Input stages use an extremely versatile electronic component called an op amp operational amplifier. Op amps are tiny amplifier circuits built into miniature chips used for all sorts of audio functions. Ground loop noise is a common and very frustrating car audio installation problem. This appears as a high-pitched and annoying whine you can hear from your speakers. A filter design called a differential amplifier circuit is used on the front end input side to effectively block and cancel out this noise before it can get into the musical signal pathways.
Electronic crossovers offer a way to control the frequency range sent to car speakers. For example, when driving subwoofers, a low pass filter blocks everything except bass to give a great bass sound. Likewise, you can prevent bass from distorting smaller speakers such as tweeters or door speakers by using the high pass crossover. When used correctly crossovers allow you to get more volume, protect your speakers, and provide better sound clarity.
Electronic crossovers in amps perform the same function as passive speaker crossovers but without bulky components like inductors and capacitors they require.
As the name implies, amplifiers boost an input signal from a stereo. The amplifier gain adjustment provides a way to control the output level based on the input signal level. The gain level affects the headroom which is the amount of amplification still available before the limit is reached. All types from car to home stereos and even home DJ equipment often include a gain adjustement.
Simplified illustration of the amplification stages and output that most car amps use. Beefy output transistors capable of handling large amounts of current are connected to the switching power supply and drive the speaker. Power amplifiers as seen in the image above have main sections dedicated to modify or manipulate audio signals as well as for delivering more current and voltage.
The first sections contain small components like miniature transistors that divide the audio signal into two halves. The input signal is magnified to an identical but much larger waveform connect to the speaker outputs. The class listed by a car audio amplifier manufacturer is the type of technology used for the audio signal and to deliver power.
This is wasted purely as heat! By contrast, a class D amp uses pulse width modulation PWM technology that switches power components on only a portion of the time. These are converted back to smooth audio signal waves before being delivered to speakers. Channels are independent audio paths that are used to create a sound output from an amplifier. In stereo recordings, the left and right audio sources differ and provide left vs.
In car audio, left and right audio channels are separate outputs from a car stereo or an independent signal path with an amplified output. Additionally, some stereos provide front and rear outputs pairs, although these are simply the same signals provided to drive an extra pair of speakers in the rear.
Generally power connections are located on one end and audio inputs and controls are found on the other end. In image above you can see adjustable crossover dials and the switches to enable them.
The point after which sound frequencies are blocked, called the cutoff frequency , is adjustable by the user with a small dial in some cases. Adjustable Input Level: This function allows you to boost or cut the signal that is sent to your amplifier from your car stereo.
This helps you dial-in the input signal strength to your amp to help minimize distortion within your unit. Adjustable Output Level: This provides control over the signal strength that the amplifier sends to the speakers, to ensure that your speakers are not inadvertently overdriven and protects the amplifier from distorting or overheating.
Some of these tones may never be heard individually but when they are combined with the original audio of a recording, it breathes new life into the recording, offering more depth and ambiance. Speaker Level Inputs: Enable you to use the speaker outputs from your car stereo to send signals to the amplifier. This is especially helpful when you do not have line level outputs RCA on your car receiver. Although there are many different classes of audio amplifiers, only a handful of amp classes are commonly used in the world of car audio.
Without going into a lengthy explanation on the physics of how each amp class works, it is much easier to understand the pros and cons of each amp class. Listed below are the most prevalent amplifier classes used within the industry. Class A: An analog amplifier. Mainly used in higher end car audio installs. Not commonly found in car audio.
Class D: Digital amplifier. The most common amplification found in car audio. This type of amplifier generates a fair amount of crossover distortion. In order to minimize the effect of the distortion, the audio quality may suffer, depending on the make and model of the amplifier. Amplifiers come in many configurations. Once you have determined your audio needs, you can simply use our Filter Menu located on the left hand side on product landing pages on a desktop or the Filter Button on mobile to narrow down your search.
If you need additional assistance stop by your local Car Toys store. Our product experts and professional installers are there to assist you with all of your car entertainment needs. Amplifier Buying Guide What does an amplifier do for your stereo? This is the rating that industry professionals are most concerned with, and it is a more concise reflection of the amount of power the amplifier is capable of producing. Once the amplifier has surpassed its RMS Power rating it will begin to generate heat, distort, and may cause damage to the unit itself.
Peak Power: How much power the amplifier can produce for a very, very short period of time before damage or failure occurs. Sure the amplifier may be capable of producing the claimed amount of power, but it will not sound pleasant and it will not be long before the amp shuts off or blows.
Therefore it is deemed as a useless measurement of power output and is not considered a worthy rating. Under Powering Your Speakers When a speaker is underpowered there is the potential of overdriving the amp. How much power do you need? Features Audio Filters: Filters are an electronic device that can be found within amplifiers that control what frequencies are sent to your speakers.
Filter Types: High Pass Filter: An electronic filter that allows signals higher than a specified frequency to pass through its circuit, frequencies below the specified frequency are muted. Low Pass Filter: Exactly opposite of the High Pass Filter, this filter allows all frequencies below a specified frequency and all frequencies above the specified frequency are muted.
Subsonic Filter: Mutes the ultra low frequencies that are not in audible range, this reduces the workload of both the amplifier and the speakers.
You probably know the difference between your TV speakers and a home theater system. An amplifier in your vehicle can make that kind of difference. You'll hear a bigger, fuller sound, with more detail and greater impact, especially if you've installed better speakers in your vehicle.
If the sound gets muddy when you turn it up, you need more power. The first consideration is how many speakers you'll be powering and how much power each speaker will handle.
Once you know that, you'll know how many amplifier channels you'll need and how much power you'll want. Yes, you can, as long as you have a basic knowledge of electronics and you're handy with tools. You'll have to run a power wire from your vehicle's battery back to your amp's location, and then a ground wire to your vehicle's chassis. It's important to do the job correctly so you don't damage your vehicle.
Our Tech Support people can help you if any issues come up. Check your speakers or sub to see how much power they can handle in terms of "watts RMS. Speakers are more forgiving, so you don't always have to max them out, although more power always sounds better. The easy answer is "one speaker per channel. There are plenty of exceptions to this rule, so contact an Advisor to get the best advice for your situation.
How much power and how many channels do your car speakers need? This guide will help you choose the right amplifier for your car's sound system.
Check out this overview of a typical installation to see the steps involved when you install an amplifier in your vehicle.
Where should I mount it? What wiring do I need? What size fuse and power wire? These wiring diagrams illustrate how amplifiers connect to your audio system, which will make it easier to shop for the gear you need for the system of your dreams.
Car amplifier audio terms - like watts, volts, and efficiency - are explained. Confused about wiring your subs and picking the right amplifier?
Crutchfield will get you on the fast track to big bass with this simple guide. You need to set your amplifiers gain correctly in order to enjoy your musics full range of dynamics hearing all the notes clearly, whether loud or soft. Here's a method for setting amp gain fast and accurately using test tones. Here's a step-by-step guide to installing a car amplifier, including how to run the cables through your car and how to wire the amp.
There are many ways to connect subwoofers to an amplifier. Our wiring diagrams will help you find the best way to wire your subs and amps so you'll get the best performance out of your gear.
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