Single 5-Channel Amp vs..(Upgrade Direction)

Hey guys, right now I have 2x10 Alpine Type S (SWS-1043) powered by a Alpine MRP500 with a Kenwood DNX-6160 HU.

In the future relatively near future, i'd like to upgrade to component speakers, as well as put in a set of Image Dynamic Subs.

Question being, is the MRP500+Type S's worth upgrading? Should I keep the MRP500 and add ID subs?

Lastly, I'd like to run a pair of amps for the speakers + subs, BUT space is kind of a premium on a dual 10" sub box, and I don't like the idea of putting amplifiers under the seats. Should I consider going to a 5-channel amp, such as the Alpine PDX-5? Or am i just wasting money than?

Thoughts?


References:

Alpine SWS-1043

Alpine SWS1043D / SWS-1043D / SWS-1043D 10 DVC Car Subwoofer

http://www.amazon.com/Alpine-SWS104...1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1332949121&sr=1-1

Alpine MRP-500
http://www.amazon.com/MRP-M500-Alpi...1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1332949092&sr=1-1


5-Channel Alpine Amps
http://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=sr_in_-2_p_4_0?rh=n%3A172282%2Ck%3A5+channel+amp%2Cp_72%3A1248879011%2Cp_4%3AAlpine&bbn=172282&keywords=5+channel+amp&ie=UTF8&qid=1332948462&rnid=15784691#/ref=sr_nr_p_n_condition-type_0?rh=n%3A172282%2Ck%3A5+channel+amp%2Cp_72%3A1248879011%2Cp_4%3AAlpine%2Cp_n_condition-type%3A2224371011&bbn=172282&keywords=5+channel+amp&ie=UTF8&qid=1332948481&rnid=2224369011

 

I personally would keep the amp, I have an MRP 300, but definitely replace the subs. I had a Type-S in my truck, and couldn't get the performance out of it that I wanted. I ended up blowing the sub trying to get it where I wanted. Swapped it out for a JL 10" w1v2 and what a difference. Much better bass, and clearer too. I've never run ID subs, but IMO, anything is better than the Type S subs.

I have my sub amp under my seat, but if you have the space between the sub boxes, go for it. As for powering my main speakers, currently I'm using my Alpine deck, but I just purchased the add-on power pack. Boosts power to the speakers to 45W per channel. I can let you know what I think of that when I get it in this weekend.

But honestly, the biggest difference I made so far in my mains, is running my own speaker cable. I spent a little over an hour last night running 14ga. wire through the grommets in the doors, bypassing the factory wiring and the crossovers they have in the system. Really opened up the bottom and top ends on the speakers, giving them more life. Can't wait for the power-pack now, as it should be icing on the cake at this point.

 

IMO, the "problem" with type S subs (and many others) is a too-small box. But that doesnt make them viable in a small box install, which is what we are dealing with here...

My thoughts:

Upgrade subs. I am not saying ID, but there are better options for you.

With your space requirements, you are looking at very few amps that have enough power for a pair of good subs in a small box (more power), so I would probably either add a small 2 channel for the components (unless you are running active...), or if you want matching amps, go to a pair of small amps that will fit on the rack. JL XD made the cut for me and my space requirements - I have the XD600/1 and XD 600/6 that I am using for front speakers and subs.


Also keep in mind that by going to more/bigger amps you may need another or larger power wire (keep track of amps drawn for the amplifiers), and a distribution block, space for wires and RCA cables to plug in, etc.