Quick guide to matching subs & amps
How to put together the best amp and sub combo
When you're ready to add a subwoofer and bass system to your vehicle, there are a lot of options to choose from. Once you get past the basic question of the size and number of subs you want in your system, you need to decide on the type of sub(s) and the type of amplifier(s) you'll use.
When choosing subwoofers, you can choose between single voice coil (one set of terminals) and dual voice coil (DVC) models (two sets of terminals). Dual voice coil subs give you more wiring options than single voice coil models. Usually, but certainly not always, dual voice coil models are built for higher power handling and performance.
When choosing an amplifier, the most important thing is to pick one with the right amount of power for your subs. Once you've decided how much power you need, you'll need to decide which type of amp to use. For most bass systems, you'll want to choose either a mono (single-channel) amp or a 2-channel amp.
To get you on the fast track to big bass, let's look at four common combinations of subwoofers. We'll check out the advantages of each, the best wiring configuration, then discuss the type of amp to choose. We'll even show you how to hook 'em up!
If you already have either an amplifier or the subwoofers and need help choosing the other piece, be sure to check out our more in-depth article about matching subs and amps.
One single 4-ohm voice coil sub
Advantages
Simplicity, price, and compactness are the big advantages of a single sub system. A single sub is pretty easy to hook up, there are a lot of reasonably priced models to choose from, and it won't take up too much room (although a 15" sub isn't exactly small!) You may not knock over small buildings with one sub, but you can still get a lot of solid bass.
The right type of amp to use
This is a perfect place for a 2-channel amp. By bridging the output of the amp, you'll get lots of power for a relatively low cost. Avoid using a mono amp here — they work best at a lower impedance than 4 ohms.
A single 4-ohm SVC sub, connected to a bridged 2-channel amp.
One 4-ohm dual voice coil sub
Advantages
Don't be confused about dual voice coil (DVC) subs — having two voice coils simply gives you more ways to hook them up. In addition to wiring flexibility, the advantages of using one dual voice coil sub are power handling (most dual voice coil subs are built for heavy-duty use) and compactness.
The right type of amp to use
This is a perfect situation for a mono sub amp. Why? Mono amps are built to provide the most power at lower impedances, typically around 2 ohms. By wiring the voice coils in parallel, we can present a 2-ohm impedance to the amp and get maximum power output. Check the diagram below for how to hook it up.
A single 4-ohm DVC sub — best when connected to a mono amp.
Two 4-ohm single voice coil subs
Advantages
When you're looking for big bass, having two subs makes a lot of sense. After all, sound is just the movement of air, and with two subs you can move lots of air! As before, price can be an advantage when selecting 4-ohm single voice coil subs. Sure, two subs will take up more room, but what do you want — trunk space or bass?
The right type of amp to use
This setup is perfect for a mono sub amp. By wiring the two subs in parallel (see the diagram) you'll show a 2-ohm impedance to the amp. Mono amps are built for just this kind of situation, so you'll get maximum power output from your amp investment. Check the diagram below for how to hook it up.
Two 4-ohm SVC subs — a great place to use a mono amp.
Two 4-ohm dual voice coil subs
Advantages
Wiring flexibility is the key here. You've got lots of different ways to hook up this combination. With two subs, this is a great way to get the pounding bass you're looking for. Hook 'em up and hold on tight!
The right type of amp to use
This is a great place to use a 2-channel amp. When you wire the subs as shown in the diagram below, the total impedance will be four ohms. A bridged 2-channel amp can provide plenty of power at a reasonable price. Get some good subs and a good amp and let it rip!
Wire two 4-ohm DVC subs this way, add a 2-channel amp, and your car will be the "Temple of Boom!"
Want to see more options for subwoofer wiring?
These examples are just the starting point. If you want to explore other ways to wire and configure your subs and amp, check out our subwoofer wiring diagrams. Just select the number and type of subs you have, and we'll show you how to wire them to your amplifier. For more information about how to choose the right subs, read our subwoofer buying guide. And as we mentioned above, if you already have one or the other, check out our more in-depth article about matching subs and amps.
If you have any questions and want straight answers, contact our advisors via phone, chat, or email. Just click on "Contact Us" at the top of any page on our site.
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Dillon P from Richmond, VA
Posted on 3/26/2019I have 2 Kicker CompR 12 inch DVC subs, what type of 1200 watt amp would you recommend? A 2 channel?
