Figuring out how to connect 6 speakers to a 2-channel amp is an achievable setup you can do. However, since the standard connection would be with four speakers only, you need to understand some of the restrictions and even power bearing so that your setup will work correctly.
Keep in mind that the most important thing when learning how to connect 6 speakers to a 2-channel amp is the balanced distribution of load to each channel. You also need to check if your amplifier can bear such a power load. If your amplifier cannot handle such a load, it might damage the entire audio system. Each of your amp’s channels can only hold a specific amount of power, so always check with your manual if the process of how to connect 6 speakers to a 2-channel amp is feasible.
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Steps on Connecting 6 Speakers to a 2-Channel Amplifier
The two main ways on how to connect 6 speakers to a 2-channel amp are through either in series or parallel connection. What way you choose should depend on the kind of speakers and amps you have. You should put into consideration their impedance levels and limits. Impedance talks about the resistance capacity of your devices. Connecting them in series puts more pressure on your amp. While the parallel connection significantly lowers it.
Determine the Right Method to Use
- Check the impedance level of your speaker by reading the user manual that came with your device.
- Add the total impedance levels of your two left speakers. Determine if the sum is within the holding capacity of your amplifier. If yes, connect the wires in series. However, if the sum is more than the limit, proceed to the next step.
- Multiply the impedance of your left speakers and divide this by the sum of both. If the answer is within limits, you can connect them in parallel connection. If not, do not attempt to connect the devices since the amp cannot handle the load.
How to Wire in Series
- Connect the left positive terminal of your amp to the positive left terminal of your speakers.
- Then, link the negative terminal f your speaker to the positive terminal of your left speaker.
- Connect the negative terminal of the second left speaker to the negative terminal of your amplifier.
- Repeat the steps until you complete connecting your six speakers.
How to Wire in Parallel
- Link your amp’s left positive wires and negative terminals to the equivalent terminals on one of the left speakers.
- Take another pair of positive and negative terminals of your amp to the corresponding terminals on another left speaker.
- Follow the same process for the right speakers.
Does Wiring 6 Speakers To Two Channels Increase Volume?
The process of connecting 6 speakers to a 2 channel amp is simple, and anyone can do it. However, adding more speakers may not increase the volume if they have different resistances. In some cases, if the overall resistance of the speakers is too low, you risk damaging the amp.
How Does Impedance Affect Volume?
Resistance refers to the opposition of a speaker to current flow and is measured in ohms (Ω) like impedance. All the materials you see around you resist current flow at different degrees. As for speakers, they can have high or low resistance:
Higher resistance:
Speakers, amps, and other conductors will have higher resistance require lower current flow. If the resistance is too high, the speakers will not pull a lot of power and the risk of damaging the am is low.
However, if your audio system gets an adequate power supply, it can produce a louder sound. Nonetheless, that may not apply if you are using the same amp to power 6 speakers with the same resistance since they almost function as one.
Lower Resistance:
If your speakers and amps have lower resistance, it means they require a higher current flow. So, matching the resistance is one of your most essential steps when wiring 6 speakers to 2 channel amplifiers.
Please note that the work of an amplifier is to increase the power to the load. However, it depends on the load impendence, the source, and the current gain and inherent voltage to deliver as required.
How Much Volume Increase by Adding 5 Extra Speakers
You have used one speaker in the past and you want to know the difference in performance to expect when adding 5 more.
You get an increase in volume if you add a speaker with the same resistance, but it won’t double. That means if you add 5 speakers, the volume won’t increase five times. It will be much lower than many can expect.
For example, if your speaker is giving out 60 dB, you won’t get 120dB by adding another identical speaker. Instead, you get around 66 dB, which is a significant increase by any standard, however, just not double. So, adding 5 more speakers could mean getting close to 30dB or so more.
Conclusion
We hope these suggestions will help you to connect 6 speakers to a 2 channel amp. Remember that amplifiers can be connected in many ways. If you’re not sure which connection will work the best for your needs, consult with an experienced audio engineer or contact our tech department.
FAQ:
Q: How to wire 4 speakers to a 2 channel amp diagram?
A: How To Wire/Connect 4 Speakers To A 2 Channel Amp Diagram? You can easily connect 4 speakers to a 2 channel amplifier just by keeping in mind the impedance of speakers and dividing the power equally to both the channels. There are both methods available to connect 4 speakers i.e series and parallel.
Q: How do I connect two speakers to one amplifier?
A: Connect wire from the positive terminal of amplifier to positive terminal of first speaker. Now connect wire from negative terminal of first speaker to positive terminal of the second speaker. Then connect wire from negative terminal of seond speaker to negative terminal of left of the amplifier.
Q: How many speakers do I need to connect to one channel?
A: So, we will connect 2 speakers of 25 watts and 1 speaker of 50 watts to 1 channel and in the same way on the second channel. So the power is divided equally to both channels.
Q: Can I connect my amp in series?
A: For example, if you have 2 speakers each of 4-ohm. As you know when we connect in series, powers are added up. So the sum of both the powers will be 8-ohm. Now if your amplifier handles 8 ohm per channel it is ok to connect in series.