Amps come in different shapes and sizes as well as configurations. This write-up’s core focus is 4 channel car amps; more specifically the best amplifiers within different price ranges.
In a current roundup of under the $400 category, our recommendation is JL Audio RD400/4, you really can go wrong whit this Class D amp, especially for this price. If you stepping up into the pro territory AudioControl LC-4.800 is surely the amp to look into.
Table of Contents
Recommended 4-Channel Amps
Image | 4-Channel Car Amp | RMS Power | Signal to Noise Ratio | THD | Frequency Response |
Our Pick JL Audio RD400/4 Price at Crutchfield | 75 watts RMS x 4 @ 4 ohms 100 watts RMS x 4 @ 2 ohms 200 watts RMS x 2 bridged @ 4 ohms (4-ohm stable bridged) | 104 dB | <1% | 12-22 kHz | |
Runner Up Price at AmazonPrice at Crutchfield | 75 W RMS x 4 at 4 ohms; 125 W RMS x 4 at 2 ohms; 250 W RMS x 2 bridged output at 4 ohms (4-ohm stable) | 80 dB | <1% | 20Hz – 20 kHz | |
Also Great Around $200 Price at Amazon | 55 W x 4 at 4 ohms; (80 W x 4 at 2 ohms); 160 W x 2 at 4 ohms; | 104 dB | <1% | 10Hz – 30 kHz | |
Under $200 Price at Amazon | 270 W RMS x 4 at 4 ohms; 400 W RMS x 4 at 2 ohms; 800 W RMS x 2 at 4 ohms (bridged) | 90 dB | <1% | 10Hz – 50 kHz | |
Top Notch Price at AmazonPrice at Crutchfield | 200W RMS x 4 at 4 ohms; 125W RMS x 4 at 2 ohms; Bridged Output: 400W RMS x 2 at 4 ohms | 102 db | < 0.01% | 10Hz – 30 kHz | |
Budget Price at Amazon | 90W RMS x 4 at 4 ohms; 65W RMS x 4 at 2 ohms; Bridged Output: 180W RMS x 2 at 4 ohms | 105 dB | <0.05% | 14Hz – 50 kHz |
Best 4 Channel Amps Under $400
JL Audio RD400/4
Max Power Output: N/A
RMS: 75 watts RMS x 4 @ 4 ohms
100 watts RMS x 4 @ 2 ohms
200 watts RMS x 2 bridged @ 4 ohms
(4-ohm stable bridged)
Amp Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes
Signal to Noise Ratio: 104 dB
THD: <1%
If your looking for the 4-channel amp in the 300$-400$ category be sure to check out Our Pick the JL Audio RD400/4. It is not often you come across an amp this small yet capable of dramatic potency, way above most other amps within this price range.
It incorporates old and new technologies to form a fusion like no other. How this tiny chassis manages such power is astounding just as it is puzzling. This Jl Audio 4 channel amp handles 100 Watts RMS in the face of a 2 Ohms load and 75 watts RMS at 4 ohms. When bridged, it offers 200 Watts × 2 channels at 4 ohms stable, which can power up a sub or any full-range speakers decently.
One of the main things we look at when comparing amps is S/N (signal-to-noise ratio) and THD at Rated RMS Power. For JL Audio RD400/4 the S/N ratio is >104 dB below rated power (A-weighted, 20 Hz – 20 kHz noise bandwidth) and THD is <1% @ 2 Ω per channel which is on top given the power.
It features technologies such as NexD™ switching which eliminated distortions due to voltage supply fluctuations. Other than that, it also includes differential balanced inputs that phase out resultant operational noise distractions.
Bonus features include preamp and speaker level inputs, variable low and high pass filter, signal sensing that enables auto turn on and off, and Differential-Balanced Inputs – a technology designed to mitigate induced cable noise, a common problem in-car audio installations.
What’s the overall take on this amp? Super efficiency, well-protected, undisturbed toil, and of course a modern, amplified, and clean touch to your favorite tunes. If this is your price range, the JL Audio XD400 is a pretty promising amplifier.
Rockford Fosgate R2-500X4
RMS Output: 75 W RMS x 4 at 4 ohms (125 W RMS x 4 at 2 ohms)
Bridged Output: 250 W RMS x 2 bridged output at 4 ohms (4-ohm stable)
Peak Output: 500 W
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20 kHz
Size: 10.06”x 2” x 7.75”
Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes
Signal to Noise Ratio: 80 dB
THD: <1%
Other Rockford 4-Ch options:
Many times an amp delivers the required power but at the cost of sound clarity. Rockford Fosgate has addressed this issue in its R2-500X4.
