10 BEST CROSSOVERS FOR CAR AUDIO

If you’re looking to add some serious sound quality to your car audio system, then you need to consider a crossover. A crossover is a special type of amplifier that splits the audio signal into separate frequency ranges, which can then be processed by different amplifiers or speakers.

This allows you to get the most out of your system by taking advantage of the unique properties of each speaker. but with so many different types of crossovers on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for you.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best crossover for car audio options and help you decide which one is right for your needs. So read on and get ready to take your sound system to the next level!

EXPERT’S CHOICE

9.7/10

  • 2/3-Way
  • 6-Channel
  • w/ 5-Volt RCA Outputs
  • 6/4/2 Channel RCA Inputs
  • Front/Rear/Subwoofer Lever Control

Sound Storm Laboratories SX310

9.5/10

  • 2/3 Way
  • Parallel Input System
  • Selectable Crossover Slope
  • Independent Channel Output Level Controls
  • Phase Shift Selector

DS18 PRO-CFX

9.1/10

  • 2-Way Car Audio
  • 300 Watts
  • Perfect frequency distribution
  • Smart design
  • No power needed

WHAT IS A CROSSOVER?

A crossover is an electronic circuit that divides an incoming audio signal into two or more frequency ranges. The resulting signal can then be sent to different speakers or amplifiers that are designed to reproduce different frequency ranges.

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10 BEST CROSSOVER FOR CAR AUDIO IN 2023 – REVIEWS

If you’re looking for the best crossover for your car audio system, then you’ve come to the right place. We’ve tested and reviewed over a dozen car audio crossovers and we’ve found the best ones for your needs.

1. BEST CHEAP CROSSOVER FOR CAR AUDIO

The Clarion MCD360 2/3-Way 6-Channel Electronic Crossover is a versatile and powerful audio tool that gives you complete control over your car audio experience. With six channel / 5 volt RCA outputs, it’s easy to connect your speakers and subwoofers for the ultimate in sound quality.

The front, rear, and subwoofer lever controls make it easy to adjust the sound to your liking, while the subwoofer equalizer and boost level controls let you customize the bass response to perfection. The included remote subwoofer level control means you can keep the volume at a comfortable level without affecting the overall sound quality.

This crossover also features a high-pass crossover frequency multiplier that allows you to adjust the cutoff frequency for each speaker, ensuring they all sound their best. With its rugged construction and simple controls, the Clarion MCD360 is the perfect way to get the most out of your car audio system.

Overall,  the Clarion MCD360 is an excellent crossover that offers great features and flexibility. If you’re looking for a way to take your car audio experience to the next level, this is a perfect choice.

Reasons to Buy

  • It has a versatile and powerful audio tool
  • It has six channel / 5 volt RCA outputs
  • It has front, rear, and subwoofer lever controls
  • It has a subwoofer equalizer and boost level controls
  • It has a remote subwoofer level control

Reasons to Avoid

  • The high-pass crossover frequency multiplier might be too complicated for some users
  • Some users might prefer a different brand of car audio tool

2. BEST ACTIVE CROSSOVER CAR AUDIO

The DS18 XM6LD 6-way Active Crossover is the perfect way to ensure that your car audio system delivers clear, powerful sound. With six channels and a 2/4/6 channel selector, you can easily balance your speakers to create the perfect soundscape.

The included remote bass knob lets you customize the bass levels to suit your music, while the 12dB/Oct high/low pass crossover ensures that each speaker receives the correct level of power. This unit is also perfect for competition-level car audio systems, delivering unbeatable sound quality and performance.

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DS18’s commitment to innovation and cutting-edge design means that you can trust its products to deliver the very best in-car audio. This crossover is sure to take your system to the next level.

Overall, the XM6LD is an excellent product that provides great value for the money. The build quality is top-notch, and it delivers on its promise of delivering clear, powerful sound. If you’re looking for a high-quality active crossover, the DS18 XM6LD should be at the top of your list.

Reasons to Buy

  • It has  a very sleek and modern design
  • It’s very easy to use
  • The build quality is excellent
  • It delivers on its promise of clear, powerful sound
  • The price is very reasonable

Reasons to Avoid

  • Some users have reported issues with the 2/4/6 channel selector
  • The remote bass knob is not always accurate

3. BEST 4-WAY ACTIVE CROSSOVER CAR AUDIO

The PRV AUDIO EX4.6 PRO 4 Way Crossover Car Audio is an innovative and powerful product that gives you the ability to customize your sound. You can adjust the HIGH PASS and LOW PASS filters, as well as the output level for each channel, allowing you to customize your audio experience.

