How to connect a power amplifier to passive loudspeakers

[@GLBProductions]

Bookmarks for video: 00:00​ Intro 01:08​ The difference between active and passive loudspeakers. 02:45​ Overview of a typical modern power amplifier. 10:25​ Overview of a typical passive loudspeaker connector panel. 11:08​ Step 1: Ensure amplifier and loudspeakers are correctly matched. 11:35​ Step 1A: Determine power handling capacity of your loudspeakers 12:52​ Step 1B: Determine loudspeaker impedance. 13:32​ Step 1C: Calculate power delivery of amplifier into loudspeaker, based on impedance. 14:37​ How to calculate the combined impedance of multiple loudspeaker cabinets. 17:17​ Step 2: Connect mixer to power amplifier 17:47​ Power amplifier modes: stereo, parallel, bridge mono. 20:51​ Daisy-chaining power amplifiers 22:25​ Step 3: Connect amplifier to loudspeakers. 25:58​ Setting amplifier gain and level controls.

[@junealmuete6184]

Good day sir..I have question bout my set up at home..I have a P7000s Yamaha amp and a pair of Yamaha s112 loudspeaker rating 300 RMS and 600 peak 8 ohms..I jst connect an iPhone to test the sound but I'm not getting much loudness sound of it..volume are more than halfway on the amp and the iPhone is almost full..what seems to be lacking wit my connection or set up?..do I need more speakers to add to bang my ears for the loudness I'm looking?..the two Yamaha speakers should be enough to bring much loudness but not getting it..

[@keratak2221]

I have a question for you, sir. Is it possible to connect active speakers to powered audio mixers to amplifiers ( peavy ir2000) and to cross over? Knowing that some mixers have built in the equalization system.

[@henrydangmei6257]

Hii Sir... Can you upload some new videos. Just longing to see your new videos again.

[@denttech2515]

I've seen many of your videos. You don't miss a step. You explain everything as though everyone is a beginner. Every word you use has a purpose. No wasted info. Very knowledgeable. Awesome job!!!

[@GLBProductions]

Thanks for watching!

[@imthateddie]

9 Years later this video is still teaching us how to run our systems correctly and more intelligently. Thank You!

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome Eddie :)

[@earlbest1634]

A thorough presentation on How to connect a power amplifier to passive loudspeakers. Well done.

[@GLBProductions]

+Earl Best Thanks for watching!

[@lservis]

I wanted to thank you. I've just bought a Yamaha MG12 and a Crown power amp. I'm brand new to this side of the gigs and after watching all the videos on both the setups I'm feeling pretty comfortable.

[@GLBProductions]

That's great Larry, all the best for your gigs!

[@bobby524]

Why, oh why I didn’t find this video in 2015, had so much trouble back in the day! Thank you for a content!

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome Bobby!

[@zayelectronicstrading5821]

We have been struggling with a corporate installation involving 115 speakers divided into 5 floors. We ran into all sorts of challenges with daisy chains and fire panel patching. The moment I found this video, i sent it out to all the techies, so that they can go back to the very basics. I am so glad that I found this channel - and thank you for the excellent presentation - both technical and verbal. its simply awesome. We will be back for more..... cheers

[@GLBProductions]

ZAY Electronics Trading Thanks for getting in touch! Those installation jobs are WAY more complicated in terms of speaker wiring than most of the stuff we do in live sound, especially when you throw in 70/100 volt lines and the fact that so much of your cabling is concealed. I did a little bit of it about 10 years ago and have much respect for companies like yours :)

[@simonpong1689]

You master deserve a Nobel medal !! it's very impressive!! your speak just gives a comprehensive knowledge to me.

[@JameyAston]

Ha ha. Took 25 minutes to get to the information I needed, but when it did, it was EXACTLY what I needed. Very clearly explained. Well done. The rest was good too, but I already understood those parts.

[@GLBProductions]

Thanks for watching to the end 😅

[@morakamailula499]

Thanks a lot for unpacking this to the lowest level. I have gained something today.