Power, the building feature of any amp is adequately catered for this Rockford 4-channel amp. At 2 Ohms, you can expect a solid 125 Watts from each channel and 75 Watts at 4 Ohms. You can kick up its capabilities by bridging it for a good 250 Watts × 2 channels at 4 Ohms.
This class D bridgeable amp delivers as we saw impressive RMS power but also guarantees clean and crisp sound with its CLEAN (Calibrated Level Eliminates Audible Noise) technology. The CLEAN gain settings let you adjust the amp for the cleaner sound you want.
The other two technologies we like in R2-500X4 is its POWER supply circuit design. This circuitry intuitively increases the power output with increasing voltage. The other feature is the Integrated EQ punch. This feature ensures that your amp can support the powerful bass sound while addressing any acoustic deficiency.
Rockville dB45
RMS Output: 270 W RMS x 4 at 4 ohms (400 W RMS x 4 at 2 ohms)
Bridged Output: 800 W RMS x 2 at 4 ohms
Peak Output: 3200 W
Frequency Response: 10Hz – 50 kHz
Size: 9”x 2.4” x 21”
Class: AB
Bridgeable: Yes
Signal to Noise Ratio: 90 dB
THD: <1%
If you are looking for a powerful but reasonably priced 4-channel amplifier, then look no further than Rockville dB45. This bridgeable amplifier gets the peak power of a whopping 3200 W.
Even its regular RMS and bridged outputs are strong enough for every strapping pair of speakers and subs on the block. You get 270W for every of 4 channels at 4 ohms and 400W at 2 ohms.
This powerful amp is a perfect match for bass enthusiasts. Its top-of-the-line subsonic filter decreases the amplitude of low notes to provide you with that perfect bass experience where you don’t just listen to the sound but also feel it.
Rockville dB45 also features a peak limiter circuitry that ensures that your playback remains distortion-free at all power outputs. Check out the video below to see how it performs on Dyno test.
Rockville DB45 Dyno Video
Alpine S-A32F S Series
RMS Output: 55 W RMS x 4 at 4 ohms (80 W RMS x 4 at 2 ohms)
Bridged Output: 160 W RMS x 2 at 4 ohms
Peak Output: 640 W
Frequency Response: 10Hz – 30 kHz
Size: 9”x 2.31” x 8.06”
Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes
Other Alpine 4-Ch options:
If you are looking for a space-efficient 4-channel amp that can crank up impressive output as well, Alpine S-A32F is an option worth considering. The amp is not more than 9 inches in any dimension, making it a suitable fit for anywhere in your car.
This class D amplifier is bridgeable. By bridging your Alpine S-A32F, you can transform it into a 3-channel amp that can power a pair of speakers with 55 watts and a full-range sub at 160 watts. Alpine has done an impressive job by offering such high RMS power from such a small-sized amp.
We also like the Enhanced Shutdown Performance feature of Alpine S-A32F. With this feature, this Alpine 4-amp channel doesn’t abruptly shut down in an event of overheating. Instead, it gradually rolls back its output where the amp doesn’t undergo any damage and your music experience doesn’t get spoiled either.
Kenwood KAC-M3004
Max Power Output: 600W
RMS: 50 watts x 4 at 4 ohms;
75 watts x 4 at 2 ohms;
150 watts x 2 bridged output at 4 ohms
Amp Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes
Tiny but tremendously efficient, this Kenwood 4 channel amp meets expectations with minimal strain. The Kenwood KAC-M3004 (full review) is just what you need to tune up your car or motorcycle. And even more exciting, you can do so without worrying about space.
It brings to the table a 600 Watt maximum output; pretty neat, right? This is by venting out 75 Watts from each channel at 2 Ohms and 50 Watts at 4 Ohms. For a more powerful dispensation, you can bridge it to harness 150 Watts × 2 channels.
There is also a Kenwood KAC-M1824BT Bluetooth version.
Looking at reviews, this Class D amp has a 90% efficiency rating. Its chassis comes in the form of an aluminum casing that houses coated circuit boards to ensure protection. The Kenwood KAC-M3004 brings you even more power with its variable crossovers. It stays cool when at work with minimal heating.
