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4 Channel Amp, Different Loads

Printed From: the12volt.com
Forum Name: Car Audio
Forum Discription: Car Stereos, Amplifiers, Crossovers, Processors, Speakers, Subwoofers, etc.
URL: https://www.the12volt.com/installbay/forum_posts.asp?tid=39906
Printed Date: July 14, 2025 at 2:00 PM


Topic: 4 Channel Amp, Different Loads

Posted By: dxav
Subject: 4 Channel Amp, Different Loads
Date Posted: September 28, 2004 at 10:56 AM

This is the scenario:
I have a 4 channel amp. It is tri-mode capable, and I would like to run a set of components to the front on channels 1 and 2 (Stereo - 4 Ohms). The rear fill is a pair of 6x9", and I want to put them on channel 3 and 4. I also want to bridge a 10" 4 Ohm sub across channels 3 and 4 (hence tri-mode).

The question:
It is safe to run 1/2 the amp at a 4 Ohm load, and the other 1/2 of the amp at another load? The specs mentioned it is ok to run anywhere from 2-4 Ohms, but the only situation they give is running tri-mode across both channels. Basically, running a sub bridged on each channel with a pair of speakers run in stereo mode on each channel.

So is this safe? I know the wattage is ok, it's not a concern, I just want to know if this is a viable installation and safe for the amp.

Thanks,
DXAV



Replies:

Posted By: DYohn
Date Posted: September 28, 2004 at 11:10 AM
Yes, it is safe assuming you use the proper crossover for the "tri-mode" side.  You will need to use a passive low-pass for the sub and a passive high-pass for the 6X9's set at the same frequency point (80 Hz is usually recomended.)  Set the amplifier crossover to "full" or off.

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Posted By: dxav
Date Posted: September 28, 2004 at 1:18 PM
Thanks for a second opinion. Logically it seemed to work, but I didn't want to risk damaging the equipment with a full test.

Got the cap and inductors already, too.

DXAV




Posted By: jeffchilcott
Date Posted: September 28, 2004 at 6:13 PM
watch yourself normally when you run in tri mode you have a to run a 8 ohm speaker o the tri channel     you might want to consider wiring your 6x9's together to 8 ohm and use that in tri mode.   then run your subs on the 3/4 channel

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2009 0-1000 Trunk WR 154.0DB 2009 1001+ Trunk WR
2007 USACI World Champion
2007 World Record
2006 USACI Finals 2nd Place




Posted By: Ravendarat
Date Posted: September 28, 2004 at 6:24 PM
I dont understand why you dont just run your 4 speakers off channel 1 and 2 and then the sub bridged off channels 3 and 4. You loose fader control but it is much more practical and then you can just use the build in crossovers.

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double-secret reverse-osmosis speaker-cone-induced high-level interference distortion, Its a killer




Posted By: jeffchilcott
Date Posted: September 28, 2004 at 6:33 PM
i will agree to that as well I have done a few set ups for people on a tight budget

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2009 0-1000 Trunk WR 154.0DB 2009 1001+ Trunk WR
2007 USACI World Champion
2007 World Record
2006 USACI Finals 2nd Place





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