Will i need a higher quality battery or alternator if i buy an audio system that puts about 1000rms?

Question

its a small compact sporty car. 4 cylinders stock alternator and battery specs. i was wondering if i'll have to change anything if i have a system that puts out 1000W rms. the alternator produces 105 amps

Answer 1

At approx 100 amp, that comes out to 1200 watt.

So you are cutting it close.  I just would not pump up the volume at night with the headlights on.

good Luck...

Answer 2

i would get a 1 farad capacitor... instead of getting a battery... it would be alot cheaper... can usually snatch one up for $30-$40

Answer 3

If your total system power is 1000 watts RMS or more,  you will need to:

1. Upgrade the alternator to a high output alternator

2. Upgrade to a heavy duty deep cycle battery

3. Upgrade the "Big 3" - that is to replace (or add to) the power wire between the battery and alternator, the ground from the battery to the chassis and the ground strap from the engine/tranny to the chassis with at least 2 AWG wire.

Failure to do this will result in the early death of the alternator  as it will eventually fail.

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A second battery is never a good idea as it's an added strain on the alternator to charge two batteries AND supply power for the car. The ONLY time a second battery is useful is if the audio system is to be used with the car off.

A capacitor is only good so far as the audio system isn't trying to pull too much from the electrical system. A cap doesn't provide more power, it's designed to 'stiffen' the voltage to the amp, nothing else. If the current isn't there, a cap won't help.

The alternator must have at least 20% more amperage power than the entire vehicle and sound system combined for a cap to be of benefit which is ironically the same requirements for an amp to be efficient.

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Answer 4

I'd go ahead and upgrade the alternator.  It's not just the head lights you need to be concerned with.  You've got your heater in the winter and A/C in the summer that consumes a ton of power, ECM, ignition system, etc.