How to go about choosing the correct amp/sub for car audio.

T

Tim897316

Enthusiast
Ive been interested in setting up a mid level sub/amp kit for my 1996 eclipse, the problem is im not sure if i chose compatible parts. Im not sure how to look for compatibility between amp/sub. Do u just need to match RMS wattages, OHM's, and the amount of channels to the amount of subs your using? Im sort of lost once i get to what wiring ill need and how do i hook the amp up to the car battery? Helps is greatly appreciated.
 
GlocksRock

GlocksRock

Audioholic Spartan
Decide on what sub(s) you want first, then match an amp to it by figuring out the optimal power at the given impedance of your sub(s). Then to hook the amp up, you will need to run the power wire to the battery, with a fuse on it no further away than 18" from the battery. Ground the amp to the vechile somewhere using as short of a cable as possible, and keep the ground wire the same guage as the power wire. What guage power/ground wire you used is determined by how many watts your amp is, and/or if you are running multiple amps. You will also need a remote wire that is generally connected to the headunit, but can also be wired to some other 12 volt source, that turns the amp on and off with the car. It's best to wire it to the headunit so that the amp turns on and off with the headunit. You will also have to eitiher run RCA cables from the headunit which is the most desired method of connection, but if you are using a factory radio, you may need to get a line output converter to convert the high level aka speaker level inputs to RCA inputs.
 
unreal.freak

unreal.freak

Senior Audioholic
Ive been interested in setting up a mid level sub/amp kit for my 1996 eclipse, the problem is im not sure if i chose compatible parts. Im not sure how to look for compatibility between amp/sub. Do u just need to match RMS wattages, OHM's, and the amount of channels to the amount of subs your using? Im sort of lost once i get to what wiring ill need and how do i hook the amp up to the car battery? Helps is greatly appreciated.

You can get very good advice from Speakerman39 on this subject also. Its how he makes his living. Im sure he has seen most all amp/sub combos in the 1996 eclipse. He can probably tell you what is the best for the application.

One other consideration is, the amount of space you have. most times that is the limiting factor in car audio.

Peace,
Tommy
 
K

kazlx

Audioholic Intern
There are definitely others out there, but I have always been pleased with JL Audio subs and amps. One of their mono amps like a 250/1 will easily drive a single 10 or 12" sub like a W3. A little bit bigger amp like a 500/1 will drive a pair or trio no problem. I had three Diamond Audio 10s in a box behind the rear seat driven by a JL 500/1 amp in my F250 before I sold it. Nice tight bass that sounded clean and would play loud if you wanted it to.

I also had a 450/1 4ch JL amp driving the front and rear speakers. There are a lot of options and most of the mainstream gear is pretty good. I like JL stuff because you can usually pick it up used in good condition for about 1/2 retail because the are a pretty popular brand.

If you plan on having the car for a while, I would say make the investment and have a custom box made for your car. It will save as much room as possible and look a lot better than a pre-fab one.
 
G

gus6464

Audioholic Samurai
I absolutely love the JL 8W7 sub for car audio. It has the output of most 12" subs and can go in a very small cabinet. If you are looking for something small but that can also hit hard it should definitely be on your list.
 
GlocksRock

GlocksRock

Audioholic Spartan
why did this get moved to the steam vent? I too love JL audio subs, but for the money, I use elemental designs subs, lots of bang for the buck.
 
annunaki

annunaki

Moderator
It was moved because this is not a car audio forum, sorry.
 
Warpdrv

Warpdrv

Audioholic Ninja
It was moved because this is not a car audio forum, sorry.
Maybe there could be a car audio section setup.....

I have a feeling that we do have enough car audio discussion brought up from time to time.... what do you think...?
 
GlocksRock

GlocksRock

Audioholic Spartan
I'm all for it... I love car audio, that's what got me into home audio.
 
J

Joe Schmoe

Audioholic Ninja
Make sure the car itself is in good shape, with all the bolts tight.
Is there anything that sounds more lame than a car that rattles and buzzes with every bass note?:eek:
 

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