To properly power two 400 watt subwoofers, you will need an amplifier that can deliver at least 800 watts of power to them. However, it is important to note that the actual power handling capabilities of the subwoofers and the power output of the amplifier are only part of the equation when determining the appropriate size amplifier for your setup. Other factors to consider include the impedance of the subwoofers, the efficiency of the amplifier, and the amount of space available in your vehicle to install the amplifier.
It is also important to note that it is generally not a good idea to try to push an amplifier to its maximum power output on a regular basis, as this can lead to overheating and potentially damage the amplifier or your subwoofers. It is generally better to select an amplifier that provides a bit more power than you think you will need, and to use the volume control on the amplifier to adjust the level of the bass to your liking.
How do I know how many amps I need?
There are a few factors that you need to consider when determining how many amps you need for your audio system. These include:
- The power handling capabilities of your speakers: Each speaker has a specific power handling rating, which indicates the maximum amount of power it can safely handle. You will need an amplifier that can deliver enough power to meet the needs of your speakers.
- The efficiency of your speakers: The efficiency of a speaker is a measure of how well it converts the electrical energy it receives from the amplifier into sound. A more efficient speaker will be able to produce the same volume level as a less efficient speaker with a lower power input.
- The size of your vehicle: The size of your vehicle can have an impact on the amount of power you need from your amplifier. In a larger vehicle, you may need more power to fill the space with sound.
- The type of music you listen to: The type of music you listen to can also affect the amount of power you need from your amplifier. Music with a lot of bass or that is played at high volume levels may require more power to reproduce accurately.
To determine how many amps you need, you will need to consider all of these factors and calculate the total power requirements for your system. You can then use this information to select an amplifier that is capable of delivering the necessary power to your speakers. It is generally a good idea to choose an amplifier with a bit more power than you think you will need, as this will allow you to adjust the volume to your liking without pushing the amplifier to its maximum output.
How do you match a sub and amp?
Matching a subwoofer and amplifier is an important step in building a car audio system. Here are a few key factors to consider when selecting a subwoofer and amplifier for your setup:
Impedance: The impedance of a subwoofer is the electrical resistance it presents to the amplifier. Most subwoofers have an impedance of either 4 ohms or 2 ohms. It is important to choose an amplifier that is compatible with the impedance of your subwoofer. If the amplifier is not able to deliver the correct amount of current to the subwoofer, it will not perform at its best.
Power handling: The power handling capabilities of both the subwoofer and amplifier are important to consider when selecting a matching set. The amplifier should be able to deliver enough power to the subwoofer to drive it to its full potential, while the subwoofer should be able to handle the power output of the amplifier without being damaged.
Frequency response: The frequency response of a subwoofer is the range of frequencies it is designed to reproduce. It is important to choose an amplifier that has a frequency response that is compatible with the frequency response of the subwoofer. This will ensure that the amplifier is able to deliver the correct amount of power to the subwoofer at all frequencies.
Sensitivity: The sensitivity of a subwoofer is a measure of how efficiently it converts power into sound. It is generally a good idea to choose an amplifier with a higher power output for a subwoofer with a lower sensitivity rating, and vice versa.
By considering these factors, you can select a subwoofer and amplifier that are well-matched and will work together to deliver the best possible performance for your audio system.