Seems So Simple But I Don't Know the Answer...HELP!
 

Amp wiring question:

I have a 2ch/1ch amp that I want to use for powering a single subwoofer. It has both L/R RCA line level inputs. It has a mono/stereo switch.

If I use the mono switch, the manual says that I can use the Left RCA line input and output the sound to one speaker using the +Left and -Right terminals.

My problem with the above connection is I will only be getting the Left signal. I want the two signals , L and R, to combine.

Questions:

1. Can I put the amp selector in "Stereo" (mono/stereo selector switch), connect the L&R RCA inputs from the head unit, and output to the one subwoofer from the amp's +Left and -Right speaker output terminals? Do I still need a coil in-line of the + speaker line?

2. Or, can I just put a Y connector to combine the signals from the L&R line level outputs from the head unit and then plug it to the Left (mono) RCA input of the amplifier, switch the mono/stereo selector to mono, and connect the subwoofer in the amp's +Left and -Right speaker terminals?

Any suggestions? Would the above damage the amp or head unit? Thanks. I need your thoughts please.

I'll rephrase it. Is it OK to combine line level inputs (L-R) using a Y connector for mono amp purposes?

yes, you can combine them, but why? it won't not make any difference. with the y connector, the left and right signals can cancel each other if they are not in phase.

you only power 1 sub,
just plug both RCA in your amp, and switch the amp to mono, bridge the out put into 1 channel to the sub.
(assuming your sub will allow you to bridge, let the amp does the combination, ie they probably just use input wire anyway, since it is in mono mode)

or just do exactly what the manual say, just use 1 input signal, seem like your amp was designed to do just that


Anh

whitels,

You are over thinking this.

You only need one channel, the left channel is fine. 99.9% of the time Bass is present in both channels and therefore there is no need to try and combine the signals. Your amp is bridging since you are using the left+ and right- leads. So if you plug both RCA's into the amp...the left will still be the only one in use.

If you find this does not work for you, then get a crossover with sub-out. With that said, I would not suggest combining the two with a Y adapter.

If you run that amp in Stereo mode...you cannot use the bridged channel to power the woofer. It will not work well.

MW

ThANKS Amigos!!!