What are the differences between Single Voice Coil and Dual Voice Coil subwoofers? Single Voice Coil (SVC) and Dual Voice Coil (DVC) subwoofers are the most popular type of subwoofer types available on the market. SVC and DVC refers to the number of voice coils (part of the subwoofer "engine") used inside the loudspeaker.
The primary difference between SVC and DVC subwoofers is the multiple wiring options DVC subwoofers offer. DVC subwoofers are easier to configure, especially when utilizing POWER series (competition grade) amplifiers capable of delivering more power at lower impedances.
Single Voice Coil (SVC)
SVC subwoofers utilize a single length of copper wire wound on a circular "former" and utilize one Positive (+) and one Negative (-) wiring terminal.
This pair of 4-ohm SVC subwoofers can only wired to its lowest impedance of 2-ohms:
You must switch to a pair of 2-ohm SVC subwoofers to get down a 1-ohm amplifier load:
Dual Voice Coil (DVC)
DVC subwoofers utilize two separate lengths of copper wire, each wound on one circular "former." A DVC subwoofer has two Positive (+) and two Negative (-) wiring terminals, one for each coil. DVC subwoofers offer the same performance whether wired in series or parallel. Power handling, frequency response, and other specifications do not change — the only difference is the impedance presented to the amplifier. Also, regardless of using SVC or DVC subwoofers in your car audio system, use the recommended enclosure as specified by the manufacturer regardless of how they are wired.
This pair of 4-ohm DVC subwoofers can be wired to create a 4-ohm amplifier load:
By simply re-wiring the subwoofers, a 1-ohm load can be created at the amplifier:
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