[@TheSlySight]

Whenever I watch one of your videos a) I stop myself from destroying equipment b) I Come away with a much better understanding of how Hi-fi equipment works. Thank you.

[@GLBProductions]

That's great Deerbra, this channel is all about educating people!

[@marcusv985]

Best video I've seen on P.A system setups I've ever seen on KZbin by far! Thanks for the ED man.

[@GLBProductions]

Marcus Villagran You're welcome, thanks for watching!

[@charlestrupia9916]

Mr. Bruno, sir, I have been viewing your videos for some time now. Anything Audio I've ever needed to hook up. I've always referenced your how to videos, your open honest and direct manner the way you present your videos, is spot-on. Thank you for taking the time and sharing your knowledge with others make our lives easier in the realm of audio. Thank you Charles from Mims Florida

[@GLBProductions]

That's wonderful Charles, all the best with your music and live sound! Feel free to get in touch any time you need help 😀

[@lukehayes2150]

Love all of your videos. I've never seen someone so effectively explain concepts like you do. These are life savers for an aspiring sound guy like myself.

[@GLBProductions]

Glad to hear that! Let me know if you have any other questions :)

[@DrNoahBoddy004]

Thank you, Mr Bruno. Your expertise keeps us from making VERY expensive, potential accidents. I eagerly anticipate more of your excellent presentations.

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome Scott, it is much better to learn from the mistakes of others than to make the mistakes yourself 😄

[@luciferrin2349]

This was a great video and just what i needed to make my mind up on a large purchase. It’s been awhile since I’ve had to run down the specs on a system and you answered all of my rusty questions! Thanks a bunch!

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome, hope your new rig works out!

[@kamatamsanthaiah7]

Amplifiers

[@kamatamsanthaiah7]

K.shalem prasad

[@terryfennell3331]

Thanks so much for all your info. I am new to this and the only one now at our church to take on this task. I have learned more from your videos than any thing else or one that I have talked with. Thanks again

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome Terry, let me know if you have any other questions!

[@chensun6156]

Thank you so much! I deeply appreciate such a professionally made, well-explained video.Had purchased several audio gear sitting around doing nothing for several months, because instructions manuals were, certainly not for laymen reading. Your video made all the difference for me.

[@GLBProductions]

+Chen Sun You're welcome, very glad the video was helpful. Hope you can put the gear to good use!

[@overthetopent1]

My first time using a power amplifier. I have used a powered mixer for 20 years and it finally gave out on me. This video was very helpful in how to hook up an "external" amplifier to my passive speakers. Thank you, I have subscribed to your page

[@GLBProductions]

Wow, what make and model was that powered mixer? Whoever built it certainly knew what they were doing 😄 Thanks for subscribing!

[@larsondavis8155]

I have been looking for a fair explanation on connecting my passive speakers to a power amp for sometime, and ended up just putting it on hold, until now. I crazy appreciate this video and your thorough explanation of everything. Snap, when you right down things for reference when watching a youtube video, that's a good video =] THANK YOUUUUU

[@GLBProductions]

+Larson Davis You're most welcome, very glad that the video was useful. Feel free to contact me directly if you have further questions.

[@howgreatisourgodgreatminds3032]

Even after many years I grateful for all the videos you made available for people like us who know nothing about sound, l am learning a lot from your tutorials Sir. God bless you

[@GLBProductions]

Thanks David, feel free to ask any questions you might have 😄

[@SargentRay]

Wow finally a cristal clear explanation of the subject. Thank's for making it and sharing it as well.

[@BanibrataDutta]

Not only are these video highly informative, but also very clear and precise. Excellent presentation. Thanks for producing these.

[@GLBProductions]

+Banibrata Dutta You're welcome, thanks for watching!

[@sciii3380]

Incredibly thorough. I appreciate very much the service you represent to folks everywhere by sharing your knowledge!

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome, thanks for watching!

[@billbendick8362]

I just have to say you have answered my questions many times you are blessed with a real gift of communication...keep up the good work...GOD bless I am praying for you Pastor Bill

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome, glad the videos have been helpful! Let me know if you have questions anytime.

