3 Ways To Wire 4 Speakers To A 2-Channel Amp Diagram (2023)

How To Wire 4 Speakers To A 2 Channel Amp

So, you want your audio system to have a better sound.

Connecting 4 speakers to your 2-channel amp might do the trick.

After all, more speakers mean more volume.

But bear in mind, your amp can overload if it’s not done correctly.

Keep reading to learn…

2-channel amp wiring diagrams you can use.
How to wire speakers using a Series Connection.
9 tips for connecting 4 speakers to a 2-channel amp.
The best ways for taking care of your amp and speakers.
And a lot more…

Can I wire 4 speakers to a 2 channel amp?

You can wire 4 speakers to a channel amp. You can set them up in a Series or Parallel Connection. Or simply use a Speaker Selector Switch which is the safest and easiest to do. It’s also helpful that you study the 2-channel amp wiring diagrams. Each connection method will be different.

How to wire 4 speakers to a 2 channel amp diagram? 3 ways

#1: Wiring in a Series Connection

A Series Connection connects all components in one electrical path.

So if you have 4 speakers, the same electrical current will run through each. And all speakers will have an equal amount of current.

“Is this the best way to connect my speakers?”

Using a Series Connection to wire your speakers isn’t actually ideal.

That’s because each component only receives a small amount of voltage. It can cause your speakers to overheat and break down.

But, using this setup can still work. Your speakers can produce a nice sound if the connection is done properly.

Here’s how you do it:

Step 1: Carefully study this 2-channel amp diagram. Identify the positive and negative ends of your speakers and amp.

Step 2: Connect the positive end of your amp to the positive end of your first speaker.

Step 3: Connect the negative end of your first speaker to the positive end of your second speaker.

Step 4: Repeat the steps for the other speakers. From the negative end of the fourth speaker, wire it back to the negative end of the amplifier.

Congratulations! You have completed a Series Connection.

You can now play music using 4 speakers.

Notice how the sound quality is different from just using 1 speaker?

Warning: Be aware of the limits of your amplifier and speakers. Never go above their power capacity. Or your devices will malfunction. And that’s going to be a big problem.

#2: Wiring in a Parallel Connection

Unlike the Series Connection, a Parallel Connection has different electrical paths. The current is divided between the different components.

Think of the connections in your own house.

Each appliance is connected to a different outlet. But the power source of the current is the same.

“Is this the best way to connect my speakers?”

Setting up 4 speakers in a Parallel Connection has its pros and cons.

This connection can make the best sound quality. But the speakers can put heavy loads on the amp. Depending on your amp, its quality might lessen quickly.

In other words, you get the best sound. But risk damaging your amp too early.

If you’re set on using a Parallel Connection, follow these steps:

Step 1: Carefully study this 2-channel amp diagram. Find the positive and negative ends of your speakers and amp.

Step 2: From the positive end of your amp, connect the wires to the positive end of your first speaker.

Step 3: Do the same for the negative ends of your amp and first speaker.

Step 4: Repeat the steps above for the other three speakers.

You’ll notice that all four speakers are connected directly to the amp. It’s the same as setting up just 1 speaker to your 2-channel amp.

Warning: A continuous heavy load on your amp might be dangerous to your amp’s health. Check your amplifier’s rating first. Or consult your technician if your amp can handle a 4-speaker load.

Learn more: WiFi vs Bluetooth Speakers: 3 Sound Quality Comparisons

#3: Use a Speaker Selector Switch

Instead of setting up a connection, you can also use a Speaker Selector Switch.

“But what exactly is a Speaker Selector Switch?”

These switches are devices that protect your amplifier from overload. While distributing sound to many speakers.

Using a Speaker Selector Switch may be the best connection in your home.

Because they can handle most of the speakers’ load. Without malfunctioning any of your devices.

What’s more, some switches have a volume control for each speaker.

How convenient is that?

So if you have your Speaker Selector Switch ready, follow these steps to enjoy the best sound:

Step 1: Refer to this 2-channel amp diagram. Find the positive ends on your speakers, amp, and switch.

Step 2: Connect the positive end of your amp to the positive end of your Speaker Selector Switch.

Step 3. Take the wire from the negative end of your switch. Connect this back to the negative end of your amp.

Step 4: Connect your speakers to the speaker selection switch one by one. Just make sure to connect positive ends together. And negative ones to each other.

Once done, time to enjoy the good quality sound 4 speakers can give you.

Note: This technique works best for setting up multi-room speakers in your home. Don’t do this for a commercial setup that goes above 100 watts.

To see how it’s done, watch this video:

9 tips to connect 4 speakers to a 2 channel amp diagram

#1: Don’t overload the amplifier

Your amplifier can only take enough load for its size. When it receives more current than it’s supposed to, it can overload.

This can happen for a few reasons:

Putting your speaker on the loudest volume.
Connecting too many speakers to your amp.
Pushing for too much power to get a louder sound.

