If you’re planning to install a subwoofer in your car, it’s important to know how to wire it properly. One of the most common types of subwoofers is the 2 ohm DVC (dual voice coil) subwoofer. In this article, we’ll discuss what a 2 ohm DVC subwoofer is, how to wire it, and some frequently asked questions about subwoofers.
What is a 2 Ohm DVC Subwoofer?
A 2 ohm DVC subwoofer is a type of subwoofer that has two voice coils, each with a resistance of 2 ohms. This means that the subwoofer has a total impedance of 1 ohm or 4 ohms, depending on how it is wired.
Subwoofers with a lower impedance, such as 2 ohms, are generally more efficient and require less power to produce the same level of sound as a subwoofer with a higher impedance. However, they can also be more difficult to wire and can put a strain on your amplifier if not wired properly.
How to Wire a 2 Ohm DVC Subwoofer
There are two ways to wire a 2 ohm DVC subwoofer: in parallel or in series. The wiring method you choose will determine the final impedance of the subwoofer and the amount of power it can handle.
Wiring in Parallel
When wiring a subwoofer in parallel, you connect the positive terminals of both voice coils to the positive terminal of the amplifier, and the negative terminals of both voice coils to the negative terminal of the amplifier. This results in a final impedance of 1 ohm.
Parallel wiring is ideal for subwoofers with a low impedance, as it allows them to handle more power and produce more sound. However, it can also be more difficult to wire and can put a strain on your amplifier if not wired properly.
Wiring in Series
When wiring a subwoofer in series, you connect the positive terminal of one voice coil to the negative terminal of the other voice coil, and then connect the remaining positive and negative terminals to the amplifier. This results in a final impedance of 4 ohms.
Series wiring is ideal for subwoofers with a higher impedance, as it allows them to handle less power but also puts less strain on your amplifier. However, it may not produce as much sound as parallel wiring.
FAQ
What is the difference between a single voice coil (SVC) and a dual voice coil (DVC) subwoofer?
A single voice coil subwoofer has only one voice coil, while a dual voice coil subwoofer has two voice coils. Dual voice coil subwoofers are generally more versatile and can be wired in different configurations to achieve different impedance levels.
What is the difference between impedance and resistance?
Impedance is the total opposition to the flow of current in an electrical circuit, while resistance is the opposition to the flow of current in a specific part of the circuit. In the case of subwoofers, impedance refers to the overall impedance of the subwoofer, while resistance refers to the resistance of each voice coil.
Can I wire two 2 ohm DVC subwoofers to get a final impedance of 2 ohms?
Yes, you can wire two 2 ohm DVC subwoofers in parallel to get a final impedance of 2 ohms. This will allow the subwoofers to handle more power and produce more sound.
Can I wire a 2 ohm DVC subwoofer in bridged mode?
No, you cannot wire a 2 ohm DVC subwoofer in bridged mode. Bridged mode requires a subwoofer with a single voice coil and a final impedance of 4 ohms or higher.
Conclusion
Wiring a 2 ohm DVC subwoofer can be tricky, but it’s important to do it properly to get the best sound and avoid damaging your amplifier. Whether you choose to wire your subwoofer in parallel or in series, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the appropriate gauge of wire for your setup. With the right wiring and setup, your subwoofer can provide you with deep, powerful bass that will enhance your listening experience.
