The equalizer is a useful piece of audio equipment that allows the user to adjust the frequency response of the audio signal. They are available in a variety of prices and different features, but all perform the same basic function: adjustment of sound levels at different frequencies. Learning how to connect an equalizer to your stereo system or vehicle is a straightforward process that requires simple consideration.
Step
Method 1 of 5: Installing an Equalizer Between Your Receiver and Amplifier
Step 1. Connect the equalizer to your receiver for the easiest connection
Some receivers have preamp-in and preamp-out connections or monitor band connections. In most cases, this is the best way to connect the equalizer to the stereo.
Connecting to the monitoring channel band will require a connection only to the receiver. Learn how to connect an equalizer to a receiver
Step 2. Purchase 2 pairs of RCA cables
To run the signal from your stereo receiver to the equalizer and then to your amplifier, you will need 2 sets of RCA cables (the same type usually used to connect source components such as turntables and CD players).
The length of the RCA cable must match the length between the receiver and the equalizer
Step 3. Connect a pair of RCA cables between the receiver and the equalizer
Connect a pair of wires to the pre-amp output channels on the receiver and the ends of the wires to the left and right channel inputs on the equalizer.
- You will usually find these channels on the back of the equalizer.
- The right channel plug is usually a red RCA plug while the left channel must be a white or black RCA plug.
Step 4. Connect another pair of RCA cables between the receiver and amplifier
Connect another pair of wires from the output channels on the back of the equalizer to the left and right input channels on the amplifier.
The right channel plug is usually a red RCA plug while the left channel must be a white or black RCA plug
Step 5. Connect the amplifier to the receiver
The amplifier must remain connected to the receiver with an RCA cable between the amplifier output and the amplifier input on the receiver. This effectively creates a loop from the receiver through the equalizer and amplifier and back to the receiver.
Step 6. Turn on the receiver, equalizer and amplifier to use your equalizer
Turn on all three components and adjust the equalizer knobs according to your preference. Now you should be able to manipulate the controls on the equalizer to change the frequency response or pitch of your music.
Method 2 of 5: Attaching the Equalizer to Your Receiver
Step 1. Connect the equalizer to your receiver if it doesn't have a preamp-out channel
The equalizer should always be between the receiver and amplifier. Your amplifier will need an integrated preamp-out and preamp-in connection to work with this method.
Step 2. Purchase 2 pairs of RCA cables
In order to run the signal from your stereo receiver to the equalizer and back again, you will need 2 sets of RCA cables (the same type usually used to connect source components such as turntables and CD players).
The length of the RCA cable must match the length 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 monitor's tape output channel on the receiver and the ends of the cable to the left and right channel inputs of the equalizer.
You will usually find these channels on the back of the equalizer
Step 4. Connect another pair of RCA cables between the receiver and the equalizer
Connect another pair of cables from the output channel on the back of the equalizer to the tape monitor input channel on the back of the receiver.
The right channel plug is usually a red RCA plug while the left channel must be a white or black RCA plug
Step 5. Use your equalizer
Turn on the receiver and turn on the front panel output control for the "Tape Monitor" setting. This opens the monitoring channel recording and means that the sound will travel through your equalizer before being sent to the amplifier. Set the equalizer knobs according to your preference.
- Now you should be able to manipulate the controls on the equalizer to change the frequency response or pitch of your music.
- To activate the "Tape Monitor" setting you have to press the button on the front panel of the equalizer.
- If you have a tape deck connected to a monitoring tape line then you will need to remove it before connecting your equalizer.
Method 3 of 5: Connecting the Equalizer Directly to the Amplifier
Step 1. Connect the equalizer directly to your amplifier if the receiver does not have a preamp output channel or monitor band channel but your amplifier has a preamp-in and out channel
Some receivers have preamp-in and preamp-out connections or monitor band connections. In most cases, this is the best way to connect an equalizer to your stereo. However, if the receiver does not have these channels then some amplifiers allow you to connect the equalizer directly.
Connecting to an amplifier directly will require preamp-in and preamp-out lines on your amplifier
Step 2. Purchase 2 pairs of RCA cables
To run a signal from the equalizer to the amplifier and back again, you'll need 2 sets of RCA cables (the same type typically used to connect source components such as turntables and CD players).
The length of the RCA cable must match the length between the receiver and the equalizer
Step 3. Connect a pair of RCA cables between the equalizer and amplifier
Connect a pair of wires to the pre-amp output line on the amplifier and the other end to the pre-amp input line on the equalizer.
- You will usually find these channels on the back of the equalizer.
- The right channel plug is usually a red RCA plug while the left channel must be a white or black RCA plug.
- Sometimes an amplifier channel will say a monitor recording output rather than a pre-amp output so you can use this too.
