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Amp help

Discussion in 'Audio & Video' started by HeadTaco, May 6, 2009.

  1. May 6, 2009 at 1:55 PM
    #1
    HeadTaco

    HeadTaco [OP] PIMP

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    What kind of amp would i need for my setup? I have a 2006 Toyota tacoma DC, I am running 2 6x9 Kickers up front and would like to run a Elemental Design SQ10 for my sub. Here are the specs for the 6x9:

    3-way 6" x 9" car speakers
    Power Handling:
    Peak: 280 watts per pair / 140 watts each
    RMS: 140 watts per pair / 70 watts each

    SQ10:
    Power Handling : 125/250 WRms

    I am new to all this so please help me out. I am able to install all this i'm just not good with the actual specs. Should i get a 2 channel? What is a good (cheap) amp that would work just right for my spoeakers? Thanks in advance for your help.
     
  2. May 6, 2009 at 2:02 PM
    #2
    tacoma08MZ

    tacoma08MZ Well-Known Member

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    im in the same exact boat as you right now, minus the sub. i need a nice amp to power my new 6x9s and 5 1/4s but know nothing about amps! im sure someone will chime in for us
     
  3. May 6, 2009 at 2:08 PM
    #3
    atsaubrey

    atsaubrey Dealer/Sales Rep for Sundown Audio.

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    You going to need a 4 channel or 2 2 channels or a 2 channel and a monoblock. Basically your going to need 2 channels for the 6x9's and a mono signal for the sub. Lots of choices out there but the Alpine PDX seems very popular in the Tacos because of its small size. I do have a PDX 4.100 for sale if your interested.

    Now for the other guy, your going to need 5 channels. 4 channels for each door speaker and a mono signal for your sub. I would recommend the Alpine PDX 5 channel in your situation.
     
  4. May 6, 2009 at 2:23 PM
    #4
    HeadTaco

    HeadTaco [OP] PIMP

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    Thanks for the help! What if i just want to power the sub, would i use a mono sub? How many watts should i get?
     
  5. May 6, 2009 at 2:28 PM
    #5
    GoBlueFan

    GoBlueFan Well-Known Member

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    Depends on the sub. A mono amp with anything over 200 watts will get it done no problem. A lot depends on your music, listening habits and what you expect to get out of it after it's installed.

    Do you have a stock head unit? Aftermarket? That will make a difference on the amp requirements due to the type of input it will take from the head unit.

    You can also get a 2 channel amp that is capable of running tri-mode. Meaning, it will power the front door speakers AND power your sub. You'll be needing passive crossovers to seperate your highs and mids from your lows.
     
  6. May 6, 2009 at 2:33 PM
    #6
    GoBlueFan

    GoBlueFan Well-Known Member

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    A nice solid 4 channel will take care of this no problem. How much are you looking to spend?
     
  7. May 6, 2009 at 2:52 PM
    #7
    HeadTaco

    HeadTaco [OP] PIMP

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    I have an aftermarket Jensen VM9512. I'm willing to spend no more than $200 on an amp. I dont know much about watts and ohmss:notsure:. Do I look for the RMS at 2 ohms or 4 ohms when shopping for an amp?
     
  8. May 6, 2009 at 3:45 PM
    #8
    GoBlueFan

    GoBlueFan Well-Known Member

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    That will depend on what ohm load your speakers are. But from what I can tell so far, 4 ohm is what you are paying attention to.


    It would be easy to pick out an amp for about 100-125 bucks no problem.
    Take a look:
    http://www.onlinecarstereo.com/CarAudio/ProductList.aspx?CategoryID=3
     
  9. May 6, 2009 at 4:01 PM
    #9
    HeadTaco

    HeadTaco [OP] PIMP

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    Thanks for the help! Any brand you recommend?
     
  10. May 6, 2009 at 4:32 PM
    #10
    GoBlueFan

    GoBlueFan Well-Known Member

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    Step bars, billet grill with custom TOYOTA, MB Quart RSI 216 components, Hifonics ZXi 4410, RAAMmat deadened doors/back wall/roof covered with ensolite , 24" Magnaflow muffler, hand polished stock exhaust tip, tinted, OEM TRD Bilstiens all around with 1/4" spacers up front to level it out. Sport wheels added.

    At that price point, it won't really matter. Pick one you like the look of that fits your requirements. I'd try to get the most bang for your buck.

    I've used Hifonics over the years with very good success. Currently have a 5-channel that I've been running for almost 6 years.

    My next amp will be an MB Quart 4 channel to power all my Quart speakers.
     
  11. May 6, 2009 at 4:42 PM
    #11
    atsaubrey

    atsaubrey Dealer/Sales Rep for Sundown Audio.

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    Wow I just thought of something. I know where to get my hands on some quality (seriously) 50wrms x4 amps on the cheap cheap. Probably be perfect for you....or heck 2 for the price your looking to spend. I know most guys would say your not going to get quality for under $100 an amp but trust me on this one. ;) I have been looking for a reason to buy up a bunch of these, might have found my market. Super budget systems! :D

    I know I am going to get a million pm's or posts on this, but lets just say I know the amp builder ;)
     
  12. May 6, 2009 at 5:16 PM
    #12
    brian

    brian Another Traitor

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    Any alpine 4 channel will do ya. I used to run my components with an 2 channel 240 watt alpine even. They're a bit more cost effective and produce good quality. I'm about to dump a couple bucks on one I just saw on CL. If you want to spend a little more and get the best quality.... look into JL amps.

    For your subwoofer you should definitely run an amp with "Class D" circuitry.... commonly referred to as monoblocks. They are more efficient and are less likely to dim your lights when used without a capacitor inline. JL, Alpine, Rockford Fosgate, JBL and Phoenix Gold are my preferences on the mainstream market.
     

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