Which Car Audio Crossover is BEST for YOU? Passive vs Active Crossovers EXPLAINED!

In order to properly separate the frequencies of sound being sent to each speaker in an aftermarket car audio system we need to use a crossover. But the question becomes, should we use an active crossover that limits signal before the amplifier output, or should we use a passive crossover that is wired between the amplifier and the speakers/subwoofers? Let's discuss which is better, passive or active crossovers!

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Car Audio Fabrication – Master Car Audio – Design, Build, Install

[CarAudioFabrication]

Thank you everyone for tuning in!
🔊 Check out AudioControl's new line of subwoofers, the SPIKE series!

See my TOP 5 favorite AudioControl amps!
Thank you to AudioControl for being a sponsor of the channel!

[youknowwho]

I already know a bit about passive and active crossovers. However, Mark always makes such informative videos, so I watch every new video just to see his take on the subject.
Mark, I love your content! Keep it up!

[markie]

I use passive only because it was more simple.

[mikehonda]

I say if anything, run what you are building your setup for. If you plan active with staging, then multiple channels and some form of DSP will be involved. Some may not be comfortable with it, but if you have knowledge of how passive crossovers are designed, you can send an active signal to each individual speaker input on the passive crossover board. Just know, it voids warranty, and may damage its functionality if done incorrectly. I prefer to do both together as a precaution, and for the ease of level matching. I’m comfortable altering the crossover for full active install. Gives the passive crossover the added features of alignment and EQ adjustment for all speakers.

[georgesrisomsak]

Once you go active, and learn how to dial it in, you'll NEVER go back. There's many, many benefits.

Nice video Mark!

[JonathanDFielding]

I haven't watch the the video yet, but the answer is simple and straightforward. Using DSP active crossovers is objectively better every time.

[mikeberndt]

Active is almost always better but requires more amplifier channels. Many people want to use head unit power or want at most a 4ch amp plus sub amp. Active crossover users will almost always be people who spend mega bucks on their systems. Most people want boom and that’s it. It’s the enthusiast who HAS the $ and is willing to spend it that will choose active vs passive, the plebs will stick to stock or coaxial 99% of the time.

[norcalzx]

I am VERY excited to hear your thoughts on the new Audio Control speakers/subs. Hopefully it's an honest review and not an 'honest*' review ;)

[flexart]

Completely off subject but I would like to see some info about complex remote start/ security systems. Key wrapping, diode isolating 5 wire. Relay explanations ect.

[mr.motormaster]

I just got a pair of pasives for my doors 🎉❤

[AlexanderGarcia-mplb]

What about speaker that is 2 way or 3 or 4 can you make a video how to tune those speaker

[nickmandleberg]

In the front would you rather have 3 way passive or 2 way active?

[toysforboysrc]

Are there any DSP that also function as a crossover for each channel?

[gonzoe]

My question is how can you use an active crossover (D6.1200) to make a custom passive crossover? I have been trying to build a multi-channel system with equipment I already own and I keep running into limitations with how many channels I have to work with. I have been looking into integrating coaxial drivers to keep time alignment correct, while using a passive crossover. Or would you recommend using a wideband driver instead?

[ericestrada-ofcx]

Hello in your best option what size of speaker would be beat for a truck

[FrankieJ]

How do you wire the 4 speakers you referred to? I have 4 speakers with active crossovers, but mine is wired to 6 channels on my amp

[Louzahsol]

Hi need help, I bought a set of cheap Pyle speakers for my 06 wrx. The old speakers had bad cones but they still worked, the new ones dont work at all

[Chromedome-ssmg]

Another problem with the crossover is you have to find a way to hide it under the dash

[jasonerosewrx]

@CarAudioFabricatuon When setting the gains on DSP do you set amp gain to a desired point let's say 1/4 of the way then turn up DSP until the amp clips? What's the correct procedure, I can't find anything online.

[XtreamStealth]

I work at my son's car audio store. I have a Dodge Challenger with the KH system. hate it. So I changed all my speakers but kept the two KH 12" Subs, installed a DSR1 and two amps, a 4 ch Focal amp and a db 5 ch amp. The DSR1 has only 6 channel out puts. my OEM DSP was a 13 ch. my question is.... because I'm using some 4 ohm speaker and some 2.5 ohm speakers. can I run my 2.5 ohm speakers on my 5 ch db amp and my KH sub on the same amps 5 channel that are wired to 3 ohms?