Passive speakers are frequently used with a power amplifier since they require external power to function properly. The job of an amp is, therefore, to drive your audio source to the right level and give you the best sound quality possible.
However, if you don’t have an external amplifier and still want to use your passive speakers, there are a few workarounds that will let you connect them to an AV receiver, for example, and still get decent sound.
In this article, we will explain how to power passive speakers without an amp, as well as go through some important factors you should take into account when doing so (such as power rating and speaker impedance) to make sure you get high-quality sound without damaging your device.
Tip: Learn more about the different types of passive speakers in our 2-Way vs 3-Way Speakers article.
Table of Content
- How to power passive speakers without an amp [Quick Fix]
- What’s the Difference Between Passive and Active Speakers?
- Important Factors to Consider Before Proceeding
- How To Power Passive Speakers Without An Amp
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
How to power passive speakers without an amp [Quick Fix]
To power passive speakers without an amp, connect them to an audio source with a built-in amplifier, such as a computer, television, or portable music player. Make sure the audio source has a high-quality output, as this will directly affect the sound quality of the speakers.
What’s the Difference Between Passive and Active Speakers?
Active Speakers
Active speakers have a built-in amplifier as a component inside them and must be connected to a power outlet or battery. Most consumer-grade audio products are designed that way, for example, computer speakers and Bluetooth boomboxes. This eliminates the fuss and hassle you would have with a passive pair.
Benefits of Active Speakers
- Powered speakers are an all-in-one solution so you won’t need any external device to make them work properly.
- Some powered speakers can be used wirelessly without much hassle.
Related: Roku TV Wireless Speakers Review
Passive Speakers
Passive speakers require an external amplifier to send audio output to them at the correct level. The biggest benefit of this type of design is that the consumer can better customize his/her setup by choosing high-quality components.
Benefits of Passive Speakers
- Passive speakers allow you to easily customize your speaker system.
- With passive speakers, you can always upgrade your external amplifier if you ever need more power.
Important Factors to Consider Before Proceeding
Before you try any of the methods listed below, you should keep in mind a few important factors so that you get the best sound quality possible and don’t damage your devices.
Speaker Impedance Rating
The impedance rating of a passive speaker, simply put, is the resistance the driver provides to the applied voltage. This value is measured in Ohms. Be aware of the sound output impedance of the source and make sure it matches the value of your speakers. For example, most computers’ headphone jacks have an impedance of 8 Ohms to 16 Ohms.
Speaker Size
Keep in mind your passive speakers’ size. Depending on the method you choose, it can have a great impact on your sound. That is because larger speakers tend to have a higher power rating than smaller ones. If you’re planning to connect them straight to your computer, for example, the method may only work if you use a shelf-style small box.
Speaker Power Rating
Power ratings are indicated in Watts. They’re usually written in the back of your passive speakers. Your audio source (the device you’re connecting your speakers to) must have a lower power rating than the speakers.
How To Power Passive Speakers Without An Amp
Powering Passive Speakers Using an AV Receiver
An AV receiver can, most of the time, replace an external amplifier since these devices have enough power to amp passive speakers. You can connect your passive speaker wire to the equipment via phono cable and then to the sound output of your computer, for example.
Powering Passive Speakers Using a Powered Mixer
If you have a powered mixer, chances are it has a built-in amplifier, therefore you can connect your passive speakers directly to it. If it is a passive mixer, you will still have to use an external amp.
Connecting your passive speakers to your powered mixer should be easy: you just need a pair of XLR or ¼ TRS cables (depending on the particular model of your device) and an RCA or 3.5mm cable to send sound from your device to your mixer. You can also connect microphones and other instruments.
Powered mixers are the best choice for applications such as live concerts, as they offer total control over the sound and, most of the time, a built-in equalizer and effects bank.
Connecting Passive Speakers Directly to Your Computer’s Headphone Jack
While not recommended, you can sometimes set your passive speakers connected directly to your computer’s headphone jack. It is possible that your computer has a built-in amplification system, but this will largely depend on the model. The results won’t be the same as using them with an amp or power source, however.
This method won’t work if you have large passive speakers, though. Also, be aware of the power handling capacity: most computers can only power speakers that have an impedance between 8 Ohms and 16 Ohms, so it is not advisable to go lower or higher than that. Always play it safe.
Connecting Passive Speakers to an Active Subwoofer
You can have your passive speakers connect to a powered subwoofer since it has a built-in amplifier. In fact, most home theater setups work that way: the subwoofer will supply power transfer to the other components. A big benefit with this method is that you will have a better bass response.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Power Amplifier?
Can I Get a Loud Sound from Passive Speakers Without an External Amplifier?
However, if you choose to try connecting your passive speakers directly to your computer’s headphone output, there’s a chance your sound won’t be as loud as if you were using another method or an external amplifier. This will largely depend on the impedance and size of the passive speakers.
Can You Connect Passive Speakers to an Active One?
Does a Power Amplifier Require an External Crossover Too?
What is the Difference Between 2-Way and 3-Way Passive Speakers? Which One is the Best?
3-way passive speakers, on the other hand, have a subwoofer for the bass, a medium-sized woofer for the mid frequencies, and a tweeter for the highs.
Both types perform excellently and the best choice will depend on your particular use case. We recommend you take a look at our article about the subject here.
Conclusion
These are the four best methods to power passive speakers without an amp. The best solution will depend, as we discussed, on the impedance rating of your speaker set, as well as their size and power rating. You should always take these factors into account to prevent any damage to your equipment.
With that being said, the methods we recommend the most are connecting speakers to either an AV receiver or an active mixer. This is because these devices usually feature a built-in amp capable enough of powering most small to medium-sized sound systems.We hope our guide about how to power passive speakers without an amp was useful to you. Always play safe when dealing with delicate audio equipment so as to avoid any damage and research extensively about the subject. Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions we could help with!
Ian Sniesko is an experienced music producer and musician who loves to share his knowledge about the best audio equipment for making and enjoying great music. For the past 6 years, Ian has written extensively about the audio equipment industry and has contributed to many of the top music magazines.