What Is The Best 5-Channel Car Amplifier [UPDATED]

Confused about whether a 5-channel amp is the right choice for your car audio system? If the answer is yes, this article is just what you need.

In an attempt to ease your walk down this road, we not only take you deeper into all things encompassing them, but we’ve also compiled a list (under $500, budget or high end) of some of the best 5-channel amps for the car in the market today.

Recommended 5-Channel Amplifiers

Best 5 Channel Amps Under $500

Rockford Fosgate R2-750X5

Power (RMS): 50 watts RMS x 4 + 200 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms;
100 watts RMS x 4 + 350 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms;
200 watts RMS x 2 bridged at 4 ohms + 350 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20 KHz
Size: 11.2″ x 1.9″ x 6.8″
Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes

Other Rockford 5-Ch options:

• Rockford Fosgate P1000X5
• Rockford Fosgate T1000X5ad
• even more…

On top of this list is the Rockford Fosgate R2-750X5. This amp proves that even simplicity can knock you off your feet every once in a while.

The Fosgate family has mastered the art of developing audio equipment for cars and this 5-channel amp is a testament to their craftsmanship. This class-D amplifier produces 750 watts of RMS power from its five channels. You can also bridge them to transform R2-750X5 into a 3-channel amp powering two sturdy 200W speakers and a 350W sub.

The other highlight of this Rockford Fosgate 5-channel is its propriety CLEAN technology. The Calibrated Level Eliminates Audible Noise (CLEAN) and makes it possible for your sound system to strike a perfect balance between the power and cleanliness of the sound.

The amp also comes with low, high, and subsonic filers along with the Punch EQ, offering you to make maximum adjustments for producing the perfect sound for your music taste buds.

Alpine S-A55V

Power (RMS): 40 watts RMS x 4 + 200 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms;
60 watts RMS x 4 + 300 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms;
120 watts RMS x 2 bridged at 4 ohms + 300 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms
Frequency Response: 10Hz – 30 KHz
Size: 13.25″ x 2.31″ x 8.06″
Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes

Other Alpine 5-Ch options:

• Alpine X-A90V
• even more…

This is another 5-channel amp you can consider to power speakers and subs of your car’s sound system. By default, you can use it to power four full-range speakers with 60 W each and a sub with 300 W @2-ohms. However, if you just want max power in your front speakers, you can bridge to get 120W for the pair while getting the same 300W for the sub.

This new Alpine S-A55V amp also comes with speaker-level and preamp inputs, making it possible to use it in all sorts of vehicles or even with stock head units. Its high and low-pass filters and bass booster lets you tweak the sound for a customized sound experience.

We also like this Alpine for its enhanced Shutdown performance technology. This feature ensures that the amp doesn’t completely shut down upon overheating. Instead, it gradually rolls back its output to cool down its internal circuitry without stopping the music being played.

Kenwood Excelon X802-5

Power (RMS): 50 watts RMS x 4 + 300 watts x 1 at 4 ohms;
75 watts RMS x 4 + 500 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms;
150 watts RMS x 2 bridged at 4 ohms + 500 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms
Frequency Response: 20-50k Hz
Size: 9-13/16 x 2-1/8 x 6-3/4
Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes

As many of its users would agree, the Kenwood Excelon X802-5 is a compact 5-channel amp with tremendous power. At first glance, the first thing you’ll notice is its compact well thought design. This, backed with its impressive features makes it one of the top amplifier models around given the price.

Despite being undeniably small and compact, this Kenwood 5-channel amp can yield a maximum of 50 watts from 4 of its channels and up to 300 watts from its subchannel @ 4 ohms.

It allows you to boost up your music without having to worry about sacrificing a whole lot of your car space. This amp is particularly impressive as it features an expanded frequency response of up to 50kHz; this works well with high-resolution playback.

Its variable high and low pass filter, and bass boost features work to improve sound delivery even further. The manufacturer goes a step ahead with the thermal management system that ensures continuous functioning even when its heat levels shoot up (and this hardly happens).

Kenwood Excelon X802-5 video review

Rockville dB55

Max Power Output: 2 Ohm: 480 Watts x 4 + 2000 Watts x 1;
4 Ohm: 320 Watts x 4 + 1200 Watts x 1
RMS: 2 Ohm: 120 Watts x 4 + 500 Watts;
4 Ohm: 80 Watts x 4 + 300 Watts x 1
Frequency Response: 15-35KHz
Amp Class: “AB” +“D”
Bridgeable: No

One thing is for sure with this model, it gets the job done. Most people would agree that it is impossible to find a budget 5-channel amplifier that works as well as this one does. Rockville dB55 is a great power package capable of fueling any sound system just fine.