Additionally, the BASS BOOST option on the Sub Out channel is a great way to improve the bass response of your system.  This product is designed for efficiency and quick installation, and its 2/3/4 RCA inputs and 6 RCA outputs make it a great choice for those looking to upgrade their car audio system.

And with PRV AUDIO’s 15 years of experience in the automotive sound market, you can be confident that this product will deliver great sound quality.

Overall,  the  PRV AUDIO EX4.6 PRO 4 Way Crossover Car Audio is a great choice for those looking for a powerful and customizable car audio experience. With its wide range of features and options, as well as its easy installation, this product is sure to improve your car audio experience.

Reasons to Buy

  • It has 4way adjustable HIGH PASS and LOW PASS filters
  • It has output level control on each channel
  • It has a BASS BOOST option on the Sub Out channel
  • It is designed for efficiency
  • It has 2/3/4 RCA inputs and 6 RCA outputs

Reasons to Avoid

  • The product may be too powerful for some
  • The product may be difficult to install for some

4. BEST 2/3 WAY PRE-AMP CROSSOVER FOR CAR

The Sound Storm Laboratories SX310 2/3 Way is a versatile and powerful audio tool that gives you the ability to create a custom 3-way audio system with only a pair of stereo inputs.

The SX310 features selectable crossover slopes, bass boost, phase shift selector, and independent channel output level controls, allowing you to fine-tune the sound of your system to perfection. The  SX310 also includes a powerful 3-year Platinum Online Dealer Warranty, ensuring that your investment is protected for years to come.

With its easy-to-use controls and robust feature set, the Sound Storm Laboratories SX310 is the perfect addition to any car audio system. And with its affordable price, it’s a great value for the money.

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Overall,  the Sound Storm Laboratories SX310 is an excellent crossover for car audio. If you are looking for a versatile and powerful audio tool that gives you the ability to create a custom 3-way audio system, then the SX310 is the perfect choice for you.

Reasons to Buy

  • It has ability to create a custom 3-way audio system
  • It is very versatile it has a robust feature
  • The SX310 also includes a powerful 3-year Platinum Online Dealer Warranty.
  • It is easy to use and has a robust feature set.
  • It is an excellent crossover for car audio.

Reasons to Avoid

  • May be difficult to install for some people.
  • The warranty may not cover all potential issues.

5. BEST CAR AUDIO CROSSOVER AND EQUALIZER

The PRV Audio DSP 2.8X is a car audio crossover and equalizer that provides 8 channels of full digital signal processing. It features an intuitive interface with an LCD display and real-time audio adjustments.

Additionally, the DSP2.8X provides 15-band graphic equalization, manual tuning, or 12 presets for easy EQ adjustments. The unit has 1 INPUT and 1 OUTPUT parametric equalizer with gain control, precise frequency setting, and equalizer bandwidth for professional equalization management.

Additionally, the DSP2.8X features a sequencer feature that allows sequential triggering of other products through the remote trigger connection. With its multiple features and easy-to-use interface, the PRV Audio DSP 2.8X is perfect for any car audio enthusiast.

Overall,  the PRV Audio DSP 2.8X is a top-quality car audio crossover and equalizer that offers everything you need for a great listening experience. It has an easy-to-use interface, multiple EQ presets, and parametric equalizers for precise sound adjustments.

Reasons to Buy

  • It has  an easy-to-use interface
  • It provides a 15-band graphic equalization
  • It has 1 INPUT and 1 OUTPUT parametric equalizers
  • The sequencer feature allows sequential triggering of other products
  • It is perfect for any car audio enthusiast

Reasons to Avoid

  • It is a bit pricey
  • The remote trigger connection may be difficult to use for some people.

6. BEST 4 CHANNEL CAR AMPLIFIER WITH 2 OHM STABLE BASS BOOST CROSSOVER

The Tramps 4 Channel Car Amplifier is a high-quality, durable, and highly efficient amplifier that is perfect for powering your car speakers. The amp features a crossover network and fixed 90Hz highpass and lowpass crossovers, making it easy to connect your speakers and get the best sound possible.