Kusai adnan from Dubai
Posted on 3/24/2019I have 3 svc sub , 4 ohm each, and planing to buy pioneer gm-9601 , 2 channel , 2400 watt ? Or gm- 9701 , 1 channel , 2400 watt ? Which amplifier better ? And that power require any changes in car battery or alternator ? Or wire size? Thanks
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 3/25/2019Kusai, Those amps are both mono 1-channel subwoofer amplifiers and they have the same power ratings. 500 watts RMS at 4 ohms, 800 watts RMS at 2 ohms, and 1200 watts RMS at 1 0hm. Each amp has two sets of speaker output terminals, wired together inside the amp, for convenience, and if you hook a speaker to each terminal it would result in the two speakers being wired in parallel, cutting the total impedance in half. Not knowing the power ratings of your subs makes it impossible to advise you on the wiring.Raymond Sheppard from Moreno valley
Posted on 3/20/2019I have 2 CVR15" , what 2 ch. Amp do you recommend? Or at least how many RMS Watts do you prefer from a 2 channel amp for my 500w RMS (each) Subwoofers? Thank you.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 3/22/2019Raymond, Kicker makes two versions of that sub, and without knowing which, I can't help with amp recommendations. Usually there are no benefits in using a 2-channel amp to drive a subwoofer system. Most 2-channel amps can't drive loads lower than 4 ohms when bridged, and don't have enough power to drive 2 subs. Mono, 1-channel amps are designed to work with a wider range of impedances, and have tone controls and filters specifically designed to help reproduce bass.Roosevelt Merchant from Selma
Posted on 3/19/2019I have 2 skar audio DDX 12 4 ohm dual voice 1500 max1000 rms I have a 2 channel 2000 watt audiopipe 1 ohm stable what's the best way to hook up
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 3/21/2019Roosevelt, Two DVC 4-ohm subs get wired to a 2-channel amp like this.Tavin Sabbath from San Diego
Posted on 3/13/2019Hey Buck! I am very new to this scene and just ordered a kicker cx series CXA6001 1200W amp. I am looking to get two 10" subs. Not sure if I should get single coil or double coil, how many watts, how many ohms, and how to wire.
Ryan Moore from Owatonna, MN
Posted on 3/13/2019I recently bought a Kenwood double din head DPX593BT unit with Kenwood 6x9's KFC-6986PS in front and 6 1/2" KFC-1796PS in rear. This is a 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee. I now want to add subs and an amp. I would like to stick with all Kenwood to keep it clean. I want ported enclosure for non rock music, mostly rap etc. Space is not an issue with the rear. What is a nice setup for under $500?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 3/13/2019Ryan, How about a Kenwood KSC-PSW8 powered sub?Clifton Tucker from Alvin
Posted on 3/13/2019Hello Buck Pomerantz, i have 2 hifonics Brutus BRX12D4 they are DVC 4 ohm RMS 450 watt peak 900 each. I have them in a ported box and I have them matched with the Hifonics BE35-1700.1D amp, and i would like to know the best way to wire them in box to amp to get the deepest base out of them. What do you think?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 3/13/2019Clifton, The only safe way to wire that gear together is like this.Michael Woods from Birmingham
Posted on 3/8/2019I'm considering a 4, 12 inch subwoofer set up using ... Rockford Fosgate Power T1D412 subs. Looking 4 an amplifier recommendations.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 3/9/2019Michael, Four DVC 4-ohm subs rated for 800 watts RMS each will work best with an amp that can put out between 2400 and 4800 watts RMS into a 4-ohm load, like a Rockford Fosgate T2500-1bdCP.Kennon from Lagrange
Posted on 3/5/2019I'm getting 2 12" kenwood subwoofer that's are a 1000 watts each. So wat size amp do I need.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 3/6/2019Kennon, Kenwood makes a few different 12-inch subwoofers, none of which are rated for 1000 watts RMS. I suspect you're quoting a peak spec, which is useless when planning a system. Without knowing precisely what sub you're referring to, we can't help you with advice. If you want a question answered about a system, you must identify each piece of gear by brand name and model number so we can get the right information to you. Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 2/26/2019Mitchell, Without knowing precisely what sub you're referring to, we can't help you with advice. If you want a question answered about a system, you must identify the gear by brand names and model numbers so we can get the right information to you.
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Mitchell from Detriot
Posted on 2/26/2019I have a $35 walmart sub i wanna hook up. Any idea what kind of amp i should be looking for ? The sub only has 1 channel( positive and negative)
JD from Houston
Posted on 2/25/2019Hi Buck, I have a ford f150 with 4 memphis door speakers and two memphis subs running off a 5 channel amp. I think its stressing the amp to get max power to speakers and subs. My question is if I installed a mono block for just the subs (1000W amp) and ran the speakers only on my 5 channel amp, would that maximize my power?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 2/26/2019 JD, Without knowing precisely what amps you're talking about I can't be sure, but it sounds like adding a subwoofer amp will increase the over-all power of your system. Luke from Lynn
Posted on 2/7/2019I'm planning on getting 2 TS-SW3002S4 pioneers I dident know what would be the best amp and how to wire them together in there separate boxes because they are shallow mount subs thanks they say they are 400 rms apiece
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 2/9/2019 Luke, Two SVC 4-ohm subs rated for 400 watts RMS each will work best with an amplifier that can put out between 600 and 1200 watts RMS into a 2-ohm load, like a Rockford Fosgate Prime R1200-1D, wired like this. Benny from Leon IA
Posted on 2/5/2019I have 2 15 inch L7s that are already wired in the box and ready, only problem is they each have a set of neg/pos wires. The amp I'm using is a massive d3600. The terminals show - - + + . I wired up the subs the way they should to the amp and have no output.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 2/6/2019 Benny, Your mono, 1-channel amp has 2 sets of speaker output terminals, wired together inside the amp, for convenience. If you bought your amp from Crutchfield, you could call Tech Support for free help troubleshooting your system. Their toll-free number is on your invoice. If you purchased your equipment elsewhere, you can still get expert Crutchfield Tech Support - 90 days-worth for only $30. Click on this link for details. Brandon Shaw from Apache Junction
Posted on 1/20/2019I have two Soundstream xs-10 10in dual voice coil subwoofers rated at 250 Watts or 500 RMS and 1 JL Audio 500.1 monoblock amp I also have a 15 inch Kicker Comp subwoofer what do you think what sound the best out of what I have.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 1/22/2019 Brandon, The only way anyone can tell whether one setup sounds better than another is to put them together, listen to them, and judge for yourself. Israel from Abbeville LA
Posted on 1/7/2019Looking for a cheap amp to push 212" kickers 44cwcs124 4omh
Joseph Taveras from West Palm Beach
Posted on 12/28/2018Hello, I have two 12 DVC Kicker CVR124 rated at 400 rms each/800 total. Other than an Infinity K1000 amp, are there any other amplifiers around that price range you might like? like rockville for example
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 12/31/2018 Joseph, That Infinity Excelon amp is an excellent choice and I can think of nothing better for you. Andrew Blaschke from Spring, TX
Posted on 12/15/2018Hey Buck! I have a Boss CX1100M Amplifier. I want to get 2 10 inch subwoofers that get the most out of the amp without stressing it. Not sure if I should get single coil or double coil, how many watts, how many ohms, and how to wire.