This Rockville 5-channel amp proves to be a powerful musical buddy with its ability to produce a max RMS output of 980 watts (CEA Compliant Power Ratings) backed by a High-Speed MOSFET power supply. To back up all these claims Rockville is willing to give you back a full refund within 90 days.

In addition to the variable low and high pass filters, this amp package is also inclusive of a subsonic filter. If you intend to hook on a bunch of speakers, its dual speaker terminals make this task extremely easy.

Its chassis comes with a nice Rockville logo and is made of heavy-duty aluminum alloy for maximum heat dissipation. Notably, its frequency response is relatively adequate at 15-35KHz.

Rockville dB55 dyno test

Alpine PDR-V75

Max Power Output: 750W
RMS: 4 ohms: 75 watts x 4 chan. + 250 watts x 1 chan.
2 ohms: 100 watts x 4 chan. + 350 watts x 1 chan.
Bridged, 4 ohms: 200 watts x 2 chan. + 350 watts. x 1 chan.
Amp Class: Class D
Bridgeable: Yes

In a highly competitive market, Alpine has managed to come up with an outstanding amp – the PDR-V75. Its compact chassis comes with a blast of full-on power for the best of most sound system components. Being one of the best 5-channel amplifiers in its class, it features an incredible much without sacrificing the quality of its delivery.

This Alpine class D 5-channel amp comes with a multiple-channel design meaning it can easily be bridged for more ferocious power output. At its best, the PDR-V75 can dish out an RMS of 75 watts from each channel and a brute 250 watts from its subchannel.

Variable high and low pass filters, a variable bass boost, and additional variable subsonic filter lock on the delivery of a clean enjoyable sound. A unique feature that comes with this amp is its tone controls; it allows you to adjust the sound until you get it just right.

It also includes over-current, over-voltage, thermal, and even low battery protection. More features include an adjustable gain control, resonant mode power supply, a rotatable illuminated Alpine badge, and separate remote bass control.

Precision Power Black Ice Series ICE2200.5

Power (RMS): 90W x 4 + 380W x 1 at 4 ohms;
135W x 4 + 560W x 1 at 2 ohms;
Bridged 4Ω 270W x 2 + 560W x 1 at 2 ohms
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20 KHz
Size: 8.25″ x 2.25″ x 17″
Class: A/B
Bridgeable: Yes

Being an A/B-class amplifier, this Precision Power 5-channel option is not the most compact option on the block. However, its large size is worth it with the sound production it offers. Even without bridging the channels, you can use it to power four speakers with 90W RMS each and a sub with 380W.

We also like this Precision Power amp for its assembly of four crossovers i.e. high, low, band-pass, and subsonic. You can adjust these crossovers through a dash-mounted remote to get the sound exactly in line with what a soundtrack demands.

Its 3-way protection circuitry is also worth mentioning. The amp comes with built-in protection against voltage overload, overheating, and shorting of speakers. In other words, Precision Power ICE2200.5 doesn’t usually go through any irrevocable damage irrespective of the operating condition.

Precision Power Black Ice Series ICE2200.5 unboxing and first look

Best Budget 5 Channel Amps (Under $200)

Skar Audio SK-M9005D

Max Power Output: N/A
RMS: 4 Ohms: 55W x 4 Channels + 300W x 1 Channel;
2 Ohms: 85W x 4 Channels + 450W x 1 Channel;
4 Ohms (Bridged): 170W x 2 Channels
Amp Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes

If you’re looking for a compact and relatively cheap but high-performing 5-channel amplifier, the Skar Audio SK-M9005D gives its users a sensational sound experience without costing them much.

Like its counterparts from Soundstream, the manufacturer describes it as an amplifier designed to break all the rules. And judging from its capabilities, it is hard to disagree with that.

Power is no issue with this amp given that it is able to produce 55W x 4 Channels + 300W x 1 at 4 Ohms, and 85W x 4 Channels + 450W x 1 Channel at 2 Ohms. The bridge mode is also available giving you 170W x 2 Channels.

Check out more reviews of budget car amps.

To support high-efficiency output, it features a MOSFET power supply and is also bridgeable. Class D amplifier technology does a steady amount of justice in reference to its delivery capabilities. This only gets better with its variable high and low pass crossovers.

