Exploring the potential of your audio system leads to the question of whether you can connect two subwoofers to a mono amplifier. This idea, while intriguing, can seem daunting to many at first thought. But the answers to this thought can promise you a much better audio experience in your car.
We will try to unravel the possibilities of hooking up a monoblock amp to 2 subs in this article. Let’s start!
Table of Contents
Can You Actually Connect Two Subs to a Mono Amp?
The short answer to the big question is an emphatic yes. You can truly set 2 subwoofers to a mono amplifier. Most top-tier Monoblock amplifiers are equipped with multiple input terminals, typically two positive and two negative ones. This input range and subwoofer compatibility allow for bridge, parallel, and series wiring configurations.
Mono amplifiers, often perceived as limited due to their single-channel design, are, in fact, quite versatile. These well-thought-out amps with wide input abilities can power multiple subwoofers to create a harmonious and strong bass output.
What to Consider Before Connecting?
It is critical for you to think out several key factors when planning to connect two subs to single channel amp. let's explore the factors.
Power and Impedance Matching
You should check if the combined power handling of your subwoofers is within the limits of your mono amp's output. The impedance of the subwoofers is measured in ohms. This compatibility is necessary to avoid damage to your audio components and ensure optimal performance.
The Type of Subwoofers
When connecting 2 subwoofers, using similar subwoofers in their power rating and impedance is generally recommended. This similarity helps them maintain a balance in the sound system. Otherwise, mismatched subs can lead to one subwoofer dominating the output. It can result in you facing an unbalanced and potentially damaging setup.
The main 2 types of subs are:
1. SVC (Single Voice Coil): It has two wiring terminal posts, one marked positive and the other negative. They are simpler in design and typically easier to connect, but they offer less flexibility in wiring options than their dual-voice coil counterparts.
2. DVC (Dual Voice Coil): They come with four wiring terminal posts, comprising two positive and two negative terminals. This design provides more wiring options and greater flexibility in achieving your audio setup's desired impedance and power distribution.
So, you should ensure you are using the same type of voice coil subs during the process.
How to Hook up A Mono Amp to 2 Subs?
Now, we arrive at the main star of our show - the hooking-up process. Let's go into the steps:
The 1st Step: Gathering the Required Tools
You should manage the following instruments to go through a safe connection:
- Wire Stripper/Cutter: It allows you to strip the insulation off the ends of the wires, ensuring a clean and secure connection.
- Screwdrivers: A set of screwdrivers, both flat-head and Phillips, may be needed for securing wire connections on the subwoofers and the amp, as well as for opening any panels or enclosures.
- Multimeter: This tool checks the impedance of your subwoofers and ensures that your connections are correct.
- Rubber Grommets or Protective Sheaths: Any of them can prevent wire damage if you're running wires through the body of a vehicle.
- Cable Ties or Electrical Tape: Using cable ties or electrical tape keeps your wires organized and prevents damage.
2nd Step: Determining the Impedance of Subwoofers
This step involves identifying the impedance level of each subwoofer to achieve the best performance. You can typically find this information on the subwoofer or in its manual.
3rd Step: Preparing the Wiring
Selecting the appropriate gauge of speaker wire is the next essential step you’ve to take. Thicker wires are generally better suited for transmitting higher levels of power over longer distances to maintain the quality of the sound and the efficiency of the system. So, it will be better for you to use the thick wires in this process.
4th Step: Making the Connections
You have the option to select either parallel or series wiring when establishing the connection. The decision between these wiring methods is contingent upon the impedance levels of your subwoofers and amplifier.
In terms of parallel one, you link the amplifier’s positive terminal to both subwoofers’s positive terminals, and similarly, the other negative terminals are interconnected. This configuration frequently leads to a reduced overall impedance.
The mono amp’s impedance generally ranges from 4 to 16 ohms. So, if you want to get subs of 16 ohms, you’ll need at least 8 ohms of impedance for the amp, but you can go above that, too.
Conversely, series wiring entails connecting the positive terminal of the amplifier to the positive terminal of one subwoofer and then linking the negative terminal of this subwoofer to the positive terminal of the second subwoofer. The remaining negative terminal is connected to the amplifier. You will observe that this wiring method results in an increased overall impedance.
Here, you need to use an ampere of impedance of at least 8 ohms to supply the 2 subs of 4 ohms each.
The bridge connection is somewhat similar to the parallel method but with a key difference. In this configuration, you connect the positive terminal of one subwoofer to the positive terminal of the other subwoofer, and similarly, you link the negative terminals of both subwoofers together. Once these connections are made, the subwoofers' remaining positive and negative terminals are connected to the mono amp's corresponding positive and negative terminals.
For the bridge connection, you will require at least 10 ohms mono block amp for the 2 subs if they’re each of 5 ohms. The basic thumb rule is to have the double of each sub in impedance of the ampere.
The Last Step: Testing the Setup
Once you've made the connections, try to test the setup at a low volume. You can then make sure all connections are correct, and there's no distortion.
Mistakes to Avoid While Connecting A mono amp to 2 subs
Now, let’s look at some common mistakes people make while connecting mono amps to subs and how to avoid them.
1. Mismatching Impedance: To avoid this, carefully match the impedance of your subs with the amp’s capability.
2. Using Incorrect or Low-Quality Wiring: You need to use high-quality wires of the correct gauge to maintain sound integrity and system safety.
3. Overloading the Amp: Connecting subs that require more power than the amp can deliver leads to distortion and potential damage. Avoid this problem by ensuring that the combined power requirement of your subs does not exceed the amp’s output capacity.
The Endnote
Hooking up two subwoofers to a mono amp can significantly enhance your audio experience, provided it’s done correctly. By understanding the technical requirements and following this guide, you can enjoy the sophisticated bass output from the car’s audio system if you do amp tuning properly. Remember, attention to detail and careful planning are keys to a successful setup.
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