How to Wire 6 Speakers to a 4 Channel Amp?

Wire six speakers to a four-channel amp is challenging because you can overload the amp. Overloading the amp can drain more power from its circuits, thus causing it to overheat. However, writing the six speakers to a four-channel amp is not impossible, and the post below is a guideline to achieve the task.

Amplifier designs come in different forms, and each has its specifications. A four-channel amplifier, for example, requires four speakers to perform optimally. Wiring a four-channel amp with six speakers can affect the peak performance of the amp. However, you are in the right place if you want six speakers on a four-channel amp wiring diagram.

Amplifier And Speaker Limitations

It is essential to first understand the limitations of both amplifiers and speakers before attempting to customize your configurations. Speakers have an impedance rating and a powerful amp on a small speaker may cause distortion or clipping. On the other hand, overloading the amplifier can cause the circuit board to overheat or damage the amp altogether. You can now understand the importance of wiring your amp and speakers to optimize sound performance and prevent damage to your equipment.

Types of Speaker Configurations

The type of speaker configurations may vary depending on your customization specifications. You can choose from three main types of speaker configurations, and below is a summary of the available speaker configurations.

1. Series wiring: Having a series wire configuration means connecting the positive terminal to the negative terminal of the next speaker, thus forming a continuous chain. However, the total impedance increases as speakers with each additional speaker in the series sequence, and all the speakers share the same current.
2. Parallel wiring: This speaker configuration means speaker terminals connect to the corresponding terminals on the amplifier.  However, the total impedance decreases when you add more speakers to your wiring configuration, but each speaker receives the same voltage from the amplifier.
3. Series-parallel wiring: This is a complex configuration with speakers having both series and parallel connections. However, the main idea behind the design is grouping multiple speakers in Series and then connecting the series groups to the amplifier using Parallel connections. The configuration allows for flexibility in managing both impedance and power distribution.

Requirements for Wiring Speakers to An Amplifier

You can gather the following equipment and supplies before starting the wiring process.

• 4-channel amp
• Six speakers
• Speaker wires
• Wire strippers
• Crimp connectors
• Electrical tape

Below are the procedures for connecting the six speakers to your 4-channel using the series or parallel configuration.

How to Wire 6 Speakers to a 4 Channel Amp?

In A Series Configuration

1. The first step is disconnecting the amplifier from the power source and discharging any static using a wrist strap or any method available.
2. The next step is cutting your wires to approximate sizes and stripping about 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends of the speaker wires.
3. Proceed by connecting the (+) positive wire from the first speaker to the (+) positive terminal of channel one on the amp.
4. You can then connect the (-) negative wire from the first speaker to the (-) negative terminal of channel one on the amp.
5. The next step is connecting the (+) positive wire from the second speaker to the (-) negative wire of the first speaker.
6. Your next move is connecting the (-) negative wire from the second speaker to the (+) positive terminal of channel two on the amp.
7. Repeat steps 5-6 above to connect the remaining four speakers.

The final configuration should follow the wiring pattern below.

• The positive terminal of channel 1: Positive wire of speaker 1
• The negative terminal of channel 1: Negative wire of speaker 1
• The positive terminal of channel 2: Negative wire of speaker 2
• The negative terminal of channel 2: Positive wire of speaker 3
• The positive terminal of channel 3: Negative wire of speaker 4
• The negative terminal of channel 3: Positive wire of speaker 5
• The positive terminal of channel 4: Negative wire of speaker 6
• The negative terminal of channel 4: Ground

Pros And Cons Of Using A Series Speaker Configuration

The series speaker configuration is safe because of its simple wiring and suitability for connecting speakers with different impedances. The setup offers less distortion and better noise rejection. The series configuration is also ideal because it can handle high voltage capacity and protect your amp from overheating. However, the setup reduces the sound quality, especially at high volumes.

In A Parallel Configuration

The parallel wiring configuration involves pairing two speakers on one channel, whereas connecting the last two speakers to the remaining two channels on the amplifier. However, it is essential to note that pairing two speakers with the same impedance will half the resistance of sound output when using the parallel configuration. For example, pairing two 4-ohm speakers will produce a 2-ohm load on the head unit of your setup. Follow the steps below to connect the six speakers to your four-channel amp using the parallel configuration.

1. Start by unplugging your amp and discharging the static remaining on the circuit board.
2. The second step is cutting your wires to approximate sizes and stripping about 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends of the speaker wires.
3. Tangle the (-) negative wires from the first and second speakers before connecting them to the (-) negative terminal on channel one of your amp.
4. Tangle the (+) positive wires from the first and second speakers before connecting them to the (+) positive terminal of channel one of your amp.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 above to pair and connect the third and fourth speakers to the corresponding terminals on the second channel on your amp.
6. Connect the (+) positive wire from the fifth speaker to the (+) positive terminal on channel three of the amp.
7. Connect the (-) negative wire from the fifth speaker to the (-) negative terminal of the third channel on the amp.
8. Repeat steps 6-7 above to connect the sixth speaker to channel four of your amp.

The final parallel configuration should follow the wiring pattern below.

• The positive terminal of channel 1: Positive wire of speakers 1 and 2
• The negative terminal of channel 1: Negative wire of speakers 1 and 2
• The positive terminal of channel 2: Positive wire of speakers 3 and 4
• The negative terminal of channel 2: Negative wire of speakers 3 and 4
• The positive terminal of channel 3: Positive wire of speaker 5
• The negative terminal of channel 3: Negative wire of speaker 5
• The positive terminal of channel 4: Positive wire of speaker 6
• The negative terminal of channel 4: Negative wire of speaker 6

Pros And Cons Of Using Parallel Speaker Configuration

The parallel speaker wiring is not ideal because of its complicated setup. The parallel connection reduces the overall impedance of the speaker load, thus pulling more power from the amp and may result in overheating or damage to one of your channels. However, the correct setup can offer better sound quality and efficiency.

Safety Precautions When Wiring Speakers to An Amplifier

Ensure you adhere to the safety guidelines below when wiring your speakers to your amplifier.

1. Ensure you always unplug your amplifier from the power source before working on it.
2. Be careful not to strip too much insulation from the speaker wires.
3. Use the correct size crimp connectors for the speaker wires.
4. Wrap all the connections with electrical tape to prevent them from coming loose.

Conclusion

The ideal speaker connection to your amp setup will rely on your skills and experience. You can always seek professional assistance if the wiring process becomes too complex to handle by yourself.

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