Other important features include its high and low-level inputs and remote subwoofer control. Its heavy-duty aluminum alloy body works efficiently for proper heat dissipation.

Video review

Soundstream PN5.640D Picasso Nano

Max Power Output: 640W
RMS: 4 ohms: 60w x 4ch + 200w | 80w x 4ch + 350w | 4 Ohms Bridged: 160w x 2ch + 350w
Amp Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes

If your budget is tight, and you still badly need an amp upgrade, the Soundstream PN5.640D amplifier is a perfect candidate. This bad boy can singlehandedly power both your speakers and your subwoofer without much of a struggle. The best part is that it comes at a remarkably affordable price.

The PN5.640D comes with an RMS power rating of 60 watts from 4 of its channels and an additional 200 watts from its 5th channel at 4ohms and 80 watts from the four-channel with an additional 350 watts from the 5th at 2ohms.

The amp also includes a full MOSFET power supply and a 40A fuse rating. Its separate variable high and low pass filters on its front, rear and subwoofer channels work to deliver clean and powerful sounds and music.

Lastly, this amp also includes Class D amp technology, variable bass boost on its subwoofer channel, and a wired remote sub-level control.

Soundstream PN5.640D video review

BOSS Audio Systems PV3700

Power (RMS): p to 413 W X 4 @ 2 ohm
Up to 206 W X 4 @ 4 ohm
Up to 825 W X 2 Bridged @ 4 ohm
Up to 1125 W X 1 5th Ch @ 2 ohm
Up to 563 W X 1 5ht Ch @ 4 ohm
Frequency Response: 9 Hz to 50 kHz
Size: W 10.31″ x H 2.25″ x L 17″
Class: AB
Bridgeable: Yes

Once again, BOSS Audio has outdone itself by giving its fans yet another fully packed, well-priced amplifier. The BOSS PV3700 features specifications way above its price range.

This device is quite honestly pretty efficient not to mention a whole lot of handy too. A quick look at its features gives a comprehensive explanation of why.

Your music is bound to sound better with this budget 5-channel amp from Boss as it comes with a max output of 2200 Watts at a 2 Ohm stable.

Being a five-channel amp, this amp also includes a customizable low and high pass crossover with a MOSFET power supply. Its appearance also gives it a pop thanks to its Multi LED back-lit illumination.

Also, the BE2200.5D is bridgeable with the latest Class D amp technology. Finally, it features high and low-level inputs, variable input control, subwoofer-level control, and short protection capabilities.

Best 5 Channel Amps For High-End Users

Audio Control LC-5.1300

Power (RMS): 100 watts RMS x 4 + 300 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms;
200 watts RMS x 4 + 500 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms;
400 watts RMS x 2 bridged at 4 ohms + 500 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 22 KHz
Size: 12″ x 2.1″ x 8″
Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes

Audio Control LC-5.1300 is a versatile 5-channel powerful amp. For starters, you can use it in the bridged configuration to get more power for a pair of large speakers. Then it is designed to work great with a 3-way sound system that uses a pair of midrange speakers, tweeters, and a subwoofer.

Audio Control LC-5.1300 also features low, high, and band-pass filters. This crossover control allows all knowledgeable audiophiles to fully customize the sound frequency they want to listen to. The amp also boasts active speaker-level inputs, enabling you to use it with both stock and aftermarket stereos with equal ease.

We also like this 5-channel for its patented AccuBASS circuit that provides optimal bass performance even with stock head units. Its LED panel is also worth mentioning. It shows you the signal flow at inputs and outputs. Moreover, it notifies you when the loudness of the source starts causing distortion.

Audio Control LC-5.1300 video review

JL Audio RD900/5

Pros

• Solid bass performance
• NexD™ switching technology

Cons

• Not designed to operate at a 1-ohm impedance

Power (RMS): 70 watts RMS x 4 + 225 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms
100 watts RMS x 4 + 500 watts RMS at 2 ohms
200 watts RMS x 2 bridged at 4 ohms (4-ohm stable in bridged mode) + 500 watts RMS at 2 ohms
Frequency Response: 12-22k Hz
Size: 14-11/16″W x 2-3/16″H x 7″D
Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes

RD900/5 is an all-in-one, total system solution designed to power a complete mobile audio system, including a subwoofer and four satellite speakers. With 780 watts of RMS power at its disposal, this system will surely deliver crystal-clear, high-fidelity sound that will blow you away.

