Cerwin Vega Spare Tire Subwoofer

**iampraneel** · 01-05-2023 09:49 PM

I’ve been getting some questions on FB and the forums on what is needed to do a Cerwin Vega Spare Tire Subwoofer install. Below is most of everything you’ll need to do the install including the Powered LOC which is only needed if you have the B&O Sound System.

You need the Powered LOC because not all amps will work on a B&O system. If the amp can’t see 40v on the speaker input, your B&O amp will cut out because it will short to ground after a some of start cycles. This is why I’m recommending the Powered LOC below. I’m recommending the AudioControl LC2i because this Powered LOC is a direct plug and play to my Harness I listed below.

Here are the items you will need.

-Cerwin Vega Spare Tire Sub(VPSTX12 Slim Model) - https://amzn.to/3VLtBy0
OR
-Diamond Audio DASTX12 - https://amzn.to/41YFxAd
-24” with Block Connector Plug and Play Harness - https://tinyurl.com/4vtawdt5
-Kicker PK8 8 Gauge OFC Power Kit - https://amzn.to/3jUYq5g

In addition to the above, the below is needed if you have the B&O Sound System.

-AudioControl LC2i Pro - https://amzn.to/3WDS8Gz
-Inline Fuse Holder - https://amzn.to/3OIichv
-2 Amp Fuses - https://amzn.to/3qf3OU5
-Wire Tap - https://amzn.to/3Xtzh00 Don’t order this if your buy my harness. I send you 1
-16 gauge power and ground wire for LC2i - https://amzn.to/437jqap
Assorted Connectors - https://amzn.to/41Pzez3
-RCA Cable - https://amzn.to/2XbO7Lp

Below are a couple of pictures you can use as reference points for the power and ground wire connection. This install is pretty straightforward. The battery and ground are the hardest connections to make and even then it’s not very difficult. You don’t need the remote wire if you have a Non B&O Sound System and are using speaker level inputs.

-Positive connection to battery. You will just undo that torx screw to secure the kicker power cable. Make this connection after you’ve build your power wire to length with the fuse block inline and the fuse not attached. Inserting the fuse will be the last step of this project.
IMG_0040.JPG

The ground can attach here.
IMG_0039.JPG

The AudioControl LC2i Powered LOC does require a power source. You need an inline 2 Amp Fuse. Above I’ve listed an inline fuse to use. You can connect this directly to the battery or tie into the power connection you made to the sub. In both cases, use the inline fuse off of the power source. Route the ground wire to the same source as the sub.

AudioControl LC2i Powered LOC doesn’t require a remote turn on wire as your can use signal sensing(which I don’t recommend). To run a remote turn on here is the process. You will need to tap into the 12v plug on the right side cubby. This is really simple. All you’ll need to do is pull the cubby out and disconnect the connector from plug. Go about 10 inches back from the connector and peel away the tape. Find the white or yellow wire to tap into. I’ve listed the wire tap you’ll need above. If you get one of my harnesses, I include a wire tap. The AudioControl LC2i Powered LOC has a Remote In and Remote Out. The the Remote In accepts the wire coming from the cubby and Remote Out goes to the Subwoofer.

A0160F05-D9A6-4E42-9876-4A25EA538FF8.jpeg

Any question or if you need a harness feel free to email me @ [email protected].

**4TBBUCS** · 01-06-2023 08:31 PM

Nice job 👍🏼. Need to stop dragging ass and get mine installed…

Edit: the non-slim variant will also fit if you shave off 1/4” of the mounting bolt. If not, your hatch floor will not sit flush.

**4TBBUCS** · 01-07-2023 06:42 AM

Question, why is the KeyLoc required again? Kinda confused on this. Thought it would only be required if using an aftermarket amp….? Let me know and thanks.

Edit: Think I get it now. The 40v line reference, may or may not be “seen” w/o using the KeyLoc?

This is on a B&O system.

