What Is a Bridge Amplifier?
A bridge amplifier, also known as a bridge amp, is a power amplifier design that significantly enhances output power by applying both positive and negative voltages to a speaker’s terminals. This dual-voltage approach allows the amplifier to effectively double the available power compared to traditional single amplifiers.
The design utilizes two power amplifiers, one operating in-phase and the other in reverse phase, to drive the speaker. This configuration doubles the current flow through the speaker, thereby increasing the output power. Bridge amplifiers are favored for their efficiency and compact size, making them ideal for car audio systems, PA systems, subwoofers, and similar applications where high power output from a relatively small device is desirable.