One of the key features of the RD900/5 is its exclusive NexD™ switching technology. This innovative technology is based on a Class D amplifier design, and it uses a very high switching frequency (240 kHz) to push the amplifier’s bandwidth to at least 500 Hz with minimal distortion. This results in a tight, rock-solid bass performance that will make your subwoofers sound their best.

However, there are a couple of downsides to keeping in mind the RD900/5. Firstly, the RBC-1 remote level control is sold separately, meaning that users will need to purchase it separately if they want the convenience of controlling the subwoofer’s output from the driver’s seat.

Secondly, this amplifier is not designed or rated to operate at a 1-ohm impedance, meaning that users will need to stay at or above 2 ohms to ensure optimal performance. As a whole, the RD900/5 is a powerful and feature-rich amplifier that delivers excellent audio performance, but these limitations should be considered before making a purchase.

Rockford Fosgate T1000X5ad

Power RMS: 100 watts RMS x 4 + 400 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms
100 watts RMS x 4 + 600 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms
200 watts RMS x 2 bridged at 4 ohms + 600 watts RMS at 1 ohm
Frequency Response: 20-20k Hz
Amp Class: A/D
Size: 12-1/2″ x 1-11/16″ x 4-5/16″
Bridgeable: Yes

Rockford has gained worldwide recognition as a reputable amp brand. The Rockford T1000X5ad is yet another testament to this brand’s ability to unleash pretty feral sound-related devices for vehicles.

This full-range A/D class 5 channel amp does a sound system with plenty of justice by producing nothing but clean, seamless sound with few to no glitches. It sure offers a smooth way to run your speaker and subwoofer components.

A max RMS power output of 1000 watts is agreeably a good amount of power for most car systems. It comes with both low pass and subsonic filters for its subchannel; this paired with high pass bass filters minimizes distortion to give an authentic sound output.

Optimum performance seems to be the main point of focus for this amp. Rockford incorporates its C.L.E.A.N (Calibrated Level Eliminates Audible Noises) technology in this model; this feature ensures you hear more of your music in a clean and elaborate manner and with less background noise.

Heat elimination is of the essence for maximum amp efficiency. Its Dynamic Thermal Management and MEHSA MOSFET cooling system see that any excess heat is properly dealt with. Its usually blue indicator lights turn red when a sound source is too distorted and puts your amp at risk of potential damage.

More features are high and low pass filters, a frequency response ranging from 20-20KHz, preamp and speaker-level inputs, and optional remote-level control.

Kenwood Excelon XR901-5

Power (RMS): 60 watts x 4 + 400 watts x 1 at 4 ohms;
75 watts x 4 + 600 watts x 1 at 2 ohms;
150 watts x 2 bridged at 4 ohms + 600 watts at 2 ohms
Frequency Response: 20-40k Hz
Size: 10-1/4″ x 2″ x 7-3/16″
Amp Class: Class D
Bridgeable: Yes

This amp is a particularly perfect 5-channel amp where space is a major concern (only 2″ high). The Kenwood Excelon XR901-5 can only be described as a tiny package of delight for audiophiles as it features the latest technologies for maximum performance.

Its RMS output is rather staggering and it can send 60W to each of your speakers and additional 600 watts for the sub. It improves music quality and efficiency through its variable high and low pass filters.

To regulate temperature conditions, the amp has a fan fixed in proximity to its circuitry to cool the air around it; this regulates the amp’s overall temperature. For durability, the amp has gold-plated line input terminals enhancing their conductivity and non-corrosion.

Hertz Audio HDP5

Max Power Output: 950W
RMS: 5 Ch 70 W x 4 + 380 W x 1 (4Ω)
5 Ch 100 W x 4 + 550 W x 1 (2Ω)
3 Ch 200 W x 2 (4Ω) + 380 W x 1 (4Ω)
3 Ch 200 W x 2 (4Ω) + 550 W x 1 (2Ω)
Amp Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes

If you’re looking to upgrade from that OEM system and take a fast dive into the promising world of full-range, all-powerful sound waves, this amp is it for you.

The Hertz Audio HDP5 is one of a kind in more than one way. From its amusingly versatile connections right down to its exterior design, it’s evident that this is a well-put-together amp.

Being able to produce a steady RMS of 900 watts, this amp means serious business. At 2Ohms you get 100 watts from its channels and 550 watts from the subchannel.

While its compact appearance may fool some people, the Hertz Audio HDP5 has a volcano’s worth of potential locked away in its tiny chassis.

