How to Install an Equalizer

An equalizer is an essential audio device that allows users to modify the frequency response of sound signals. It comes in various features and categories but generally enables adjustment of sound levels across different frequencies. Let’s explore how to connect an equalizer to a home or car stereo system. With just a few simple steps, you can set up your sound system to enjoy your favorite music.

The easiest connection is between the equalizer and the receiver. The receiver is the system that receives and converts digital audio signals, then decodes and transmits them to the speakers. Most receivers have preamp-in and preamp-out connections, or a tape monitor port for recording. In most cases, this is the best way to connect an equalizer to your stereo system.

• The tape channels will only require a connection to the receiver. You can learn how to connect the equalizer to the receiver to complete this setup.

Purchase two RCA cables. To transmit the signal from the stereo receiver to the equalizer and then to the amplifier (or amp), you will need two RCA cables (commonly used for connecting components like turntables and CD players).

• The RCA cables should be long enough to cover the distance between the receiver and the equalizer.

Use one pair of RCA cables to connect the receiver and the equalizer. Plug one end of the cable into the pre-amp output on the receiver, and the other end into the left and right input channels on the equalizer.

• These channels are typically located at the back of the equalizer.
• Typically, the red RCA plug goes into the right channel jack, while the black or white RCA plug connects to the left channel jack.

Connect the receiver and amplifier using the second RCA cable pair. Use the remaining RCA cables to connect the output channels at the back of the equalizer to the left and right input channels on the amplifier.

• Usually, the red RCA plug goes into the right channel jack, and the black or white RCA plug connects to the left channel jack.

Connect the amplifier to the receiver. The amplifier needs to be connected to the receiver using an RCA cable from the amplifier’s output to the receiver’s input. This connection creates a loop from the receiver through the equalizer to the amplifier and back to the receiver.

Turn on the receiver, equalizer, and amplifier. Power on all three devices and use the controls on the equalizer to adjust them to your liking. You are now ready to tweak the equalizer’s frequency response or the pitch of your music.

Connect the equalizer to the audio receiver if the device lacks preamp output channels. The equalizer is always positioned between the receiver and the amplifier. The amplifier must have integrated preamp-out and preamp-in connections to function in this configuration.

Purchase two RCA cables. To transmit the signal from the stereo receiver to the equalizer and back, you will need two RCA cables (commonly used to link components like turntables and CD players).

• The RCA cables should be long enough to reach between the receiver and the equalizer.

Use one RCA cable to connect the receiver and the equalizer. Plug one end of the cable into the receiver's tape-out channel, and connect the other end to the left and right input channels on the equalizer.

• These channels are typically located at the back of the equalizer.

Continue connecting the receiver and the equalizer with the second RCA cable. Use the second RCA cable to link the output channels at the back of the equalizer to the input tape channels on the receiver.

• Usually, the red RCA cable is plugged into the right channel jack, and the black or white RCA cable connects to the left channel jack.

Use the equalizer. Turn on the receiver and set the input control knob on the front of the device to 'Tape Monitor' mode. The tape channels will be activated, meaning sound will pass through the equalizer before reaching the amplifier. At this point, you can use the equalizer's controls to adjust the settings to your preference.

• Now, you can manipulate the equalizer's controls to modify the frequency response or pitch of the music.
• To switch to 'Tape Monitor' mode, you need to press the function button on the equalizer's front panel.
• If a tape recorder is connected to the tape input channel, you must disconnect it before connecting to the equalizer.

Directly connect the equalizer to the amplifier if the receiver lacks preamp output channels or tape channels, but the amplifier has preamp-in and preamp-out channels. Most receivers have preamp-in and preamp-out connections or a tape monitor port. These are generally the best ways to link the equalizer to the stereo system. However, if the receiver doesn't have these channels, you can directly connect the equalizer to the amplifier.

• For direct connection, the amplifier must have preamp-in and preamp-out channels.

Purchase two RCA cables. To send the signal from the equalizer to the amplifier and vice versa, you will need two RCA cables (typically used for connecting source components like turntables and CD players).

• The RCA cables should be long enough to reach between the receiver and the equalizer.

Use one RCA cable to connect the equalizer and amplifier. Connect the amplifier's pre-amp output channels to the equalizer's pre-amp input channels.

• These channels are typically located at the back of the equalizer.
• The red RCA cable should go into the right channel jack, while the black or white RCA cable connects to the left channel jack.
• Sometimes, the amplifier channels may be labeled 'tape monitor output' instead of 'pre-amp output.'

Use the second RCA cable to connect the amplifier to the receiver. Connect the output channels at the back of the receiver to the pre-amp input channels on the amplifier.