**iampraneel** · 01-08-2023 02:38 PM

Originally Posted by 4TBBUCS

Question, why is the KeyLoc required again? Kinda confused on this. Thought it would only be required if using an aftermarket amp….? Let me know and thanks.

Edit: Think I get it now. The 40v line reference, may or may not be “seen” w/o using the KeyLoc?

This is on a B&O system.

I looked at the specs of the CV Input. High Level is 0.9V-12V. That’s not enough to support the B&O amp from cutting out after some start cycles.

**Fatboy1904** · 01-11-2023 05:58 AM

Where did you connect the Power and turn on for the KEYLOC ? I assume it needs both ?

**CloseEncounters** · 01-11-2023 06:35 PM

Ah ha...so this is why my trunk mounted Kicker Powered Sub becomes Inop after a few start cycles... The lack of a LOC unit which is necessary as I'm running the B&O system? I've been trying to figure this out for months with both Crutchfield and Kicker. Thanks for the post my friend.

**iampraneel** · 01-13-2023 01:44 AM

Originally Posted by Fatboy1904

Where did you connect the Power and turn on for the KEYLOC ? I assume it needs both ?

Great question. I’ve updated the post to give instructions on connecting the Kicker Powered LOC.

**iampraneel** · 02-24-2023 09:09 PM

Slim model looks to be back in stock.

-Cerwin Vega Spare Tire Sub(VPSTX12 Slim Model) https://amzn.to/3VLtBy0

**anomadtoo** · 02-24-2023 10:19 PM

In your FB post you mention this is the process for the B9. Would it be the same for the B8.5? Thanks

**iampraneel** · 02-24-2023 10:41 PM

Originally Posted by anomadtoo

In your FB post you mention this is the process for the B9. Would it be the same for the B8.5? Thanks

I don’t have a B8.5 as an example to compare with but from what I’ve read, they don’t need the powered loc. Also, to my knowledge there isn’t a plug and play harness.

**anomadtoo** · 02-25-2023 10:37 AM

Ok thanks!

**ghall** · 02-26-2023 03:03 PM

This is a great post, thank you!!!!

**iampraneel** · 03-12-2023 12:00 AM

I was just advised by someone who bought my harness the AudioControl LC2i is a direct plug and play to my harness. You will just need to align the + and - wires or I can do that for you if you advise you are using the AudioControl LC2i.

**Nexus1155** · 03-13-2023 05:35 PM

Without wiring to 12v plug in rear the cerwin turns off and on at random. When wired to 12v remote it works almost flawlessly. Hiccup once in a blue moon. No need for a line converter. Though even after tweaking I wish it had a little extra bump

**Niko702** · 03-13-2023 10:13 PM

Originally Posted by Nexus1155

Without wiring to 12v plug in rear the cerwin turns off and on at random. When wired to 12v remote it works almost flawlessly. Hiccup once in a blue moon. No need for a line converter. Though even after tweaking I wish it had a little extra bump

Doesn't it have a built in line converter? Is it worth the money?

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**iampraneel** · 03-13-2023 11:11 PM

Originally Posted by Nexus1155

Without wiring to 12v plug in rear the cerwin turns off and on at random. When wired to 12v remote it works almost flawlessly. Hiccup once in a blue moon. No need for a line converter. Though even after tweaking I wish it had a little extra bump

Does your Q/SQ have the B&O sound system?

**Nexus1155** · 03-14-2023 05:01 PM

It does have it built in, but it's ass. There's not enough going through it to activate it most of the time, which may require the loc, but you can just hit it to the back right plug and add an inline fuse. And yes b&o

**Spiff69** · 03-16-2023 10:19 AM

I installed this sub and am really happy with it, I used one of Praneel’s cables and it worked out great. Just wanted to chime in and give a shout out.

