Speaker wiring can be a daunting task especially for those who are new to it. Connecting 8 speakers to one amplifier might seem impossible, but it can be done with the right wiring diagram. In this article, we will explore the various ways of wiring 8 speakers to one amplifier and the implications of each method.
Wiring Diagrams
There are two main ways of wiring 8 speakers to one amplifier:
| Diagram | Description |
|---|---|
| Series | Connecting 8 speakers in a series circuit. |
| Parallel | Connecting 8 speakers in a parallel circuit. |
Series Wiring
Series wiring involves connecting the positive terminal of one speaker to the negative terminal of the next speaker. The remaining positive and negative terminals are then connected to the amplifier. This creates a long chain of speakers with one continuous circuit. The diagram below illustrates how to wire 8 speakers in series:
Series wiring has the advantage of using less wire and can be useful in situations where the speakers are widely spaced. However, the downside is that if one speaker fails or is disconnected, the entire circuit is broken and all speakers will stop working.
Parallel Wiring
Parallel wiring involves connecting all of the positive terminals together and all of the negative terminals together. These two groups of terminals are then connected to the amplifier. The diagram below illustrates how to wire 8 speakers in parallel:
Parallel wiring has the advantage of allowing each speaker to function independently of the others. This means that if one speaker fails or is disconnected, the others will continue to work. However, the downside is that it requires more wire and can be a challenge to fit in tight spaces.
FAQ
Can I wire 8 speakers to one amplifier?
Yes, you can wire 8 speakers to one amplifier by either series or parallel wiring. However, it is important to choose the right method based on your needs and the space available.
Is series or parallel wiring better?
Series and parallel wiring both have their advantages and disadvantages. Series wiring uses less wire but can lead to all speakers failing if one is disconnected. Parallel wiring allows each speaker to function independently but requires more wire and can be a challenge to fit in tight spaces.
What gauge wire should I use for wiring 8 speakers?
The gauge of wire to use depends on the distance between the speakers and the amplifier. For shorter distances, a 16-gauge wire is sufficient. For longer distances, a thicker wire such as a 14 or 12 gauge is recommended.
Can I mix speaker types in a wiring diagram?
Yes, you can mix speaker types in a wiring diagram. However, it is important to match the impedance of each speaker with the amplifier’s output impedance to ensure uniform sound quality.
What happens if I wire 8 speakers to an amplifier that can only handle 4?
If you wire 8 speakers to an amplifier that can only handle 4, the amplifier will be overloaded and will not perform optimally. This can lead to damage to the amplifier and the speakers, and can also result in poor sound quality.
Can I use a speaker selector switch with a wiring diagram?
Yes, a speaker selector switch can be used with a wiring diagram to direct the sound to specific speakers. However, it is important to ensure that the switch matches the impedance of the speakers and the amplifier to avoid damage.
