How to Use a Speaker Selector Switch

An external speaker selector switch routes the signals from a receiver or entertainment center to any specific arrangement of speakers that the switch can support—regardless of the room they’re in.

Why Use a Speaker Selector Switch

What if you want to connect additional sets of speakers and wire other rooms? The easiest and safest solution—and also the most cost-effective—is to use a speaker selector switch. It acts much like a hub or splitter, allowing you to connect and power as many as four, six, or eight pairs of speakers to a single receiver or amplifier. Some models also offer independent volume control over each pair of speakers. This kind of switch handles more speakers, and it protects the amplifier or receiver from damage. Low-impedance problems arise from playing multiple speakers at the same time. Amplifiers and receivers are usually rated for speakers with 8 ohms of impedance. Some are rated between 4 and 8 ohms, but 8 tends to be the norm. The impedance specification is important because it determines how much electrical current flows to the speakers. Connecting additional sets of speakers increases the total amount of current. For example, if two pairs of 8-ohm speakers are connected and playing, the resulting impedance is 4 ohms. Three pairs results in 2 ohms of impedance, and so on. If the current flow increases much, it can exceed the ability of the receiver. The result can lead to the receiver activating its protection circuit and temporarily shutting off, which can cause permanent damage to the amplifier or receiver over time.

Choosing a Speaker Selector Switch

Internal Selector Toggles

Your stereo receiver offers a built-in switch to toggle A and B speaker sets. This option supports a second pair of speakers, typically for a different room. The speakers set to the A switch might be meant for the main TV or movie entertainment, while the speakers set to the B switch could be set for music. Typically, the receiver can safely handle both sets operating at the same time. Some receivers have multi-room capability to power speakers in as many as four rooms or zones in your home, although not all zones may be able to play simultaneously.