Adding a second subwoofer to your audio setup can significantly enhance the low-frequency performance and overall impact of your sound system. If you have a single-channel (monoblock) amplifier and want to connect two subwoofers to it, you’ll need to use a specific wiring configuration to achieve the desired results. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of hooking up two subwoofers to a single-channel amp for a powerful and balanced bass experience.
What You’ll Need:
Before you start, gather the following items:
- Two subwoofers
- A single-channel (monoblock) amplifier
- Speaker wire (preferably of the same length)
- RCA cables (if using a line-level connection)
- Subwoofer enclosure(s)
- Wire stripper and crimping tools
- Screwdrivers and wrenches (if necessary)
Wiring Options:
There are two primary ways to connect two subwoofers to a single-channel amplifier: series wiring and parallel wiring.
- Series Wiring:
- In series wiring, you connect the positive terminal of one subwoofer to the amplifier’s positive terminal and then link the negative terminal of the first subwoofer to the positive terminal of the second subwoofer.
- Connect the negative terminal of the second subwoofer to the amplifier’s negative terminal.
This configuration increases the total impedance (ohms) seen by the amplifier, which means it will provide less power to the subs. Series wiring is useful if your amplifier’s output power is higher than what your subwoofers can handle individually.
- Parallel Wiring:
- In parallel wiring, you connect both subwoofers’ positive terminals to the amplifier’s positive terminal and both negative terminals to the amplifier’s negative terminal.
Parallel wiring reduces the total impedance seen by the amplifier, allowing it to deliver more power to the subs. It’s essential to ensure that your amplifier can handle the resulting lower impedance and that your subwoofers are compatible with the increased power.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Follow these steps to hook up two subwoofers to a single-channel amp using parallel wiring:
- Power Off: Turn off your amplifier and disconnect it from the power source for safety.
- Determine Impedance: Check the specifications of your subwoofers and amplifier to confirm compatibility with the desired wiring configuration. Make sure your amplifier can handle the impedance (ohms) of two subwoofers wired in parallel.
- Prepare Wiring: Strip about 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) of insulation from the ends of your speaker wires. You should have two lengths of wire, one for the positive terminal and one for the negative terminal.
- Connect Positive Terminals: Connect the positive terminal of one subwoofer to the positive terminal of the other subwoofer. Use crimp connectors or twist and solder the wires together. Repeat the process for the negative terminals of the subwoofers.
- Amplifier Connection: Connect the positive wire from the subwoofers to the amplifier’s positive terminal and the negative wire to the amplifier’s negative terminal. Secure the connections tightly.
- Enclosure Placement: Place your subwoofer enclosures in the desired locations within your listening area.
- Power On and Test: Reconnect the amplifier to the power source and turn it on. Play some audio content with deep bass to ensure that both subwoofers are functioning correctly.
Conclusion:
Hooking up two subwoofers to a single-channel amp using parallel wiring can significantly enhance your audio system’s bass performance. Ensure that your amplifier is compatible with the wiring configuration and impedance of the subwoofers to avoid potential damage. With proper wiring and setup, you can enjoy a more powerful and immersive low-frequency experience in your audio system.
