RVP | RVW Series: How To Replace A Woofer

Introduction

This guide will walk you through the simple process of replacing the woofers in your passive PA speakers, passive subwoofers, or guitar/bass amplifiers and cabinets. Whether you're upgrading your gear or replacing a damaged driver, the steps below are beginner-friendly and require only basic tools.

Requirements:

• Correct size replacement woofer (e.g., Rockville RVP or RVW series)
• Matching impedance, power rating, and frequency response
• Screwdriver or power drill
• Wire cutters/strippers
• Optional: electrical tape, oscilloscope (for wire polarity testing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Safety First

• Powered speakers or amps: Unplug the unit.
• Passive speakers or subwoofers: Disconnect from any amplifier or mixer.

Replacing the Woofer in a Passive PA Speaker

Step 1: Remove the Grill

• Use a screwdriver or drill to remove screws on the front grille.
• Use a flathead screwdriver or butter knife to gently pry off the grille if it’s stuck.

Step 2: Remove the Old Woofer

• Unscrew the woofer using a screwdriver or drill.
• Carefully lift the woofer out to access the attached speaker wires.

Step 3: Disconnect Speaker Wires

• If wires are soldered, clip them off and strip them to expose bare wire.

Step 4: Connect the New Woofer

• Unscrew the terminals on the new woofer.
• Twist the bare speaker wires and feed them through the appropriate terminals:
  • Positive wire → Positive terminal
  • Negative wire → Negative terminal
• Tighten the terminal screws to secure the wires.

Note: Wire colors may vary. Use an oscilloscope if unsure about polarity.

Step 5: Reinstall the Woofer

• Align the woofer’s screw holes with the speaker enclosure.
• Screw the woofer back in place.
• Optionally reposition the woofer to align the logo.
• Reattach and screw in the grille.

Replacing the Woofer in a Passive Subwoofer

The process is identical to a passive speaker:

1. Remove the grille.
2. Unscrew and remove the old woofer.
3. Clip and strip the old wires.
4. Connect the wires to the new woofer’s terminals.
5. Screw the woofer back into place.
6. Reinstall the grille.

Replacing Woofers in Guitar/Bass Amplifiers or Cabinets

Step 1: Remove Existing Speakers

• If there is a grille, remove it as outlined above.
• Unscrew the speakers and carefully lift them out.

Step 2: Handle Spade Connectors (If Present)

You have two options:

Option 1: Keep Spade Connectors

• Strip extra wire and coil it around the spade connectors.
• Wrap with electrical tape.
• Connect the other ends to the new woofer’s terminals.

Option 2: Remove Spade Connectors

• Clip off the spade connectors.
• Strip the wire and attach to the woofer’s terminals as explained before.

Step 3: Maintain Original Wiring Layout

• If multiple wires are connected to a single terminal (e.g., two positive wires), reconnect them the same way on the new woofer.

Step 4: Reinstall the Woofers

• Align the new woofers to the screw holes.
• Screw them securely into place.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: How do I know which wire is positive or negative?
A: Check the original woofer or manual. If unclear, use an oscilloscope to test.

Q: What if the new woofer logo is off-center?
A: It won’t affect performance. If desired, you can make new holes to rotate it for aesthetics.

Q: Can I use any replacement woofer?
A: Only if it matches the original size, impedance, power rating, and frequency response.

Conclusion

Replacing woofers in your PA speakers, subs, or amp cabinets is a simple DIY task with the right tools and care. Just follow the steps to ensure a safe and effective installation.