• The red RCA cable is typically plugged into the right channel jack, while the black or white RCA cable is connected to the left channel jack.
• Some amplifiers label the pre-amp input channels as 'tape monitor input.'

Switch to the pre-amp connection on the amplifier. Some amplifiers feature a switch to activate pre-amp connections. If you're using tape recording channels, flip this switch to switch to the pre-amp channel.

Turn on the receiver, tuner, and amplifier to begin using them. Power up all three devices and use the equalizer controls to adjust according to your preference. Now, you can operate the tuner’s control knobs to change the frequency response or pitch of the music.

Use this method to connect the tuner to a car stereo system remotely to save space. Some tuners are designed to integrate into the dashboard, while others can be installed in more remote locations (e.g., the rear trunk compartment). The installation position depends on the specific tuner and the needs of the user.

• Many users prefer to place the tuner near the amplifier in the trunk area for easy amplifier addition later.
• Some cars lack space for a tuner in the dashboard, so the device needs to be installed remotely.
• The tuner can be installed anywhere, as long as it is positioned between the amplifier and receiver.
• Most remote tuners come with a remote control so that you can adjust the settings from the driver’s seat.

Decide on the placement of the tuner. Most people prefer to place the tuner remotely in the trunk area of the car, close to the amplifier. This allows them to easily add another amplifier later, simply connecting the cables within close range. Alternatively, you can also install the tuner under the car seat.

• Note: Wherever you install the tuner, you must connect the power cables to the center head unit, receiver, and amplifier.

Purchase 2 pairs of RCA cables. To transmit the signal from the stereo receiver to the tuner and vice versa, you’ll need two RCA cable sets (commonly used to connect audio components like turntables and CD players).

• The RCA cables should be long enough to reach between the receiver and the tuner.

Remove the receiver from the dashboard. Take the receiver out of the dashboard to access the wiring system behind it. Typically, you can open the plastic protective cover on the dashboard and gently pull the receiver out.

Plug the RCA cables into the receiver mounted in the dashboard. Insert the two RCA cables into the pre-amp output on the receiver. You may use tape to secure the two ends of the cables together to keep them in place.

Run the cables to the tuner and connect them. Guide the cables through the dashboard to the tuner. You can use tape or wire ties to bundle the two cables together. Then, connect the cables to the pre-amp input on the tuner.

Position the equalizer carefully in the vehicle. Avoid attaching the equalizer directly to a metal frame as it may cause signal interference. It's best to place the equalizer on a rubberized surface, such as the floor or another suitable material, to minimize interference.

• If you must secure the equalizer with screws to the metal frame, ensure that rubber is placed between the device and the frame to prevent unwanted noise.

Turn off the ignition. Before starting the installation, ensure the ignition is off and the key is removed. This precaution ensures safety while connecting electrical components.

Connect the ground wire. The equalizer will have three colored wires, one of which is black and serves as the ground wire. Loosen the bolt near the equalizer's mounting point, remove any paint surrounding the bolt, then wrap the ground wire around the bolt and secure it in place.

• If no suitable bolt is available, you may need to drill a small hole in the metal frame. Exercise caution to avoid damaging the fuel tank or brake lines.

Connect the power cable. The yellow wire (or another color such as red, check the manual) on the equalizer is the 12V power wire. Connect it to the power input on the receiver or a 12V power source in the fuse box (such as the windshield wiper fuse).

• If the receiver lacks a wiring diagram showing the power cable, use a digital multimeter to identify the correct cable. Connect the multimeter to the wire, ensuring the ignition is off, and check for a reading of 0. Then, turn the ignition on and check if the reading is 12V. If the wire matches the color described in the manual and the voltage is 12V, you’ve found the correct power wire.
• Wiring connections should be taped with electrical tape to prevent contact with other wires, reducing the risk of short circuits.
• You can twist the wires together, but connecting them properly ensures a more reliable setup.
• The cable should run from the receiver to where the equalizer is installed.

Connect the remote start wire. On the equalizer, this wire is blue with a white stripe and labeled accordingly. On the receiver, the remote start wire is also blue (in some cases another color), and it should be connected to the amplifier. Run the remote start wire from the equalizer and connect it to the blue wire on the receiver.

• Ensure the wires are properly connected by either twisting them together or using electrical tape to secure the connection.

Turn the vehicle's ignition to test the equalizer. Switch the key to the “on” position and turn on the radio to check if the equalizer powers up at the same time, ensuring everything functions as expected.

Reinstall the receiver. Place the receiver back into its mounting bracket and attach the protective cover. Before securing the receiver, make sure the wires are pushed into the dashboard to avoid any issues during installation.

Use this method to connect the equalizer to the dashboard's sound system if you want easier access for adjustments. While some equalizers are installed remotely (like in the car’s trunk), others are designed to be integrated directly into the dashboard. The installation location depends on both your needs and the specific model of equalizer.

