An ohm is a unit of electrical resistance or measurement. When the ohm rating is increased, more electricity is required to power the speaker. If you choose to combine different ohms, check that your calculations are correct to avoid causing damage to the system. By combining 4 and 8 ohms, you can ensure that your speaker generates the most incredible sound and operates appropriately.
The ohm value used varies according to the type of system. For example, each system operates at a distinct ohm value, such as speakers and audio systems. Otherwise, exercise caution while combining different ohm values. The ohms are connected in one of three ways: parallel, serial, or both. Parallel connections connect +ve and –ve terminals, whereas serial connections connect a +ve terminal to a –ve terminal.
This article will guide you on how to use the 4 ohms and 8 ohms speakers together for the best sounds. Ensure you go through the steps keenly to understand how to go about it. Find the best responses to the frequently asked questions on using 4 ohms and 8 ohms speakers together. Let’s start;
Can you use 4 ohms and 8-ohm speakers together?
Yes, it is possible. The two speakers, 4 ohms and 8 ohms, can be mixed as long as the 4-ohm speaker’s minimum rating range is acceptable. Also, ensure you use the serial connection method to avoid blowing out the amplifier.
Steps on how to connect 4 ohms and 8-ohm speakers
The steps include;
Step 1: Turn a 4 ohm and an 8-ohm speaker on its side
Reverse both speakers and verify their ohm ratings. Assure that one is printed at 4 ohms and the other at 8 ohms.
Step 2: Determine the minimum ohm requirement for each speaker
Remove the amplifiers from each speaker and determine the minimum ohm value required to connect the speakers. For example, the amplifier for the speaker must be rated at 8 ohms into 4 ohms. Multiple amplifiers and receivers may be connected to 4-ohm speakers without hurting them, overheating, or turning off, allowing for the connection of both 4 and 8-ohm speakers. Ascertain that you are connecting to the correct impedance.
Step 3: Locate the wire parts necessary to connect the speakers
Locate each speaker’s wiring that will allow you to connect the two speakers. Additionally, gently cut the wires to avoid harming them. Ascertain that you cut each speaker’s wires properly. Strip approximately 1.7 inches from the end of each wire.
Step 4: Add the ohms and determine the total net resistance
Calculate the sum of the ohms of the two speakers being paired. For example, add 4 and 8 ohms individually (8 + 8 equals 16 ohms) and (4 + 4 equals 8 ohms). Additionally, double the ohms of both speakers to determine the total ohms required for blending four- and eight-ohm speakers. For example, (16 * 8 equals 128 ohms).
Divide 128 ohms by 24, where each speaker has 12 for a minimum rating, after multiplying the previously added ohms together. For example, (128/24 is 5.333333 ohms). Ascertain that the 4-ohm speaker requires the ohm you discovered. Maintain the calculations and reference them when connecting the two speakers.
Step 5: Inspect the wire terminals and reconnect the speakers
Examine the wiring on each speaker that was tripped. Connect the cables serially only, as a parallel connection may cause harm to both speakers. If connecting serially, connect the colored wire, which represents the positive terminal, to the other wire, which represents the negative terminal.
Assemble the wires closely together to prevent them from loosening during the use of the speakers. Assemble slowly and carefully to prevent crossing the wires. Crossed cables will cause harm to your speakers. Additionally, keep your songs at a moderate volume to avoid the amplifiers being turned off.
Finally, exercise caution when connecting the speakers to avoid damaging the amplifier or receiver. Parallel connection of the speakers is possible but conceptually is not recommended due to the significant risk of blowing up the amplifier or receiver. As a result, use the serial connection technique to prevent potentially damaging your amplifier or receiver.
Frequently asked questions
- How can I convert my 8-ohm speaker to a 4-ohm speaker?
Answer; if you want to convert your 8-ohm speaker to a 4-ohm speaker, consider using the parallel connection method.
1. Bring your two 8 ohm speakers together. Confirm both speakers are 8 ohms by turning each speaker around and reading the ohm rating written at the back of each speaker.
2. Cut the wires of each speaker and strip them around 1.2 inches. Be careful when cutting and stripping the wires to avoid damaging them.
3. Calculate the total impedance (8 + 8= 16 ohms) for one speaker and the other (8 + 8 =16 ohm). Multiply together the total of an ohm of each speaker (16 * 16 = 256 ohm). Divide the total obtained by the sum of the two loads, 32 (256/64 = 4). This shows that if you connect the two 8 ohms, you will obtain a 4 ohm.
4. Connect the speakers using the parallel connection method. Connect the positive terminal of one speaker to the other speaker’s other positive terminal and connect the negative terminals. Ensure you tighten them to prevent them from loosening while using. For example, connect the positive side of speaker C to the positive side of speaker D.
5. Test if the speakers have been connected successfully by turning on the amplifier or receiver.
- How can I calculate the impedance of my two speakers?
Answer; when using the series connection method, add ohms of each together and obtain the results. For example, 6 ohms and 8 ohms (6+ 8 =14 ohms), and if you are using a parallel connection method, pick one ohm since both speakers have the same ohms. For example, it will be 8 ohms and 8 ohms (8/2 = 4 ohms) because they are two. But if they are three, you divide eight by 3(8/3 = 2.666 ohms).
Conclusion
When mixing different speakers with different ohms, the effectiveness of sound quality is increased. If you want to connect your ohm speaker and 8-ohm speaker, the instructions above will guide you to connect them successfully.
In conclusion, when connecting, it is always essential to ensure that you are careful, especially when stripping the wires. Finally, ensure that you use the serial connection method for the best performance of your speakers.