A good set of car speakers is essential for a clear sound and decent volume. To really maximize the potential and boost the stereo's signal, though, car amplifiers are a must-have. Car amplifiers provide an independent power source for speaker output.
To understand car amplifiers, it's important to know the difference between two different types of power ratings. The first of these is root mean square, or RMS power. RMS power refers to the quantity of continuous power a car amplifier uses for driving the speakers. Buy an amplifier with an RMS power that equals the RMS power rating listed on the speakers and subwoofers. This will prevent damaging the car speakers.
The second type of power is peak power. This number indicates the amount of wattage available to a car amplifier for quick, short bursts of louder sounds. This number will always be greater than the value of the RMS power.
Multi Channel Amplifiers
Which car amplifiers will best meet a shopper's needs? This depends on the number of channels required. For example, Mono car amplifiers are designed to power a single speaker. In comparison, two-channel car amplifiers will increase the signal output to two speakers as well as a subwoofer. High-end four-channel car amplifiers are designed for boosting the stereo's signal for a range of equipment, from two speakers and one subwoofer to four speakers with two subwoofers, or any kind of equipment arrangement in that range.
Which car amplifier is best? This depends on budget considerations, music preferences, and the car in which the amplifier will be installed. For example, buyers wanting to improve high frequency audio should opt for a car amplifer equipped with internal high-pass filters. These will stop tweeters from attempting to replicate lower-frequency sounds.
Alternatively, to optimize good bass sounds, buyers should choose a car amplifier that contains a low-pass filter. These filters will ensure that only low-frequency notes are sent to the subwoofer, and will prevent the reproduction of high notes by the subwoofer. For extra amplification, connect two car amplifiers together. Each will drive different speakers. When designing this type of multi-amplifier system, opt for a primary amplifier that includes a preamp output. This will enable a signal to be sent to the secondary amplifier.
When purchasing a car amplifier, check speaker-level inputs. The majority of car stereos that have been installed by the car manufacturer include basic internal amplifiers. Buy a car amplifier that has speaker-level inputs capable of processing signals that have already been amplified.
Car Amplifier Accessories
Choose accessories that will help a car audio system stand head and shoulders above the rest, or simplify installation with the help of some accessories. Opt for a system that includes remote controls. Adjust the amplifier's sound even if it is situated in the trunk. A voltage monitor will offer information about exactly what the car audio system is doing while it is operating. Certain voltage monitors will actually monitor temperature as well.
Give the car amplifier a sharp look with custom covers or car amplifier bridges. Some of these covers and bridges will also act as an expanded heat sink. This will help to keep the amplifier cool. Another hot accessory that will maximize the car amplifier's power is a control system. This will monitor and control the amount of electricity received by each of the components in a powerful stereo system. The control center also include fuses, which will prevent a disastrous short in the event of an electrical problem.
Purchase a car wiring kit and have everything on hand that's necessary for the safe installation and operation of the car's amplifier. Choose car wiring kits that include fuses rated for the amplifier's power level.An external line-output converter will help to decrease the stereo signal and yield a signal usable by an amplifier. This is necessary for car stereos that do not include RCA jacks.
Car Amplifier Installation
Deciding where to place the car amplifier and how to install it can determine the resulting quality of the stereo system's output. Read the installation guide carefully, and follow a few basic guidelines for optimizing the amplifier's location.
First, select the future amplifier location carefully. Place the amplifier at a distance greater than 36" from the front seat, or install it in the trunk. If the amplifier is situated too close to the car radio, electrical interference can affect reception quality.
Make sure the amplifier is properly ventilated. Failing to ventilate the amplifier may cause it to overheat and malfunction. Most amplifiers contain built-in fans that provide air circulation and cooling, as long as there are at least two inches of space between the amplifier and the car seat. If the amplifier is installed in the trunk, mount it with the proper side up.
Take advantage of the stereo preamp output. Attach the car amplifier to RCA jacks located on the rear of the car stereo. The stereo's preamp output will deliver a musical signal to the amplifier that has not been already processed. Use the amplifier's internal converter, or install an external line-output converter to decrease the signal to a usable level if the stereo lacks RCA jacks.
A good car amplifier will help a car's stereo system to achieve its full potential. Without car amplifiers, stereos are usable, but mediocre at best. For a stereo system that will stand out above the rest, choose the right car amplifier. The results will impress everyone!