The Tramps Multichannel Car Amplifier also includes a remote bass knob, allowing you to easily adjust the bass level to your liking. With a power rating of 1200 watts RMS, this amplifier is sure to provide plenty of power for even the most demanding car audio setups.

If you’re looking for a top-quality 4-channel amplifier that will deliver great sound and performance, the Taramps 4 Channel Car Amplifier is the perfect choice for you.

Overall,  the  Tramps 4 Channel Car Amplifier is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-powered and versatile amplifier for their car audio system. With its easy-to-use controls and features, this amp is sure to provide years of great sound and performance.

Reasons to Buy

  • It has  a high quality build
  • The sound is great
  • It’s very efficient
  • The crossover network is easy to use
  • The remote bass knob is a nice touch

Reasons to Avoid

  • The instructions could be more clear
  • The amp gets very hot during use

7. BEST 3-WAY CROSSOVER

The BOSS Audio Systems BX35 Electronic Crossover is a great way to fine-tune your car audio system. With three-way crossover, pre-amp, and front/rear/sub outputs, you can customize your sound to perfection.

The high pass filter ensures that only the highs reach your speakers, while the rear high pass filter protects your subs from any damage. The variable subwoofer filter allows you to adjust the bass boost and frequency to get the perfect sound, while the variable high pass filter ensures that only the highs reach your speakers.

The crossover slope is 12 dB/octave and the maximum input voltage is 4.5 volts. The S/N ratio is 95 dB and the THD is 0.010%. This crossover is also backed by a 1-year warranty.

Overall,  the BOSS Audio Systems BX35 Electronic Crossover is a great way to fine-tune your car audio system and get the perfect sound. With its three-way crossover, pre-amp, and front/rear/sub outputs, you can customize your sound to perfection.

Reasons to Buy

  • It has a three-way crossover
  • It is a pre-amp
  • It has front/rear/sub outputs.
  • The high pass filter protects your speakers from damage.
  • The S/N ratio is 95 dB.

Reasons to Avoid

  • It is not  wireless
  • The maximum input voltage is 4.5 volts

8. AUDIOCONTROL DQDX BLACK 6 CHANNEL PERFORMANCE DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSOR

The AudioControl DQDX Black 6 Channel Performance Digital Signal Processor is the perfect way to get the most out of your car audio system. With six input and output channels, level controls, and an independent front, rear, and subwoofer equalization, this DSP provides everything you need to fine-tune your sound system.

Additionally, the included ACR-3 Dash Control Remote makes it easy to adjust settings on the fly, while the built-in pink noise function helps with signal delay and equalizer tuning. With a total harmonic distortion of just 0.01% and a frequency response of 10Hz-22kHz, this DSP provides amazing sound quality that will bring your music to life.

And for added convenience, the crossover frequency is 50Hz-500Hz selectable and the signal delay max is 10ms. With its compact design, the AudioControl DQDX Black 6 Channel Performance Digital Signal Processor is easy to install and will make a great addition to any car audio system.

Overall,  the AudioControl DQDX is an excellent choice for anyone looking to get the most out of their car audio system. With six input and output channels, level controls, and an independent front, rear, and subwoofer equalization, this DSP provides everything you need to fine-tune your sound system.

Reasons to Buy

  • It is very easy to install with the detailed instruction manual
  • The ACR-3 Dash Control Remote is very user-friendly
  • It has a total harmonic distortion of just 0.01%
  • The frequency response of 10Hz-22kHz is great
  • The crossover frequency is 50Hz-500Hz selectable

Reasons to Avoid

  • Some users have found that the unit  produces a loud popping noise when first powered on
  • There is no frequency readout on the display

9. DS18 PRO-CFX TWO-WAY PASSIVE CROSSOVER

The DS18 PRO-CFX Two-Way Passive Crossover is the perfect way to get great sound out of your car audio system. These crossovers are designed to be compact and small, which makes them easy to install in most builds.

They are also designed to provide the perfect frequency distribution throughout your system to ensure clarity and peak efficiency for your system. And because they are passive crossovers, they don’t require any power cables or the price tag to go with them.

This makes them an affordable and easy way to upgrade your car’s audio system. The progressive designs and commitment to delivering the most technologically advanced products on the market distinguish DS18 from other brands.

