Tuning Car Audio Systems can be easy with the right tools and the right test tones. See below for test tones and descriptions of which to use and how to use them. Feel free to reach out with any quesions: taylor@caraudioadvice.com
Download Test Tones with the links below
(All files are Google Drive audio file links)
Car Audio Advice Tuning Kit
Grab your free full tuning kit using the button below and receive:
- All test tones for setting amp gains
- Amp gain voltage spreadsheet
- Pink noise tracks
- Pdf file outlining a super simple way to set up a DSP
- Step by step instructions on using these resources
Tuning Car Audio
Subwoofer Gain Setting: 50Hz Test Tones for Subwoofers
-0 dB 50 Hz sin wave (Recommended if you’re looking for max dynamic range and best sound quality, but note that your sub may not play very loud on some songs. Most conservative setting.)
-5 dB 50 Hz sin wave (Recommended for people who just want some bass and not looking for max SPL at all times.)
-10 dB 50 Hz sin wave (Recommended for bass heads who want to get the most out of their system.)
Tuning Car Audio
Midrange Gain Setting: 1,000 Hz Test Tones for Midrange Speakers
-0 dB 1000 Hz sin wave (Recommended if you’re looking for max dynamic range and best sound quality, but note that your speakers might not play very loud on some songs. Most conservative setting.)
-5 dB 1000 Hz sin wave (Recommended for most people looking for general amp tuning and don’t play very loud at all times)
-10 dB 1000 Hz sin wave (Recommended for SPL listeners to get the most out of their speakers. But note you run the risk of blowing speakers using this test tone. Most aggressive setting.)
Pink Noise for DSP Tuning
1/3 Octave Uncorrelated Stereo Pink Noise
Which test tones to use:
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Test Tones:
- 0 dBFS: For distortion free output with the most dynamic range. May not be loud enough at times if you listen to a wide range of artists with different recording styles.
- -5 dBFS: For a wide listening variety. Will give you higher sound output levels but less dynamic range. Possible to get some occasional clipping from the amplifier with certain songs.
- -10 dBFS: Mainly for setting subwoofer gains due to higher possible sound output. Less dynamic range and possible clipping depending on the music you are listening to.
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Pink Noise
- There’s some debate on whether to use stereo or mono pink noise for tuning frequency response. Some people say to use Uncorrelated Stereo Pink Noise to set frequency response and Correlated Mono Pink Noise if you are trying to use pink noise to set time alignment by ear.
- Read the whole conversation on DIYMA here: https://www.diymobileaudio.com/threads/rta-rew-individual-speaker-tuning-correlated-vs-uncorrelated-pink-noise.429578/
- Try both and see what works best for you.
For more information on how to tune an amp, check out How to Install and Tune an Amp – With Wiring Diagram