To obtain high-quality sound, you need to supplement the audio system with a car amplifier. This device will allow the speakers to produce a full range of frequencies. Therefore, instruments that were previously unheard will appear in already familiar melodies. The choice of car amplifier must be made based on the needs and the planned system. According to this criterion, they are divided into one-, two-, three-, four- and five-channel. Each of them has its own characteristics and is optimal in specific cases. The rating of the best car amplifiers, which presents the most preferred models, judging by the reviews of car owners, will help you decide on the choice of device.
Best Inexpensive Amplifiers (Single Channel)
A single-channel amplifier differs from conventional amplifiers in that it has an output to only one channel. They are not suitable for anything other than woofers. Therefore, they are also called subwoofer monoblocks. Their entire design is focused solely on enhancing and improving the sound of low frequencies. Among the features of this type of amplifiers are the following:
- Converts any signal to mono mode. Even if a stereo signal is supplied to it from the radio, it sums it up and produces a mono signal at the output that goes to the subwoofer.
- A high-pass filter is required. With its help, all frequencies belonging to the range located above the filter are cut off. This is necessary for better sound quality from the subwoofer.
- The presence in many models of the so-called sabsonic. This filter is designed to cut off ultra-low frequencies located in the range from 5 to 30 Hz. This is very important, because if these frequencies hit the speaker, it can lead to rapid failure. This is especially true for bass reflex subwoofers.
- Very high power. With a 4 Ohm load, the channel power does not drop below 150 W, but more often it is much higher.
EDGE EDA1500.1-E8
This device is a fairly good amplifier for a subwoofer. Its parameters allow you to achieve fairly high-quality sound from a conventional audio system. However, to do this, you need to carefully consider the connection rules, checking all the wiring and making sure that it can handle the power of the amplifier.
Recommended for lovers of high-quality music and deep bass who cannot afford to spend too much on acoustics.
Advantages:
- high power;
- the presence of high and low pass filters;
- presence of a fuse.
Flaws:
- Not everyone will find the dimensions compact.
MAGNUM MAM 1.2000BS
This good single-channel amplifier belongs to the BASIC series. All of its representatives can be considered a reliable basis for the audio system of any car, the total RMS power of which does not exceed 3200 W. The design of the housings in the form of narrow radiators allows you to quickly remove heat and avoid overheating of the device. This also allows you to compactly place a pair of amplifiers (on speakers and on a subwoofer). Stable operation and low distortion levels are ensured by the use of high-tech microcircuits.
Advantages:
- presence of a bass amplifier;
- low distortion;
- reliable overload protection;
- the presence of a low-pass filter;
- high rated power.
Flaws:
- no high pass filter.
Kicx SP 600D
This device can easily claim the title of the best single-channel subwoofer amplifier in the budget segment. And, nevertheless, even belonging to the lowest price segment, it has everything necessary to satisfy the needs of a potential buyer. It has a power-on delay feature. The car amplifier is capable of operating stably at a load of 1 ohm and is equipped with an external signal level control. Thanks to the thick fins, the amplifier is cooled very efficiently.
Advantages:
- sufficient power level;
- the presence of a low-pass filter;
- bass boost function;
- short circuit and overload protection.
Flaws:
- design for everyone.
SWAT M-1.500
This digital amplifier is capable of delivering high power but not very high sound quality. However, when using it for a subwoofer, special quality is not required from the device. The main thing is to play low frequencies well. With a load of 2 Ohms, the amplifier is capable of delivering a power of 500 W, and with a load of 4 Ohms – 300 W. Equipped with a low-pass filter and subsonic.
Advantages:
- good power;
- the presence of a low-pass filter;
- good signal-to-noise ratio.
Flaws:
- The minimum permissible load is 2 ohms.
Best Class A/B Car Amplifiers
Models of this type are characterized by high sound quality and long service life. They have large dimensions and a large number of working channels for connecting various audio equipment, including speakers of any frequency and subwoofers.
Ural BV 4.70
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
93%
buyers recommend this product
The model is made in a solid metal body and has massive stiffening ribs. This improves passive cooling and prevents the device from overloading during full power operation or extended use.
Harmonic distortion is 0.05%, signal-to-noise ratio is 100 dB. The equipment guarantees clear sound output without interference at any volume level. Thanks to the frequency adjustment range from 10 to 8000 Hz, the user has access to the most precise adjustment of the amplifier's operation.
Advantages:
- efficient cooling;
- bass boost mode;
- no interference;
- wide frequency tuning range;
- low pass and high pass filters.
Flaws:
- difficulty of installation.
