Amps: 5 channel vs 4ch+Mono, plus mounting advice

I’m planning out audio upgrades for my 2017 SR DC as the stock system is underwhelming to say the least. Functionally, and assuming same to similar rms output, is there much difference between going with a 5 channel amp vs a 4ch and a mono amp for sub(s)? Specifically I’m thinking a Kicker cx600.5 or an alpine power pack and a 300w mono amp (haven’t figured that part yet).


I’m definitely adding a subwoofer behind the rear passenger bench, ive got two kids in car seats so I’d much rather take the space i can’t get to vs the drivers side. Planning for no more than 300w rms. I’m 90% sure I’m doing the kicker tweeters and maybe the door speakers if I don’t think the tweets and a sub alone does enough.

I’d also really like to mount the amp in the bin under the rear bench on the passenger side. Any thoughts on that location?

 

I would go with a 5ch for what you're trying to accomplish, fair less complicated and cost effective than running 2 amps.

 

The taco tunes 5 channel amp and their subwoofer setup is awesome. It is about 2 hours of an install and you'll be golden. Its also not that difficult on the wallet.

 

It's really a trade-off, depends on what is important to you.

- easier to install a single amp
- easier to upgrade one or the other with 2, as your needs/desires change

I've done both ways and am good right now with a single 4+1 for the simplicity, but if I tended to change/upgrade more often, my mind could easily change to the other.

 

If you are trying to save space then go with a single amp. But 5 channel amps can be a bit on the larger side...

If you want you would get some low rms high sensitivity speakers and power them with an alpine powerpack, and then you could get the new audio control LCM to power a sub. Both are really small and can be tucked away easily. The LCM can probably be mounted to the top of the box.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vb6L4ky56vw&list=PLgpoOVEheqIxaaBIsUHTldVpEeNVYF6NE&index=70&t=0s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2dCXRGp-nEc

 

Same here. Used to run the alpine powerpack tucked above the glove box and a mono amp for the sub behind the rear cubby. Switched it out to a 5ch in the same location for simplicity and more power to the speakers.

 

For 500w rms or less on the sub output, there is no need for multiple amps these days. Search around (i'm not supporting buy-n-large by providing 'them' a direct link) and find an Alpine PDX V9 on sale if you want a really nice, great looking amp that doesn't need a lot of current. The sound is completely perfect, and its all on your speakers with these PDX's. You can always turn keep the gain lower if you don't need all the power. Mount it under the seat and be done with it.

Derek Big D Wiz also tested and was ok with the Pioneer GM-D9605 and Kenwood X801-5 - these are a little less costly, have good output and sound good.

Another youtuber I found also tested the latest Infinity Kappa series amp with an amp dyno- it did slightly more than its rating. I ran Infinity Kappa amps back in the day and was really happy (I should have never sold the 202a and 54a)- they're also easier on the wallet. Infinity Kappa k5 is $300 at Crutchfield, and is right at the power range you want.

 

I'm going with a full set up soon too. Taco tunes makes it a no brainer for me. I've wired dozens of systems and the simplicity/ quality balance seems best for my needs.