Josey from Saint Clairsville
Posted on 12/9/2018i have 2 JL Audio 12TW3-D4s and want to run them both at 400rms each at 4ohm what size amp should go with the pair?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 12/10/2018 Josey, Two DVC 4-ohm subs rated for 400 watts RMS each will work best with an amplifier that can put out between 600 and 1200 watts RMS at 4 ohms, like an Infinity Kappa K1000, wired like this. Clinton from Cape Town
Posted on 11/19/2018I'm planning on buying one JBL S3-1224 subwoofer for now, and plan on adding a second one at some point. Will the setup work fine if I buy a Monoblock that is rated for 660W RMS @ 4 Ohm, and 1100W RMS @ 2 Ohm; and use it in a 4 Ohm load until I add the second subwoofer at which point I will switch to 2 Ohm load? And how would I wire it to do so? Thanks
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 11/19/2018 Clinton, You're right to power one of those subs, set at 4-ohms. When you add the second sub, keep both set for 4-ohms, and wire the pair to the amp like this. Haze Paladin the General from NEWARK
Posted on 11/16/2018I have two RockFosgate dvc 2ohm 10's. 250rms / 500 peak. My amp is a ignite r1600/1D monoblock 1-channel. My issue is wiring. I looked at the diagram, but The amp is not bridgeable. there's a diagram to wire two subs in the manual,but it think it's for svc. What would be the best way to wire the subs?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 11/19/2018 Haze, Two DVC 2-ohm subs get wired to a mono amp like this. Brian from San Antonio
Posted on 11/5/2018Is it ok to have a dvc sub and a svc sub in the same box.two different brands.just starting out in this audio thing,just want to make sure I don't ruin my subs or amps.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 11/7/2018 Brian, Ordinarily, you shouldn't wire different impedance subwoofers together to the same amplifier, but you only mentioned the number of voice coils each sub has. Not knowing exactly what amplifier or subwoofers you have make it impossible to give advice on how to wire them together. If you want a question answered about a system, you must identify the equipment by brand names and model numbers. Dru Wright from Centralia, WA
Posted on 10/1/2018I have a question, i currently have 2 GW3-12 Power Acoustik subs and i need help picking out an amp to help run the system. Can you please recommend an amp for me?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 10/1/2018 Dru, Those two DVC 2-ohm subs, each rated for 1200 watts RMS, will work best with an amplifier that can put out from 1800 to 3600 watts RMS at 2 ohms, like a Kicker KXA2400.1. Robert laws from Yadkinville NC
Posted on 7/28/2018I have a compRT 10-inch subwoofer,2 Ohm Dual voice Coil what's the best mono amp for this sub
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 7/31/2018 Robert, A great match for that sub would be Kicker's KXA400.1. You'd wire them together like this diagram. brandon-lee bl Naidoo from port shepstone
Posted on 7/20/2018if the amp has 2000w rms at 1ohm and the dvc subs are 1000w rms at 4 ohms .they are 4 ohm subs but could i wire them at 1 ohm to get the full power off the amp? or will it better to use a subs rated 800w rms at 1 ohm ?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 7/21/2018 Brandon, Two DVC 4-ohm subs rated for 1000 watts RMS each will work well with an amplifier that can put out 2000 watts RMS through a 1-ohm load, wired liked this diagram. Beto from Hooker, Ok
Posted on 6/13/2018I have 2 12in 4 0hm subs with a 2 channel 600 watt and a capacitor what wiring be best Parallel or series
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 6/13/2018 Beto, Without knowing precisely what amp and subs you're referring to, we can't help you with wiring advice. If you want a question answered about a system, you must identify the gear by brand names and model numbers so we can get the right information to you. Jay Gross from Waterloo
Posted on 6/7/2018If I have a dvc sub would I be able to power it using two amps wiring an amp to each voice coil?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 6/7/2018 Jay, It is possible to power a dual voice coil sub with one amp per coil, but to avoid distortion, both amps must be gain-matched and play identical signals. Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 5/31/2018Jerry, Those subwoofers come in two different models: a DVC 2-ohm and a DVC 4-ohm version. You may have the 2-ohm models and have them each wired as a 1-ohm load and the amp goes into protect mode when pushed. If you have the DVC 2-ohm subs, the only safe way to wire one to one of those amp is like this diagram. If you have the DVC 4-ohm models, you can wire each to an amp like this and take advantage of the amp's full power. Whichever way, it sounds like you may benefit from checking out Tuning your subs for some guidance in setting amplifier gain.