Step 4. Connect another pair of RCA cables between the amplifier and receiver
Connect another pair of wires from the output line on the back of the equalizer to the pre-amp input line on the amplifier.
- The right channel plug is usually a red RCA plug while the left channel must be a white or black RCA plug.
- Some amplifiers may have a monitor band input rather than a pre-amp input line so you can use this too.
Step 5. Activate the pre-amp connection on the amplifier
Some amplifiers will have a switch to enable the pre-amp connection. If you are using a tape monitor then you will also need to turn on the monitor record switch. Press the button to activate this connection.
Step 6. Turn on the receiver, equalizer and amplifier to use your equalizer
Turn on all three components and adjust the equalizer knobs according to your preference. Now you should be able to manipulate the controls on the equalizer to change the frequency response or pitch of your music.
Method 4 of 5: Connecting the Remote-Mount Equalizer to Your Car
Step 1. Use this method to connect the equalizer to your car stereo in a remote location for additional space
Some equalizers are designed for mounting on your dash while others are designed for remote locations such as the trunk. The installation location will depend on your particular equalizer selection and preferences.
- Many choose to install the equalizer in their trunk near the amplifier so they have the option of easily adding additional amplifiers later.
- Some vehicles will not have space in the dash for equalization and require their remote-mounted equalizer.
- Equalizers can be installed anywhere between your amplifier and receiver.
- Most remote-mount equalizers will come with a remote so you can change the controls from the driver's seat.
Step 2. Decide where you want to install the equalizer
Most people prefer to mount their remote-mounted equalizer in their trunk near the amplifier. This way they can easily add additional amplifiers at a later date by connecting the closed wire. Another possible location is under the seat in the vehicle.
Remember that wherever you attach your equalizer, you will have to run cables to the central unit, or receiver, and amplifier
Step 3. Purchase 2 pairs of RCA cables
In order to run the signal from your stereo receiver to the equalizer and back again, you will need 2 sets of RCA cables (the same type usually used to connect source components such as turntables and CD players).
The length of the RCA cable must match the length between the receiver and the equalizer
Step 4. Remove your receiver from the dash
Remove your receiver from the dash so you can access the rear cables. Usually you can pull the piece of plastic covering the dash and then pull the receiver out a bit.
Step 5. Connect the RCA cable to the in-dash receiver
Attach two RCA cables to the receiver's preamp outputs. Glue them together so they won't separate.
Step 6. Bring the cable to the equalizer and plug it in
Route the cable through the dash to the equalizer. You'll need to use ribbon or bonding wire along the way to connect the two wires together. Plug the cable into the preamp input on your equalizer.
Step 7. Install the equalizer for the vehicle
Do not attach the equalizer directly to the metal chassis. This will interfere with the sound. It is better to install the equalizer on a platform or a rubber type material to prevent interference.
If you have to bolt the equalizer directly to the metal chassis, then you'll need to use a piece of rubber between the equalizer and the vehicle
Step 8. Turn off your ignition
Turn off your ignition completely and remove your key before you start the installation. It's for your safety when you connect the cable to avoid shock.
Step 9. Connect your ground wire
On your equalizer you will see three wires. The black one is the ground wire. Remove the bolts near the equalizer mounting locations and scrape off any paint covering the locations around the bolts. Curl the ring at the end of the wire and bolt for the vehicle.
If no location is available then you will have to drill a hole in the chassis. Be careful not to damage the gas tank or brake line while doing this
Step 10. Connect the power cable
The yellow wire (could be red or any other color - check your instructions) on your equalizer is the 12V power lead. Connect this cable to the power cable connected to the receiver or a variable 12V power source in the fuse box (such as a swab fuse).
- If your receiver doesn't have a wiring diagram to show which cable is attached to the power cable, then you'll need to use a digital multimeter to identify the correct cable. Connect the multimeter to the wire when the key is in the off position and make sure the voltage is zero. Then turn the key to the on position and see if it is now 12V. If the wire follows this pattern, then you have found the correct 12V electrical wire.
- Connect the wires together and wrap the exposed metal with electrical tape completely. This is to prevent exposed areas from touching other wires and potentially shorting the system.
- You can also curl the wires together but this is not as strong as splicing.
- This wire needs to be routed from the receiver to wherever the equalizer is attached.
Step 11. Connect the turn-on remote cable
This wire will usually be a blue wire with a white line, and should be labeled on your equalizer. On the receiver must be a blue wire (usually blue but can be other colors) that goes into the amplifier. Connect this cable to the blue cable on the receiver after routing through the vehicle from which the equalizer is located.
Connect or curl the wires together to make a connection and then wrap the connection in electrical tape
Step 12. Test the equalizer by starting the car
Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the "on" position. Then turn on the radio to check that everything is working properly and the equalizer is on with the radio.
Step 13. Replace the receiver
Insert the receiver back into the bracket and place the frame back into place. Make sure all cables are pushed in the dash first.