Using its Single Cycle Control, it increases efficiency by reducing current draws and the amount of heat generated compared to other class A/B design amps.

Another feature is its R.I.P.S. (Regulated, Intelligent Power Supply) which monitors output current to optimize output power over a range of impedance. It also includes Advanced Rollback Protection which ensures its safety even when playing under the most extreme of conditions.

Finally, its chassis design incorporates alloy fins that facilitate proper heat dissipation. The Hertz Audio HDP5 amp includes other features such as differential balanced inputs and HD mounting options.

JL Audio XD700/5v2

Max Power Output: 700W
RMS:
75 watts RMS x 4 + 180 watts RMS x 1 (at 4 ohms),
100 watts RMS x 4 + 300 watts RMS x 1 (at 2 ohms),
200 watts RMS x 2 bridged at 4 ohms + 300 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms
Amp Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes

Judging from its price, you’d expect nothing short of phenomenal from this amp. True enough, it delivers just as much. The JL Audio XD700/5 amplifier brings a blend of the latest amp technology and a range of exciting features to the table.

Any audiophile would be pumped upon an encounter with this piece. Its NexD switching design simply takes its efficiency to a whole different level.

These and other features impressed us enough to make this JL Audio 5-channel amp our top pick in this section. The JL Audio is clearly not messing around in its effort to give the market a state-of-the-art car amplifier.

Its max power output falls at 700 watts at a stable 2 Ohms. While this may not be the highest RMS output in the market, it is enough to handle a top-level sound system. When bridged, its minimum impedance falls at 2Ohm and at 4Ohms unbridged.

JL Audio hardly ever disappoints; this includes their regard for safety and device durability. As a safety measure, this amp features JL Audio’s signature Advanced Rollback Protection. A really fascinating fact about this feature is that it rolls back peak power output when the amp gets to an alarming temperature; it holds the low power output until the device cools down. If that doesn’t keep the amp from substantial damage, I don’t know what would.

Additional features include its aluminum allow heat sink chassis, speaker level inputs, a differential balanced input section, selectable filter mode, and a fuse rating of 60A. It also supports an HD-RLC remote level control which is sold separately.

Previously considered options – some still available (2018., 2019., 2020.)

Pioneer GM-D9705

Max Power Output: 2,000W
RMS: 100W x 4 (Main channel), 600W x 1 (Subwoofer channel) at 2 Ohms,
75W x 4 (Main channel), 350W x 1 (Subwoofer channel) at 4 ohms,
200W x 2 (Main channel), 350W x 1 (Subwoofer channel) Bridged at 4 Ohms
Amp Class: D
Bridgeable: Yes

With a manufacturer like Pioneer, you would be wrong to expect nothing short of impressive. Taking a look at its features, you can clearly see why the GM-D9705 is our preferred pick for amps within the $300 price range.

This Pioneer 5-channel car amp comes with a low and high pass filter (variable) that allows its user the advantage of controlling its bass levels. With a max output of 2000 watts, the GM-D9705 proves to be a rather powerful addition to your music system.

Perhaps one of its most convenient features is its flexible size. Its general design makes it an easy fit even in the most compact of all vehicles. The Pioneer GM-D9705 comes with easy-to-understand installation instructions making it a piece of cake to set up.

Rockford Fosgate R600X5 Prime

Max Power Output: 600W
RMS: 50 watts RMS x 4 at 4 ohms + 200 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms,
75 watts RMS x 4 at 2 ohms + 300 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms,
150 watts RMS x 2 bridged at 4 ohms + 300 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms
Amp Class: Class A/B + Class D (Sub)
Bridgeable: Yes

Right down from its design to its performance efficiency, this Rockford Fosgate R600X5 amplifier is all-rounded working just right with all your speakers and subs. The Rockford Fosgate R600X5 comes with 4 channels each with an RMS rating of 50 watts and an additional 5th subwoofer dedicated channel with an RMS rating of up to 300 watts.

Additional features include a selectable EQ bass boost, remote Punch level control, MOSFET power supply, preamp, and speaker level inputs.

What does a 5-channel amp mean?

Now typically, an amplifier is designed to boost low-output sound signals from an independent source to more elaborate, powerful, and cleaner signals. Usually, an entire sound system (inclusive of a subwoofer), requires you to pair up a 2 or 4-channel amp with a mono-block amplifier to adequately run it.

Sounds like one heck of a task, doesn’t it? Well, fortunately, that’s where a five-channel amp comes in. It allows you to run your entire sound system through a single device.