Jerry Rodriguez from Sylmar
Posted on 5/30/2018I have 2 Kicker Q class L7 12" sub and powering each sub, their own amp, the Kicker cxa1200.1. So I'm having a problem when I turn up the volume any higher than 3/4 my amps cut off but I just lower the volume and then they work fine I'm guessing it's because the subs need to be dropped to 2ohms because at 4 ohms my amps only give out 600 Watts rms and the subs are 900 Watts rms. How would I wire them and is it worth a try? Sounds like that's the problem to me but I don't know much just recently got into car audio so just want reassurance from professionals.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 5/23/2018Twiist, Peak wattage ratings are useless for planning a system. Without knowing precisely what the RMS rating of the subs you're referring to, we can't help you with advice. If you want a question answered about a system, you must identify the gear by brand names and model numbers so we can get the right information to you.
TWIIST3D from Knippa
Posted on 5/22/2018I have 2, 12in pioneer DVC 4ohm 1200w peak. What kinda amp should I use to get theses bumpin hard? And is it cheaper to use a mono amp vs 2/4 channel amp (on a $150 - 350 budget)?? Should I be using a capacitor if running to main battery?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 5/14/2018Joshua, Those two subs will work best with an amplifier that can put out between 525 and 1050 watts RMS at 2 ohm, like a Memphis Audio SRX750D.1
Joshua
Posted on 5/14/2018So I have two pioneer TS-W126M subs that have 350w RMS and 1300w max. They each have 4 ohms impedance. So if I wire them parallel the impedance drops to 2 ohms right? So what I'm wondering if what specs should I look for when choosing an amp?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/24/2018Raramai, That amplifier will work with one of those subs just fine, wired like this diagram. To run both of those subs together would take an amp at least twice as powerful - something that could put out more like 700 watts RMS at 4 ohms.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/24/2018Chris, The only thing I can think of is that you're not bridging your amplifiers' correctly. I suggest checking the manuals and your wiring again. If you bought your gear at Crutchfield, you could call Tech Support for free help troubleshooting your system. Their toll-free number would on your invoice. If you purchased your equipment elsewhere, you can still get expert Crutchfield Tech Support - 90 days-worth for only $30. Click on this link for details.
Raramai Mandinga from Harare
Posted on 4/23/2018I have a Kenwood KAC M615D 600W amplifier and two 10 inch JVC subwoofers CS GW1200 Will this set work for me. Is the amp powerful enough or I need a bigger amp or one subwoofer which matches the app?
Chris Nadeau from Allen Park
Posted on 4/20/2018Hi! I have a kicker 10" 44cwcs104 4 ohm sub and an old school Rockford 40.2 amp. It's hooked to my factory system via the line to rca adapter. I want to bridge the 2 channel amp to the sub, but for some reason it won't work. Each amp channel will power it individually. But when I bridge it per the amps instructions, I get no power. I installed another amp to try...another old Rockford 201s..same scenario. What am I missing? It's a 4 ohm load to a 4 ohm svc sub..I'm stumped.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 3/12/2018James, If you have a mono amp like Boss's R1100M, the only safe way to wire it to that sub is like this diagram. It'll under-power the sub, but it should be alright as long as you don't play distortion trying to get more bass out of the system.
James Greene from Cocoa
Posted on 3/10/2018Hello, I have a Skar evl 12 DVC 2ohm with a Boss 1100w amp 2/4ohm. What's the best way to wire these together? Thanks in advance!
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 2/21/2018Brian, In order to optimize your amp's power output, you'll want to get two subs that can be wired together to form a 2-ohm load and can handle 150% to 75% of their rated power. In your case, look for either two SVC 4-ohm subs rated for 400 to 800 watts RMS each, like a JL Audio 10W3v3-4, or two DVC 2-ohm subs rated for 400 to 800 watts RMS each, like a Kicker L7S82.
Brian McCullough from Tampa
Posted on 2/20/2018Hello and Thank you in advance. I have a kicker cx1200.1 amp and am looking to purchase dual subs for it. It is capable of 2 ohms 1200x1 watts rms or 4 ohms 600x1 watts rms. Can you give me the range for single and dual voice coil subs for rms wattage? I have a lot of options for the subs I am looking to buy.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 2/1/2018Steve, That subwoofer is single voice coil (SVC) 4-ohm with a power rating of 300 watts RMS. The first amp you mention can send the sub up to 220 watts RMS, and the second one 200 watts RMS. This should be all right, unless you turn up the source music past distortion levels trying to get louder bass. Then, the amp would be sending clipped, distorted signals to the sub, as well as double the power, possibly damaging the sub's voice coil.