Overall, the DS18 PRO-CFX Two-Way Passive Crossover is an affordable and easy way to get great sound out of your car audio system. These crossovers are designed specifically for simplicity and ease of installation, and they provide the perfect frequency distribution to ensure clarity and peak efficiency in your system.

Reasons to Buy

  • It has  a perfect frequency distribution.
  • It is easy to install.
  • It is affordable.
  • It doesn’t require any power cables.
  • It has a never stop innovating attitude.

Reasons to Avoid

  • It is only a two-way crossover.
  • It is not the most powerful crossover on the market.

“Great easy design. Pushing over 200 watts to these each delivers great sound. about half a year in with no problems. I wish the clear end was on the top instead of the bottom but that’s no biggie.”

FACTORS YOU SHOULD BE AWARE OF BEFORE BUYING THE BEST CROSSOVER FOR CAR AUDIO

There are many factors that you should take into account before purchasing a crossover for your car’s audio system. Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind:

1. FREQUENCY RANGE:

One of the most important things to consider when looking for the best crossover for car audio is the frequency range. This will ensure that you are getting the most out of your system. The frequency range is generally between 20Hz to 20kHz. This range is important because it ensures that you are getting the full range of sound from your system.

2. IMPEDANCE:

Another factor to consider when looking for the best crossover for car audio is impedance. This is the measure of electrical resistance in your system.

The lower the impedance, the easier it is for your system to handle the electrical current. This is important because it means that your system will be able to handle more power.

3. SIGNAL-TO-NOISE RATIO:

The signal-to-noise ratio is another important factor to consider when looking for the best crossover for car audio. This is the measure of the amount of background noise in your system.

The higher the signal-to-noise ratio, the less background noise there will be. This is important because it means that you will be able to hear your music more clearly.

Also Read: How To Remove Humming Noise From Car Amplifier?

4. BANDWIDTH:

Bandwidth is another factor to consider when looking for the best crossover for car audio. This is the measure of the range of frequencies that your system can reproduce.

The higher the bandwidth, the more range of frequencies your system will be able to reproduce. This is important because it means that you will be able to get the most out of your system.

5. POWER HANDLING:

Power handling is another factor to consider when looking for the best crossover for car audio. This is the measure of the amount of power that your system can handle. The higher the power handling, the more powerful your system will be. This is important because it means that you will be able to get the most out of your system.

6. SENSITIVITY:

Sensitivity is another factor to consider when looking for the best crossover for car audio. This is the measure of the amount of sound that your system can produce. The higher the sensitivity, the louder your system will be. This is important because it means that you will be able to get the most out of your system.

7. COST:

Cost is another factor to consider when looking for the best crossover for car audio. This is the measure of the price of your system. The higher the cost, the more expensive your system will be. This is important because it means that you will want to make sure that you are getting the most out of your system.

8. FEATURES:

Features are another factor to consider when looking for the best crossover for car audio. This is the measure of the number of features that your system has.

The more features your system has, the more expensive it will be. This is important because it means that you will want to make sure that you are getting the most out of your system.

BENEFITS OF USING A CROSSOVER IN YOUR CAR AUDIO SYSTEM:

There are many benefits to using a crossover in your car audio system. By using a crossover, you can improve the overall sound quality of your system by improving the clarity and definition of the highs and lows.

Additionally, crossovers can help to protect your speakers from damage by allowing only certain frequencies through to them.

  1. Crossover filters allow you to direct only certain frequencies to your speakers. This can improve the sound quality of your system by ensuring that each speaker is only playing the frequencies that it is designed to play.
  2. Crossovers can help to protect your speakers from damage. By directing only certain frequencies to each speaker, you can prevent your speakers from being overloaded by high frequencies.
  3. Crossovers can improve the clarity and definition of the highs and lows in your system. By separating the highs and lows, you can ensure that each is reproduced clearly.
  4. Crossovers can improve the overall sound quality of your system. By improving the clarity and definition of the highs and lows, crossovers can help create a richer, more detailed sound.
  5. Crossovers can be used to adjust the level of bass in your system. By directing more or less bass to your subwoofers, you can fine-tune the level of bass in your system to suit your taste.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF CROSSOVERS

There are different types of crossovers that you can use in your car’s audio system. Each type of crossover has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to choose the one that is right for you.

