How to Purchase Matching Amplifiers and Subwoofers

Car subwoofers and amplifier

Adding an amplifier and a subwoofer to your car is a great way to improve the sound, whatever your taste in music is. To get the best performance out of your subwoofer, it's important to power it properly with the right amplifier. Here's how to go about picking the right amp.

Things You'll Need

• Internet access
• Electronics store
• Car audio catalogs

Instructions

How to Purchase Matching Amplifiers and Subwoofers

1. Access shopping resources for subwoofers and amplifiers. Examples of these includes websites, like crutchfield.com and cartoys.com, local stores specializing in car audio or catalogs of car audio gear.

2. Shop for your subwoofer first. There are a lot of factors to consider in selecting a subwoofer, including the space you have available, the kind of music you listen to and your budget.

3. Once you've decided upon a subwoofer, note the RMS power handling. Don't be mislead by "peak" power ratings. The RMS rating is an accurate rating of the power the subwoofer can handle continuously, and is the important number to consider.

4. When selecting an amplifier for your subwoofer, consider the RMS power output of the amplifier. To get good subwoofer performance, be sure that the RMS power output is at least 75% of the rated power of the subwoofer. Too little, and you won't get the sound output you want from your sub. It's OK if your amp produces more RMS output than your sub's rating. Up to 125% is perfectly OK.

5. Look for other features that will give you the most flexibility in configuring and using your amplifier. Adjustable low-pass filters and a subsonic filter are both excellent options.

Tips & Warnings

• For the best performance, use the proper wiring as suggested by the amp manufacturer when you install the amp.

• When installing an amplifier, be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for installation, and disconnect your battery when installing your gear.