Ural BV 4.70 is suitable for use in conjunction with an extensive automotive audio output system. An excellent solution for long-term operation at maximum power without the risk of overload.
Kicx SP 4.80AB
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
89%
buyers recommend this product
The model will delight you with four channels and the possibility of a bridge connection. This allows you to split the subwoofer signal into two channels to obtain the most powerful and clear low-frequency sound, or connect an extensive car audio system to the amplifier.
The rated power of the device is 80 W, the coefficient of harmonic distortion is 0.01%. The user can filter low and high frequencies in the ranges of 120-3000 and 50-250 Hertz, respectively, for flexible sound settings.
Advantages:
- bridge mode;
- overload protection;
- high pass and low pass filters;
- sound adjustment;
- no distortion.
Flaws:
- heating during operation.
Kicx SP 4.80AB is recommended for working with multiple audio output devices. A powerful and durable amplifier for loud music lovers.
Blaupunkt GTA 5350
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
89%
buyers recommend this product
The model is characterized by high input sensitivity and the presence of five working channels. The small dimensions of the device ensure ease of installation, and the presence of fuses guarantees protection against voltage surges and short circuits. Frequency adjustment in the range from 10 to 30,000 Hz provides the most precise sound tuning.
The rated power per channel at 4 ohms is 160 W, the signal-to-noise ratio is 90 dB. The Bass Boost feature adds about 12 dB during bass playback, making it easy to tune for bass-heavy songs.
Advantages:
- wide frequency range;
- level filtering;
- five channels;
- high power;
- bass boost.
Flaws:
- an additional cooler is required.
The Blaupunkt GTA 5350 is worth purchasing to pair with an extensive audio system. It will be an excellent choice for owners of powerful subwoofers or a large number of car speakers.
SWAT M-4.65
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
88%
buyers recommend this product
The model has four working channels and extensive filtering capabilities. The two front channels have a high-pass filter in the range from 50 to 5000 Hz, the rear ones are equipped with low-pass controls. This provides flexible setup, clear and surround sound output.
The power per channel at 4 ohms is 65 W, the signal-to-noise ratio is 95 dB. Small dimensions and a durable metal case with stiffening ribs ensure easy installation and efficient cooling of the amplifier.
Advantages:
- compactness;
- ease of installation;
- passive cooling;
- low price;
- long service life.
Flaws:
- requires lengthy setup.
SWAT M-4.65 is an economical and reliable solution for installation anywhere in the cabin. Supports bridged connections with signal output up to 200 W for high-quality music playback in a variety of styles.
EDGE EDA200.4-E7
4.7
★★★★★
editorial assessment
86%
buyers recommend this product
The main feature of the model is a wide frequency adjustment range - from 20 to 20,000 Hz. The amplifier has several levels of protection: from overload, short circuit, overheating. This ensures stable operation of the device in any conditions and extends its service life.
The power per channel at a load of 4 ohms is 150 W, the maximum fuse current is 70 A. Thanks to the bass boost function and flexible low frequency settings, the user can enjoy high-quality music playback in various genres without distortion or wheezing of the speakers.
Advantages:
- reliability;
- ease of installation;
- bridge mode;
- high power;
- Bass Boost function.
Flaws:
- small number of exits.
EDGE EDA200.4-E7 is recommended for use with a subwoofer or multiple powerful speakers - a reliable solution for long-term use.
READ ALSO
15 best car speakers
The best two-channel audio amplifiers
Most often, two-channel amplifiers are used to improve sound in a car or to connect a low-power subwoofer. However, they are not suitable for connecting a more powerful woofer because they do not have enough power to drive them. These devices are compact in size, allowing them to be installed under the seat or in the trunk. Among the features of amplifiers with two channels it is worth noting:
- Possibility of working in single-channel or dual-channel mode.
- Availability of low and high frequency filters. They are necessary to cut off a certain spectrum of frequencies that are incompatible with the range played by the speakers connected to them.
- The presence of a transistor linear output, necessary if there is another amplifier in the system.
- Availability of a high-level input for connection to standard audio systems of various car models.
To connect two-channel acoustics, you need to select an amplifier with power reserves. This will allow you to listen to music in high-quality sound and significantly extend the operation of the amplifier.
Alpine PMX-T320
This good car amplifier for two channels has a power of 2x50 W into a 4 ohm load. With a bridge connection, its power reaches 150 W. Despite the fact that this amplifier belongs to the lower model range, it uses a number of technologies that were previously used only in high-end devices. To eliminate extraneous noise, a special coil is installed in it.
The advantages include:
- compact dimensions;
- good workmanship;
- presence of a low-frequency amplifier;
- the presence of filters with an increased cutoff slope;
- use of high quality components.