**4TBBUCS** · 03-16-2023 12:41 PM

Originally Posted by Spiff69

I installed this sub and am really happy with it, I used one of Praneel’s cables and it worked out great. Just wanted to chime in and give a shout out.

You have the B&O system? If so, mind telling us how you wired it all up? Safe to assume you followed Praneel’s instructions? Thanks.

**iampraneel** · 03-31-2023 12:33 PM

All DM’s replied to. If I missed you, please email or text me.

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**Vrsc** · 05-26-2023 05:05 AM

A super special thank you to Praneel for not only his harness but his professionalism and customer service. He goes above and beyond and makes installing a sub/amp in our Audis super easy. I went with the higher tiered Diamond Audio dastx12 powered Sub (made by cervin vega). Speaking with Cervin Vega R&D Techs, they recommend this sub because the amp is cleaner and more powerful. I can tell you.. I have plenty of boom from this sub.. very happy and satisfied.

**Local** · 05-26-2023 09:24 AM

Originally Posted by Vrsc

A super special thank you to Praneel for not only his harness but his professionalism and customer service. He goes above and beyond and makes installing a sub/amp in our Audis super easy. I went with the higher tiered Diamond Audio dastx12 powered Sub (made by cervin vega). Speaking with Cervin Vega R&D Techs, they recommend this sub because the amp is cleaner and more powerful. I can tell you.. I have plenty of boom from this sub.. very happy and satisfied.

Do you have a link to this sub?

does it sit flat in our trunk?

I'm def about to do this install.

Edited to add: I found all this, got an amazon cart started - just ordered Praneel's kit - very excited to add some bass to my car.

**twopointohtee** · 05-27-2023 06:56 PM

This looks awesome. Will def be looking to do this soon!

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**Local** · 05-28-2023 06:02 PM

I just ordered everything on Praneel's list - including the upgrade to the diamond audio woofer / amp combo.

Including Praneel's little connector, some extras, some dynamatt, and some shipping charges it came out to just under $900.

Even though you can supposedly turn off the sub woofer check in obdeleven, I decided to order the audio controller just to be careful. Amazon has excellent return features.

Very much looking forward to this upgrade and the upgrade to Stage 1 ecu / tcu from 034. She should be like a whole new car for my Birthday road trip.

Has anyone put together a wiring diagram? I know this install is supposed to be super easy but its always helpful to have something you can print out.

I'll probably just lean on you guys through here.

edited to add: What is the resistance that the factory audio system expects to see from the woofer? 20ohm?

regards,

**FFM** · 05-30-2023 10:13 AM

Good to hear, I’ll probably pull the trigger on the diamond audio unit then as well. Would prefer a cleaner sound and is worth the extra money to me.

**sandman00** · 05-31-2023 02:58 PM

Yes good to hear I have been meaning on get this done I will reach out to him as well
Thanks for the update

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**Local** · 06-01-2023 09:02 PM

Just spent the last 3 hours doing this install. 3 hours just to get everything wired and connected. Still have to clean everything, run the sub control to the steering column, tune everything, and finally put my trunk back together.

I think someone who is more experienced with stripping wires and connecting wires and terminals could def do it much faster and cleaner than I did.

That being said, considering my experience with the above is close to nil - that means just about anyone that can follow directions can do this install.

Some things I wasn't clear on:

1. You don't have to disconnect the battery to do this.
2. Make sure you remove the fuse from the kicker power wire - that should be the last thing that goes in - and you can just install it with the power connected and everything is fine - no worry about shocking yourself
3. You can route the power wire for the L2ci into the power connection for the sub. Then route both grounds to the same screw.
4. You only need one splice one wire - the 12v power wire for the L2ci so you can connect the fuse. A good wire connector is a must.
5. Get a GOOD crimper and stripper. I bought a shitty one and it made everything so much harder.

When I finally turned the car on I got the weirdest error - something like "the driveline is on please turn off the ignition"

I basically freaked out and called praneal - poor guy - it turned out that my car was just mad I was running the car with the doors open.

phew.