1. PASSIVE CROSSOVERS:

Passive crossovers are the most common type of crossover. They are simple to install and are less expensive than active crossovers. Passive crossovers, however, can decrease the overall sound quality of your system.

2. ACTIVE CROSSOVERS:

Active crossovers are more expensive than passive crossovers. Active crossovers, however, do not decrease the overall sound quality of your system. Active crossovers are more difficult to install than passive crossovers.

3. DIGITAL CROSSOVERS:

Digital crossovers are the most expensive type of crossover. Digital crossovers, however, do not decrease the overall sound quality of your system. Digital crossovers are more difficult to install than passive or active crossovers.

TYPES OF FILTERS:

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a crossover is the type of filter that you want to use. There are different types of filters that you can choose from, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.

1. LOW-PASS FILTER:

A low-pass filter allows only low frequencies through to your speakers. Low-pass filters are commonly used in systems that have subwoofers.

2. HIGH-PASS FILTER:

A high-pass filter allows only high frequencies through to your speakers. High-pass filters are commonly used in systems that do not have subwoofers.

3. BAND-PASS FILTER:

A band-pass filter allows only a specific range of frequencies through to your speakers. Band-pass filters are commonly used in systems that have both subwoofers and tweeters.

INSTALLATION TIPS FOR CROSSOVERS IN CAR AUDIO SYSTEMS

There are a few things to keep in mind when installing crossovers in your car’s audio system. Here are some tips:

  1. Make sure you know the ohm rating of your speakers before installing the crossover. This is important because if you wire the crossover incorrectly, it could damage your speakers.
  2. If you’re using an amp, make sure the crossover is installed before the amp is in the signal chain.
  3. Crossovers can be installed in different ways, depending on your car’s audio system. The most common way is to install them in line with the speaker wire. Another way is to install them between the head unit and the amplifier.
  4. Make sure the crossover is properly grounded. A bad ground can cause all sorts of problems with your car’s audio system.
  5. If you’re using multiple crossovers in your system, make sure they are all set to the same frequency range. Otherwise, you could end up with some strange sound effects.

Now that you know how to install crossovers in your car audio system, let’s take a look at some of the FAQ’S.

HOW WE TEST OUT THE 10 BEST PRODUCTS:

When we set out to find the best crossover for car audio, we had a few main criteria in mind. First, we wanted something that would be durable and offer long-lasting performance. Second, we wanted a product that would be easy to install and use. Finally, we wanted something that would provide great sound quality.

To find the best crossover for car audio, we started by doing an online search. We looked at a variety of different brands and models, reading customer reviews and watching video reviews. We also consulted with experts in the field to get their opinions on what the best products were.

Once we had a list of potential candidates, we narrowed it down based on our criteria. We then bought the top 10 products and put them to the test. We installed each one in a car and listened to them for ourselves, taking note of the sound quality, ease of use, and durability.

FAQ’S

Q: What is a good crossover frequency for car audio?

A: A good crossover frequency for car audio is 60-80 Hz.

Q: Does a crossover improve sound quality?

A: Yes, a crossover can improve sound quality by directing the correct frequencies to the appropriate speakers.

Q: What kind of crossover do I need?

A: The type of crossover you need will depend on the number and type of speakers in your system. If  you have a subwoofer, you will need a low-pass filter. If you have tweeters, you will need a high-pass filter.

Q: Can I use a crossover with any amplifier?

A: Yes, you can use a crossover with any amplifier. However, if you are using an active crossover, you will need an amplifier that has active crossover capabilities.

Q: How do you match speakers crossover?

A: You can match speakers crossover by using a multimeter to measure the impedance of the speaker. The impedance should be within the range of the crossover.

Q: Do I need a crossover if my car has tweeters?

A: No, you do not need a crossover if your car has tweeters. The tweeters will already have a built-in high-pass filter.

Q: Do 4-way speakers need a crossover?

A: Four-way speakers need a crossover network to direct the correct frequencies to each speaker. The crossover frequency for a four-way speaker is generally between 500 and 2500 Hz.

WRAP UP!

That’s it for our roundup of the best crossover for car audio in 2023. We hope you found this information helpful and that it has given you a better understanding of what to look for when shopping for a crossover.

Remember, there are many factors to consider when making your purchase, so be sure to take all of them into account before making your final decision.

If you have any questions or need help selecting the perfect crossover for your system, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Thanks for reading and happy listening!