Steve
Posted on 1/31/2018Hi Buck, great articles, always a good read to educate myself on car audio...anyways I thought I matched my sub and amp correctly but apparently I have a problem (so I need to run some diagnostics). Anyways, do these look like good matches? Clarion 10" WG2520 and a Alpine MRP M450 amp? Also same sub and P-400 Rockford Fosgate Punch amp. Thanks
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 1/19/2018Jordan, We have no diagrams for a single sub wired to a 4-channel amp, but you can use this diagram as a guide. You bridge two channels together and they'll send that sub up to 120 watts RMS.
Jordan T. LeGrand from Moses Lake
Posted on 1/18/2018Hi! I have a Kenwood kac-749s 500 watt amplifier and a Rockford Fosgate R2 dual 2-ohm voicecoil 12". What would be the best way to wire this to get the most power? I also have an mtx 7500 svc 4-ohm 12 that I could hook up if that would be better for some reason. Thanks for any and all input!
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 1/15/2018Danny, The only safe way to wire that gear together is like this diagram. This way, the amp will be able to put out a total of 900 watts RMS, 450 watts RMS to each sub.
Danny from Hastings
Posted on 1/12/2018If I have 2 comp r 4 ohm subwoofers rated at 500 rms, can I run them both with a kicker cx1800.1 and if so how much power will I be putting to both of them?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 11/21/2017Stanley, Two DVC 4-ohm subs rated for 600 watts RMS each, 1200 together, will work best with an amplifier that can put out between 900 and 1800 watts RMS at 4-ohms or 1-ohm, like a Pioneer GM-D9601.
Stanley Hatcher from Gainesville
Posted on 11/21/2017Thanks so much your a life saver my next question is what type/size amp will I need to properly power these subs?(Considering I'm on a tight budget)
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 11/20/2017Stanley, The best way to wire your gear together is like this. That amplifier can supply about 42% of the total RMS rating of the subs, which is a bit small, but will work as long as you don't play distortion trying to get more volume.
Stanley Hatcher from Gainesville
Posted on 11/20/2017Hey buck I have two diamond d6d12d4 4 ohm speakers at 600 watts RMS each and and Sony xplod 1200watt 2 channel amp (untill I upgrade) with the specs of 200 watts x 2 into 4 ohms (20Hz to 20kHz, 0.1% THD) 250 watts x 2 into 2 ohms (20Hz to 20kHz, 0.15% THD) 500 watts bridged into 4 ohms (20 Hz to 20kHz, 0.15% THD) what is the best way to wire my subs to get the most out of my amp/subs? (PS I'm using a sealed box)
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 11/12/2017Jeff, That amp will work great with those speaker and subs.
Jeff from Birmingham
Posted on 11/11/2017Buck, I have 1 set of MB Quart 6.5" Component in the front, 1 Set MB Quart 5.25" coaxial in the rear, and 2 Kicker 10" CompRT 2 Ohm DVC subs in a sealed box. I would like to run just 1 amp and was looking at the Pioneer GM-D9605 5 channel amp. Would this amp be enough power to run this set up or would you have another recommendation?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 9/25/2017Marcos, You'll get the best bang for your buck with an SWR12D4, wired to a subwoofer channel like this diagram.
Marcos Hernandez from Round Rock
Posted on 9/24/2017Hi Buck I have two pioneer gd9605 5 channel amps 75x4 rms 4ohms 350x1 rms 4 ohms each and I wasn't sure which alpine SWR12D2 or SWR12D4 I should get for this setup.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 9/13/2017Jack, A 1200 watts RMS 1-ohm capable amplifier will work well with a DVC 2-ohm subwoofer rated between 900 and 1800 watts RMS, like that L7. A subwoofer's power rating is for the whole sub, not the individual voice coils.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 9/13/2017Adil, Two DVC 4-ohm subs can get wired to a 1-ohm capable amplifier like this diagram. Just be sure to set the amp gain so no distortion ever plays.
Jack from South Bend, IN
Posted on 9/13/2017Hi Buck, I have a Kicker KX1200.1 Amplifier that is rated at 1200 watts x 1 ohm. Is my ideal sub for this going to be a dual voicecoild 2 ohm sub rated at 600 watts? I was thinking of getting a Kicker L7 15, rated at 1000 watts x DVC 2 ohm, but if my thinking is correct on this, my amp will not be powerful enough.
adil from mumbai
Posted on 8/23/2017sir i have 2 pioneer ts w1211d4 400w RMS each and i hv a pioneer GM 9601 amp it gives 1200 @1ohm how it shld b wired for good accurate bass without damaging any of these ....
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 8/14/2017Diane, Rockford Fosgate makes ten different models of 15" subwoofers with various power and impedance ratings and coil configurations. Not knowing exactly which you have makes it impossible to know what amp will work with them. If you want a question answered about a system, you must identify the equipment by model numbers as well as brand names.
