Parallel Connections
A parallel circuit is established when voice coils are connected in a way that there are multiple paths for
audio signals to flow “in” and multiple paths for audio signals to flow “out”. When speakers are
connected in parallel, the total resistance at the amplifier is proportionally divided based on the value of
each individual voice coil resistance. The term “divided” simply means all of the values together in
parallel are a SMALLER value than each all by itself. For example, if you were to parallel connect two
speakers to the front right channel of the amplifier:
The positive output terminal of the right channel connects to the positive input post of the first speaker
and to the positive post of the second speaker.
An example of a PARALLEL connection between two speakers.
The negative output terminal of the right channel connects to the negative input post of the first speaker
and to the negative post of the second speaker
.
The total impedance of equal speakers in parallel is found by dividing the impedance of one speaker by
the number of speakers. For example; two, eight-ohm speakers in parallel is a four-ohm load (eight
ohms divided by two), four eight-ohm speakers in parallel is a two-ohm load (eight ohms divided by four).
Two-ohm single channel loads are NOT RECOMMENDED for the UPA-7!
Running the UPA-7 below recommended impedance level can cause excessive heat and will eventually
drive the amplifier into protection (blinking red LED’s on the front of the unit)>
Parallel connections are harder on the amplifier than series connection, as the total impedance is lower
compared to driving a single speaker, and the amplifier must produce more current to drive them.
Ideally, the total average impedance should be no less than 4 ohms per channel. You must make sure
that the lower impedance does not cause the amplifier to overheat, shut down, blow the line fuse, or trip
your circuit breaker. If this happens, you should reduce the number of speakers wired in parallel, rewire
them in series, or use more than one power amplifier.
Technical Note about Multiple Speaker Connections
Although there are two possible connection types discussed in this manual, it is imperative that with
either connection type that you use loudspeakers of the same type and nominal impedance for these
connections. In doing so, you have the most predictable outcome for your installation. When speakers
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