Regards,

**Local** · 06-02-2023 10:39 AM

Listened to it for the first time today and wow... That is a lot of bass - both punch and rumble for a single 12.

At first I couldn't figure out why it was so loud, then I realized my sub level was turned all the way up in the head unit and I had the bass knob upside and what I thought was min was actually max.

Now it's running much nicer. I still need to figure a nicer way to run the bass control wire to the front - I want to mount it on the bottom of the steering column so the dial sticks out where a key would go on an older car.

Ill mess with it when I take the rear seat out to apply dynomat.

Any suggestions appreciated!

Regards,

**Gunnarrrrr** · 06-02-2023 10:49 AM

Originally Posted by Local

Listened to it for the first time today and wow... That is a lot of bass - both punch and rumble for a single 12.

At first I couldn't figure out why it was so loud, then I realized my sub level was turned all the way up in the head unit and I had the bass knob upside and what I thought was min was actually max.

Now it's running much nicer. I still need to figure a nicer way to run the bass control wire to the front - I want to mount it on the bottom of the steering column so the dial sticks out where a key would go on an older car.

Ill mess with it when I take the rear seat out to apply dynomat.

Any suggestions appreciated!

Regards,

Keep subwoofer level below the middle and tune ur amp for that. Also, knock down the bass level to 1-2notches below middle. will cut out a lot of the shittiness coming from the front door woofers. Keep in mind sub output from the mmi goes all the way up to 150hz, but front door woofers hit all the way down to 80hz. So I would set your amp low pass to around 80-90 as a good crossover point to keep that droney 100hz stuff to a minimum with all the overlap. I keep my bass level in mmi at about -3 actually but I have much more sensitive drivers in my doors. a dab of silicone on the insides of the grilles on the front door woofers helps a lot with any rattle.

For control wire, I would recommend pulling the floor trim all the way back and running it through there. it’s pretty easy, i’ll get you the dealership service manual for removing those pieces. Here’s where mine routes to:

image-2023-06-02-10:49:20-553.jpg

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**Zombie5150** · 06-02-2023 11:54 AM

Originally Posted by Local

Listened to it for the first time today and wow... That is a lot of bass - both punch and rumble for a single 12.

At first I couldn't figure out why it was so loud, then I realized my sub level was turned all the way up in the head unit and I had the bass knob upside and what I thought was min was actually max.

Now it's running much nicer. I still need to figure a nicer way to run the bass control wire to the front - I want to mount it on the bottom of the steering column so the dial sticks out where a key would go on an older car.

Ill mess with it when I take the rear seat out to apply dynomat.

Any suggestions appreciated!

Regards,

That's pretty much where I mounted mine. It was very easy running it up to the front. I did pull the dead pedal off to conceal the wire but that was the hardest part.

**Local** · 06-02-2023 12:20 PM

Originally Posted by Gunnarrrrr

Keep subwoofer level below the middle and tune ur amp for that. Also, knock down the bass level to 1-2notches below middle. will cut out a lot of the shittiness coming from the front door woofers. Keep in mind sub output from the mmi goes all the way up to 150hz, but front door woofers hit all the way down to 80hz. So I would set your amp low pass to around 80-90 as a good crossover point to keep that droney 100hz stuff to a minimum with all the overlap. I keep my bass level in mmi at about -3 actually but I have much more sensitive drivers in my doors. a dab of silicone on the insides of the grilles on the front door woofers helps a lot with any rattle.

For control wire, I would recommend pulling the floor trim all the way back and running it through there. it’s pretty easy, i’ll get you the dealership service manual for removing those pieces. Here’s where mine routes to:

image-2023-06-02-10:49:20-553.jpg

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That looks pretty good.

Ill def have to spend some time tuning my setup but that will save me a lot of time.

