Reference X2 monoblocks and the full-range Nighthawk
Arc Audio is a reference brand, and one we compete with. These are the amps we reach for when the build is judged on sound quality: the X2 monoblocks for a controlled subwoofer stage, and the Nighthawk full-range two-channel for a front stage that measures 0.005% THD at its best.
The X2 series is the high-performance line, two frequency-limited Class D monoblocks that strap master-and-slave for double output into one sub. The Nighthawk is the compact two-channel, the Blackbird chassis without the onboard DSP, built for a reference front stage. The wider Arc range is in the full Arc Audio collection.
Building a reference system with Arc? Tell us the drivers and the goal, and we will match the amp to the stage and the impedance before you buy.
Authorized Dealer
Every amplifier is brand new with the full manufacturer warranty.
Power Matching
Send us your subwoofer or speaker specs. We'll recommend the right amplifier at the right impedance before you buy.
Hands-On Expertise
Direct support from staff who designs, builds, and competes with these systems. Honest recommendations, not upsells.
Fast Shipping from TN
In-stock orders ship within 1-2 business days from our Tullahoma, Tennessee warehouse.
Arc Audio is a reference brand, and it is one we compete with. The amps here are the ones we reach for when the build is judged on sound quality: the X2 monoblocks for a controlled subwoofer stage, and the Nighthawk full-range two-channel for a front stage that measures 0.005% THD at its best. This is amplification you buy once, matched to a system that earns it.
The X2 series is the high-performance line. Both monoblocks are frequency-limited Class D built for bass and midbass only, and both strap master-and-slave so two amps run one load in unison. The Nighthawk is the newer compact two-channel, the same chassis as the Blackbird DSP amp without the onboard processing, built for a reference front stage.
The Arc Audio Lineup, Spec by Spec
The Arc amps we stock in this collection, with power and dimensions verified against the manufacturer. Two-channel power is per channel at 4 ohm with the 2 ohm figure in parentheses; the monoblocks show their 4, 2 and 1 ohm ratings. The broader Arc range is in the full Arc Audio collection.
Model
Channels
Class
Power (RMS)
Dimensions L×W×H (in)
Price
X2 650.1
Monoblock
D
185W @ 4Ω / 350W @ 2Ω / 650W @ 1Ω
9.02 × 6.27 × 2.16
$568.00
Nighthawk
2-channel
D
2 × 250W @ 4Ω (400W @ 2Ω)
10.35 × 6.0 × 2.0
$699.99
X2 1100.1
Monoblock
D
350W @ 4Ω / 600W @ 2Ω / 1100W @ 1Ω
13.0 × 6.27 × 2.16
$758.00
The X2 monoblocks are frequency-limited to roughly 10 to 230Hz, so they are subwoofer and midbass amps, not full-range. Both strap to double the output into one load, a pair of 1100.1s makes 2200W into a single sub. The Nighthawk runs full-range from 10Hz to 32kHz and bridges to 800W x 1 for a sub. Every model publishes its full crossover and distortion figures on its product page.
The X2 monoblocks: the bass stage
Two Class D subwoofer amps with the X2 series control. The X2 650.1 (650W at 1 ohm) suits a single sub, and the X2 1100.1 (1100W at 1 ohm) drives a harder-hitting build, with the strapping circuit on hand when one amp is not enough. Both are frequency-limited to bass and midbass. See monoblock amplifiers and Class D amplifiers.
The Nighthawk: the reference front stage
A full-range two-channel, 250W a channel at 4 ohm and 800W bridged, in the Blackbird chassis without the onboard DSP. THD sits at 0.005% at its best and under 0.02% from a tenth of a watt to 200 watts, which is why it belongs on a front stage. See 2-channel amplifiers.
Reference-grade amplification. The X2 series is a high-performance line of frequency-limited subwoofer monoblocks with a strapping circuit for combined output, and the Nighthawk is a compact full-range two-channel that measures 0.005% THD at its best. Arc is a brand judged on sound quality, and it is one we compete with.
Which Arc amp do I use for a subwoofer?
One of the X2 monoblocks. The X2 650.1 makes 650W at 1 ohm for a single sub, and the X2 1100.1 makes 1100W at 1 ohm for more output. Both are frequency-limited to bass and midbass, both are 1-ohm stable, and both strap to double the power into one load. Match the amp's power at your wired impedance to the sub's RMS rating.
What does amplifier strapping mean on the X2 series?
Strapping is a master-slave mode that ties two identical amps together to drive one subwoofer load in unison, roughly doubling the output. A pair of X2 1100.1s makes about 2200 watts into a single sub. It is a growth path: start with one amp, add a matched second amp later without changing the driver.
Is the Nighthawk full-range?
Yes. Unlike the X2 monoblocks, which are limited to bass and midbass, the Nighthawk runs full-range from 10Hz to 32kHz, which is what makes it a front-stage amp. It is 250W a channel at 4 ohm, bridges to 800W for a sub, and uses the same chassis as the Blackbird DSP amp without the onboard processing.
Does the Nighthawk have a built-in DSP?
No. The Nighthawk shares the Blackbird chassis but leaves out the onboard DSP, so it is the choice when you already run a separate processor or a source unit with tuning. If you want the processing built into the amp, that is the Blackbird instead. Either way, plan a DSP into a reference active build.
Do you carry more Arc Audio amps than these?
Yes. This collection is the amplifiers we stock in the amp category; the wider Arc Audio range, including speakers and subwoofers, is in the full Arc Audio collection. If you are after a specific Arc model that is not listed here, contact us and we will tell you what we can get.
Are these new with manufacturer warranty?
Yes. Every Arc Audio amplifier sold as new is brand new, from an authorized dealer, and carries the full manufacturer warranty. We handle warranty claims directly with the brand.
Speakers Worth Amping
Components Built for These Amplifiers
Speaker systems that respond to clean amplifier power. The amplifiers above have the headroom; these components have the resolution to use it.
A DSP gives you crossovers, EQ, time alignment, and signal routing in a single unit. The amplifier delivers the power; the DSP makes the system actually sound right.
These subwoofers match the power and impedance characteristics of the amplifiers in this collection. Pick the driver, match the wiring, get a system that performs as designed.
These subwoofers match the power and impedance characteristics of the amplifiers in this collection. Pick the driver, match the wiring, get a system that performs as designed.
