Amplifier gain?

Question

In a car stereo amplifier , do you achieve less distortion by turning the gain up- or down? Does the amp work harder at low gain to reproduce bass, for example?

Answer 1

if you have ...say 4v preouts on your radio, then you should set the gain to match. use a digital multi meter to see this. you should get 4v at you sub.

usually around 1/2 is ok...never go over 3/4.

Answer 2

: Setting the "gain" or input sensitivity control is an important adjustment common to all amplifier installations. Proper gain setting helps reduce noise and distortion and allows for the widest possible dynamic range. Here's how to do it:

Turn your amplifier's input level controls all the way down.

Put in a tape or CD or tune in a radio station. Turn up your receiver's volume control. You'll begin to hear music at faint levels. (Audiophiles and sound competitors may want to use a dedicated test disc.

When you start hearing distortion, lower your receiver's volume control until the distortion disappears. At this point, you have as much signal as possible passing from your receiver into your amp. (This gives you maximum signal-to-noise ratio, so you'll enjoy clean sound and your system will be less prone to engine noise problems).

Now begin adjusting your amp's input gain. Turn the input level controls up until the system is as loud as you can stand it or until you begin hearing distortion — whichever comes first. If you hear distortion, decrease the gain settings slightly.