If you could share that dealer manual I would super appreciate it. I'm way more of a software than a hardware modification type guy. I'm already way outside my comfort zone with this but I'm astonished how well it's come out so far.

Thank you to everyone here!

**ccoop6** · 06-03-2023 04:40 AM

Originally Posted by Local

Do you have a link to this sub?

does it sit flat in our trunk?

I'm def about to do this install.

Edited to add: I found all this, got an amazon cart started - just ordered Praneel's kit - very excited to add some bass to my car.

Can you share link? Sounds like it’s much better sub than factory. I’d like to be able to keep the bass down in the MMI and still have a substantial amount of bass from woofer. Thanks!

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**Local** · 06-03-2023 02:08 PM

Originally Posted by ccoop6

Can you share link? Sounds like it’s much better sub than factory. I’d like to be able to keep the bass down in the MMI and still have a substantial amount of bass from woofer. Thanks!

I have all the bass / sub stuff turned all the way down and still have SUBSTANTIAL bass. To the point I need to tune my amp down quite a bit.

Diamond Audio Spare tire 12'' woofer

If i was better at running, crimping, and routing wires this would have been so much easier.

As it was it only took me about 3 hours to get everything wired up and running.

I'll probably take another whack at things to clean up my install and run my bass control wire - I def need to save a few youtube videos on amp tuning and download some test tunes - but the lion share is done and I really like the outcome.

regards.

**ccoop6** · 06-04-2023 07:47 AM

Originally Posted by Local

I have all the bass / sub stuff turned all the way down and still have SUBSTANTIAL bass. To the point I need to tune my amp down quite a bit.

Diamond Audio Spare tire 12'' woofer

If i was better at running, crimping, and routing wires this would have been so much easier.

As it was it only took me about 3 hours to get everything wired up and running.

I'll probably take another whack at things to clean up my install and run my bass control wire - I def need to save a few youtube videos on amp tuning and download some test tunes - but the lion share is done and I really like the outcome.

regards.

Thanks!

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**NickSQ5** · 06-04-2023 09:06 AM

Can anyone confirm if the Diamond Audio variant sits flush or does it pop up the cover?

**Local** · 06-04-2023 04:33 PM

Originally Posted by NickSQ5

Can anyone confirm if the Diamond Audio variant sits flush or does it pop up the cover?

sits flush.

the biggest issue I have with "flush ness" is the power wire coming off the battery. You have to remove or cut a lot of the plastic protection around the side.

regards,

**NickSQ5** · 06-04-2023 06:21 PM

Originally Posted by Local

sits flush.

the biggest issue I have with "flush ness" is the power wire coming off the battery. You have to remove or cut a lot of the plastic protection around the side.

regards,

Ah, thank you for the response!

**NickSQ5** · 07-01-2023 12:18 PM

Finally got around to doing this install and everything worked out great! Shout out to iampraneel for the write up and shipping out the harness so quickly! Now I got some extra "boom" !

**Local** · 07-02-2023 02:37 PM

Originally Posted by NickSQ5

Finally got around to doing this install and everything worked out great! Shout out to iampraneel for the write up and shipping out the harness so quickly! Now I got some extra "boom" !

how did you tune the L2ci? which bass nob are you using? the one from the diamond woofer or the one from the l2ci?

did you end up tapping the 12v? I thought that would be hard but turned out to be super easy with the wire tap praneal sent. I would pay him just for that wire tap, lol, certainly can't find that ****** at home depot.

**NickSQ5** · 07-05-2023 07:46 AM

Originally Posted by Local

how did you tune the L2ci? which bass nob are you using? the one from the diamond woofer or the one from the l2ci?

did you end up tapping the 12v? I thought that would be hard but turned out to be super easy with the wire tap praneal sent. I would pay him just for that wire tap, lol, certainly can't find that ****** at home depot.

Ordered the harness from praneal which worked great! I don't have the B&O system so no bass knobs or L2ci, just adjusted settings on the actual woofer and in MMI.