Subwoofer driver testing

Video | No sound from speaker - simple driver testing

Amp seems to be fine, but no sound from the speaker? Having issues of no sound from a unit? Here’s how to do a basic test of the driver/woofer to see if it's causing the issue, or if the amplifier should be considered.


For testing the woofer, you need to remove the amp plate and then remove the speaker leads that are connected to the amp in order to do a battery test on the woofer. 


Driver test video (first minute shows the battery test)




Tools required are a Philips screwdriver and a 4mm Allen wrench to remove the grille and the woofer. 

  1. Remove the grille and the woofer. 
  2. Using a multi-meter, the resistance can be checked. It should read ~3.5 ohms. If it reads open (I=Infinite load) the coil is bad.
  3. A battery (9V is easiest) can be substituted for the multimeter if one isn’t available. You should hear a clicking sound when the battery is placed on the woofer terminals
  4. If the woofer makes no noise when the battery terminals are touched to the woofer terminals, the woofer will need to be replaced.
  5. If, on the other hand, the woofer tests to be good, the amp will need to be sent in for service or replaced. 

If you get no noise from the driver then that is the issue. If you get noise from the driver then you may have an issue with your amplifier.


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