Do I need an amp to run a bass tube?

[Leicesterboy15]

Hi guys

this may be a really silly question but I am new to this ICE stuff.

I have a sub out and a sub control on my head unit so do I still need a seperate amp to run a bass tube or can I just plug it directly into the head unit?

If I do have to use an amp, is it best to use the pre-out or the sub-out to run the bass tube? (I would prefer a sub box but I have been given a bass tube and figured it would be a good starting point).

Thanks guys

[lwebb12]

it depends. if you have RCA inputs on the bass tube than most likely it has an amplifier on it. how ever if it just has speaker wire input terminal than you will need an amp. what model is it anyway?

[Leicesterboy15]

I don't know what make it is but it does look like it is professionally made. It has an 8inch sub and a set of speaker connections on the other end so I guess I will need an amp. Should I plug this into the sub out or one of the pre outs?

My plan is to remove the metal plate beind the arm rest between the rear seat and the boot (on an e34) so I can get the proper sound. I have Infiniti Kappas in the back and a good set up at the front (don't know what exactly but it sounds good) but I don't want to push too much bass through these as they are a pain to change if they blow! Hopefully this bass tube will take care of that.

[lwebb12]

sweet. yes use the subwoofer out RCA connections to provide a signal to your sub amp. and from the sounds of it you wont need a high powered amp either. what is the speaker in it?