Method 5 of 5: Connecting the In-Dash Equalizer to Your Car
Step 1. Use this method to connect the equalizer to your car stereo on the dash if you want easy access to the controls
Some equalizers are designed for installation on your dash while others are designed for remote locations like the trunk. The installation location will depend on your particular equalizer selection and preferences.
- Many choose to install their equalizer on the vehicle's dash so they can have access to continuous control.
- Equalizers can be installed anywhere between your amplifier and receiver.
Step 2. Decide where you want to install the equalizer
The best place to mount the in-dash equalizer is directly above or below the head unit, or your stereo control unit. Some vehicles will have room for this in their dash. Other vehicles will have no space and an equalizer can then be mounted under the dash. The final option is to customize your equalizer to dash.
- If you have space in your dash, then you will only need an installation tool to install your equalizer. It is a bracket that holds the head unit to the dash and only requires a few screws to install. Your appliance will come with a special user manual for installation.
- If you don't have space on your dash, you'll need an under-dash mounting kit. This tool is usually designed to be under the dash on the driver's side although other options are available. There are many different designs for under-dash tools so pick the one you want and work well with your vehicle.
- If you want to have a custom installation then it is best to leave the job to a professional audio installer.
Step 3. Purchase 2 pairs of RCA cables
In order to run the signal from your stereo receiver to the equalizer and back again, you will need 2 sets of RCA cables (the same type usually used to connect source components such as turntables and CD players).
The length of the RCA cable must match the length between the receiver and the equalizer. To avoid "cable mess," it's better to buy a cable "patch" that measures only about a foot (30 cm) long
Step 4. Remove your receiver from the dash
Remove your receiver from the dash so you can access the rear cables. Usually you can pull the piece of plastic covering the dash and then pull the receiver out a bit.
Step 5. Connect the RCA cable to the in-dash receiver
Attach two RCA cables to the receiver's preamp outputs. Glue them together so they won't separate.
Step 6. Bring the cable to the equalizer and plug it in
Route the cable through the dash to the equalizer. You will need to use ribbon or ties of wire along the way to connect the two wires together. Plug the cable into the preamp input on your equalizer.
Step 7. Install your equalizer
Install the equalizer for your chosen location. You just need to screw in a few screws to mount your equalizer.
Step 8. Turn off your ignition
Turn off your ignition completely and remove your key before you start the installation. It's for your safety when you connect the cable to avoid shock.
Step 9. Connect your ground wire
On your equalizer you will see three wires. The black one is the ground wire. On the back of the receiver will also be a black ground wire and you'll need to connect (or crimp) these wires together. After making the connection, wrap it in electrical tape.
- If you can't find the black wire on the receiver, remove the screw near the equalizer mounting location and scrape off any paint covering the location around the bolt. Curl the ring at the end of the wire and bolt for the vehicle.
- If no location is available then you will have to drill a hole in the chassis. Be careful not to damage the gas tank or brake line while doing this.
Step 10. Connect the power cable
The yellow wire (could be red or any other color - check your instructions) on your equalizer is the 12V power lead. Connect this cable to the power cable connected to the receiver or a variable 12V power source in the fuse box (such as a swab fuse).
- If your receiver doesn't have a wiring diagram to show which cable is attached to the power cable, then you'll need to use a digital multimeter to identify the correct cable. Connect the multimeter to the wire when the key is in the off position and make sure the voltage is zero. Then turn the key to the on position and see if it is now 12V. If the wire follows this pattern, then you have found the correct 12V electrical wire.
- Connect the wires together and wrap the exposed metal with electrical tape completely. This is to prevent exposed areas from touching other wires and potentially shorting the system.
- You can also crimp the wires together but this is not as strong as splicing.
- This wire needs to be routed from the receiver to wherever the equalizer is attached.
Step 11. Connect the turn-on remote cable
This wire will usually be a blue wire with a white line, and should be labeled on your equalizer. On the receiver must be a blue wire (usually blue but can be other colors) that goes into the amplifier. Connect this wire to the blue wire on the receiver after routing through the vehicle from which the equalizer is located.
Connect or curl the wires together to make a connection and then wrap the connection in electrical tape
Step 12. Test the equalizer by starting the car
Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the "on" position. Then turn on the radio to check that everything is working properly and the equalizer is on with the radio.
Step 13. Replace the receiver
Insert the receiver back into the bracket and place the frame back into place. Make sure all cables are pushed in the dash first.
Tips
- Receivers without a monitoring recording loop can still be connected for equalization if separate output and input plugs are between the pre-amplification and power amplification stages. Connect the equalizer as above, placing it in the signal path between stages.
- If there is no preamp-in/preamp-out or monitoring tape and in and out channels on either receiver or amplifier then you will have to install custom components. Hire a professional to complete this installation.