[@DJSHaKa]

Top Tip - I love using 12g cable for the speakers, it is the perfect gauge in my opinion, i will not use 14 or 16 gauge. Also, you need to open up those Neutrik connectors every once in awhile and tighten down the 2 screws that hold the wire, they DO loosen up over time and can drastically effect your speaker output. I was barely getting bass out of a subwoofer one time, and after the gig i opened up the cable and was able to do 3 full turns to tighten them down! Yikes! Great videos, keep em coming! Thank you!

[@GLBProductions]

Thanks for the comment! Heavier is definitely better as far as speaker cables go, although there comes a point where the weight begins to be an issue.

[@kenpass]

Best ever. Very explicit, high-level professional standard. Thank you so much.

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome Ken, thanks for watching!

[@souloftheage]

Very impressive presentation skills. Excellent speaker!

[@GLBProductions]

Thanks for watching!

[@knuppsli]

I agree! Excellent speaker!

[@zhulbergado9937]

very true,. i tried watching his videos over and over and over again.. good presentation and good speaker.. very detailed..

[@rohitb1869]

speaker ...

[@souloftheage]

Excellent speaker on speakers. Haha.

[@eardleynorton6948]

You're such a wonderful teacher. I learnt so much watching just this vid. Thank you 😊

[@GLBProductions]

Very glad to hear that Eardley, thanks for watching :)

[@jaspue1068]

This was a very thorough video I'm so glad I found it thank you!!

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome, thanks for watching!

[@carialam8394]

I’ve watched this video multiple times and learn something new each time! Brilliant , thank you!

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome Cari :)

[@mattmao47]

I've learned so much from you in 30 minutes, thank you for the very informative video.

[@GLBProductions]

+qwertyuiop You're welcome, very glad the video was helpful!

[@Gstation9]

Thanks Bruno . Great lesson on using amplifiers for Live Sound.

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome, thanks for watching!

[@djsinny5186]

So professionally! Thank you

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome!

[@ArielTamasi]

Just purchased our first power amp for our band, had no idea how to use it. This helped A LOT. Thanks!

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome!

[@Wolfie66]

Very informative! Well done sir!

[@carlosbarreto7729]

Thanks God for you Brother, every video that I have seen from you are so well explain that it've been such a great blessing for my church. I will say that besides knowing what you're doing you also have the give of teaching. I'm a musician in my church and it's been over two years we lost our sound guy and we were so bend out of shape for a while until I decided to go on youtube and do some research to try to help our situation. Every video i so were somewhat confusing until I discover you. Thank you so much.

[@GLBProductions]

+Carlos Barreto Thank you for the message Carlos, I am very glad that the videos have been a help to your church. We praise God for his gifts and enabling and how one part of the body of Christ can edify another part despite being separated by such a great distance. Please let me know if you have any specific questions I can help you with.

[@lordvalo]

You're the man!

[@rahulrane1658]

You are thorough in your knowledge and very clear and elaborate in your presentation. Very good job!

[@GLBProductions]

+Rahul Rane Hopefully no more elaborate than it has to be ;) Thanks for watching!

[@rahulrane1658]

+GLB Productions Hi again! I had a quick question - is it possible to connect my IPod directly to a power amplifier (inuke Behringer 3000) which has 2 XLR 1/4th inch inputs for Ch1 and Ch2. If so, is there a readily available cable for that? Thanks a lot in advance.

[@rahulrane1658]

+GLB Productions Don't worry about my question Bruno. I think I get the answer: operate the amp in Mono, using TRS feed the signal from IPod to the amplifier input Ch1. The only downside is I wont be getting a Stereo sound - just mono on both speakers. Guess I will need a DAC/preamp or similar device to split the IPod Stero. Thank you so much again!

[@GLBProductions]

Rahul Rane I recommend that you do not connect that way as you will be combining a stereo signal into a mono input. See my video on how to connect stereo sources like this to the PA system, it will answer your question: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nZaXeqyknZmlmcU

[@robertominniti7168]

as i told in other video, you explain very very well, keep goin'!!

