How to set gains on amp so that my 250 rms amp wont fry my single 150 watt sub?

Question

The 2 channel Amp is bridged and delivers 250 rms

I have 1 single sub with 150 rms.

I want to set my head unit and amp so that when I turn the volume all the way up, I can play my single sub at its max without blowing it out.

No, I don't have a multimeter and I'd like to max it out at 10% more than the rms.

& no I don't want to use only 1 channel since 1 channel only delivers 85 rms

Answer 1

turn the gain and bass all the way down on the amp. turn the volume up to where you want (max in your case) then adjust the gain level form there....when it sarts to distort, turn it back some.

the only issue i can see with this is if the recording quality varies form cd to mp3 or whatever....you will not be able to get more volume if you need.

the other way is to make the box for the sub smaller...this will allow it to handle more power.

Answer 2

You can but (or borrow) a meter from Radio $hack for $15.

Setting the gain by ear is the worst way possible.

There was a experiment where 15 pro audio shops were given the task to set a specific setup by ear. Only 2 had it set within tolerances of  actual measurement. The other 13 had the system clipping while 3 had the system severely clipping.

The purpose of the gain is to match the signal volts RMS coming from the source (CD player, etc.) to the input of the amp to prevent clipping (damage by over powering).

Here is a guide that will help you set the gain correctly http://www.datafilehost.com/download.php...

You'll need a multi-meter (AC voltmeter), Microsoft Excel and a way to burn an audio CD from an MP3.

If you don't have Excel, use this link http://www.box.net/shared/nkkw1dhk4g

See my site for more info http://spkrbox1.spaces.live.com

Answer 3

Here is a great link I got from MDC...its a step by step guide to setting your gains  http://www.bcae1.com/gaincon2.htm