Subwoofer Wire Diagram

Subwoofer Wiring Diagram

Subwoofer Wiring Guide – Optimize Your Car Audio Setup

Achieving powerful, distortion-free bass starts with the right subwoofer wiring configuration. Wiring is crucial in impedance matching, amplifier performance, and sound output, whether running a single subwoofer or a multi-subwoofer setup.

Understanding series vs. parallel wiring, single vs. dual voice coil configurations, and ohm load calculations will help you get the deep, rich bass you expect from your subwoofers while protecting your amplifier from damage.

Close-up of stripped black and red speaker wires showing exposed strands

Choosing the Right Subwoofer Wiring Configuration

Before wiring your subwoofer, it's essential to determine:

  • Voice Coil Type: Are you working with a single voice coil (SVC) or a dual voice coil (DVC) subwoofer?
  • Amplifier Stability: What ohm loads can your amplifier handle?
  • Number of Subwoofers: Are you wiring one, two, or multiple subwoofers?

    Series vs. Parallel Subwoofer Wiring – What’s the Difference?

    The way your subwoofers are wired will determine the total impedance load (ohms) on the amplifier:

    • Series Wiring – Increases the total impedance (ohms) by adding the values of each subwoofer's coil. This results in less power from the amplifier but can improve sound clarity.
    • Parallel Wiring – Lowers the total impedance (ohms) by splitting the load across all voice coils. This allows more power from the amplifier, but your system must be stable at a lower ohm load.

    The right wiring method balances power, efficiency, and amplifier longevity.

    Subwoofer Wiring Diagrams & Impedance Matching

    Single Woofer, Series Wiring

    Connecting the two voice coils of the sub in series (+ to -) will score the following impedances:
    Dual 4Ω Subwoofer: 8 Ohms
    Dual 2Ω Subwoofer: 4 Ohms

    Single Woofer, Parallel Wiring

    Connecting the two voice coils of the sub in parallel (+ to +, – to -) will score the following impedances:
    Dual 4Ω Subwoofer: 2 Ohms
    Dual 2Ω Subwoofer: 1 Ohms

    Dual Woofers, Series Wiring

    Connecting the two voice coils of each sub in series (+ to -) and the subs themselves in parallel will score the following impedances:
    (2) Dual 4Ω Subwoofers: 4 Ohm
    (2) Dual 2Ω Subwoofers: 2 Ohm

    Dual Woofers, Parallel Wiring

    Connecting the two voice coils of each sub in parallel (+ to +, – to -) and the subs themselves in parallel will score the following impedances:
    (2) Dual 4Ω Subwoofers: 1 Ohm
    (2) Dual 2Ω Subwoofers: .5 Ohm

    Three Woofers, Series Wiring

    Connecting the two voice coils of each sub in series (+ to -) and the subs themselves in parallel will score the following impedances:
    (3) Dual 4Ω Subwoofers: 2.67 Ohm
    (3) Dual 2Ω Subwoofers: 1.33 Ohm

    Three Woofers, Parallel Wiring

    Connecting the two voice coils of each sub in parallel (+ to +, – to -) and the subs themselves in parallel will score the following impedances:
    (3) Dual 4Ω Subwoofers: .67 Ohm (Find a .5Ω Stable Amplifier)
    (3) Dual 2Ω Subwoofers: .33 Ohm (Ugh, Do Not Pass Go…)

    Why Proper Subwoofer Wiring Matters?

    • Protects Your Amplifier – Ensures the total impedance load matches the amplifier’s stability rating.
    • Maximizes Power Output – Correct wiring allows the amplifier to deliver the most power without overheating or shutting down.
    • Enhances Sound Quality – Eliminates distortion, clipping, and poor bass response caused by incorrect wiring.
    • Prevents Equipment Damage – Wiring errors can lead to burned coils, amplifier failure, or excessive electrical draw.

    Following the correct subwoofer wiring diagrams ensures a long-lasting, high-performance car audio system.

    Achieve Maximum Bass Performance with the Right Wiring

    Proper subwoofer wiring is the foundation of a high-performance car audio system. Whether building a competition-level setup or upgrading your factory system, ensuring the correct wiring, impedance matching, and amplifier pairing will result in powerful, distortion-free bass.

    Follow the correct wiring configurations to protect your equipment, optimize power distribution, and unleash deep, impactful bass in your vehicle.

    Need More Help?

    Refer to Soundstream’s official subwoofer wiring diagrams to find the perfect setup for your system.

    FAQs About Subwoofer Wiring


    What’s the best wiring method for deep bass?

    A parallel wiring configuration with DVC subwoofers often works best for loud, powerful bass, lowering impedance and allowing the amplifier to deliver more power. However, your amplifier must be stable at that ohm load.

    How do I match my subwoofers to my amplifier?

    Check the amplifier’s ohm load stability and ensure the total impedance from the subwoofers matches its recommended range. Wiring multiple subs incorrectly can overload or underpower the amplifier.

    Can I mix different subwoofer impedances in one system?

    No. Mixing subwoofers with different impedance ratings (e.g., 2Ω and 4Ω) can cause uneven power distribution, poor sound quality, and possible amplifier failure.

    How do I wire two subwoofers to a mono amplifier?

    For a mono amplifier, two subwoofers should be wired in parallel or series, depending on whether you need a lower or higher final impedance. Always ensure the amplifier supports the final ohm load.

    What happens if my amplifier isn't stable at my subwoofer’s impedance?

    Running an amplifier at an unstable impedance can cause overheating, distortion, or complete amplifier failure. Always ensure the subwoofer wiring configuration aligns with your amp’s capabilities.