Introduction
Thank you for choosing the CERWIN-VEGA! CVP12D4 12-inch Dual Voice Coil Car Audio Subwoofer. This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your subwoofer. Please read it thoroughly before proceeding with installation or use to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your product.
Safety Information
- Always disconnect the vehicle's battery before performing any electrical work.
- Ensure all wiring is properly insulated to prevent short circuits.
- Mount the subwoofer securely to prevent movement during vehicle operation.
- Avoid exposing the subwoofer to excessive moisture or extreme temperatures.
- Consult a professional car audio installer if you are unsure about any aspect of the installation process.
What's in the Box
- 1 x CERWIN-VEGA! CVP12D4 12-inch Dual Voice Coil Subwoofer
- Installation Screws
Features
- Parabolic One-Piece Stamped Carbon Fiber Poly Cone: Designed for rigidity and accurate bass reproduction.
- Single Stitched Rubber Surround: Provides durability and controlled cone excursion.
- Bumped Back Plate: Allows for maximum voice coil excursion without mechanical interference.
- Vented Motor Structure: Optimizes thermal heat dissipation, enhancing power handling and reliability.
- Poly-Cotton Spider with Spaced Woven-In Tinsel Wires: Ensures consistent performance and longevity of the voice coil leads.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Name | CVP Series |
| Speaker Type | Subwoofer |
| Recommended Uses For Product | For Vehicles |
| Compatible Devices | Car Audio System |
| Impedance | 4 Ohms (Dual Voice Coil) |
| Product Dimensions | 5.8"D x 12"W x 5.8"H |
| Speaker Size | 12 Inches |
| Speaker Maximum Output Power | 550 Watts |
| Frequency Response | 150 Hz (Upper Limit) |
| Connectivity Technology | RCA (for amplifier input) |
| Audio Output Mode | Mono |
Setup & Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the performance and safety of your subwoofer. If you are not experienced with car audio installations, it is highly recommended to seek professional assistance.
Mounting
The CVP12D4 subwoofer is designed for door mount applications, typically within a sealed or ported enclosure. Ensure the enclosure is robust and properly sized for the subwoofer's specifications. Use the provided installation screws to secure the subwoofer firmly to the enclosure. Verify that there is adequate clearance behind the subwoofer for proper excursion and ventilation.
Wiring Dual Voice Coil Subwoofers
The CVP12D4 features a Dual Voice Coil (DVC) design, offering flexibility in wiring configurations to match your amplifier's impedance requirements. Each voice coil has a 4 Ohm impedance.
- Series Wiring (8 Ohms Total): Connect the positive terminal of Voice Coil 1 to the negative terminal of Voice Coil 2. Then, connect the amplifier's positive output to the positive terminal of Voice Coil 2, and the amplifier's negative output to the negative terminal of Voice Coil 1. This configuration results in an 8 Ohm load.
- Parallel Wiring (2 Ohms Total): Connect the positive terminals of Voice Coil 1 and Voice Coil 2 together. Connect the negative terminals of Voice Coil 1 and Voice Coil 2 together. Then, connect the amplifier's positive output to the combined positive terminals, and the amplifier's negative output to the combined negative terminals. This configuration results in a 2 Ohm load.
Always ensure your amplifier is stable at the chosen impedance. Incorrect wiring can damage both the subwoofer and the amplifier.

Image: Front view of the CERWIN-VEGA! CVP12D4 12-inch Dual Voice Coil Subwoofer, showcasing its black parabolic carbon fiber poly cone and rubber surround.
Operating Instructions
Once installed, follow these general guidelines for operating your subwoofer:
- Initial Power-Up: Start with your amplifier's gain settings at their lowest. Gradually increase the volume and gain to avoid overdriving the subwoofer.
- Crossover Settings: Use your amplifier's low-pass filter (LPF) to send only low frequencies to the subwoofer. A common starting point is 80-100 Hz.
- Subsonic Filter: If your amplifier has a subsonic filter, enable it and set it slightly below your enclosure's tuning frequency to protect the subwoofer from damaging ultra-low frequencies.
- Break-In Period: Allow a break-in period of several hours of moderate listening before pushing the subwoofer to its limits. This allows the suspension components to loosen up.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the subwoofer cone and surround. Avoid harsh chemicals or excessive moisture.
- Inspection: Periodically inspect the subwoofer for any signs of damage to the cone, surround, or wiring connections.
- Secure Mounting: Ensure the subwoofer remains securely mounted in its enclosure.
Troubleshooting
- No Sound: Check all wiring connections (power, ground, remote, RCA, speaker wires) for proper contact and polarity. Verify amplifier is powered on and not in protect mode.
- Distorted Sound: Reduce amplifier gain or head unit volume. Check for proper crossover settings. Ensure the subwoofer is not overdriven.
- Weak Bass: Verify amplifier gain is set correctly. Check subwoofer wiring for correct impedance match. Ensure enclosure is sealed (if applicable) and properly sized.
- Overheating: Ensure adequate ventilation for the amplifier. Check impedance match between subwoofer and amplifier. Reduce listening levels if the subwoofer or amplifier becomes excessively hot.
Warranty & Support
This CERWIN-VEGA! CVP12D4 subwoofer comes with a limited warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product for specific terms, conditions, and duration. For technical support, service, or warranty claims, please contact Cerwin Vega customer service through their official website or authorized dealers. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty validation.





