The number of subwoofers you can connect to one amplifier depends on the amplifier’s power rating, impedance stability, subwoofer voice coil configuration and the way the subwoofers are wired.
In car audio, subwoofers can often be wired in different configurations, such as series or parallel, to create different final impedance loads. The amplifier must be able to safely handle that final impedance. If the impedance is too low for the amplifier, it may overheat, distort, shut down in protection mode or become damaged.
Bridging an amplifier can also affect what subwoofer load is safe. A multi-channel amplifier may be stable at one impedance per channel, but require a higher impedance when bridged. This means you cannot assume that an amplifier can safely run multiple subwoofers just because it has enough power on paper.
Mono subwoofer amplifiers are often better suited to running one or more subwoofers because they are designed specifically for bass applications and may support lower impedance loads, depending on the model.
The safest setup depends on your amplifier specifications, subwoofer impedance, RMS power handling, wiring layout and enclosure design. For the best result, speak with your nearest Focal Authorised Australian Dealer. A professional dealer can confirm how many subwoofers your amplifier can safely power and recommend the correct wiring configuration for your Focal subwoofer system.
