5-channel amp or 4-channel and mono?

Right now I'm looking for a 5-channel amp, something around 100 to each speaker and 500-600 to the subs. But I'm a little confused about why mostly everyone goes for 4-channel amps? How I see it is 2 for the front, 2 in the rear and 1 for the subs but would I be justified to use a 5-channel?

What I'm looking at now is the Alpine PDX-V9 or the Planet Audio 1800w
But would I be better off getting a 4-channel and a mono amp for the subs? I'm just worried about space under my seats and I know the alpine would fit but that's about it.

Thanks in advance!

 

Most times, when people choose a second mono amp, to go with a 4-channel, is that the mono amp will put out more power. In my case, I wanted something that would put out around 1200w, and a 5-channel wouldn't do that. So I went with an Alpine PDX-F4 that I have bridged to run the fronts at 220w, and 1200w from my PDX-M12 for my two 12" subs. If all you're looking for is 5-600w for the sub, then a good 5-channel will do you just right. As you mentioned the PDX-V9 would be a good fit, as would the JL HD900/5. Either one would fit easily under the seat, and provide the wattage that you're looking for.

In case you're wondering, I've bridged the 4-channel in my system to get better sound out of my front stage, and I'm just running the rear speakers off of my deck.

 

We have a very nice 5 channel hybrid amp.
Class A/B 4x90@ 4 ohm/ 2 ohm stable with Class D 500wrms @ 2 ohms sub channel.

 

I have had the Alpine you mention. AMAZINGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG AMP

 

Would you say in your opinion doubling the wattage was worth it?

 

Flexibility for any future upgrades is another plus for seperate amps. Can always upgrade/modify one or the other independantly as your mod bug hits. Downside is running two sets of wiring and finding two spots to install.

I've run it both ways. Currently using a 5 channel setup, for ease of install. But in the past I've built my system in pieces so for that I ended up with seperate amps. I found that tuning is a bit easier with a single amp to, not a big deal though.

 

For me, yes. I'm running two 12" Shok Triton subs, that I could easily feed 1200w each. They are power hungry subs. But 1200w does it for me.

 

I've installed 5 of those PDXv9 amps into Tacoma's and not one issue or complaint about them. I run the 600watt mono PDX to a Type R 12 shallow and it pushes the sub extremely hard. No issues and I'll run it in the summer, in Az, windows down with no AC at all. Never had heating issues.

 

Alpine PDX-V9
Rocking this amp in my truck. Beast!
Audio:
Entune Head Unit
Hybrid Audio Technologies Door Speakers www.hybrid-audio.com
JL Audio TW5 13.5" Sub
Alpine PDX-V9
Arc Audio PS8 Processor
Custom Sub Box and Amp Rack Courtesy Of Mr. Marv!
Raammat Sound Deadener Throughout The Cab

 

How deep is the stock head unit?
Did you lose your steering controls when you switched? Looks like a sick setup!

 

Not sure how deep the head unit is because I didn't have to touch it. Everything still works because I used the processor. Was kind of a PITA to wire up because you have to keep the jbl amp wired up for the head unit to work with aftermarkets speakers and amp.

 

Wanted a total stock look which I accomplished that. It sounds badass! Totally pleased.

 

So how do you do all that with the stock head unit? That's what I want to do again, but keep the stock head unit

 

You need a processor and you have to wire it a certain way to the jbl amp. I will be glad to help as much as I can.

 

I have a non JBL Entune radio in my new TRD Sport.

 

Oh ok, then the processor wired to the back of your head unit will do the trick. Should be an easier process.

 

Recommend a processor?

 

Depends on how particular your are about the sound quality and how much money you want to spend. I went with this one because it was recommended but it's pricey. Works really well. http://www.arcaudio.com/c/processors_digital-sound-processors

 

So if I replace the head unit... do I need a processor as well?
The only time i've ever done anything close to what im about to do now is when I installed type r speakers and an adequate head unit in my dads '78 Camaro...

 

That case no processor needed.