unit. Some vehicles have space for this in the dashboard. Other vehicles do not have space and, in this case, it can be mounted under the dashboard. The final solution is to find a suitable location inside the dashboard.
- If you have space in the dashboard, you will only need an installation kit. These kits are brackets that secure the main unit to the dashboard and only require the insertion of a few screws. The kit comes with specific assembly instructions.
- If there is no space in the dashboard, you will need a mounting kit for placement under the dashboard. These kits are normally designed for mounting under the dashboard on the driver's side, although other solutions are available. There are numerous models of kits for mounting under the dashboard, so choose the one you prefer and that best fits your vehicle.
- If you want a bespoke installation, it is best to consult an experienced audio installer.
Step 3. Purchase 2 pairs of RCA cables
To route a signal from the stereo receiver to the equalizer and back to the receiver, you need 2 sets of RCA cables (the same type you typically use to connect source components, such as turntable platter and CD players).
The length of the RCA cables must match the distance between the receiver and the equalizer. To avoid "cable clutter", it is preferable to purchase "patch" format cables, with a length of about 30 cm
Step 4. Remove the receiver from the dashboard
Remove the receiver from the dashboard so you can reach the electrical wires behind it. Usually, you can take off the plastic cover of the dashboard, then slightly pull the receiver out.
Step 5. Connect the RCA cables to the receiver inside the dashboard
Plug the two RCA cables into the receiver's preamp outputs. Join them with tape to keep them from falling off.
Step 6. Bring the cables to the equalizer and insert them
Lead the cables through the dashboard to the equalizer. You should join the two cables at various points with tape or wire ties. Plug the cables into the preamp inputs on the equalizer.
Step 7. Mount the equalizer at any point of your choice
Just put a few screws to mount the equalizer.
Step 8. Turn off the engine completely and remove the keys before starting the installation
This way, you will work safely while connecting the electrical wires, thus avoiding the shock.
Step 9. Connect the ground wire
On the equalizer you will see three electrical wires. The black one is the ground wire. There will also be a black wire on the back of the receiver and you will need to join (or twist together) these wires. After making the connection, wrap it with electrical tape.
- If you don't find a black wire on the receiver, remove a bolt near where you are mounting the equalizer and scrape off any paint covering the space around the bolt. Loop one end of the electrical wire and secure it to the vehicle with a bolt.
- If there is no other seat available, you will be forced to make a hole in the frame. Be very careful not to damage the fuel tank or brake line while doing this.
Step 10. Plug in the power cord
The yellow wire (may be red or another color, so please consult the manual) on the equalizer is the 12V power cord. Connect this cord to the power cord attached to the receiver or to a variable power source 12 V in the fuse box (for example, the windshield wiper fuse).
- If the receiver does not have a wiring diagram indicating which wires are switched power wires, then you will need to use a tester to identify the correct wire. Connect the tester to the cable when the key is in the "off" position and make sure the voltage reads zero. Then, turn the key to "on" and check if 12 V now appears. If the wire follows this pattern, it means that you have located the right 12V switched power cable.
- Join the electrical wires and cover the exposed metal part with electrical tape. This will prevent uncovered areas from coming into contact with other electrical wires and possibly shorting the system.
- You can also twist the threads together, but they won't be as strong as when they were joined.
- This wire will have to travel from the receiver to the point where the equalizer was mounted.
Step 11. Connect the remote ignition wire
Usually, this wire is blue with a white stripe and should be marked on the equalizer. There should be a blue wire on the receiver (usually blue, but may be another color) going to the amplifier. Connect this wire to the blue wire on the receiver after passing it through the vehicle from where the equalizer is located.
Join or twist the electrical wires together to make a connection, then wrap the connection with electrical tape
Step 12. Test the equalizer by turning on the machine
Put the key in the ignition and turn it to the "on" position. Next, turn on the radio to check that everything is working properly and that the equalizer turns on along with the radio.
Step 13. Replace the receiver
Place the receiver in its holder and replace the cover. Before doing this, make sure all the wires are inside the dashboard.
Advice
- Receivers without a tape monitor circuit can still be connected to an equalizer if separate output and input jacks are present between the preamp and power amplifier platforms. Connect the equalizer as above, placing it in the signal path between the platforms.
- If there are no pre-amp or tape monitor input and output channels on the receiver or amplifier, you will need to custom install the components. Contact a professional to complete the installation.