Simple, efficient, and small enough to fit just about anywhere. The Kenwood KAC-M3004 is obviously not the best of the best; however, it works diligently to keep its users fully satisfied.
MTX Audio THUNDER75.4
Max Power Output: 800W
RMS: 75 watts x 4 at 4 ohms;
100 watts x 4 at 2 ohms;
200 watts x 2 bridged at 4 ohms
Amp Class: AB
Bridgeable: Yes
Whether you’re running a sub, full-range speakers, or both, MTX Audio THUNDER75.4 has you covered. From the Thunder Series, this amplifier kicks up your tunes and cleans up pretty well while at it.
This MTX Thunder 4 channel amp is also a no-brainer to work with as it incorporates a rather straightforward design and installation hardware.
It is a class A/B amp and that means topmost clarity when it comes to its resultant tunes. It’s 800 Watts maximum output keeps up its ability to capture all notes and drop them as neatly as possible. When bridged, it brings you a steady 175 Watts to drive your subwoofers.
It has a wide range of variable crossover points, an extruded aluminum heat sink. It also involves thermal, DC offset and short circuit protection. Finally, for the icing on the cake, it features a pleasantly small footprint that makes it mountable pretty much anywhere.
This tiny powerhouse is as efficient as they get. It is a clever way to drive your entire system to its full potential.
Zapco ST-4X
RMS Output: 50 W RMS x 4 at 4 ohms (80W RMS x 4 at 2 ohms)
Bridged Output: 160W RMS x 2 at 4 ohms
Peak Output: 450W
Frequency Response: 15Hz – 30 kHz
Size: 6.29”x 2.04” x 10.23”
Class: AB
Bridgeable: Yes
Among basic no-frills 4-channel amp, Zapco ST-4X II surely lies somewhere among the top. This amp is suitable for those car owners who just need good sound without fixating on the high trebles and low basses.
The amp also boasts a compact chassis that you can easily set up without worrying about space constrictions. This basic class AB amp has both RCA and speaker-level inputs, making it a suitable option for all sorts of head units including the factory-fitted one.
The speaker-level inputs also boast auto-on which means you don’t have to loop another wire during its installation. The price of this amp is also easy on the pocket.
Zapco ST-4X Dyno Video
Rockford Fosgate PBR300X4 Punch BRT
Max Power Output: 300W
RMS: 75 Watts x 4 @ 4-Ohm
Amp Class: BR
Bridgeable: No
For the longest time, the Rockford Fosgate amps have held on to their rather outstanding resume. The PBR300X4 Punch is definitely no exception. If you feel it’s about time your bike got that tuned-up music vibe, phasing out this amp may just be the biggest mistake you make.
Being one of the smallest 4 channel amplifiers (just 1.53 x 4.25 x 6.75 inches), it fits like a glove onto most motorcycles. Other than that, its specs combination practically makes it a sound giant.
By now, it’s evident the PBR300X4 is considerably small making it a breeze to work even with the most limiting of spaces. With a 300 Watt maxi RMS, it allows you to rock up to any tunes on your bike. At 4 Ohms, you get 75 Watts from each of its channels.
A feature worth a fussy mention is its Boosted Rail (BR) technology which makes its capacitors and circuitry super speedy. Additional features include its punch EQ, high-quality building components, and its decent tune disposition.
Motorcycles have very few spaces to work with; this small 4-inch amp is designed to work seamlessly in such prerequisites. The Rockford Fosgate PBR300X4 Punch can be pushed without ever-roaming fear or damage. Conclusively, it’s a pretty reliable option.
Alpine KTP-445A
RMS Output: 45W RMS x 4 at 4 ohms (45W RMS x 4 at 2 ohms)
Bridged Output: 90W RMS x 2 at 4 ohms
Peak Output: 127W
Frequency Response: 15Hz – 45 kHz
Size: 7.43”x 1.5” x 2.5”
Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes
This is the smallest 4-channel car amp on this list. However, its small size has no bearing on its performance. The depth (length) of this Alpine 4-channel amp is just 2.5 inches. If you compare it with lengths of other amps on the list, you will find it is significantly smaller than all of them.
Despite such a small size, Alpine KTP-445A can work with both 4 and 2 ohms speakers. Similarly, you can bridge its output to get higher power for your subs or speakers. This nano amp also has a speaker-level input. Moreover, it also boasts a built-in high-pass crossover.
The one issue we have with this tiny 4-channel amp is its switches are located at the bottom. They should have been on the top or sides.
