Best 6 Channel Car Amplifiers [UPDATED]

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The following is a list of amps that many car audio experts rate as the best 6 channel amplifiers on the market today. The amps are designated in different categories, including the top pick, runner-up, and bang for the buck to help you choose the right option for your vehicle.

Our top pick is the AudioControl D-6.1200 because of its perfect power, immaculate control, and top-level functionality.

Recommended 6-Channel Car Amps

Image6-Channel Car AmpRMS PowerPeak PowerAmp ClassBridgeableFrequency Response
AudioControl D-6.1200...
Our Pick

Price at AmazonPrice at Crutchfield
6 x 125 W RMS @ 4 Ohms
6 x 200 W RMS @ 2 Ohms
400 W RMS @ 4 Ohms bridged
N/AClass DYes10-30k Hz
Alpine R-A90S R-Series 6/5/4/3...
Runner- Up

Price at Amazon
75 watts RMS x 4 (channels 1-4) and 150 watts RMS x 2 (channels 5-6) into 4Ω
100 watts RMS x 4 (channels 1-4) and 250 watts RMS x 2 (channels 5-6) into 2Ω
Bridged: 200 watts RMS x 2 (channels 1-4) and 500 watts RMS x 1 (channels 5-6); 14.4 volts into 4Ω
N/AClass DYes10-45k Hz
Kenwood Excelon P-XR600-6DSP...
Bang For The Buck

Price at Amazon
75 watts RMS x 6 at 4 ohms
100 watts RMS x 6 at 2 ohms
200 watts RMS x 3 bridged at 4 ohms (4-ohm stable in bridged mode)
1200WClass DYes20Hz-50kHz
Our Pick

AudioControl D-6.1200

Serious power and comprehensive control are two keys to achieving terrific sound in a car radio system, and this amp has both. The D-6.1200 combines AudioControl’s award-winning amplifier engineering with its powerful Matrix DSP. When you need audio excellence from your factory or aftermarket sound system, this single-unit solution gives unmatched power and tuning options.

The D-6.1200 has effective outputs, line-level inputs, and speaker level inputs, as well as full control over all functionalities via AudioControl’s DM Smart DSP app, which includes polarity, thirty bands of equalization, input delay, signal delay, and AudioControl proprietary functionality like MILCTM, GTOTM Signal Sense, AccuBASS®, as well as integrated input and output RTA’s.

Power

The D-6.1200 6-channel amp from AudioControl produces has a Max Power of 400 watts and a max RMS of 200 watts. The amp has a Max RMS of 125 watts per channel at 4 ohms and 200 watts Max RMS per channel at 2 ohms. Even the most demanding aftermarket speakers will find this power sufficient to run with plenty of headroom.

Four of the D-6.1200’s channels can be used to drive a pair of 2-way components, while the fifth and sixth channels can be bridged together for a Max Power of 400 watts. You may also use this amp in 3-channel mode to power three subwoofers with a Max Power of 400 watts each, for a total power of 1200 watts.

Frequency Response

When it comes to frequency response, the D-6.1200 amp can reproduce audible frequencies up to a great level without making any significant changes to the signal. The 6-channel amp from AudioControl has a frequency response of 20 – 24000 Hz. This is complemented by the amp’s 102 dB signal-to-noise ratio and 0.25 – 8V input signal voltage to produce great sounds without distortion.

Impedance

In terms of resistance, the D-6.1200 6-channel amp from AudioControl can handle output impedance at 2 and 4 ohms. This impedance occurs at a supply voltage of 14.4V DC and in a bridged channel way.

Design and Appearance

The D-6.1200 bundles power and intelligent flexibility into one attractive cast aluminum chassis, making it ideal for OEM integration and aftermarket designs. The D-6.1200’s built-in Option Port is the new era of automotive audio, allowing hi-res streaming straight into the DSP. It also makes proprietary links for future interface solutions, controllers, and inputs possible.

You can plug this amp into nearly any factory system, even if it has distinct pre-filtered, time-aligned, and enhanced signals traveling to different factory speakers and tweeters, thanks to its eight active speaker-level inputs.

Also, you will not have to run a second turn-on line back to the receiver since AudioControl’s Great Turn on (GTOTM) signal-sensing circuitry switches the amp on automatically anytime it detects an incoming signal.

