Sub/Speaker Amplifier compatibility?

Question

I am looking to get a new sub box with 2 8" kicker subs rated at 100rms each(200 pair). I currently have an aftermarket head unit that says it pushes 52watts to my stock speakers. I want to know which amp(style & wattage) to use for my new subs and possibly upgraded speakers in the near future.

Thanks in advance

Answer 1

Well, for one your head unit isn't pushing 52 watts as that's the PEAK rating. The HU is pushing more like 15 watts RMS per speaker.

All you need for the subs is the right amp to push the full 200 watts RMS with the subs wired together. When you wire subs together, you have two options to do so..parallel or series.

Parallel wiring will half the ohm load presented to the amp IF the subs are the same. If the subs are 4 ohm then when wired parallel will be 2 ohm to the amp so you will need a 200 watt RMS @ 2 ohm amp.

Series wiring will double (or add the ohm load) of the subs. Two 4 ohm would be 8 ohm. With this style of wiring you can get a 400 watt @ 4 ohm amp which will push 200 watts @ 8 ohm and will have a bit better sound quality.

More info here http://spkrbox1.spaces.live.com