LM3886: #2) PA100 - 100W Parallel AB Amp

The parallel amplifier is another configuration that can be used to obtain higher output power levels by combining two IC outputs and doubling output current drive capability. The parallel topology provides a great way of achieving higher power levels while keeping within IC power dissipation limits by driving low impedance loads, which is the case for many self-powered speaker and powered subwoofer designs.

The main advantage of the parallel configuration is its ability to divide total power dissipation between ICs, since each amplifier is providing half of the load current.

Another advantageof the parallel design is that unlike the bridge design, more than two ICs can be used. In fact, any number of ICs can be used in a parallel design and when configured the same will share the power dissipation equally.