“What happens when the amp gets overloaded?”

Overloading your amp can damage it on the inside. The circuits in your device can stop working completely.

Or worse, it can cause short circuits that may lead to a fire.

To avoid this, here are a few tips:

Never max-out the volume of your speakers.
Upgrade your equipment to get more power.
Use Speaker Selector Switches for protection.
Always check the limits on your amp and speakers.

Remember, keep your wiring connections safe. Don’t overload your amp.

#2: Stick to 1 connection method

Do your research before choosing which connection method to use. Series, parallel, or a Speaker Selector Switch.

Constantly changing your connection may lead to accidents. And wires getting worn out.

So sticking to one connection method is the safest option. Only change it when it’s really necessary.

For example, when you’re replacing a part. Or when you’re upgrading your equipment.

#3: Maintain your audio system

Check your amp and speakers regularly. This stops any serious damage from happening before it’s too late.

It’s actually easy to check for physical damage on your audio equipment. This is what you do:

Option 1: Look at your components to see if there’s anything unusual. These can be dust build-up, molds, rot, or exposed wirings.

Option 2: Check the sound quality of each speaker. If you’re using a speaker selection switch, turn down the volume of other speakers. Then listen to the sound quality of each speaker.

You should also clean your audio devices a few times each year. This helps keep it running for longer.

Here’s an easy process you can follow:

Use a brush or vacuum cleaner to remove dust.
Wipe the covers and knobs with a cotton towel.
For small corners, use cotton swabs.

You can also the parts in your sound system. This is best when your amp or speakers are already old.

Replacing a whole component is an easy task. You can just buy it directly.

But what if you have to replace certain parts of a component? For example a power cable or a damaged knob.

Bear in mind that some parts may need soldering. Plus an in-depth knowledge of electronics.

Assess if it’s something you can do. If you’re unsure, bring it to your service center. Or your local repairman.

Note: It’s best that you only clean what you can see. Don’t try to open the amp and speakers by yourself. This can cause further wear and tear. If you plan on cleaning the inner components, get it done by a professional.

#4: Keep your power supply at a normal level

The amplifier can only supply limited power. Do not set up a system that goes beyond the amp’s rating.

If you do, it will lead to problems sooner or later.

Also, take note of your power supply. Plugging your amp into a different voltage will definitely cause it to break down.

The only way for you to supply more power is to upgrade your amp. You can do this by getting better equipment.

But if you’re on a tight budget, go with what your amp can handle.

Check out: Are Wired Headphones Louder Than Wireless? 5 Facts Revealed

#5: Stick to the manual

When wiring your speakers, always read the manual that came with it.

Make sure you know the limits of each component. Before you make any changes to your speaker and amp connection.

Follow safety precautions. And don’t do shortcuts.

Never attempt to wire your speakers on your own. Especially if you’re unsure.

Consult an expert to be safe.

#6: Label your wires

Before closing up your wires, label them. This makes for easier identification.

You can label which ones belong to the front and back sides of your speaker.

This is in case you need to service a line or device. Or if you want to change your setup in the future.

One way to do this is by printing neat labels, Then putting shrink tubing over them. You can also place clear tape on the wires like a tag.

#7: Consider using passive subwoofers

A passive subwoofer is a type of speaker that produces low sounds. Also known as bass sounds.

Passive subwoofers need to be connected to external amps to work. They’re great if you want to connect 4 speakers to a 2-channel amp.

Here are a few subwoofers you can look into:

#8: Choose between solid-state or tube amps

Choosing an amp is more than just thinking of your budget. You could also choose what type of amp you should use.

There are two common options available:

Option 1: Solid-state amps. These are used mainly for musical instruments like guitars or synthesizer boards. The circuits in solid state amps do not burn out but need continual replacement.

Option 2: Tube amps. Compared to solid state amps, tube amps produce louder and cleaner sounds. But they can break more easily.

The tube amplifier is better at handling many speakers. A solid-state amp can be more challenging to set up.

But if you already have an amp, check which type it is. Before you set up your speakers.

#9: Invest in good quality equipment

Your amp needs at least 8-ohms to connect many speakers. But with a 16-ohm unit, this will be easier to do.

There’s a catch though. Amps with higher ohm units will also be more expensive. Something to think about if you’re on a budget.

Here’s a guide for some of the best amps. From budget to swanky:

Price Range	Amplifier Brand
$200-$500	– NAD C 316BEE Integrated Amplifier. – YAMAHA R-N303BL Stereo Receiver.
$750 and up	– Cambridge Audio CXA81. – Marantz PM6006 Integrated Amplifier.
$2,000-$4,000	– Marantz Model 30 Integrated Amplifier with Custom-Designed HDAM. – Yamaha A-S2100BL Natural Sound Integrated Amplifier.
$10,000	– Air Tight ATM-1S. – Bel Canto Black EX.