Speaker Voltage Drop Calculator

Calculate voltage drop across speaker wires to ensure your amplifier delivers maximum performance without power loss or distortion.

Calculated Voltage Drop

-- V

--%

Formulas & Notes
  • Voltage Drop (V): Vdrop = I × Rwire
  • Wire Resistance (Ohms): R = K × L / A, where K depends on copper resistivity, L is length, A is cross-sectional area.
  • Current (I) = Voltage / Load (Ohms)
  • Keep voltage drop below 3-5% for optimal speaker performance.

How to Use

  • Enter wire length from amplifier to speaker.
  • Enter wire gauge (AWG) or diameter.
  • Enter speaker impedance (load in Ohms).
  • Enter amplifier supply voltage (VDC).
  • Check calculated voltage drop and percentage to ensure minimal power loss.

FAQs

High voltage drop reduces amplifier output to the speaker, causing lower SPL, weaker bass, and reduced dynamic range.

Select wire gauge to keep voltage drop below 3-5% for your speaker length and load.

Yes, long or undersized wires increase resistance, reduce voltage to speakers, and can cause distortion or lower SPL.

Copper has lower resistance than CCA; lower resistance minimizes voltage drop. Proper material ensures consistent speaker performance.

Keep voltage drop under 3-5% of amplifier voltage to maintain full speaker output and avoid distortion.
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