[@BayhouseStudio]

Best tutorial I've run across. Excellent! Thank You

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome Kevin, thanks for watching :)

[@scorpio1600]

Hello, I love your videos! You're very well spoken and informative :)

[@GLBProductions]

+scorpio1600 Thanks for watching, your support is much appreciated!

[@obasimoses1948]

Pls I really want to know how to connect more than one power amp to a mixer and how to connect the feedback destroyer. Tanks

[@willadkins4074]

I must agree this is one the best instructional videos on this subject!

[@hyouzanren1846]

soo informative and simple to understand!

[@phalanx66Satan]

So many pass over impedance matching and it's necessity, good job on video.

[@hanyamin095]

I agree! Very Very Excellent speaker

[@TheGloveny]

Haven't finished the video yet but I've been looking for something like this for ages. Thank you

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome :)

[@FirebrandVOCALS]

love these videos .. another very informative nutshell!

[@jasondanner6630]

WONDERFUL and complete, simple breakdown. You took me to school today and I thank you good sir!

[@GLBProductions]

Thanks Jason, very glad the video was helpful :)

[@zuchamotungoe6817]

Bro ..Peavey power amplifier model: CS 3000 ... for parallel mode will press the switch in position from the back panel of the amplifier and if we feed only one input (channel A) will this work both the o/p channel or use patch cable (Y cable) ?

[@GLBProductions]

Looks correct to me, but consult your owner's manual to be sure. Some amps use only input A in parallel mode, others can use either input.

[@shurmanjarrettssongs4314]

You are a very very good teacher. I learned a lot, all my amplifiers and preamplifiers are vintage, thanks again teacher.

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome Shurman, all the best with your music. Power amplifiers that are well cared for can last decades 👍

[@electronicshelpcare]

excelent

[@djfingersflores]

i love watching these GLB videos..bruno does a excellent job in explaining everything.. bravo bravo ! He really knows his stuff

[@GLBProductions]

Great to hear that! If you would like to support the channel please consider signing up to become a patron at www.patreon.com/glbproductions?ty=h Every little bit helps!

[@ceejaycjmusic]

great video as an usual... peace

[@donaldnelson976]

ttyos2yff.rkw5lemesyw

[@rahulrane1658]

This guy is the best. Such command on his work.

[@GLBProductions]

Thanks Rahul :)

[@alex-bohorquez-jimenez]

very well explained!

[@pfv3462]

This is the best explanation of an amplifier I came across on KZbin! can I connect a class AB amplifier and a class D together with a crossover?

[@GLBProductions]

Yes you can. Just to be clear: you are not connecting the amplifiers together, you are connecting the outputs of the crossover to the inputs of the amplifiers. The amplifiers themselves are not connected together!

[@adakhochalai]

Wow great information!!

[@GLBProductions]

Glad the video was helpful.

[@solexcore]

Most professional tutorial I ever see on YT so far. Thanks

[@GLBProductions]

You're most welcome.

[@gregghill3229]

in a word awesome this guy really knows his stuff and explains it with such clarity very much needed in every aspect thank you

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome Gregg, thanks for supporting the channel.

[@emronwilliams4980]

Great video. My amplifier at church keeps going into protect mode when there is too much input from the microphone. So I came here to find some information. I now know that there are few things that I need to check, since I am using passive speakers.

[@GLBProductions]

Yes some amplifiers will do that and mute the audio for a second or two, which is not what you want happening in a live event!

[@billdavis-ro3mk]

This is an excellent video concerning basic audio sound reinforcement systems.

[@GLBProductions]

Thanks for watching Bill.

[@FroBassProductions]

THIS. IS. IT. Thank for your concise and thorough explanation. Subscriber for life!

[@GLBProductions]

Welcome to the channel!

[@bacontrees]

Very thorough and clear explanation of amps and speakers!! Excellent video.

[@GLBProductions]

Thanks for watching!

[@JoeSampson-s1u]

Thank you so much, excellent tutorial for me and my audiences. Wonderful teacher you are my kind friend! 🤙

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome Joe, thanks for watching :)

[@dustintrombly]

Having only dealt with consumer powered speakers, I was mostly just curious what kind of cables passive PA loudspeakers use. Got that information and so much more, yet this video is still very clear and concise!