Flaws:
- bass boost is not adjusted smoothly, but in steps.
Pioneer GM-A5702
This model has a total power of 1 kW. This allows you to safely use it in most automotive systems. The amplifier is designed to provide easy installation and powerful sound. Supports 2 and 4 ohm speakers.
Recommended for lovers of high-quality sound out of the box, because it has minimal sound customization capabilities.
Advantages:
- decent power;
- the presence of a low-pass filter;
- presence of bass boost.
Flaws:
- minimum filters and settings.
Ural BV 2.70
The amplifier has good power performance both with a load of 2 ohms and with a load of 4 ohms. Equipped with a wide bandpass filter that has independent adjustment of the lower and upper frequency ranges (from 10 Hz to 8 KHz). The high-quality all-metal housing allows for efficient heat dissipation, preventing the device from overheating. Compact dimensions will avoid installation problems. It can even be placed in the car under the seat.
Advantages:
- compact dimensions;
- low cost;
- possibility of customization;
- decent power;
- the presence of high and low pass filters.
Flaws:
- cannot be connected to powerful subwoofers.
Blaupunkt GTA 270
This device is one of the most popular car amplifiers. It is perfect for connecting a pair of speakers or one subwoofer.
This model is recommended for car enthusiasts who want relatively high-quality sound without paying too much money for it. In terms of price-quality ratio, the Blaupunkt GTA 270 is one of the best.
Advantages:
- relatively compact dimensions;
- rated power at 4 Ohm load 2x70 W;
- 200 W bridging capability;
- the presence of high and low pass filters.
Flaws:
- relatively low sensitivity.
Why do you need a car audio amplifier?
Most car radios have internal amplifiers so you can connect speakers to them. However, you generally won't get too much power with this solution, and on top of that, the sound quality may leave a lot to be desired. Therefore, an essential element of any car audio system is an external car amplifier located between the radio and a set of speakers.
Its main job is to convert the low level signal received from the receiver into a high power signal that is fed to the car speakers. The amplifier is essential for those who want to create a solid set that will give them a pleasant experience when listening to music. When making a purchasing decision, you should pay attention to the fact that both the amplifier and the car radio have similar parameters - a weak radio will not improve its quality when connected to a good car amplifier, and in general the sound will not be at the proper level.
The best amplifiers for the car (four-channel)
4-channel amplifiers are necessary for connecting to multi-channel audio systems in order to obtain high quality sound. It can be used to connect four speakers or a pair of speakers and a subwoofer for surround sound. With the help of such devices, you can adjust the most important settings to achieve the desired sound level. They have the following features:
- Due to the presence of a “bridge” connection, you can connect a fairly powerful subwoofer and operate in “stereo” or “mono+stereo” mode.
- The presence of filters with which you can limit the range of frequencies reproduced on the audio system.
- The presence of high-level inputs, which are intended for use of an amplifier in the standard audio systems of most cars.
A high-quality four-channel amplifier can also be equipped with an input switch, which allows you to send a signal from one pair of outputs in the radio to two pairs of speakers. This is true if the car is equipped with a not too expensive radio tape recorder that has only one pair of linear outputs.
Hertz HCP 4
This model belongs to class AB and belongs to the new Compact Power line. One of the main advantages of this device is its versatility. You can connect the amplifier to two pairs of speakers or a pair of subwoofers. You can also use it as a 2.1 amplifier, i.e. connect a pair of speakers and a subwoofer to the front.
Recommended for lovers of high-quality sound who can afford equipment in the above-average price range.
Advantages:
- possibility of connection via a high-level input;
- good power level;
- clear sound;
- presence of a built-in crossover;
- compact sizes.
Flaws:
- the cost is above average.
ACV GX-4.250
This powerful four-channel Class D amplifier has very good performance for installation in almost any system configuration. Its total maximum power reaches 2400 W. Despite its compact size, the device is equipped with all the necessary filters and is capable of producing sound with low distortion.
Advantages:
- excellent power indicators;
- complete remote control;
- good sound quality;
- separate fuse for each channel.
Flaws:
- The regulator may seem flimsy.
Pioneer GM-A4704
This four-channel amplifier has a total power of 520 watts. With it, you can connect either two pairs of speakers, or a pair of speakers and a subwoofer. Its characteristics are such that it will allow you to enjoy listening to music on most audio systems in modern cars.
Advantages:
- good power output;
- simple installation;
- excellent combination of price and features;
- no sound distortion;
- compact dimensions;
- not a bad price.
Flaws:
- It is not possible to connect powerful subwoofers.