A 5-channel amplifier is a hybrid; a combination of a 4-channel amp and a mono-block amp in one package.

In other words, it is a fusion of both Class D and Class AB circuitry in one chassis. With it, you have four channels to power your front and rear speakers and a fifth channel specifically for the sub-woofer.

So, 5-channel amplifiers save their users the wiring nightmares that come with having multiple amplifiers.

We also did a review of 2-channel, 4-channel, 6-channel, and monoblock car amps.

Why A 5-Channel Amp Is A Better Option?

Amplifiers have seen quite the evolution in the past few decades. At one point, if you had any intention of setting up a full-range sound system in your car, it meant sacrificing a good amount of your cabin and trunk space.

Since their conception well over a decade ago, 5-channel amps have gradually gained popularity due to their heavily convenient nature. Naturally, this amp brings quite a lot to the table including a bunch of advantages.

What is a 5-channel amp used for?

5 channel amp is used for connecting car speakers to 4 channels and a subwoofer to a single channel. Also, in bridged mode, you can use it to connect 3 channels (2 speakers + sub).

Benefits of 5-Channel Car Amplifiers

More Power, Less Space

Instead of having two or more amps, a single 5-channel amp can get the job done just as well comparatively causing less havoc. This hybrid not only saves you a significant amount of space, but it also does so without sacrificing the much-needed amp power. By bridging it, it allows its users to boost its power output when the need arises.

Convenience

You’ve got to admit, being able to serve a full set of sound components with a single device is remarkable. What makes it even better is that the prerequisites involved are very easily achievable. 5 channel amps are undeniably more favorable in terms of space, power, and even cost.

For people who would rather deal with a single amp than have to juggle around several of them in an attempt to get the desired sound blast, 5 channels is the way to go.

Top-Notch Delivery

By using a fusion of Class D and A/B amp technology, 5-channel amps give exceptional results. With a cleaner sound output, lesser background noise, and more defined music waves, it is impossible to deny its efficiency.

What Should You Look For In A Good 5-Channel Amp?

The market is flooded with different 5-channel amp models. While this is mostly a good thing, it can get rather confusing especially if you have limited knowledge regarding amplifiers.

Acknowledging this fact, we’ve come up with a list of features you should put into consideration when assessing a potential 5-channel amp buy.

RMS Power

RMS (Root mean square), usually measured in Watts, represents the total amount of continuous power an amplifier produces.

Most 5-channel amps are capable of running between 600-1000 watts RMS. Even so, there are several models capable of running more than the above-specified range of RMS.

Regardless, more RMS output always means more power. In simple terms, the higher the RMS the better the outcome.

Impedance

This is basically the measure of electrical resistance. 5-channel amps come with an impedance measurement of either 2 or 4 Ohms.

However, depending on the nature of your sub, you may need to go slightly higher than this to a probable 8 Ohms. Needless to say, you should make sure the amp’s impedance matches that of your system for a smoother operation.

Peak Power

It refers to the maximum amount of power an amplifier can handle in a short period of time without burning out. This may not be as important as the RMS measure. Even so, the peak power can also make or break an amp.

In Relation To Your Car (Prerequisites)

When making this nature purchase, keeping your vehicle’s features in the back of your mind is very important. In as much as an amp may have all the right specifications, it may not be well suited for your car.

Additionally, it may not work as well for your own preferences. With that said, here are some additional factors you should consider before and during making that much-anticipated purchase.

How Big Is Your Car?

Normally, the size of the car determines the number of speakers or sub-woofer you can fit into it. On the brighter side, 5-channel amps come in considerably compact designs.

However, some models are still larger than others. That said, space determines the amplifier model that works best for the conditions in question.

Your Music Preference

Inbuilt car sound systems may not always work harmoniously with all genres of music. Seeing as much, you may have to add on speakers to achieve your desired output. Whether a deep bass or soft, delicate music, your amp should be capable of handling your music choice sufficiently.

Price

Cost is a major determinant of the type of amplifier you eventually end up with. As you would expect, good 5-channel amplifiers don’t come cheap.

This, however, does not mean you cannot find a good quality one at a reasonable price. The market has an endless list of options at different price levels. Despite the fact that the search may be daunting, finding one that falls right into your budget is guaranteed.

With the much that has been said, it is about time we got the gist of this write-up. In a market where the privilege of choice is more of a headache rather than helpful, a simple guide goes a long way in informing any given amp shopping spree.

Last update on 2024-11-21 / 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.