Onboard LEDs show you how to optimize signal flow for inputs and outputs and notify you if a source is too strong and creates distortion. And finally, from your front seat, an additional ACR-3 wired remote control allows you to pick sources, regulate settings, and recall presets.

Video overview

Runner-Up

Alpine R-A90S

With 6-Channels of Amplification for Goosebumps effects, the Alpine R-A90S lets you enjoy your music in high resolution, putting you in the midst of the performance. The R-A90S contains a powerhouse of Alpine brilliance and technical innovation beneath its stylish and bold design, creating an industry-first full-system 6-Channel Hi-Res compatible power amplifier.

In comparison to standard multi-channel amps, the R-A90S has a staggering power channel structure that enables each channel to host varying levels of power. This empowers the R-A90S to supply the necessary power to the channels that require it the most.

Due to its capacity to supply full system power from a single amp, customers have grown to appreciate the 5-channel amplification solution. Alpine produced a 6-channel amp with staggering power that has twice the amount of power on the 5th and 6th channel to bring value and variety to this segment without compromising the subwoofer power of a 5-channel.

Power

The R-Series speakers, subwoofers, and amps from Alpine have a reputation for sound quality that can be enjoyed from a mile away. For a classic R-Series experience, the R-A90S is calibrated to enhance the qualities of the R-Series speakers and subwoofers.
The R-5th A90S’s and 6th channels can be bridged to give up to a max RMS of 200 watts and a Max Power of 500 Watts.

Frequency Response

The R-A90S is Hi-Res Audio certified and designed to function over a 10Hz to 45kHz frequency range. Additionally, signal-to-noise ratios for channels 1/2/3/4 and 5/6 are at benchmark levels, with 103dB for 1/2/3/4 and 106dB for 5/6.

Impedance

The R-A90S has an output impedance of 2 ohms at channels 1,2,3, and 4 and an output impedance of 4 ohms at channels 5 and 6. On the other hand, the input impedance of the amp is 10k ohms at channels 1 to 6.

Design and Appearance

Unlike standard multi-channel amplifiers, the R-A90S can host various levels of power on each channel thanks to its unique staggered power channel layout. The Alpine R-A90S provides the option of adding an Alpine RUX-KNOB as an input device with a 2 Bass control knob on the remote (sold separately). The bass knob adjusts the gain on your amp to manage the output and volume of your subwoofers, allowing for fast and easy bass adjustments on the go.

Unboxing and Review

Bang for The Buck

Kenwood Excelon P-XR600-6DSP

The Kenwood Excelon P-XR600-6DSP amp, coupled with the accompanying iDatalink Maestro amp replacement module, replaces the factory amp and adds a lot of power and tuning ability to your system while maintaining all of the vehicle’s audio and communication functionality.

The system already supports most vehicle manufacturers, and more are being added all the time. The true advantage of all this technological wizardry is that you don’t need to be an oscilloscope and spectrum analyzer expert to get the signals leveled down and summed appropriately. Simply flash the iDatalink Maestro AR module with the appropriate settings, and the tuning is complete.

Power

With up to 75 watts of Max RMS per speaker, this Kenwood Excelon amplifier will add clarity and bite to your audio. Alternatively, the amplifier can drive four speakers with Channels 1-4 while sending Max Power of 200 watts to your subwoofer via channels 5-6 in bridged mode to drive an entire system.

Frequency Response

The amp produces a significantly cleaner signal than the traditional approach of combining factory-amplified signals, processing and eliminating amp noise, and then re-amplifying the signal for the speakers. The P-XR600-6DSP has three-band parametric EQ with center frequencies from 44 Hz to 19.9 kHz in 54 steps. Additionally, for an improved signal response, there is a 10-channel 32-bit 192 kHz digital processor.

Impedance

The Kenwood Excelon P-XR600-6DSP amp has an impedance of 2 and 4 ohms up to 6 channels and 4 ohms up to 3 channels bridged.

Design and Appearance

The XR600-6DSP amp is a six-channel, bridgeable, Class-D amplifier from the Excelon line, which is known for its high performance. It has a compact size (12.6 inches wide x 2.1 inches high x 7.1 inches deep), so it should be simple to find a place for it.

The terminals are all fully insulated and covered, and all linkages are made on one edge of the amplifier. A fine trim cap conceals all the screw access holes after the connections are made for a sleek, clean look.