EDGE EDA200.4-E7
This four-channel amplifier has good sound and a power reserve of 1600 W, sufficient for most audio systems. Its compact dimensions allow it to be installed even inside a car under the seat. The presence of an anodized radiator allows for efficient heat removal.
Advantages:
- the presence of low and high pass filters;
- two 35 A fuses;
- protection against overheating, overload and short circuit.
Flaws:
- It is impossible to connect a 1 ohm subwoofer.
Best Class D Car Amplifiers
Such models do not have a large number of working channels and are compact. Their efficiency can reach 90% under high load, so Class D amplifiers operate stably for a long time without overheating or sound distortion.
Pioneer GM-D1004
5
★★★★★
editorial assessment
100%
buyers recommend this product
The model is small in size and has multi-pin connectors recessed into the body. This makes it easier to install the amplifier anywhere in the car and allows you to connect various audio equipment. Automatic volume adjustment makes it easy to control the amplifier while playing a playlist.
The supported frequency range is very wide (11-40000 Hz), harmonic distortion is 0.05%. The ventilated housing promotes rapid heat dissipation to effectively protect against overheating and extend the life of the device.
Advantages:
- light weight - 0.47 kg;
- ease of installation;
- clear sound;
- ease of setup;
- wide frequency range.
Flaws:
- high price.
Pioneer GM-D1004 is ideal for installation in cars that do not have spacious interiors. It has the perfect combination of compactness and high performance.
Hertz HCP 4D
5
★★★★★
editorial assessment
100%
buyers recommend this product
This amplifier has low power consumption and high performance. Thanks to the presence of four working channels and a developed crossover, which has the ability to filter low and high frequencies in the range from 50 to 3.2 kHz, it is possible to connect equipment using a Hi-Fi Bi-amping circuit.
The harmonic distortion coefficient is 0.02%, the signal-to-noise ratio is 80 dB. The ART function automatically turns on the device when a useful audio signal is found, and support for line outputs makes it possible to transfer it to another amplifier. This ensures easy control of the entire audio output system and economical energy consumption.
Advantages:
- low energy consumption;
- crossover mode;
- compactness;
- presence of a cooling radiator;
- comfort when using.
Flaws:
- high price.
The Hertz HCP 4D can be used in a variety of configurations. A large number of connectors and bridge support make it compatible with professional equipment.
Magnum MAM 1.2000BS
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
93%
buyers recommend this product
The narrow lattice design of the housing ensures efficient heat dissipation, which ensures stable operation of the amplifier under high load. The presence of a Subsonic filter allows you to effectively cut off the sound of high frequencies during playback, and a remote bass control makes it possible to adjust the operation of the amplifier from a distance.
RMS power at 4 ohms is 900 W, harmonic distortion is no more than 0.1%. The power supply and amplification channel contains a Mosfet transistor circuit, which increases the speed of channel switching and improves the overall performance of the equipment.
Advantages:
- convenient control;
- flexible setup;
- rapid cooling;
- small dimensions;
- high power.
Flaws:
- complexity of installation.
Magnum MAM is suitable for installation in a car with an audio system with a power of up to 3200 W.
READ ALSO
15 Best Car Subwoofers
JBL Stage A6004
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
90%
buyers recommend this product
The model has a built-in protective circuit. Its function is to protect the device from voltage surges, critical temperature increases and short circuits. This guarantees stable operation of the amplifier in any conditions.
Input level control and crossover function make it easy to adjust sensitivity and operating frequency depending on the location or conditions of use of the equipment. The bass equalizer optimizes the performance of the subwoofer and speaker system based on the characteristics of the output audio signal.
Advantages:
- flexible setup;
- low percentage of distortion;
- crossover mode;
- range filtering;
- small dimensions.
Flaws:
- the occurrence of noise under high load.
JBL Stage A6004 allows you to independently adjust the front and rear speakers. This amplifier is suitable for working with two audio systems or when connecting a large number of speakers.
How to choose a sound amplifier for a car
Due to the fact that the main purpose of the amplifier is to improve sound quality, it is necessary to approach its choice responsibly. In order not to make a mistake with your choice, you need to focus on the following parameters:
- Class;
- number of channels;
- power.
According to the first parameter, all amplifiers are divided into:
- A. has low efficiency, but produces a good sound level with minimal distortion. Consumes quite a lot of energy.
- B. Has high power, but noticeably distorts the sound. They have high efficiency and improved thermal stability.
- C. Sufficiently high efficiency, but produces a distorted signal. Not suitable for high-end acoustics.
- A/B. They have average indicators of the first and second types.