Best 4 Channel Amps Under $100 (Budget)
TORO TECH – RX4
RMS Output: 90W RMS x 4 at 4 ohms (65W RMS x 4 at 2 ohms)
Bridged Output: 180W RMS x 2 at 4 ohms
Peak Output: 1000W
Frequency Response: 14Hz – 50 kHz
Size: 11.61”x 2.12” x 6.73”
Class: AB
Bridgeable: Yes
If you want to strike a perfect combo of budget and reliability with a 4-channel amp, you should consider this option by TORO Tech.
This cost-friendly amplifier banks on MOSET transistors to provide flawless high power output and good stability at lower impedance loads. Then there is the auto-sensing turn-on function and variable gain control.
We are particularly impressed by the safety features of this 4-channel amp. The amp features a self-diagnostic protection circuit with an LED indicator.
Whether it is thermal overheating, impedance overload or short-circuiting, this circuitry protects the amp from irreversible damages. To produce distortion-free sound, RX-4 banks on low and high-pass electronic crossovers.
Toro Audio RX4 Video review
Blaupunkt AMP1604
RMS Output: 79W RMS x 4 at 4 ohms (55W RMS x 4 at 2 ohms)
Peak Output: 1600W
Frequency Response: 10Hz – 30 kHz
Size: 11”x 2.2” x 7.4”
Class: AB
Bridgeable: Yes
This is another budget option you can consider to enhance your on-the-road stereo experience. Blaupunkt AMP1604 offers decent power to light up medium-sized speakers and subs in every passenger vehicle.
Its size is also space-efficient, making its installation hassle-free in all sorts of car cabins. The manual bass control of this 4-channel budget amp allows you to satisfy your penchant for low-frequency reverbs.
With all its upsides, this budget option might not be the most suitable option for a bridged output. You can bridge its output, but it won’t make much difference to the value of the delivered power. But this shortcoming won’t be an issue if you use speakers and subs with low power ratings.
Boss Audio PF1800 Phantom
Max Power Output: 2 ohms: 450 watts x 4
Bridged, 4 ohms: 900 watts x 2
RMS: 338 W X 4 RMS @ 2 ohm
169 W X 4 RMS @ 4 ohm
675 W X 2 RMS Bridged @ 4 ohm
Amp Class: AB
Bridgeable: Yes
Boss Audio is known for its budget products. The BOSS Audio PF1800 Phantom 1800 is yet another testimony to this long-standing reputation. If you’re looking for something simple with a reasonable amount of boom, then this Boss 4 channel amp might fit perfectly into your plans.
Its affordability is an undeniable bonus considering its results are considered dynamic. Its impressive features are as follows.
I have to admit, its maximum power output is something of a wonder. 1800 Watts from an under $100 amp is no joke; most people would agree. The PF1800 Phantom is capable of 338 watts RMS from an individual channel at 2 Ohms and about 169 Watts at 4 Ohms.
When bridged, it coughs up a solid 675 Watts × 2 channels at a 4 Ohms impedance. This amp is very capable of driving your entire sound system, a subwoofer included. As a Class A/B amp, its audio output is as seamless as it gets with minimum glitches.
See our review of monoblock amps.
This car amp effortlessly drives the whole sound system and does it rather sumptuously so to speak. Such power is hard to come by at such a low cost. However, improper installation may render it troublesome. Nevertheless, the PF1800 Phantom is generally one of the best 4 channel car amps within its price class.
Pioneer GM-D1004
Max Power Output: 400W
RMS: 45 watts RMS x 4 at 2 ohms or 4 ohms
90 watts RMS x 2 at 4 ohms (4-ohm stable in bridged mode)
Amp Class: FD
Bridgeable: Yes
Another on our budget list is the Pioneer GM-D1004. This amp is proudly miniature but nonetheless remarkably potent. Your factory sound system is nothing in the face of the Pioneer GM-D1004; there’s no denying it is off the chart performance as a first-time upgrade.
It may not be all that mind-blowing; however, this amp is bound to upsurge the overall musical vibe in your vehicle’s cabin. Now here are its key feature components.
Like I mentioned earlier, this amp makes those boring factory sound systems look like a joke. Considering its maximum power output is a good 400 Watts, the Pioneer GM-D1004 is over three times better. From each channel, you get 45 Watts at 4 Ohms or 2 Ohms. When bridged, it coughs up 90 Watts × 2 channels at a 4 Ohms impedance.
