Wiring two amplifiers directly without a distribution block can simplify your car audio setup. This approach offers advantages in terms of space, cost, and installation time.
Benefits of Direct Wiring
- Space Efficiency: Eliminating the distribution block frees up valuable space in your car, especially in smaller vehicles.
- Cost Savings: You can reduce expenses by avoiding the purchase of a distribution block and potentially fewer connection components.
- Simplified Installation: The wiring process becomes more straightforward without the added complexity of a distribution block.
Steps to Wire Two Amps Directly
- Gather Essential Components: Assemble the necessary materials, including power and ground wires of appropriate gauge, speaker wires, a remote turn-on wire, fuses, and suitable connectors.
- Connect Power Cables: Run a fused power cable from the car battery to the power input of the first amplifier. From the power output of the first amplifier, connect another fused power cable to the power input of the second amplifier. Ensure proper fuse ratings for safety.
- Ground Amplifiers: Connect a ground wire from each amplifier to a solid metal part of the car’s chassis, such as a bolt or frame. Clean the grounding surfaces for optimal conductivity.
- Connect RCA Cables: Connect the RCA preamp outputs from your head unit to the RCA inputs of both amplifiers. This transmits audio signals to the amplifiers.
- Connect Speaker Wires: Connect the speaker output terminals of each amplifier to the corresponding speaker wires. Ensure correct polarity (positive and negative) for accurate sound reproduction.
- Connect Remote Turn-On Wires: Run a remote turn-on wire from your head unit to the remote turn-on input of each amplifier. This signal activates the amplifiers when the head unit is turned on.
Tips and Cautions
- Wire Gauge: Use the appropriate wire gauge for the power and ground cables based on the combined power draw of both amplifiers.
- Polarity: Maintain correct polarity for all connections, especially power and ground, to prevent damage and ensure proper operation.
- Secure Connections: Create tight and secure connections for all wires and terminals. Loose connections can lead to electrical resistance, overheating, and potential failures.
- Fuse Protection: Always use fuses with the correct amperage rating to protect the wiring and components from damage in case of short circuits or overloads.
- Cable Routing: Route power and ground cables away from audio signals to minimize interference and noise.
- Testing: Gradually increase power output when testing the system to identify any potential issues early on.
By following these steps and precautions, you can successfully wire two amplifiers without a distribution block, resulting in a clean and efficient car audio setup.
