When choosing a sub, what is the difference in a 2 ohm and 4 ohm voice coil, besides the obvious 2 ohms?

 

Any amplifier has to work within limits, in terms of how much current can flow to the speaker through its output devices without overheating. The voice coil in any particular speaker presents a resistance to the current flow produced by the amplifier. It limits how much current will flow, so to speak. That limit depends on the speaker's "ohm rating". The lower the rating, the lower the resistance, and the more current the amp will try to flow. What is crucial is that the sub or combination of subs be configured to give the correct final impedance for how the amp is rated. If you use the improper set-up with an amp, it will suffer in performance up to and including failure. Example: If an amp is rated to be "safe" to use into a 4 ohm set-up and you use it with a 2 ohm set-up, you will be using it beyond its capabilities.

 

Thank you for taking the time to respond. It is clear as mud now. Kidding, I somewhat understand. I guess it is more of a factor in that your amps and speakers should be matched, not brand specifically, but more of the specs, or you will have performance issues?

 

Nail on the Head...

To further elaborate... :o

It could also be argued for the purposes of SQ that 4 Ohm is cleaner than 2 Ohm (because of less current/better resolution). This is why most mid and high Frequency speakers run on 4ohm with no option for 2ohm. You wouldn't notice too much of a difference on a subwoofer, however. And you will get twice the current through 2Ohms than you will through 4Ohms, so it can also be argued that it is easier (cheaper/more efficient) to power subs at 2ohm. That's what DVC does for you.