10 BEST MINI CAR AMPLIFIERS 4-CHANNEL
Do you ever feel like no matter how hard you try, there are some parts of driving where music just doesn’t cut it? Well if so, then maybe it’s time to get yourself one of the best mini car amplifiers 4-channel on the online market today!
These little amps pack a powerful punch while still being compact enough to fit under any seat or anywhere else in your vehicle.
WHAT ARE 4 CHANNEL CAR AMPS?
4-channel car amps are pretty much exactly what they sound like, amplifiers that control the output of 4 separate speakers. If an amplifier can manage multiple speakers, it’s often referred to as a ