Do I really need a amp?
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 86
Likes: 3
From: Sanford, NC
Do I really need a amp?
Ok... I am by no means a audio guru... but I have a 01Z and getting ready to throw in a system. I have a Pioneer Avic-920, elemental designs e9.65 for the front speakers and polk db521 5.25 for the rear. My question is do a really need a amp? I mean would it sound better with a amp or am I just wasting my time with one? I dont plan to ever run a subwoofer or anything. I am just trying to figure if it's something that's going to make my listening experience any better. Thanks!
Le Mans Master
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 5,401
Likes: 52
From: Norman OK
Ok... I am by no means a audio guru... but I have a 01Z and getting ready to throw in a system. I have a Pioneer Avic-920, elemental designs e9.65 for the front speakers and polk db521 5.25 for the rear. My question is do a really need a amp? I mean would it sound better with a amp or am I just wasting my time with one? I dont plan to ever run a subwoofer or anything. I am just trying to figure if it's something that's going to make my listening experience any better. Thanks!
Team Owner
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 21,136
Likes: 212
From: Long Island New York
An amp will greatly improve the sound of your new speakers. Even the aftermarket HU supplies marginal power to make speakers live up to their potential. Add a 4 channel amp and the difference will be night and day.
Race Director
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 14,475
Likes: 785
From: Las Vegas NV
Do you know anyone with an amp in their system? If so go listen to it and compare it to what you have now. You will be amazed at the difference. Maybe even go to an audio shop that installs systems and let them demo something for you. I've added amps and subs to every car I've had for the last 30 years (which is about 11 different cars). If you enjoy listening to music in your car then you really should do it to get the full effect.
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 86
Likes: 3
From: Sanford, NC
Well.... with the recommendation of Dennis I ordered a Kenwood xr4s. Now what gauge wire should i run to my speakers? Is 16 AGW good enough or do I need to go 12? Also... you think it would be a problem mounting it under the passenger side seat? I want to to be totally out of the way and unnoticeable. I am really excited to get back home and try my hand at installing this set up. It seems easy enough if i just take my time!
Le Mans Master
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 8,718
Likes: 20
From: Dyer IN
Cruise-In IX Veteran
amp will fit under passenger seat and that is totally acceptable. 16ga is plenty, im sure someone is going to jump in here and tell you 12 ga or something like that. i have done tons of installs with amps in that power range and 16ga is plenty. xr4s is a great amp u will love it
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