Connecting Multiple Amplifiers To One Source

There are many options available to connect multiple amplifiers to one source. These options vary from one system to another as different systems have different input/output options.

You may be connecting multiple amps for different purposes like if you have an old amplifier that you think could add value to your audio system.

Most people connect two amps together; one for speakers and the other for subwoofers. It gives better sound quality.

Some people also attach multiple amps to hear the louder sound. Whatever the reason is, you can wire multiple amps in 4 different ways.

Table of Contents

Wiring Multiple Amplifiers To One Source

From our four methods, you can select the one that best fits your audio system.

Method #1

Today many head units have many preamp outputs that you use to connect to the amplifier. If your head unit has multiple preamp outputs, you can use each of them to connect with the amplifier. You can connect as many amplifiers as your head unit can support.

Method #2

As all the head units do not have many preamp outputs, you should check the preamp pass-through functionality in your amplifier. Most of the amplifiers include this functionality in internal wiring.

If pass-through functionality is available you can connect two or more amps together. You can connect pass-through output on the first amp to the preamp input on the second amp and so on.

It could be more complicated for you to understand the internal wiring if you have no technical knowledge.

Method #3

If your head unit has neither pass-through outputs nor multiple preamp outputs, there is a third option of Y-Adapter or splitter cables.

By using a splitter cable, you can convert 1 output on your head unit into two or more. In some cases, it also weakens the signal.

Method #4

When none of the above methods are working for you, there is another solution for you. Use speaker wires and connect the amplifier to the head unit. In this case, you will need amplifiers that have speaker-level input. Otherwise, you can use Line Output Converter (LOC) to get speaker-level inputs. It may charge you extra.

Guide To Wire Multiple Amps Together

Here are some of the things you have to keep in mind for better wiring and preventing any failure or system damage.

One Amp with Multiple Channels or Multiple Amps, Which is better?

The choice is yours. If you are buying a new amp and wondering whether to buy one with multiple channels or multiple amplifiers. Our recommendation is to buy a single amplifier with multiple channels.

The reason is that everything will be fine and you could have your desired number of speakers. It will also save space if you are installing your car or another vehicle.

However, if you already have multiple amps and you just want to connect them, you can do so if you have enough choice. Then there is no problem and you can install them.

If you install multiple amps, make sure you provide them with enough current.

Grounding All The Amps

You can use power distribution block to power all amplifiers from the single power cable and ground them from the power block instead of grounding and powering each amplifier individually.

If you have other audio components, you can also ground them from the power block. In this way, you will be avoided from many grounding issues.

Also Read: The Best 5.25″ Car Speakers For The Money

Closing Thoughts

This was our guide to connecting multiple amplifiers to one source, hope this will help you a lot. You can wire multiple amps together and get better sound quality than a single one. If you have any further queries, comment below.