Car Amplifiers

The right amplifier size depends on your speakers' power handling and impedance. For most car speakers, look for an amplifier that delivers 75-100% of your speakers' RMS power rating. For example, if you have 100W RMS speakers, choose an amplifier that outputs 75-100W RMS per channel. For subwoofers, you can safely use an amplifier with up to 150% of the subwoofer's RMS rating for optimal performance.

Class A amplifiers offer the purest sound quality with minimal distortion, perfect for audiophiles but less efficient. Class AB amplifiers provide a balance between sound quality and efficiency, ideal for most car audio systems. Class D amplifiers are the most efficient, running cooler and using less power, making them perfect for subwoofers and high-power applications. Most modern car amplifiers use Class D technology for their superior efficiency and compact size.

It depends on your audio setup: Monoblock (1-channel) is perfect for powering a single subwoofer. 2-channel amplifiers are ideal for a pair of speakers or bridging to power one subwoofer. 4-channel amplifiers are the most versatile, perfect for powering front and rear speakers or using 2 channels for speakers and 2 for a subwoofer. 6+ channel amplifiers are for complete system builds with multiple speakers and subwoofers.

Yes, many car amplifiers can be installed by DIY enthusiasts with basic tools and electrical knowledge. You'll need to run power wire from the battery, ground wire to the chassis, and signal cables from your head unit. However, for complex installations, high-power systems, or if you're uncomfortable with electrical work, we recommend professional installation to ensure optimal performance and safety.

RMS (Root Mean Square) power is the continuous power an amplifier can deliver safely - this is the most important rating for performance. Peak power is the maximum power an amplifier can produce for very short bursts. Always focus on RMS ratings when choosing an amplifier, as this represents real-world performance. A 500W RMS amplifier will consistently outperform a 1000W peak amplifier in actual use.

Match your amplifier's RMS output to your subwoofer's RMS power handling at the correct impedance. For example, if you have a 500W RMS subwoofer at 4 ohms, choose an amplifier that delivers around 500W RMS at 4 ohms. Also consider your subwoofer's impedance (2, 4, or 8 ohms) and ensure your amplifier is stable at that impedance. Monoblock amplifiers are specifically designed for subwoofers and offer the best performance.

Most quality car amplifiers come with a 1-2 year manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Premium brands often offer extended warranties up to 3-5 years. At Audio Intensity, we stand behind every amplifier we sell and will help you with any warranty claims. Always register your amplifier with the manufacturer after installation to ensure full warranty coverage.

While most head units have built-in amplifiers, they typically only produce 15-25W RMS per channel - insufficient for quality speakers or any subwoofer. A dedicated external amplifier provides 50-500W+ RMS per channel, delivering dramatically better sound quality, volume, and clarity. If you want to truly experience your music with proper bass and clear highs, an external amplifier is essential for any serious car audio system.