The iDatalink Maestro AR module connects to the front panel via a small four-pin connector that also serves as the remote trigger for the amplifier and the AR module’s ground connection.

Compact Option

NVX MVPA6 Marine-V Series

The NVX MVPA6 Marine-V Series 6-Channel Bridgeable Micro Class D Compact Car Amplifier packs a massive punch when it comes to power.

The Marine-V Series Amps can be mounted virtually any place in your vehicle. The Marine-V Series Amps will fit in your motorbike, UTVs, ATVs, watercraft, and golf carts and will take up very little space. When compared to these amplifiers, similar-sized amplifiers produce half the power output, making the MVPA6 6-channel amp the ideal compact option available today.

The Marine-V Series amps are Class-D amplifiers. This means they have an efficiency of 90% or above. Compared to Class-A/B amplifiers, which have an efficiency of less than 78%, this is a huge improvement. This equates to lower heat shrinks, less power demand from your vehicle’s charging system, and smaller internal components, allowing the amplifier’s overall footprint to be reduced.

Power

If you are looking for a powerful compact amp, this is the best option for you. Despite its small size, the MVPA6 Marine-V Series 6-Channel amp packs a powerful punch. It has a Max Power of 900 watts and a Max RMS of 150 watts.

Frequency Response

When it comes to frequency response, the NVX MVPA6 Marine-V Series 6-Channel Bridgeable Micro Class D Compact Car Amplifier is in the midrange for amplifiers. The amp has a frequency response of 20 Hz – 20 kHz and a signal-to-noise ratio of 90 dB. Additionally, it has a 0 to +12 dB bass boost at 50 Hz to ensure crisp sounds.

Impedance

The MVPA6 6-channel amp has an impedance of 2 and 4 ohms up to 6 channels and 4 ohms up to 3 channels bridged.

Design and Appearance

The majority of amps on the market claim to be designed for boats, motorbikes, and other outdoor vehicles, yet they lack any actual protection for their amplifiers. The IPX67 waterproof grade of the MVPA6 Marine-V Series amplifiers ensures that they are truly prepared for the elements.

To function flawlessly with our NVX Bluetooth controllers, all Marine-V Series Amplifiers have a 3.5mm AUX signal input (like the XUBT4 or XUBT3). This also allows you to connect directly to the headphone socket on your device.

All Marine-V Series Amps include a bass knob as an extra benefit, allowing you to use a subwoofer to its full potential if you desire to bridge two channels together.

Also Great

JL Audio XD600/6v2

JL Audio has been in business for quite some time and can be trusted when it comes to sound. The products of JL Audio don’t really need an introduction. This audiophile company produces high-quality automobile audio components that are designed to meet today’s performance standards.

JL Audio’s XD600/6v2 is one of their greatest six-channel amplifiers. It packs a powerful punch that defies expectations for a device of this size.

This small powerhouse employs a class D amp design with innovative NextDTM switching amp technology, allowing it to play your music in real quality while putting a minimal load on your vehicle’s electrical system.

This JL Audio 6 channel amp is engineered for full-range operation for six channels, but it can also power up to three subwoofers. To put it another way, each channel pair can be bridged to power a subwoofer.

Power

This extremely versatile amp can deliver a Max RMS of 75 watts to each of its six channels. Alternatively, it can drive four speakers with a Max RMS of 75 watts and a Max Power of 200-watt.

It can also bridge four of its channels to create a staggered power four-channel amplifier with a Max Power of 200 Watts x 2 at 4 ohms for component speakers and a Max RMS of 75 W x 2 at 4 ohms for your rear speakers. You can also drive two subwoofers with a Max Power of 200 W each, plus a pair of speakers with a Max RMS of 75W x 2.

Frequency Response

Each channel bank on the XD600/6v2 has a 12 dB / octave filter that can be adjusted as a low-pass or high-pass filter and has a continuously changeable cutoff frequency range of 50-500 Hz.

Impedance

The XD600/6v2 comes with the v2 Spec feature set, which includes automatic turn-on (by signal or DC-offset sensing) and a dual-range differential-balanced input section that can handle a wide variety of input voltage levels. The XD600/6v2 has an impedance of 2 and 4 ohms up to 6 channels and 4 ohms up to 3 channels bridged.