One of its top advantages is its compact design that makes an easy fit just about anywhere; you can simply mount it up behind the dash and watch the little monster grind. Its small chassis also rids its installation process of any unnecessary hassles.
In a nutshell, the Pioneer GM-D1004 is designed for eased use and installation without compromising its output capabilities. As they say, you should never judge a book by its cover because small has never sounded this good.
Best 4 Channel Amps For High-End Users
Alpine X-A70F X-Series
RMS Output: 175W RMS x 4 at 4 ohms (120W RMS x 4 at 2 ohms)
Bridged Output: 350W RMS x 2 at 4 ohms
Peak Output: 494W
Frequency Response: 15Hz – 30 kHz
Size: 11.75”x 2” x 7.625”
Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes
This top-notch class D amplifier boasts great power efficiency in every configuration. Whether you are using its four channels separately or bridging them, you will get to use it without compromising on efficiency— thanks to its top-quality internal components.
We particularly like its ingeniously designed thermal flow chassis that ensures the amp continues to perform without any overheating and stress.
We also like the compactor circuit used in this amp. It improves the output in line with the original input signal. The circuit essentially minimizes phase issues to generate precise and hi-fi sound. The gold-plated, corrosion-resistant X-A70F input/output and power connections prevent any type of signal degradation.
AudioControl LC-4.800
RMS Output: 200W RMS x 4 at 4 ohms (125W RMS x 4 at 2 ohms)
Bridged Output: 400W RMS x 2 at 4 ohms
Peak Output: 565W
Frequency Response: 10Hz – 30 kHz
Size: 9”x 2.1” x 7.95”
Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes
Signal to Noise Ratio: 102 dB
THD: < 0.01%
We are continuing this list with this powerful amp by AudioControl. Like the Alpine amp we have reviewed above, this one also boasts top-of-the-line construction with its one-piece aluminum chassis. The manufacturer has used some patented technologies in this 4-channel amp.
For instance, it boasts GTO Signal Sense that detects the speaker-level input more intuitively than other amps with this feature. Moreover, AudioControl LC-4.800 has Maximum Input Level Control (MILC).
It is another patented feature that you can use to fully control and customize the sound through the amp. Like any good amp, LC-4.800 also features configurable crossovers that ensure minimal distortion.
AudioControl LC-4.800 video review
Previously considered options – some still available (2018., 2019., 2020., 2021.)
Alpine MRV-F300
Max Power Output: 640W
RMS: 50 watts RMS x 4 at 4 ohms
75 watts RMS x 4 at 2 ohms
150 watts RMS x 2 bridged output at 4 ohms
(4-ohm stable in bridged mode)
Amp Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes
The Alpine MRV-F300 can only be described as a little power-packed monstrosity. Its seemingly tiny chassis does nothing to scale down its vigor. Its general design featured specifications and delivery combination shout proficiency from the very beginning.
Significantly better than that is the preceding model, here are its features.
This Alpine 4 channel amp is a class D amp with decent power output. In summary, it dishes out 50 Watts × 4 at 4 Ohms and 75 Watts × 4 at 2 Ohms. Bridging it pushed this output to 150 Watts RMS.
Despite being a bit too pricey, you have to admit the Alpine MRV-F300 comes with a pretty neat package. A clean yet powerful delivery, ease of installation, and durability; that’s the Alpine MRV-F300 for you.
Rockford R300X4 Prime
Max Power Output: 300W
RMS: 50 Watts x 4 @ 4-Ohm
75 Watts x 4 @ 2-Ohm
150 Watts x 2 @ 4-Ohm Bridged
Amp Class: A/B
Bridgeable: Yes
Rhythmic, dynamic tunes are every audiophile’s dream. The Rockford R300X4 Prime delivers just that to every cabin lucky enough to have it at work. With the promise of longevity and a done hefty delivery, this Rockford Fosgate 4 channel amp is a shoo-in for a quality yet thriving sound experience.
You want loud? Or flexibility? Maybe just that perfect all-rounded effect? Get yourself the Rockford R300X4 Prime 4 channel amp. The wattage may not be all that but what’s that compared to all the other benefits that this amp guarantees.
Planet Audio Ac1200.4 Anarchy
Max Power Output: 1200W
RMS: 225 W X 4 RMS @ 2 ohm;
113 W X 4 RMS @ 4 ohm;
450 W X 2 RMS Bridged @ 4 ohm
Amp Class: A/B
Bridgeable: Yes
If you want to give your car’s sound system a subtle upgrade, you would be wrong not to consider this Planet Audio 4 channel amp. PA AC1200.4 brings to the table an affordable way to elevate your musical experience through it is not only clean but surprisingly boomy output.
