Each channel on an amplifier will power one speaker using a positive and negative cable. There are various types of amplifiers, each designed to power a certain number of speakers. Monoblock amplifiers, also known as single channel, are designed to power one or more subwoofers. These amplifiers often have very high power ratings. On the other hand, multi-channel amplifiers power multiple speakers, usually at lower power ratings. 2-Channel and 4-Channel amplifiers can power car speakers or low powered subwoofers. Occasionally you might see a 5 or 6-channel amplifier that can power speakers and subwoofers at the same time. The most common setup is a monoblock amp to run subwoofers and a 4-channel amp to run door speakers. Check out our Knowledge Base for more information.
Amplifiers can offer a diverse array of features.
If you select more than one feature, then you will view amplifiers that have ALL features selected.
These include speaker-level inputs that facilitate seamless integration with factory audio systems, Bluetooth connectivity suitable for ATV/UTV or Classic vehicle setups, built-in DSPs that provide enhanced control over your audio signal, and a host of other functionalities to explore.
An amplifier increases the power of the signal being fed to it by taking energy from its power supply and matching the signal but increasing its amplitude. Amplifiers use many different methods for converting these electrical signals and have been categorized into classes.
Class A/B: Greater than 50% of the input signal is amplified while the other percentage is “off”. These amplifiers have a small amount of current flowing through the output transistors all the time which almost eliminates crossover distortion. Class A/B has great sound quality but is not as efficient as class D. These amps are most commonly used to drive speakers.
Class D: Also known as switching amplifiers, class D amps have output transistors that are completely turned “on” or “off”. This means that when the transistors are on, there is almost no voltage across them but when they are off there is significant voltage but no current flowing through it which makes these amplifiers very efficient at the cost of sound quality. These amps are most commonly used to drive subwoofers.
Other Classes: You may see classes such as GH, bD, X, FD, etc. by some manufactures. These amplifiers tend to be either class A/B, D or a hybrid of the two but with improvements to their designs that can make them more efficient or offer better sound quality.
Total RMS power is measured by multiplying RMS power per channel by the number of channels, and is calculated at the lowest level of operating impedance.
RMS power is the amount of continuous power, measured in watts, that an amplifier produces is called RMS power. The higher the RMS figure, the louder and cleaner your music sounds.
The RMS output figure is much more accurate than the peak rating when comparing products.
The total peak power output is measured as the wattage per channel multiplied by the number of channels, and is calculated at the lowest level of operating impedance.
It is measured during a brief musical burst, such as a sudden drum accent. Some manufacturers display peak power ratings on the face of their products to increase the appeal.
The RMS power rating is more accurate, and we recommend using it for product comparison.
Many brands group their products into series or lines of products to help customers know the level of quality (good, better, best for example). You can filter by series and the brand using our guided browsing.
If the amp comes with a bass/gain remote you will be able to control the level of your bass from your dashboard. Typically bass remotes also include a 16-20 ft. wire for installation.
Sonic Certified amplifiers have been tested by the experts at Sonic Electronix to meet or exceed the wattage ratings provided by the manufacturer.
If this is marked as Yes, then you can trust the wattage ratings.
If marked as No, then we have tested the amplifier and it did not meet the advertised wattage ratings.
If marked as Not Tested, then the Sonic Electronix experts have not yet been able to test the amp.
Many amplifiers are equipped with RCA preamp outputs which pass the original music signal from the source to additional amplifiers. This is known as daisy chaining because the source connects to the first amp, and the first amp connects to the second amp, etc. The advantage to daisy chaining is you only need one 2-channel RCA cable to transfer the signal from the head-unit to the amplifier, and then one additional cable for each amp being daisy chained.
A crossover is a type of filtering system that permits only certain frequencies to play. A Low-Pass (LP) crossover allows only frequencies below its setting to get through which is good in the case of some subwoofers. A High-Pass(HP) filter allows frequencies above its setting to pass through, this is normally used on speakers.
When a crossover is set to FULL it means no filtering is added and the full frequency spectrum is allowed through the amplifier. Filtering is important because feeding a speaker frequencies it cannot reproduce effectively creates distortion.
Class D amplifiers are a type of switching amplifier known for their high efficiency and compact size. Unlike traditional Class A, B, and AB amplifiers that use continuous analog voltage to amplify audio signals, Class D amplifiers employ a digital switching technique. This process rapidly switches the output transistors on and off, effectively turning them into binary switches that deliver the audio signal to the speaker. The switching nature of Class D amplifiers drastically reduces power wastage, resulting in higher efficiency and less heat production. As a result, Class D amplifiers are ideal for applications with limited space or power constraints, making them popular in car audio, home theater systems, and portable devices.
Yes, modern Class D amplifiers have made significant advancements in audio fidelity and can deliver high-quality sound performance. While traditional audiophiles may have associated Class D with lower audio quality due to early models' limitations, today's Class D amplifiers have overcome many of these challenges. With advancements in switching technology, filtering, and feedback mechanisms, Class D amplifiers can now offer exceptional audio reproduction that rivals traditional Class AB amplifiers. Additionally, Class D amplifiers' efficiency and lower heat generation make them well-suited for high-power audio applications where traditional amplifiers would be impractical.
Yes, Class D amplifiers are versatile and can power various speaker types, including subwoofers, woofers, mid-range, and tweeters. When selecting a Class D amplifier for your speakers, consider the power output (wattage) and impedance rating. Ensure that the amplifier's power rating matches or slightly exceeds your speakers' power handling capabilities to prevent underpowering or overpowering, which can lead to distortion or speaker damage. Additionally, check the amplifier's impedance range to ensure compatibility with your speakers' impedance. Most Class D amplifiers can handle both 4-ohm and 2-ohm loads, making them suitable for a wide range of speaker configurations.
No, Class D amplifiers are known for their high efficiency, which results in significantly less heat generation compared to other amplifier classes like Class A or Class AB. The digital switching technique used in Class D amplifiers reduces power loss, resulting in a more efficient conversion of electrical energy into audio output. As a result, Class D amplifiers remain relatively cool even at high volume levels, making them suitable for space-constrained installations and applications where heat dissipation is a concern. Their cool operation also extends the lifespan of internal components and reduces the need for large heat sinks or fans.
Yes, many Class D amplifiers support bridge mode, allowing you to increase the power output when driving a single speaker or subwoofer. In bridge mode, the amplifier combines the power output from two channels into a single channel, effectively doubling the power delivered to the speaker. However, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and ensure that your amplifier supports bridging. Additionally, pay attention to the speaker's impedance requirements, as bridging may change the amplifier's impedance capabilities. If you're unsure or need assistance with bridging your Class D amplifier, contact Sonic Electronix's knowledgeable staff, who can help you find the right amplifier and configuration for your audio setup.
With their compact size, high efficiency, and versatility, Class D amplifiers offer a compelling solution for various audio applications, delivering powerful and clear sound performance with minimal heat output.
Browse our selection of 12-inch, 10-inch and other popular car subs in here. You'll also find various sub boxes and loaded enclosures, including ones made specifically for your car.
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