Amplifiers

FAQs

• What does an amplifier do in a car?

  An amp supplies clean, stable power to your speakers and subwoofers. This boosts clarity, increases dynamic range, and eliminates distortion that factory head units can’t handle at higher volumes. While factory stereos have small built-in amplifiers, they often lack the current needed to drive speakers at high volumes without "clipping" or distorting the sound. By providing a clean, high-wattage output, a dedicated amplifier allows your music to sound clearer and more dynamic, ensuring that even at high speeds or with the windows down, the audio remains crisp and impactful.

• What's the difference between a 1-channel and 4-channel amp?

  A 1-channel (monoblock) amplifier is specifically designed to provide high power to a single output, like a subwoofer, whereas a 4-channel amplifier is designed to power multiple full-range speakers simultaneously to create a complete stereo soundstage.

• How do I choose an amplifier?

  Choosing the right car amplifier requires matching the number of channels to your speaker configuration and ensuring the power output aligns with your hardware's requirements. You should start by selecting an architecture: a monoblock (1-channel) amp is dedicated to subwoofers, a 4-channel is standard for powering front and rear door speakers, and a 5-channel offers an all-in-one solution for an entire system. Most importantly, you must match the amplifier’s RMS power output—not the "peak" or "max" rating—to the RMS handling of your speakers at a specific impedance, such as 2 ohms or 4 ohms. For the best results, look for an amplifier that provides approximately 75% to 150% of your speakers' rated power to ensure clean, undistorted "headroom," and prioritize Class D designs for high efficiency and a compact footprint in modern vehicles.

• What are the benefits of a class D amplifier?

  AudioControl amplifiers are class D amplifiers. Class D car amplifiers are highly prized for their exceptional efficiency, often exceeding 90%, which allows them to produce massive power while drawing significantly less current from your vehicle's electrical system than traditional designs. Because they dissipate very little energy as heat, they can be housed in incredibly compact chassis that fit easily in tight spaces like under seats or behind panels without the risk of overheating. This combination of a small footprint, high output, and cool operation makes them the ideal choice for modern car audio systems.