Diane
Posted on 8/13/2017I have 2 15 500 watts Rockfords subwoofers what size and brand amp should I use and what # of channels should I use and should I do each channel at 2 ohms to make 4 ohms or do 1 ohms on each channel to make 2 ohms all together
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 8/3/2017Mason, Alpine Type R subs come in DVC 2-ohm and DVC 4-ohm models. The DVC 2-ohm versions will work best with that amplifier, wired like this.
Mason from Exmouth
Posted on 8/3/2017I have an Alpine MRD-M501 and want to run 2 Alpine Type R 10"s. Will I be better off with the 2 ohm or 4 ohm version and which is the best way to wire them?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 7/31/2017Josh, Two subs rated for 400 watts RMS each, 800 watts RMS together, will sound best with an amplifier that can deliver between 600 and 1200 watts RMS into a 2-ohm load, like a Pioneer GM-D9601.
Josh Brummett from Wichita
Posted on 7/30/2017Going to wire two Pioneer TS-SW3002S4 SVC 4 ohm subs at 400RMS a piece to a 2 ohm mono amp like shown, what wattage amp should should I get?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 7/25/2017Stanley, Your SVC 4-ohm subwoofer rated for 300 watts RMS will work best with an amplifier that can put out between 225 and 450 watts RMS into 4 ohms, like a Kicker CXA600.1. A 2-channel amp that'll work is the Rockford Fosgate P300X2. It isn't that 2-channel amps are better for running a subwoofer, it's that often it's a more efficient use of power.
Stanley from Artesia
Posted on 7/24/2017Hi buck, i got a SVC 10" kicker comp s with 300w rms.. just wondering what kind/spec of amplifier to match on it.. at first,i'm planning to get a kicker cx300.1 mono.. but when i read your article that says 2ch amp is better for a 4ohms sub that a mono amp, i back out. I hope to get an answer from an expert like you. Thanks!
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 7/20/2017Martin, Not knowing exactly what amplifier or subwoofer you have make it impossible to give advice on how to wire them together. Is your dual voice coil subwoofer 2-ohms or 4-ohms per coil? Are those W ratings you mention RMS or peak power specs? Is your amplifier stable at 2 ohms when bridged? If you want a question answered about your system, you must identify the equipment by brand names and model numbers.
Martin from Leeds
Posted on 7/20/2017Hi quick question. Can I connect 4ch amplifier 4x 100W to dual channel 400W speaker? I think to bridge channel 1-2 and 2-3 so thah will give me 2x200W and connect one channel to one coil and another channel to second coil. But can i do that? Thanks Martin
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 7/15/2017John, That amp will work great with those subs. I don't think you should get a capacitor until after you experience light-dimming with the music.
John Miller from Newark
Posted on 7/15/2017I just purchased 2 kicker 43cwrt122's for my underseat split truck box(2016 Silverado). Trying to figure out the best amp to fit the bill. I was thinking the kicker cxa1200.1 . I haven't built a system in almost 20 years and just want to be sure I'm doing the best thing for my trucks electrical system. I was thinking about adding a cap also to try and help keep the lights from dimming. Help?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 7/13/2017David, The only safe way to wire that gear together is like this. In that configuration, the amplifier should put out about 600 to 728 watts RMS per channel, depending on whose specs you trust.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 7/13/2017Jason, Two DVC 4-ohm subs can only get wired together to form a one-ohm load, a 4-ohm load, or a 16-ohm load. A good amp to run them would be the 1500 watts RMS into 1-ohm Memphis Audio PRX-1500.1.
David Flanagan from Columbia
Posted on 7/13/2017I have 2 contralto 10s that are dual 2 ohm. I was thinking about getting the orion hcca 2000.2. How much power would I be drawing from each channel and what are my wiring options? I have never had a 2 channel and I was also wondering how well it will sound. Would I be able to change the settings on the amp to where only bass comes out of the subs
Jason ramsey from Indianapolis
Posted on 7/12/2017I have 2 American bass xr12 4 ohm DVC wired to 2 ohms what amp would work best
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 7/7/2017Nathan, Check out Kicker's CXA600.1, which'll send that 600 watts RMS rated sub 600 watts RMS.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 7/7/2017Eric, How would anyone know if your amp is strong enough for your subs without knowing what amplifier and subwoofers you're talking about? If your subs' and amp's RMS power ratings are compatible, you can wire them together like this.
Nathan Garcia from Corpus Christi
Posted on 7/7/2017Yes I have a Kicker S10L7 - 4 Ohm - 600w RMS - it's recommending anywhere from 350 to 625 RMS for a Vented box I am trying to keep everything Kicker what amp do you recommend.. Thank you
Eric from OKC
Posted on 7/6/2017Hello Buck, could you please tell me how best to wire two DVC 2 ohm subs to a 3000w monoblock one channel amp? Also could you tell me if I need a stronger amp or will that one do fine? Thank you in advance.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 6/25/2017Joel, If you are referring to Kenwood's KFC-W3016PS, rated at 400 watts RMS - never use peak specs - then two of them would sound best with an amplifier that can put out between 600 and 1200 watts RMS at 2 ohms, like a Pioneer GM-D9601.
