How to choose an amplifier for speakers in the car

When it comes to equipping their personal vehicles, car owners devote considerable attention to the sound systems they install. For diehard music lovers who simply cannot bear the thought of driving without an amplifier, speakers, and a subwoofer, the installation of these additional audio devices becomes a crucial step in tuning their prestigious cars. But how does one go about selecting the right equipment?

Why do you need a sound amplifier in the car

The majority (about 80%) of passenger cars produced by manufacturers come equipped with acoustic systems in order to provide car users with a comfortable sound quality experience.

However, not all drivers are satisfied with the factory-installed equipment, as the stock stereo does not always meet their individual requirements.

Using a car amplifier can offer several benefits, including:

• Enhancing sound quality
• Increasing volume
• Expanding the range of playable waves
• Allowing users to adjust and save sound frequency settings based on their preferences

NOTE: The software installed in modern equipment offers the ability to customize the sound signal settings. This feature is especially convenient when listening to various types of music or when the audience changes.

Integrating a high-performance amplifier, along with its corresponding accessories, is an essential component of a fashionable customization process. This is particularly important for drivers who wish to highlight their driving style and align with a specific musical genre.

When it comes to selecting the right car equipment, drivers consider their own preferences, such as the desired volume level, the quality of the frequency signal, and the availability of standard or extra space for installation.

All of these factors are represented in the technical specifications of amplifiers, which can be categorized based on:

• The number of channels;
• Class;
• Signal power;
• Minimum and maximum frequency;
• Filter and ultra-low oscillation control;
• Harmonic distortion coefficient.

Channels represent the outputs of the devices that connect to one or more speakers. When connecting a subwoofer, single-channel equipment is utilized. In these amplifiers, restricting the upper frequencies is not significant, but having a filter for the low "bass" frequencies and being able to adjust them is highly desirable, especially if this correction is not available on the car stereo system.

Listening to stereo and quad systems with the appropriate number of speakers can be done using either a two-channel or four-channel technique. The bridge method of connection allows for the connection of 4, 6 or more speakers through two-channel equipment. If stereo speakers with a subwoofer are being installed, a three-channel amplifier is used.

The amplifying equipment is classified using letters from the Latin alphabet. It is recommended to choose a device that belongs to class AB or D, despite the wide range of available models. Class AB amplifiers have lower efficiency compared to D-class amplifiers. This means that D-class amplifiers can produce more power with smaller dimensions, although it might affect the cost.

There is a difference between the nominal and maximum power of radio equipment. At the nominal power, the equipment will function for 2-3 hours and be ready for continued music playback. The maximum power represents the output capability of the amplifier within a short time period.

When making a purchase, it is important to consider the nominal value. Operating at high volume levels can distort the sound and have a negative impact on the performance of the radio equipment if the maximum power value is used as the design value.

The ability to select frequencies, specific to a certain model, depends on the driver’s preferences. Some may prefer lower frequencies, while others may prefer higher timbres of sound.

INTRODUCTION! Recent studies have uncovered a fascinating distinction in the way people perceive sound, a characteristic that is present in the majority of individuals, specifically, 90% of the population. It has been observed that men tend to have a preference for low-pitched sounds, whereas women are more inclined towards higher frequency tones.

What to consider when choosing a sound amplifier for car speakers

The signal power, the number of channels that match the speakers, and the sound quality are the primary factors to consider when installing audio equipment in a car.

NOTE: It is crucial that the amplifier’s power exceeds that of the speakers. Failure to meet this requirement will result in a decrease in audio quality when the volume is raised.

Furthermore, the frequency range of the output channels must align with the speakers’ technical specifications. Alongside the aforementioned characteristics, special attention should be given to the input sensitivity.

Having the ability to adjust the incoming signal enables the amplifier to be utilized on various vehicles. In the absence of such adjustment, it is necessary to ensure that the parameters of the audio recorder’s output signal correspond to the sensitivity parameters of the connected equipment.

Fans of "bass" need to consider the inclusion of a low-pass filter, which eliminates oscillations below 20 Hz that are harmful to humans and radio equipment. The ability to adjust the level of these frequencies allows for comfortable use of the amplifier and speakers in various situations. For audiophiles who prioritize sound quality, it is important to take into account the distortion factor, which should be kept below 1%.

By selecting the right car amplifier, drivers can embark on long trips and enjoy listening to their favorite audio recordings.