How to Wire two Subs to a Mono Amp? (Complete Solutions)

If you’re looking for a powerful, booming sound for your subwoofers, wiring two subs to a mono amplifier is a great way to achieve it. This setup maximizes your audio signal to the two subwoofers, giving you the most power and clarity in your low-frequency spectrum.

But how do you wire two subs to a mono Amp?

Connecting two subs to a mono amp is a simple task that involves choosing the wiring method, either in series or in parallel, based on your box’s terminal cup number, the impedance (ohm rating) of your subs, and the impedance of your amp.

In this blog post, I will take you through the two methods for wiring two subs to a mono amp, and what you need to consider when making the connection.

How to Wire two Subs to a Mono Amp

What is a Mono Amp?

A mono amp, also known as a single-channel amplifier, is an amplifier capable of amplifying a single audio channel. It typically provides more power to one speaker than a stereo amplifier, which is designed to power two audio channels.

Mono amps are commonly used in applications such as car stereos and in professional sound reinforcement systems.

Can You Connect 2 Subs to a Mono Amp?

The answer is yes; actually, there is no limit to the number of subwoofers you can connect to a mono amp, but the amplifier’s load needs to remain acceptable. The wattage would be split 50-50 between the two subs; however, you must ensure that the subs have the right ohm load for the amp and that they are wired correctly.

If an amplifier is designed to work with a 4-ohm impedance, and two 4-ohm subs are attached, connecting the subs in parallel will reduce the impedance to a nominal 2-ohm reading. This is not advisable as the amp is only designed to work with 4 ohms. A more suitable option is to run the subs in series, which will create an 8-ohm reading which is acceptable for the amplifier.

Amplifiers also have a limited output voltage dictated by their power supply. This means that there is a practical limit when wiring multiple subs together in series; if you wire too many, the sound output will be lower in volume.

Benefits of Wiring 2 Subs to a Mono Amp

Wiring two subwoofers to a mono amp increase the system’s total power output. This is because the amp is now powering two subwoofers instead of just one.

Additionally, wiring two subs to a mono amp enable users to spread the sound more evenly throughout their system. This is because the two subwoofers will be processing the same signal from different locations.

Finally, wiring two subwoofers to a mono amp can improve the overall audio quality. This is because the two subwoofers will work together to produce a more balanced range of sound.

Wiring 2 Subs to a Mono Amp

There are two ways to wire two subs to a mono amp– parallel and series, but it depends on the number of terminal cups in your amp box and the impedance of the subs and the mono amp.

Parallel Connection

Two subs can be connected to a mono amp in a parallel connection in either of the following two methods:

Method 1:

If you have two sets of terminal cups on your amp where each sub can be connected to one of the two, use this method:

  1. Place the subwoofers in the desired position close to the mono amp.
  2. Connect the (+) of each subwoofer to the (+) of the terminal cup of the mono amp.
  3. Connect the (-) of each subwoofer to the (-) of the terminal cup of the mono amp.
  4. Power the subs and the mono amp.
  5. Adjust the sound settings as desired.

Method 2:

If you have only one terminal cup on your amp box, then you can follow the process below:

  1. Connect the (+) of one subwoofer to the (+) of the other subwoofer.
  2. Connect the (-) of one subwoofer to the (-) of the other subwoofer.
  3. Connect the (+) and (-) of the subwoofers to the correct inside posts on the terminal cup.
  4. Connect the (+) and (-) of the terminal cup to the appropriate posts on the amp.
  5. Test the connection to ensure it is secure and functioning properly.

Series Connection

Two subs can be wired in series to a mono amp as described below:

  1. Ensure that the impedance of the two subs combined matches that of the mono amp
  2. Connect the first subwoofer’s (-) to the second subwoofer’s (+).
  3. Connect the amplifier’s (-) to the first subwoofer’s (-) and the amplifier’s (+) to the second subwoofer’s (+).
  4. Enjoy the music!

What to Consider When Connecting 2 Subs to a Mono Amp

  1. Impedance of the Subs: The subs’ ohms should match the amp’s ohms. Once you have determined this, you can decide which wiring configuration is best for you – series or parallel.
  2. Power Rating: The power rating should be equal to or greater than the combined power rating of the two subs. It is recommended that the mono amp should be able to provide at least twice the power rating of the two subs to ensure proper operation.
  3. Wire Gauge Of The Connecting Wires: Wires that can handle the amp’s power are necessary to ensure that the sound quality is not compromised. Using a wire gauge that is too small can result in a decrease in sound quality, so it is important to make sure the wires are of the correct gauge to handle the power of the amp.
  4. Crossover Frequency: When connecting two subs to a mono amp, it is important to consider the crossover frequency of both the subs and the amp. Ensuring that these frequencies are compatible will help to ensure the best sound quality.

FAQs

Q: Which Is Better For 2 Subs: A Mono Amp or A 2-Channel Amp?

If you’re looking for perfect synchronization and tight, controlled bass, wiring two subs to a mono amp is the way to go. Not only will it give you the best sound quality, but it will also draw less current and deliver the same amount of power as a 2-channel amp.

Q: What Is the Maximum Number Of Speakers That Can Be Wired To A Monoblock Amp?

The maximum number of speakers that can be wired to a monoblock amp depends on the amp’s power output and power-handling capacities. Generally speaking, you’d want to keep the speakers’ total power output lower than the amp’s power output.

Q: Is a Mono Amp Enough to Power Two Subs for Bass Frequencies?

Yes, a mono amplifier can be enough to power two subs for bass frequencies. This is because mono amplifiers are designed to provide high power output to drive a single sub, making them suitable for powering two subs. Additionally, since bass frequencies require less power than higher frequencies, mono amps can be more than enough to power two subs.

Q: Is It Possible to Bridge A Set Of Mono Amplifiers For More Power Output?

Yes, absolutely! Bridging a set of mono amplifiers is a great way to boost your power output. When two mono amplifiers are connected in parallel to the same speaker, they become one single amplifier, increasing the power output. Before attempting this, you must make sure your amplifiers are compatible with bridging.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, if you want to wire two subs to a mono amp, the most important thing to keep in mind is that you need to ensure that the proper impedance levels are assigned correctly. It is also important to understand that there are two distinct ways of wiring your subs to a mono amp: either in series or in parallel.

Depending on the impedance ratings of your subs, one wiring method may be more suitable than the other. A series connection will ensure that your subs are receiving the correct power levels, while a parallel connection will provide a louder overall sound. Pay attention to your equipment specifications and wire accordingly for maximum sound quality and performance!