Tweeters are designed to reproduce high frequencies, woofers are designed to reproduce low frequencies, and so on.

For instance, very basic systems that use coaxialspeakersactually have small crossovers built right into the speakers.

Some speakers have built-in passive crossovers.

Illustration of speaker producing sound waves and music notes.

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Since these crossovers are simply wired up in-between the amp and speakers, they are relatively easy to install.

However, there is a certain amount of inefficiency that is inherent in passive crossovers.

Who Really Needs a Car Audio Crossover?

In basic car audio systems, it’s totally possible to get by just fine with no additional crossovers.

If your car audio system usescoaxial speakers, you probably dont need an additional crossover.

Full-range speakers already have built-in passive crossovers that filter the frequencies that reach each driver.

Even if you add an amplifier into the mix, the built-in speaker crossovers should be more than sufficient.

However, you may need a crossover if you add an amplifier and asubwooferto that bang out of system.

Whether you choose active or passive crossovers, youll need something to keep undesired frequencies from reaching the speakers.

Do Crossovers Require Professional Installation?

Installing an active car audio crossover is typically going to be a more complicated procedure.