biamplified

Biamplified is an arrangement in audio systems in which two separate amplifiers drive different portions of a loudspeaker's frequency spectrum, typically a low-frequency woofer and a high-frequency tweeter. The division of the signal is accomplished with a crossover network so that each amplifier powers only its assigned range. This can occur in two main ways: active bi-amping and passive bi-amping.

Active bi-amping uses an electronic, line-level crossover before amplification. The preamplified signal is split into two bands, each sent to its own amplifier, which then drives its designated drivers. This approach minimizes interaction between amplifier channels and allows independent setting of crossover points and slopes.

Passive bi-amping keeps the speaker's internal crossovers but uses two amplifiers connected to separate input sections or posts. Each amp powers a different part of the speaker's driver array, while the crossover functions at speaker level within the cabinet. This method is simpler and often compatible with existing speakers that include dual binding posts.

Benefits of biamplified systems can include improved control of driver motion, reduced distortion and intermodulation, and greater headroom, especially in demanding listening conditions. However, achieving optimal results requires careful gain matching, impedance considerations, and correct crossover settings, and misalignment can cause frequency imbalance or phase issues.

Biamplified configurations are common in high-end home audio, professional PA systems, and some studio monitors.