• Many prefer integrating the equalizer into the dashboard for easy access without leaving the car.
• The equalizer can be installed anywhere between the amplifier and receiver, provided there is enough space.

Choose the ideal location for the equalizer installation. The best place for an integrated equalizer in the dashboard is directly above or below the central head unit or stereo controls. Some vehicles already have a designated space for the equalizer, but not all do. If your car doesn't have this space, you can mount the equalizer beneath the dashboard, or modify the dashboard design for a custom fit.

• If the dashboard already has space for the equalizer, all you need is an installation kit, which typically includes a frame and screws to secure the head unit to the dashboard. The kit should come with installation instructions.
• If your car lacks a built-in space, you will need to purchase a specialized accessory kit to mount the equalizer beneath the dashboard. These kits are usually designed to fit either the driver’s side or another suitable location, depending on your preferences. These accessories come in various designs, so you can choose one that fits your car's layout and your usage habits.
• If you require custom installation, it's best to take your car to a professional car audio installation service.

Purchase two RCA cables. To transmit audio signals from the receiver to the equalizer and vice versa, you will need two RCA cables (commonly used to connect source components like turntables and CD players).

• The length of the RCA cables should match the distance between the receiver and the equalizer. To avoid a “messy cable” situation, it's best to buy cables around 30 cm in length.

Remove the receiver from the dashboard. Detach the receiver from the dashboard to access the wiring behind the unit. Typically, you can open the protective plastic cover on the dashboard and gently pull the receiver out.

Plug the RCA cables into the integrated receiver’s input. Insert both RCA cables into the pre-amplifier input on the receiver. Use tape to secure them together for stability.

Route the cables to the equalizer. Pass the cables through the dashboard to reach the equalizer. It's recommended to use tape or wire ties to keep the cables together. Then, insert the cables into the pre-amplifier input of the equalizer.

Install the equalizer. Position the equalizer where you want it to be mounted. Tighten a few screws to secure the equalizer in place.

Turn off the ignition. Switch off the power and remove the key before you begin the installation. This initial step ensures your safety when connecting the wiring system.

Connect the ground wire. The equalizer has three color-coded wires, with the black one serving as the ground wire. The receiver will also have a black ground wire, which you need to join (or twist) with the equalizer’s ground wire. After that, wrap the connection with electrical tape.

• If you can't find the black wire on the receiver, remove the bolt near the receiver's mounting area and scrape the paint off the bolt. Then, bend the wire around the bolt and secure it back into place.
• If no suitable location is available, you may need to drill a small hole in the metal frame. Be careful not to damage the fuel tank or brake lines.

Connect the power cable. The yellow wire (or sometimes red or another color, check the manual) on the equalizer is the 12V power wire. Connect this to the power cable on the receiver or the 12V power supply in the fuse box (such as the windshield wiper fuse).

• If the receiver doesn’t have a wiring diagram showing the power cable, you’ll need to use a digital multimeter to identify the correct wire. Connect the multimeter to the cable with the ignition turned off, and the reading should show 0. Then, turn the ignition on and check if the reading shows 12V. If the wire matches the manual's description and the voltage reads 12V when the ignition is on, this is the switched power wire.
• Connect the wires together and wrap any exposed metal with electrical tape. This ensures the exposed wire doesn’t come into contact with others, avoiding potential short circuits.
• You can also twist the wires together, but this method isn’t as secure as connecting them properly.
• This power wire should run from the receiver to the location where the equalizer is mounted.

Connect the remote start wire. On the equalizer, this wire is blue with a white stripe and is marked with an appropriate label. On the receiver, the remote start wire is usually blue (it may be a different color in some cases). Connect this wire from the equalizer to the receiver’s amplifier. Run the remote start wire from the equalizer and connect it to the blue wire on the receiver.

• Twist or connect the wires and secure the junction with electrical tape.

Turn on the ignition to test the equalizer. Switch the key to the ‘on’ position and turn on the radio to check if the equalizer powers up simultaneously and everything is functioning as expected.

Reposition the receiver. Place the receiver back into its frame and secure the protective cover. Ensure that the power cord is pushed inside the control panel before placing the receiver back in place.

• Even if the receiver does not have a tape loop, it can still be connected to a tuner if there are separate input and output jacks between the preamp and power amplifier stages. Connect the tuner as described, placing the device between stages in the signal path.
• If there are no preamp-in/preamp-out or tape monitor channels on the receiver or amplifier, you will need to install some custom components. This process requires a professional technician.

• Make sure all devices are powered off before proceeding with connections to avoid the risk of electric shock.

• RCA Cables
• Tuner
• Stereo Receiver
• Power Devices
• Speakers