Design and Appearance

This amplifier has a cast alloy heatsink and an innovative cooling system that keeps it cool, preventing overheating and thermal shut-downs so you can keep listening to your music without disruption. Because of the distinctive powder coat finishing, the gasket control cover, and the stainless steel hardware, this gem is both durable and elegant, protecting your investment from the elements. This incredible gadget is well worth the money.

Also Great

Zapco ST-6X SQ

Zapco’s Studio-X range of amplifiers was created with today’s automobile audio industry in mind. The Zapco ST-6X SQ 6-Channel 600W RMS Class AB Amplifier’s chassis allows it to be easily installed in any vehicle, even motorcycle fairings.

Power

The Zapco ST-6X SQ 6-Channel 600W RMS Class AB Amplifier is not the most powerful car amp that you will find today. However, it performs reasonably well in terms in terms of power to ensure minimum distortion at increased levels. The amp has a Max RMS of 100 watts a Max Power of 300 watts.

Frequency Response

The Zapco ST-6X SQ 6-Channel 600W RMS Class AB Amplifier can reproduce audible frequencies up to a reasonable level. The amp has a frequency response of 15Hz to 30KHz ±1dB.

Impedance

The Zapco ST-6X SQ 6-Channel 600W RMS Class AB Amplifier has an impedance of 2 and 4 ohms up to 6 channels and 4 ohms up to 3 channels bridged.

Design and Appearance

The square, low-profile chassis is also simple to trim out for a great-looking installation, ensuring that your system looks as good as it sounds. Some of the functionality that makes this amp desirable include Tiffany style Panel Mount RCA’s, RCA and Speaker Level Inputs, Variable input gain control, Variable electronic crossover, Auto-on with Speaker level inputs, 2/4/6 Ch. input mode selector, Compact chassis, and Variable bass boost control.

Also Great

AudioControl LC-6.1200

The LC-6.1200 is the most versatile 6 channel amp on the market, based on the extremely successful LC-4.800 multi-channel amplifier. The LC-6.1200 can be easily integrated with most factory-installed source units thanks to its eight active speaker level inputs with summing and an intuitive three-way Linkwitz-Riley crossover network. The innovative AccuBASS® circuit compensates for factory bass roll-off to deliver the best bass performance possible.

The AudioControl LC-6.1200 was designed to function with both aftermarket and factory stereos. Signal summing accommodates the different bass, midrange, and treble signals present in some factory systems, and eight active speaker-level inputs enable you to connect to practically any factory radio.

Power

The LC-6.1200 6-channel amp from AudioControl produces 125 watts Max RMS per channel at 4 ohms. Even the most demanding aftermarket speakers will find this power sufficient to run with plenty of headroom. If you like bass, you can switch this amp to 3-channel mode and use it to power three subwoofers at 400 watts Max Power each, for a total of 1200 watts Max RMS.

Frequency Response

The high-pass crossover of the amp can be adjusted from 30 to 300 Hz, or 500 to 5,000 kHz, depending on where the neighboring range switch is positioned.

Impedance

The LC-6.1200 6-channel amp from AudioControl is configurable as a 6/5/4/3/2 channel amplifier. It has an impedance of 2, 4 ohms, and 4 ohms bridged up to 6 channels.

Design and Appearance

This amp will sound great with a three-way system that includes tweeters, midrange speakers, and subwoofers. Set high-pass, low-pass, and bandpass filters on highly flexible crossover networks to ensure that each driver receives just the frequencies it was intended to play.
Also, you won’t need to run a remote turn-on wire throughout your vehicle since signal detection circuitry switches the amp on through the front speaker-level inputs.

Onboard LEDs show you how to optimize signal flow for inputs and outputs, as well as notify you if a source is too strong and creating distortion. And finally, like the D-6.1200 6-channel amp from AudioControl from your front seat, an additional ACR-3 wired remote control allows you to pick sources, regulate settings, and recall presets on the LC-6.1200 6-channel amp.

Last update on 2024-04-26 / 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.

Hey, there mobile audio lovers! My name is Vincent Talbot, founder and chief editor at 99carstereo.com. Ask any mobile audio fanatic, installer, or company rep what makes a good car speaker, sub, or amp, or, better yet, why he or she prefers a certain brand over another, and be prepared to endure a litany of opinions, viewpoints, and passion-fueled perspectives. To be honest, mobile audio shopping can be a daunting task without a guide, so I’ve assembled what I feel are the best products to consider to make things easier for you. More.

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