1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Monster Auto Subwoofer SWE801. This high-performance 8-inch subwoofer is engineered to deliver powerful, deep bass and exceptional sound pressure for your car audio system. Designed for professional audio and SPL applications, it provides a significant upgrade to your in-car listening experience. Please read this manual carefully to ensure proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your subwoofer.
This image shows the Monster SWE801 subwoofer from a front-angle perspective, highlighting its cone and surround.
2. Features
- High-performance 8-inch subwoofer for car audio systems.
- Designed for professional audio and Sound Pressure Level (SPL) applications.
- Delivers excellent sound pressure for deep, impactful bass reproduction.
- Capable of producing exceptional sound volume.
- Optimized to work effectively with external amplifiers.
- Dual Voice Coil (DVC) design for flexible wiring options.
3. Specifications
This image displays the rear of the subwoofer, showing the model number, power ratings, and other key specifications.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | MONSTER |
| Model | SWE801 |
| Product Type | Subwoofer / Bass Speakers |
| Size | 8 inches |
| Impedance | 4 + 4 Ohms (Dual Voice Coil) |
| RMS Power | 500W |
| Max Power | 1000W |
| Sensitivity | 86dB |
| Frequency Response | 52Hz - 300Hz |
| Magnet | Ferrite with rubber protection |
| Item Weight | 6kg |
| Color | Black |
| Origin | China |
4. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and longevity of your subwoofer. It is highly recommended that installation be performed by a qualified car audio professional.
4.1. Enclosure Selection
The SWE801 subwoofer requires a suitable enclosure (sealed or ported) for proper operation. Consult with a car audio specialist or use online calculators to determine the ideal enclosure volume and port tuning frequency for your specific vehicle and desired sound characteristics.
4.2. Mounting
- Ensure the mounting surface is solid and free from obstructions.
- Carefully cut a circular opening in the enclosure that matches the subwoofer's cutout diameter.
- Secure the subwoofer to the enclosure using appropriate screws, ensuring an airtight seal. Do not overtighten.
4.3. Wiring (Dual Voice Coil)
The SWE801 features a Dual Voice Coil (DVC) design with two 4-ohm voice coils, offering flexibility in wiring configurations. Always ensure your amplifier is stable at the chosen impedance.
This image provides a close-up view of the two sets of terminals for the dual voice coils, indicating positive and negative connections for each coil.
- Series Wiring (8 Ohms): Connect the positive terminal of one voice coil to the negative terminal of the other voice coil. Connect the remaining positive and negative terminals to your amplifier. This configuration results in an 8-ohm load.
- Parallel Wiring (2 Ohms): Connect both positive terminals together and both negative terminals together. Connect the combined positive and negative leads to your amplifier. This configuration results in a 2-ohm load.
Use high-quality speaker wire of appropriate gauge for your power levels and wire length. Ensure all connections are secure and properly insulated to prevent short circuits.
4.4. Amplifier Connection
Connect the subwoofer to a dedicated amplifier capable of providing at least 500W RMS power at the chosen impedance. Refer to your amplifier's manual for specific wiring and setup instructions.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Break-in Period
Allow a break-in period of approximately 20-30 hours of normal listening before operating the subwoofer at high volumes. This allows the suspension components to loosen up and achieve optimal performance.
5.2. Amplifier Settings
- Gain: Set the amplifier gain carefully to match the output voltage of your head unit. Avoid setting the gain too high, as this can lead to distortion and damage.
- Low-Pass Filter (LPF): Set the LPF on your amplifier to filter out frequencies above the subwoofer's effective range, typically between 80Hz and 120Hz. This ensures the subwoofer only reproduces bass frequencies.
- Subsonic Filter (HPF): If available, set a subsonic filter (high-pass filter for the subwoofer) to protect the subwoofer from playing extremely low frequencies that can cause damage. A setting around 25-30Hz is common.
- Phase: Adjust the phase control (0° or 180°) on your amplifier or head unit to ensure the subwoofer's output is in phase with your main speakers, providing cohesive sound.
5.3. Volume Control
Always listen responsibly. Excessive volume levels can cause hearing damage and damage to your audio equipment. If you hear distortion, reduce the volume immediately.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the subwoofer cone and surround. Avoid using harsh chemicals or excessive moisture.
- Inspection: Periodically check all wiring connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion. Inspect the subwoofer's cone and surround for any signs of damage.
- Environment: Protect the subwoofer from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and excessive moisture, which can degrade materials over time.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound from subwoofer | No power to amplifier, loose wiring, incorrect amplifier settings, blown fuse. | Check amplifier power, verify all wiring connections, review amplifier settings (gain, LPF), check amplifier and vehicle fuses. |
| Distorted or unclear bass | Gain set too high, incorrect LPF setting, phase mismatch, damaged subwoofer. | Reduce amplifier gain, adjust LPF, check phase setting, inspect subwoofer for physical damage. |
| Subwoofer cuts out intermittently | Loose connections, amplifier overheating, impedance mismatch. | Secure all wiring, ensure adequate ventilation for amplifier, verify correct impedance wiring for your amplifier. |
8. User Tips
- Enclosure Matching: The performance of your subwoofer is heavily dependent on the enclosure it's installed in. Ensure your enclosure is built to the recommended specifications for an 8-inch subwoofer to achieve the best sound quality and output.
- Amplifier Power: While the SWE801 can handle 500W RMS, providing a clean, stable power source from a well-matched amplifier is more important than simply maximizing wattage. An underpowered or clipping amplifier can cause more damage than an appropriately powered one.
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact your retailer. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
