Are you sick and tired of bass quality with having 2-ohm speakers and want to replace it with the 4-ohm speakers? All melomanics in the world have one thing in common, and that’s ‘love for good bass.’
Like all other music lovers, a good subwoofer is essential to ‘ride and vibe’ with good music. Yet, the main concern is the power of the subwoofer to install, as the quality of the bass is what matters the most!
Before we get into further details, let me answer your question:
Can I replace 2 ohm speakers with 4 ohm speakers?
Yes! You can easily replace your 2 ohm subwoofer with a 4 ohm one. It’s a safer option for your car stereo, regardless of the amplifier you use. Though, the downside is the decrease in sound level as 2 ohm speakers are louder than 4 ohm. But with the former one, the sound becomes more apparent. To replace, all you need to do is to contact your car dealer for replacement.
Even if it’s possible, is it a good idea to convert 2-ohm to 4–ohm?
Can be. Let’s find it out together!
What’s a subwoofer? And what does it do?
To understand the differences between 2-ohm and 4-ohm subwoofers, it’s crucial to know what a subwoofer is and how it works.
A sub-woofer is a high-pitched speaker designed to enhance the low-frequency audio of music components like guitars or drums to a boosted high-frequency sound. Most speakers only produce sounds in a low frequency of 50 Hz, whereas a subwoofer can make 20 Hz sounds audible. Simply, speakers can only make you hear the song, while the subwoofer’s bass makes you feel it.
What is the concept of ‘Ohm’ in speakers?
While buying or installing a new subwoofer, the factor you need to focus on is the ‘impedance.’ The SI unit of impedance and resistance is the ohm. The ‘ohm’ in the subwoofer is significant because the amplifier, speakers, and resistance rating all need to be compatible to produce good sound.
You must have heard subwoofers making loud, weird, and noisy sounds. That’s only because the ‘ohms’ of the subwoofers are not compatible with the amplifier.
How Does A Subwoofer work?
The amplifier sends audio signals in the form of current to the subwoofer. This current goes through the voice coil that resists the flow of current. When this resistance is low, the subwoofer starts producing too much power. Because according to ohm’s law, the power produced will depend upon the amount of current and the resistance it comes across.
So if you install a 2-ohm woofer rather than 4, you are reducing the amount of resistance on the power sent through the amplifier. And since the resistance is low, the sound produced will be louder, and the power consumption will be higher.
What is the difference between the 2 ohm sub and 4 ohm sub?
The differences between 2-ohm and 4-ohm speakers are far more than just their resistance difference. Here’s the list of the most significant ones:
Sound Quality
Now, you already know that a 2-ohm speaker generates more power and more sound. And on the contrary, the 4-ohm speaker will create less power due to the increase in resistance but, the sound the 4-ohm speaker makes will also be low.
But does louder sound better?
The answer is no. The sound 2-ohm produces is loud and distorted at times. Whereas higher resistance ensures that the current flow is stable thus, 4-ohm has better sound quality. The change in quality is quite significant because you’re not changing the amplifier in the process.
Load On Amplifier
If you install a 4-ohm speaker, the resistance creates a hindrance in the flow of current. This decreases the amount of power required for the subwoofer to operate. This is good for the amplifier as there are fewer chances of damage to it.
Similarly, when installing a 2-ohm speaker, you need an amplifier so strong that it can handle the power requirements. So, if you have a low-wattage amplifier, the 4-ohm speaker would be a better option.
Cost
2-ohm speakers are generally pricier than 4-ohm speakers because they are louder, and that’s what melomaniacs want. Besides that, the fine-tuning capabilities of 2-ohm speakers are way better.
The cost depends upon the amplifier that your car has. If you have a good high amplifier already installed in your car, then it’s a good idea to get a 2-ohm speaker. But, if that’s not the case, then you will have to buy a heavy amplifier along with the pricey 2-ohm speaker.
If you have an average amplifier, then buying a 4-ohm amplifier is a good option.
Durability
4-ohm speakers are generally more durable than 2-ohm speakers as they have higher resistance and generate less power which makes their overall life longer. Whereas 2-ohm speakers create more sound and deal with much more significant amounts of power, significantly increasing the risk it goes through.
Which is better: 2 ohm or 4 ohm subwoofer?
Well, it depends upon the amplifier you possess.
If your amplifier can handle the 2-ohm load, then you are good to use both 2-ohm and 4-ohm speakers. This is just because your amplifier is compatible with them. However, if you’re using a 4-ohm speaker with a 2-ohm amplifier, that’s the best option. As it will not only increase the durability but also enhance the sound quality.
Consequently, if you have a 4-ohm amplifier and use a 2-ohm speaker, you’re simply putting the components at risk.
Can I switch to a 4 ohm speaker?
Now, if you’re wondering, should or can I replace 2 ohm speakers with 4 ohm speakers? Yes, you can. And it’s indeed a good idea if you want a clear audio quality. But, if you want to shake your car with the sound of your woofers. And have the best bass possible, then I’d say, stick to 2-ohm and get your car a compatible amplifier.
FAQ’s
What ohm is best for subs?
4-ohms is the best and most recommended ohm-rating for subwoofers as the sound quality is excellent and controlled. In most cars, you’ll find 4-ohm speakers installed.
How do I know if my sub is 2 ohm or 4 ohm?
To know the subwoofer ohms, check the back of the speaker and see the listed details. For example, there you’ll find ‘impedance rating.’ Another way to check is to take the speaker out and check the resistance through ‘ohmmeter.’
What hits harder, 2 ohm or 4 ohm?
2-ohm hits harder than 4-ohm. Due to lesser resistance, 2-ohm speakers are way louder than high resistance speakers.
Wrap Up
It all goes down to your definition of a good speaker and the kind of bass you like. Both 2-ohm and 4-ohm have their goods and bad. I might say that 4-ohm speakers are great, but we cannot deny that 2-ohm is much more exciting. So, you choose what suits you.