Joel from Foresthill, ca
Posted on 6/23/2017I have two 12" kenwood subs 4 ohms 2000watt . What amp would you recommend.? Thank you.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 6/22/2017Steven, The subwoofer output of your PA is a line level signal available for you to send to whatever kind of powered subwoofer you want - large, small, or in between. You don't have to consider impedance-matching as the manufacturer of the powered sub will have taken care of that design issue for you.
Steven from Kent, Washington
Posted on 6/21/2017I have a Fender Passport 300 Watt PA with 4ohms. The system provides an out jack for a powered subwoofer. Evidently, there is a 120hz by-pass that is triggered when the out jack is used, sending the lower signals to the subwoofer. Since the Passport does not power the subwoofer, is the wattage and ohms of the subwoofer as restrictive as if the sub was non-powered? Can I hook up a much higher or lower wattage subwoofer since its powering itself? What do you recommend for the proper wattage and ohms of the sub, using only one subwoofer?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 6/19/2017Enrique, A SVC 4-ohm sub rated for 300 watts RMS will sound its best with an amplifier that can put out between 225 and 450 watts RMS at 4 ohms. A good mono amp is a Sound Ordnance M-1500, which puts out 300 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms. A good choice for a 2-channel amp for the same application would be a Rockford Fosgate P300X2, which can put out 300 watts RMS x 1 bridged at 4 ohms.
Enrique from Worcester
Posted on 6/17/2017Hey, I have a Kicker CompS 10inch sub with a 300w RMS and 600w peak (SVC, 4ohms). I am looking for an amplifier and having trouble. Should I be looking for a monoblock amp that can do 300w RMS x 1 @ 4 ohms? Or should I get a 2 channel amp & bridge the channels, that can do 300w RMS x 2 @ 4ohms? Does that even make sense?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 5/24/2017Craig, A DVC 2-ohm sub rated for 800 watts RMS will work best with an amplifier that can put out between 600 and 1200 watts RMS at 1-ohm or 4-ohms, like a Pioneer GM-D9601.
Craig Sunn from Columbia
Posted on 5/23/2017I have a Skar Audio 12inch sub, it's RMS is 800 watts running and dual 2 ohms. What type of amp would be compatable? Brand and specifics?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 5/17/2017Jacob, That sub will work great with a mono subwoofer amplifier that can put out between 250 and 500 watts RMS at 2 ohms, like a Jensen DUBa1450.
Jacob from Odessa
Posted on 5/16/2017I have a pioneer ts-w256dvc sub with 800 peak power and 350 RMS what amp should I use for just the single sub.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 5/12/2017Steven, Your two DVC 4-ohm subs rated for 400 watts RMS each will work best with an amplifier that can put out between 600 and 1200 watts RMS at 1 ohm or 4 ohms. "2-ohm stable" means that each channel of the amp will safely work with loads as low as 2 ohms - no problem with higher impedances. There are almost no benefits in using a 2-channel amp to drive a subwoofer system. Most 2-channel amps can't drive loads lower than 4 ohms when bridged, and don't have enough power to drive 2 subs. Mono, 1-channel amps are designed to work with a wider range of wattages and impedances, and have tone controls and filters specifically made to help reproduce bass.
Steven
Posted on 5/12/2017I think i am getting a grasp of all this , but I have a couple of questions and i would like an input from someone that is more experienced. im looking for a amp thats not to pricey, but isnt going to go out on me in like a week. And the best hookup. I have 2 Pioneer ts-w309d4 in a sealed box. I pulled out the subs to see how they are wired and they appear to be wired so they show 1 ohm at the amp. Thinking of rewiring so show 4 ohm at the amp bridged on a 2ch as you described above as "the temple of boom". To my understanding, and from what i see while browsing i should be looking at an 2 channel amp in the 1200w - 1500w range thats putting out 800-1100rms bridged? does this sound correct? If so, a lot of amps ive been reading on say 2 ohm stable, is this okay? or should it say 4ohm stable because thats what my subs are showing?
Brandon from Houston
Posted on 5/11/2017I have a JL audio M700/5 what is a good compact subwoofer to use with this amp in my Jeep.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 5/4/2017Nick, Unfortunately, we're only licensed to sell gear in the United States and Canada. I don't know what car stereo equipment or even what model vehicles are available in your country. An online search ought to bring up at least one car stereo dealership somewhere near you.
Nick from Beira
Posted on 5/3/2017Hi, I want to set up a sound system for a 4x4 wagon, want to blast at the beach and etc...want 2 powerful subs, I'm in doubt about running a 2ch or a mono amp. I want the best, I even considered running a 2 mono to each sub. And also want to replace 4 factory speakers, add other 2 close to the subs and 2 pair of tweeter, which type and how many amp should I run to achieve the best quality sound? Room and budget aren't problems. P.S: want the best, the louder and the cleaner sound. Thank you.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/28/2017Edward, There is no good way to wire all three of those subs to that amp. I suggest you start with two, wired like this. If you want to run three of those subs, you'll need to get an amplifier that can handle a 1-ohm load, and you'd wire it like this.