At 4 Ohms, this amp comfortably avails 113 Watts from each of its 4 channels; at 2 Ohms, the same gives off 225 Watts from each channel. You can go a step ahead and bridge this amp for a higher output of 450 W × 2 at 4 Ohms.
Ultimately? The Planet Audio AC1200.4 is one of the most suitable 4 channel car amp choices in the $100 range. In most cases, this amp has a solid, clean, thick sound output that makes it worth every penny paid for. Even with a few distortions complaints when pushed a little too much, it’s a foolproof pick for a low budget – we also did a complete roundup of budget amps.
Boss Audio R1004 Riot
Max Power Output: @ 4 ohms 80 watts x 4 channels
@ 2 ohms 100 watts x 4 channels
RMS:@ 4 ohms 38 watts x 4 channels
@ 2 ohms 50 watts x 4 channels
Amp Class: AB
Bridgeable: No
In all honesty, a tight budget can be quite the buzzkill. It not only limiting your options, but it also makes you very susceptible to making a faulty choice. However, even in the face of such predicaments, few amps stand out for their reasonable performance even at such a low purchase price.
The BOSS Audio R1004 Riot may not be the loudest amp out there, but it gets the job done rather efficiently. If you’re looking for a budget 4 channel amp and a rapid upgrade to your original head unit, this Boss is adequately feasible.
Zapco Z-150.4 Z Series
Top-quality sound standards are all the Z-150.4 Z aims to achieve. And pleasantly enough, no amp does it as this one does. Considering you have to pay a little more to own you one of these bad boys, it’s only right to expect nothing short of perfection.
Although it’s nearly impossible to get it all the right, this amp strives to give you the best sound output anywhere.
1000 Watts maximum output is agreeable out of this world impressive. At 4 Ohms, you get 150 Watts and 250 Watts at 2 Ohms. It is bridgeable with the promise of rock steady 500 Watts from two channels. Its frequency response is 10Hz-30kHz.
Its 4-way protection involves thermal, overcurrent, short, and DC guard.
This Zapco car amp is designed for the best sound quality with as little hassle as possible. Right from its installation down to the delivery capabilities, this is beyond any doubt an audiophile 4 channel car amplifier.
4-Channel Amp FAQ
What Exactly Is A 4-Channel Amp?
You may find yourself throwing the 4 channel amp phrase around. If we got down to details, would you be in a position to fully describe one? No? Well, let’s fix that.
A 4 channel amp, simply, is an amp designed to power 4 independent channels.
This doesn’t mean you can only power four speakers from this kind of amp; theoretically, you can power as many speakers as possible, and by bridging you even power a sub. However, in most cases, you’ll find 4 channels amps are used with two sets of speakers.
But if you need another channel so you can hook up a subwoofer check our review of 5-channel amplifiers.
How many speakers can a 4 channel amp run?
A 4 channel amp most commonly runs 4 speakers, but you can also run 6. It’s also possible for a 4 channel amp to run 2 speakers per channel for a total of 8 speakers, however, you run the risk of damaging your speakers and amp if your amp is not stable for the ohms needed to run this setup. See the possible wiring options.
What’s better 2 channel or 4 channel amp?
In most cases, a 4 channel amp is better because it’s essentially 2 different 2-channel amps connected together. It allows you to connect to and control 4 individual speakers rather than 2. Additionally, a 4 channel amp allows you to bridge 2 of the channels into a subwoofer, while still having two channels dedicated to their own speakers. A 2 channel amp can run a subwoofer, but both channels of the amp would have to be bridged to the subwoofer because it requires more power to run.
Can you use a 4 channel amp for one sub?
You can bridge 2 channels of your 4 channel amp into your subwoofer, and have the other 2 channels running 2 separate speakers. You could theoretically bridge all 4 channels into 1 subwoofer, however, subwoofers have an ohm limit, so it is unlikely that most subwoofers could utilize all the power you are sending to it.
Last update on 2024-12-07 / Affiliate links / *Image Disclaimer: We use images/data from Amazon Product Advertising API solely on products that link to Amazon. On products with the "Price at Crutchfield" button, we use images/data from Crutchfield.com as per the partnership deal.