RCA connection for bridging 4-channel amp

[ASpec818 10+ year member]

Ive got mixed inputs on how to conect the RCAs to my 4 channel amp. Someone told me I need a 2-channel rca cable with 2 y-cables to connect my amp to my deck. Another source told me I will be fine with just a 2-channel rca cable. Another source says I will need a 4-channel rca cable.

Is it okay if I just buy a 2-channel rca cable, connect it to the front rca output of my deck, and then route it back to my amp and connect it to the front RCA inputs ONLY on my amp? So I'm basically leaving the rear RCA inputs on the amp unplugged. This is what a car audio salesman told me to do.

I'm using the 4 channel amp to power a pair of components.

This is confusing!

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[helotaxi 5,000+ posts]

It all depends on the amp. Some will work with only one set of intputs and internally split the signal for all four channels. Also some amps have a switch to select between stereo and bridged. When set to bridged, it will only take a signal from the left input of that channel pair. If you have a setup like that, run one set of RCAs to the amp and plug the left RCA into the left channel of the front pair of amp channels and the right RCA into the left channel of the rear set of channels.

 

[ASpec818 10+ year member]

yea it can be set at 2 channel bass, 2 channel, and 4 channel. I think they are mono, bridged, and stereo settings resepectively. I guess I will try to just purchase a set of 2 channel rcas and connect them like how helotaxi mentioned. any other suggestions? thanks