Edward J Baker from Dayton
Posted on 4/27/2017If I have 3 svc 4ohm subs and that rms @ 200 watts and a mtx tn 4501 what's my best wiring option
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/27/2017Steve, Your mono, 1-channel amp has 2 sets of speaker output terminals, wired together inside the amp, for convenience, and if you hook a speaker to each terminal it would result in the two speakers being wired in parallel, cutting the total impedance in half. Even without knowing the power ratings of your subs, I'd say the only safe way to connect that gear together is like this. In this configuration, the amp should put out 236 watts RMS, 118 watts to each sub.
Steve from Fayetteville
Posted on 4/26/2017Hey, I have a jbl cs series 200.1 amp. I know .1 means mono but it has 2 channels to hook up to. I have 2 Rockford dvc 4 ohm speakers to go with it. The amp is old and I have no information on it but I'm pretty sure it is 2 ohm stable. I'm kind of confused on how I should wire them up.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/25/2017Alfredo, Those two DVC 4-ohm 600 watts RMS rated subs will work best with an amplifier that can put out from 900 to 1800 watts RMS at 4 ohms or 1 ohm. A Memphis Audio PRX1500.1 wired like this will give you 1500 watts RMS output.
Alfredo from Hobbs
Posted on 4/25/2017Hi, I have 2 planet audio AC8D 8" Dvc 4ohm subs 1200 watts and 600 rms. What would be the best amplifier to push these to the max and also the best wiring? Thanks
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/25/2017Michael, You want the DVC 2-ohm subs, so you can wire them to the amp like this.
Michael from CA
Posted on 4/24/2017Hi I have a mtx thunder 1000xd mono amp that says 500 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms (1,000 watts x 1 at 2 ohms) Im looking to get 2 Kicker 12'' comprt dual voice coil subs but cant figure out if I need the dual 2ohm or dual 4 ohm. They both take 500w power so however i wire it im assuming the connection at the amp is going to have to be at 2ohms so i can get the 1000w out of the single channel amp to power my subs. 2 subs needing 500w each, right? Thanks!
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/24/2017Daniel, You wire two DVC 4-ohm subs to a 1-ohm stable amp like this.
Daniel Cortes from Kissimmee
Posted on 4/24/2017I have an american bass vfl 100.1 (1 ohm stable) and two american bass 1244 (speaker indepence? 2x4)
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/19/2017Tony, You wire a DVC 4-ohm sub to a mono amp like this.
Tony from Bristol
Posted on 4/19/2017Hi, I decided to get a Sony XM-GS100 to drive the Sony XS-GSW121D sub. What is the best way to wire this, across both channels for a 2 ohm load? Thanks.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/7/2017Kyle, The only safe way to wire that gear together is like this.
Kyle from Oakley
Posted on 4/7/2017I have an Alpine M850 2 ohm mono block amp that I am going to power a single 12" Alpine Type R SWR12D2 (2 ohm). Can you give me the correct wiring diagram? Thanks
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/4/2017Jarrod, Those subs would do best powered by an amplifier that can put out between 375 and 750 watts RMS at 2 ohms, like a Jensen DUBa1450.
Jarrod Davis from Sumrall
Posted on 4/4/2017I have 2jvc drvn 12's,250 watt,single 4ohm,whats the best amp for these
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/2/2017Nikki, That first amplifier you mentioned, the DM-D8601 will work better with that subwoofer than the second amplifier, which is too powerful.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/2/2017Tony, Position your sub in your vehicle where it sounds best to you.
nikki villanueva from dubai
Posted on 4/2/2017hi i have this Pioneer 1400W 30cm Enclosure-type Dual Voice Coil Subwoofer - TSW311D4 what amplifier best match for it i want pioneer also. Pioneer 1600W Class D Mono Car Amplifier with Wired Bass Boost Remote [GM-D8601] can i use this? Pioneer 2400W Car Audio Mono Car Amplifier With Bass - GM-D9601 or this?
Tony from Bristol
Posted on 4/1/2017Thanks Buck, much obliged for the advice, and as for the amp position any opinion on that or does it not matter that much?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/1/2017Tony, You can wire that sub to that amp's rear channels like this diagram (that's for a 2-channel amp). Make sure you set the filter to Low-pass, for the subwoofer. The amp will be able to put out 160 watts RMS to the sub in this configuration. That should be alright as long as you set the amp gain properly and avoid playing distortion.
Tony from Bristol
Posted on 4/1/2017Hi, I have just purchased a Sony XS GS121sub. Can I use the rear channels with the pass filter set to H of the Sony XM GS4 to power the sub? Its in a 1966 Rover P5 in the boot, sorry I mean trunk!!!! Facing sideways. Best wiring solution too please.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 3/27/2017Dwayne, A good solution for you would be to get a 5-channel amplifier, like a Pioneer GM-D9605, that'll take care of all your speakers and sub from one compact chassis.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 3/27/2017Adam, Not knowing exactly what amplifiers you have make it impossible to give advice about them. If you want a question answered about a system, you must identify the equipment by model numbers as well as brand names.
Dwayne from Jersey City
Posted on 3/27/2017I have 2 rockford fosgate front door speakers 6.75 at 60w RMS. A 12" kicker at 500w RMS. What size amp will I need? How many channels?
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