Simple Explanation

Using two amplifiers to power different parts of a speaker—typically the woofer and tweeter—separately.

Concise Technical Definition

A configuration where two separate amplifiers or amplifier channels are used to drive the low and high frequency drivers (e.g., woofers and tweeters) in a speaker independently, often bypassing or partially bypassing internal passive crossovers.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like having one engine power the front wheels and another for the rear wheels of a car—each section gets more focused control.

Industry Usage Summary

Bi-amping is used in high-end audio setups to gain better control over speaker drivers and potentially reduce distortion, though real-world benefits may vary unless crossovers are fully active; it also adds cost and complexity.

Engineering Shortcut

Bi-Amping = 2 amps per speaker (woofer + tweeter).

Full Technical Explanation

Bi-amping refers to connecting two amplifier channels (or two separate amplifiers) directly to a speaker’s individual drivers—typically one channel to the woofer and one to the tweeter. This can improve control and reduce intermodulation distortion by separating the frequency bands before amplification. However, unless the speaker’s passive crossover is bypassed (active bi-amping), it doesn’t fully eliminate limitations such as signal loss or damping issues.