[@GLBProductions]

Thanks for watching Dustin.

[@coheed987]

This is one of the best instructional videos (of any topic) i have ever seen. Thanks!

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome, thanks for watching! If you would like to support the channel please consider signing up to become a patron at www.patreon.com/glbproductions?ty=h Every little bit helps!

[@HectorZLopez]

Very instructional and useful. Thank you so much, from the Philippines.

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome Hector!

[@jpntky264]

This is such a thoroughly explained video!! If only every product in life was well explained like this.... Thank you very much for this video Sir!! Please keep them coming!!

[@GLBProductions]

You're most welcome, thanks for watching!

[@emmanuelmeyermeyer1083]

Thank you so much for posting your videos. They have helped me gain so much knowledge on the proper use and hook up of sound equipment. God bless.

[@GLBProductions]

That's wonderful to hear, very glad the videos have been helpful :)

[@jaimesaravia7803]

Thank you for your presentation, I learn a lot from your teaching

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome Jaime.

[@qui24able]

First class instructional video - thank you very much for taking the time to explain this and upload it. Very helpful!!

[@GLBProductions]

+qui24able You're welcome, thanks for watching!

[@sorrytopart]

Thank You for the time to do this video. It was a great help to me and much appreciated.

[@GLBProductions]

You're most welcome, thanks very much for watching and supporting the channel.

[@duke1281]

I know a bit of what you're speaking of.. I just love the way you talk.. ultimately I want to connect my home theater system (from 2001-bare wire system) but yet want to connect it to 2 passive monitors..to just make it louder and more punchier!... I really think this helped!... giving credit to the AMP that you showcased, I will look it up and make my decision for purchase. thank you so much for this video!

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome Richard! Remember that power amplifiers are relatively generic - you don't need the specific make and model shown in the video, any quality power amp from a name brand manufacturer will work fine.

[@duke1281]

@@GLBProductions thank you! Thank you for your feedback.. its well appreciated. 😁

[@patrickmcguire5270]

I found this to be an excellent demonstration. Thank you so much.

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome Patrick!

[@Ryan-ok2xr]

wow, very practical instruction. thank you for not getting too technical or on tangents

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome Ryan.

[@gavinlobo1438]

This video was very informative...I like the way u explain in detail with a lot of patience 👍

[@GLBProductions]

Thanks Gavin!

[@joelucky3570]

At 25.10, talking about daisying speakers cabinets, it would be worth mentioning the effect of impedance when doin so. Video was very helpful.

[@GLBProductions]

Thanks for watching Joe 😊

[@mosesgonsalves2387]

Very informative with a lot of details with patient explanations

[@GLBProductions]

Thanks Moses.

[@IsmailTuncel]

You are great at telling the whole process. Thanks a lot.

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome, thanks for watching :)

[@RandyRugarMusic]

Literally the best video on setting this shit up man, really appreciate you speaking clearly and nailing everything! Well done!

[@GLBProductions]

Thanks Randy, really glad the video was helpful!

[@africangodman6145]

@@GLBProductions So if I have the Wharfedale Impact Pro 15" speakers (350 to 700 @8 Ohms). I have the American Audio VLP1500, should I have brought the VLP2500 instead?

[@GLBProductions]

@@africangodman6145 Speaker manufacturers give a range of acceptable power handling numbers, but in reality it all depends on how loud you need the system to go - even a 1 watt amplifier could be used if you're just listening in your bedroom ;)

[@africangodman6145]

@@GLBProductions Okay, point taken and thanks for your response.