- D. Digital amplifiers, powerful and compact, are capable of producing very clear sound.
Based on the number of channels they are divided into:
- Monoblock. Used to connect a subwoofer operating with a load of 1 or 2 ohms. For larger loads, it is recommended to use a two-channel amplifier.
- Two-channel. Allows you to connect two speakers or a subwoofer.
- Three-channel. You can connect two speakers and a subwoofer.
- Four-channel. Used to connect four speakers, two speakers and two subwoofers or a pair of subwoofers.
- Five-channel. Allows you to connect four speakers and a subwoofer.
There are also six-channel models, but they are very rare and practically never used.
As for power, there is a division into maximum and nominal. You need to choose the latter, because it is the one that indicates the power at 1% distortion.
Size matters: even D-class varies
But we digress, let's get back to the amplifiers. If some five to seven years ago the AB class had unquestioned authority, today D-class car amplifiers in many cases look preferable.
Firstly, compactness. At home, an amplifier the size of a nightstand, although it looks bulky, still does not cause such serious problems. In a car, a difference in body length of just 5 cm can be decisive. Not everyone today wants to display audio system components and spend a lot of money on installation. And the compact D-class allows you to make the installation hidden. The ability to fit an amplifier, say, under a seat or under a dashboard seems quite attractive.
Despite their compactness, some car amplifiers based on modern D-class chips have quite mature output power levels and very decent sound
Secondly, energy efficiency. Again, compared to home appliances, this issue is especially acute in a car. Especially with the increase in the number of electric vehicles and hybrids. Using more than half of the energy consumed as heat, you will agree, is not the most rational way to spend it. However, it’s still not worth hiding such amplifiers completely under the upholstery; the heat dissipation, although not the same as that of the AB class, is still not zero. At least some kind of air exchange should be provided.
The new generation of amplifiers makes full use of D-class chips with efficiency above 95%
Well, the third argument in favor of the D-class is, strange as it may seem to many, the sound quality. I’m not taking into account expensive high-end amplifiers now, the situation is different there. But in a moderate price category at comparable prices, the AB-class most often really loses to the modern D-class. Five years ago this would have been a controversial statement, but with the advent of new chips operating at carrier frequencies of half a megahertz, this is already a fact.
Features of connecting a car amplifier
There is an interesting phrase that says that “amplifiers don’t actually amplify anything, they just modulate the power supply.” One of the significant differences between a car amplifier and a home amplifier, which I mentioned briefly at the very beginning, is operation from the car’s on-board network. The nominal voltage in it is 12 Volts (actually a little higher, but now this is not the point). This means that in order to obtain sufficient output power, the current consumption must be quite serious - tens, and even hundreds of Amperes at signal peaks. Hence the special requirements for power connections. At first glance, all this looks a little scary, but in fact, if you follow a few simple rules, there should be no problems.
Firstly, under no circumstances should the amplifier be connected to standard wiring. It is not designed for such currents. Take separate cables and run them from the amplifier directly to the battery. You can have both a plus and a minus, or you can only have a plus (the minus goes along the “mass”). There is probably no clear answer as to which option is better, but personally I prefer the first method. If only because today's cars have too much electronics, which are also “tied” to the body.
Careful wiring is the key to reliability and safety
Don’t be greedy, use specialized car cables for connection - they have soft insulation that is resistant to temperature changes. Those who like to use various kinds of KG-25 and other similar industrial cables will see crumbling rubber insulation in the engine compartment within a year. I have observed this many times, fortunately not in my own home.
By the way, keep in mind that cheap cables may not be copper, but so-called CCA (Copper Clad Aluminum), “copper-coated” aluminum. They are less durable, more susceptible to corrosion and weaken faster at the contact points. Pure copper is still better in this regard, although it is more expensive. And even better - tinned copper.
Secondly, select a sufficient cross-section of the power cables based on their length and the current consumption of the amplifier. Even tenths of an Ohm in the supply line can cause a voltage drop in signal peaks of several volts. And this not only affects the sound, but also risks failure of the amplifier’s power supply. For the same reason, try to immediately calculate the required cable length to avoid unnecessary joints.
When choosing a cable cross-section, you can be guided by the tables that are in the rules of any car audio competitions
Thirdly, be sure to install a fuse in the gap in the power cable. It should be located as close to the battery as possible. Unlike the fuse in the amplifier itself, you do not protect the equipment with it, but the cable itself. Select the denomination based on the cross-section. For example, for a cable with a cross-section of 4 Ga (21 sq. mm), you can use a fuse of no more than 100 A, and for a cable with a cross-section of 2 Ga (33 sq. mm) - no more than 150 A.
