Contrary to what's listed in H-and-A's web site regarding the Kelton subwoofer specs, the frequency range is 40-200Hz max according to the Kelton manual.
The upper level is adjustable, from 100Hz to 200Hz. Factory default setting is right in the middle at 150Hz.
So it really is a sub-woofer, complete with its own 80 watt amp.
There's also a volume control so you can help fine-tune things.
In addition, it works only when the ignition switch is ON. It doesn't work with the ignition switch in ACC. I presume that's because of the power draw issues.
That all being said: the first and best thing you can do, WITHOUT QUESTION, is to replace the factory fronts with Pioneer TS-A1655 speakers.
If you do that, you probably won't need the Kelton unit--either that or you'l re-evaluate your personal situation in that regard. With the Kelton unit off and the Pioneers installed, bass is pretty darned good for the average mom-mobile. The Kelton unit does offer sub-bass; it fills in at the bottom. When you can hear it on and off (it comes with an on/off switch), you can plainly hear the difference. And it's a difference that I personally am happy to pay the $300 or so for.
But if you just put good speakers up front and listen to those, most people would be plenty happy with that.
In fact, I have the volume on the Kelton unit turned down pretty low, and the factory radio (RES unit) set for the bass level at -3. This gives room to fine tune it up to 0 for more bass or down to -6 for less bass, right from the head unit.
The Pioneers are $50. The Kelton unit is a few hundred once it's installed. The Pioneers really re-do the whole Kelton equation.
The upper level is adjustable, from 100Hz to 200Hz. Factory default setting is right in the middle at 150Hz.
So it really is a sub-woofer, complete with its own 80 watt amp.
There's also a volume control so you can help fine-tune things.
In addition, it works only when the ignition switch is ON. It doesn't work with the ignition switch in ACC. I presume that's because of the power draw issues.
That all being said: the first and best thing you can do, WITHOUT QUESTION, is to replace the factory fronts with Pioneer TS-A1655 speakers.
If you do that, you probably won't need the Kelton unit--either that or you'l re-evaluate your personal situation in that regard. With the Kelton unit off and the Pioneers installed, bass is pretty darned good for the average mom-mobile. The Kelton unit does offer sub-bass; it fills in at the bottom. When you can hear it on and off (it comes with an on/off switch), you can plainly hear the difference. And it's a difference that I personally am happy to pay the $300 or so for.
But if you just put good speakers up front and listen to those, most people would be plenty happy with that.
In fact, I have the volume on the Kelton unit turned down pretty low, and the factory radio (RES unit) set for the bass level at -3. This gives room to fine tune it up to 0 for more bass or down to -6 for less bass, right from the head unit.
The Pioneers are $50. The Kelton unit is a few hundred once it's installed. The Pioneers really re-do the whole Kelton equation.