[@kenwebster5053]

Nice comprehensive presentation as usual. This comment is probably a little out of scope for what you intended but it may interest someone. Q: Can you run 4 speakers per channel? A: No Well not quite right, 4 in parallel No, but 2 parallel sets of 2 in series on each channel, would be a total load of 8 ohm (4 x 8ohm speakers) per channel, so provided the power spec was still satisfied the answer would be Yes, but in this case the power available per speaker would be too low, so still a no in this case. This is how I setup my Amp volume controls. 1st I ensure that a unity VU signal will make it all the way from a single mixer input channel through 1 mixer group, main out & EQ all the way to the main amp. To achieve this (turn amp volumes right down or off) all the mixer controls for that single test channel will be at unity (0 VU) however, the EQ may need some gain switch & fader settings. I use a meter to check there is no loss at the amp input end of the lines. To adjust the amps while saving my ears. I send -20 VU pink noise from 1 mixer channel (I made some noise and tone test files in audacity). I setup a dBC sound meter in a standard location and then turn up that amp channel until the meter reads 70 dBC or 20 dB below whatever maximum sound level is agreed, then repeat for the other channel. So, now I know that when the main desk output meters are at unity, the speakers will be pumping 90 dB (20 above the test) per channel. This means that the system now reliably maxes out at 90 dB or whatever has been decided. This ensures that agreed maximum mean volume is adhered too and will not be exceeded except for the odd headroom spike of course. Those gain switches are wonderful because they minimises the necessary volume control attenuation which is always great from a S/N perspective.

[@GLBProductions]

Thanks for the comment Ken, lots of useful information on setting up a sound system to meet a particular loudness target.

[@amitezsonnets]

Great presentation Bruno. Understanding made simple. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience.

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome, thanks for watching and supporting the channel!

[@srikanthsharath8108]

That's what I call an information, thank you sir !

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome!

[@coylerhythm-blues3958]

Great information very easy to follow and comprehend. I see that others have give you rave reviews and I must say well deserve.

[@GLBProductions]

Very glad the video was helpful :)

[@DJ-STRIC]

This video is great and very helpful. I will be messaging you about my system and to help me correct the hook ups with my PA System, Mixer.

[@paulawolade1663]

2018 and I'm so blessed... You're the best!!!

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome, thanks for watching!

[@Dj-ll5yx]

learning a lot from ur tuturials sir,,God bless u more

[@GLBProductions]

Glad to hear that, God Bless you too :)

[@reggiesanasy8539]

lovely topic always learning something new on your programme.

[@ocean457]

Watching this in 2020. Great thorough explanation my friend. Thank you.

[@GLBProductions]

Still responding to comments on this in 2020 😎 Thanks for watching Diego, glad the video was helpful 😊

[@SAJSOUND]

Wow sush a nice video ang very helpful your my inspiration. Your content sir is my hobby but I'm did not undergo any proper education for this. Most of you're video helps me a lot.. Thank you very much more blessings to come sir..

[@MrPovedajr]

You’re explanation is super effective. Thank you so much!

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome :)

[@jackmogera8107]

Thanks so much sir . This is the most elaborate video l have interacted with. Once more thanks

[@GLBProductions]

You're most welcome Jack!

[@charlespitman2954]

out of all the video i look at this was the most helpful thank you

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome Charles.

[@theaztecwarrior1190]

One of the most specific setups in sound system history for group bands 👍

[@GLBProductions]

Glad the video was helpful :)

[@Dannyrh2]

Simply outstanding tutorial ! ! Thank you for sharing.

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome!

[@DonianMgmt]

I ALWAYS learn something from your videos. Keep it up.

[@josephreynolds1220]

Mr Luse, Thank you so much for taking the time to make these videos. They are extremely helpful when i need a refresher course. I like the use of di boxes to decouple your camera's mic from the table!

[@GLBProductions]

You're welcome, thanks for watching! If you would like to support the channel please consider signing up to become a patron at www.patreon.com/glbproductions?ty=h Every little bit helps!

[@mosesaloese186]

Very very helpful brother appreciate your time and effort keep it up this video just opened things up more for me on how to run our system God bless you brother.

[@GLBProductions]

That's great to hear, God bless you and your ministry!

[@mosesaloese186]

Likewise brother thank you.

[@typhoontim125]

Excellent video....you explain things at a good pace & very clearly. Thank you.

[@GLBProductions]

Thanks Brian, glad the video was helpful :)