Multi-channel Amplifiers

Car Audio Amplifier Basics: 

Amplifiers do exactly what their name says, it amplifies the signal from the signal source such as a head unit or receiver. A car audio amplifier provides a clean signal to feed your speakers or subwoofer. This can be crucial at higher volumes to ensure proper sound quality. 

Most head units include an internal amplifier, however being limited on space, internal amplifiers can not produce the power necessary to drive a quality speaker.   Upgrading and properly powering your mid and high range speakers can result in a dramatic increase in not just overall sound level capabilities but also increase your sound clarity and quality.

Amplifiers can be used on Highs and midrange speakers as well as subwoofers.  Amplifiers for mids and highs are usually multi-channel (example 2 or 4 channel) so you have multiple channels that can have independent settings and/or impedance. Research the peak outputs of your amplifier at different ohm loads to help identify the right speaker amplifier combination.

Car Audio Amplifier installation upgrade requirements:

Another key element to upgrading your amplifier is proper amperage for your amplifier to draw from.  Install a volt meter to monitor your voltage with the system off, on and playing. You will notice certain elements such as high kick notes will cause a strong draw as well as loss of amperage over time.  Be sure to upgrade your electrical properly including proper amperage from your battery and high output alternator and proper amount of power and grounds wire runs.

Find the right balance between quality and budget.  Buying products that are cheap and not quality could result in replacement and expenses in the future.  Best Practice is to start right and not have to do anything twice.

For more on amplifiers check out this video from Sonic Electronix