Car Audio Amplifier

Many people enjoy listening to music while they are driving. Soothing music can calm you after a hectic day. Upbeat music can help to keep you awake during long drives. For some, the stereo that comes from the manufacturer with the car just doesn't provide the desired sound quality or volume they need. In order to customize their audio systems to their own specifications, many enthusiasts turn to aftermarket car stereo parts in order to boost the sound and improve the quality of their car stereo systems. One way that you can improve the volume of music in your car is by installing a car audio amplifier to work with your stereo system.

You may be wondering what a car audio amplifier is and how it is used. In simple terms, a car audio amplifier is a device that is used to deliver an amplified audio signal to the speakers of a car stereo. In original equipment manufacturer stereo systems, the sound often becomes distorted if you turn your speakers up more than halfway. This is because the manufacturers try to cut costs by installing car audio amplifiers that are not extremely high in quality. You may have had this problem in one of your own vehicles. While playing music, the speakers may have made knocking noises or had similar distortion. Most people jump to the conclusion that their speakers need to be replaced. However, this is one of the first signs that you need a new car audio amplifier.

Your car stereo system consists of many parts, wires, and signals that all work together to produce sound. The sounds are inaudible at first and then the car audio amplifier boosts the signal so that sounds enter the audible range and you are able to hear your music, weather reports, or sports scores. The output of the car audio amplifier is measured in watts per channel; more watts means more power, resulting in an increase in volume.

One of the major problems you may experience with a car audio amplifier, whether aftermarket or original equipment manufacturer, is that the amplifier output numbers are often overestimated. When you look for amplifier power figures, you need to understand the terminology being used to be sure you are not taken advantage of financially. Some manufacturers publish a measure of total system power, which is actually a way to add up the watts per channel to reach a total. If you're not aware of this trick, you may buy a car audio amplifier thinking that the watts per channel is a high number when the manufacturer has actually added the watts per channel into one number. Another problem you may encounter is that manufacturers will place a peak power number on the car audio amplifier package. This peak number is the bes the amplifier will possibly perform if all of the right conditions are met. It is not a true reflection of the amplifier's average performance. Always look for a watts per channel number so that you know exactly what you're getting.

There are a few tips you should follow when buying a car audio amplifier. The first is to compare several different brands and models before you make your selection. If you make a purchase without considering the function of that particular model, you may be disappointed with your new car audio amplifier. You should also have a budget for your amplifier in mind before you begin shopping. If you have a price range established, you can avoid viewing amplifiers that are way out of your price range and save time while you shop. To find the best car audio amplifier, read online reviews, talk to friends who have purchased amplifiers, or ask for recommendations from a car audio professional. Getting information from different sources will help you to purchase the best car audio amplifier for your needs.

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  1. Good article, its basic but at least it contains good information especially the part I'll quote below.

    "Some manufacturers publish a measure of total system power, which is actually a way to add up the watts per channel to reach a total."

    Remember when reading amplifier power output the PEAK power rating is an advertising number they picked out of test's they run on there systems, basically PEAK power if the max amount of power in a microsecond they were able to push through the device, however in real life operation this means nothing since you are looking to push a consistent amount of power through your system.

    Read what's known as the RMS ratings of the devices for the real consistent power outputs of amplifiers and subwoofers.