How to Make a Car Class D Amplifier More Powerful

Class-D amplifiers are designed for high-power applications in the car. They're especially well-suited to driving speakers that require a lot of power, such as subwoofers. As with any amplifier, the user should be concerned about achieving the best possible performance from the amplifier, ensuring that the amplifier is operating at the peak of efficiency and producing the most power that it can, within the parameters of its design.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Class-D amplifier
• Subwoofers
• Power cable
• Capacitor

1. Use the largest possible power cable. The amplifier's power output is directly affected by supply of power it receives from the car's electrical system. A high powered amp needs a large, steady supply of voltage, and this is best supplied by a large gauge power cable. Check the amplifier's specs to see what gauge power wire is suggested, and what is the maximum size of cable the power terminals can accept. If your power cable is not up to these standards, replace it.

2. Add a capacitor to the power supply. Capacitors store energy for quick release. If your car's electrical system can't keep up with the power demands of your amplifier when it is playing loudly, a capacitor is in order. If your car's lights dim when bass passages are loud, this is a clear indication you need a capacitor.

3. Change to lower impedance speakers. Amplifier output is directly affected by the impedance of the speakers--the lower the impedance, the higher the power output. Check your amplifier's specifications for the minimum impedance the amplifier will handle, and change your speakers to models with a lower impedance if possible.