Using Two Subwoofers with Two 2-Channel Amplifiers.


I am considering using two Subwoofers with two 2-channel Amplifiers using the speaker level inputs and outputs on the Subwoofers.  Each Amplifier is currently connected to identical pairs of Speakers.  Is it better to connect so that there is a dedicated Subwoofer for each channel (Left channels of both Amplifiers wired "through" one Subwoofer, and both right channels through the other), or dedicate each Subwoofer to an Amplifier so that L/R channels of each Amplifier go to a Subwoofer?

This is for a vintage system that I am using for music only.  I'd be happy to supply equipment details if that matters.  Thanks!
audiostick

Showing 3 responses by audiostick

Great input everyone, thank you very much.

@wolf_garcia  So if I am understanding you correctly, you have both Left and Right channels wired to both of your Subs?

@m-db  Your "unusually redundant" comment kind of hit home.  It makes sense that If I am dedicating a Sub to L/R channels, it should not matter if a Sub has either one or two Amplifiers connected to it.

Sorry, but just to be clear, when to say "Mono" or "Monaural" you are referring to connecting Left & Right channels to each Sub correct?  My initial thought was that this might confuse the Sub, but it sounds like you guys are saying that this is not necessarily the case (".. canceling standing waves..")

FYI, Mains are two sets of Klipsch Kg-4s.  38 Hz - 20 kHz +/- 3dB at 94 dB SPL.  Room is HUGE (finished basement).
I've come to the conclusion that the fact I'm using two Amplifiers is irrelevant since the Amplifier does not "see" the Subwoofer(s).

It appears there are proponents for connecting two Subwoofers both in stereo and mono, so I will most likely experiment myself.

I initially asked the question because I was thinking in terms of a vintage system I have, which has no Sub outs on the Pre Amp, and only room for one set of speaker connects on the Power Amps.  Thererfore, I'm looking for Subs that have Speaker level Inputs and outputs.

A side note: Its been frustrating researching Subs for this music only system.  Everyone always talks in terms of "This Sub will bury that Sub".  I don't want a Sub that will bury anything.  I just want them to supplement a vintage Two Amp, four Speaker music system that lacks low end.

There seems to be allot of love for REL.  I had decided on SVS to supplement a different music system I have that features Marin Logan Motion 60s.  I will have to look into the REL's.  Thanks.
@almarg - Al, great observation, and thanks for the heads-up.  The amps are bridge-able, but that's not the way I'm using them due to Speaker resistance loads.

I'm still Subwoofer shopping, but have made-up my mind that I would not be dedicating a Sub to each each channel based on information I've dug up on other posts.  What you've stated helps confirm my decision.   Thanks for the input.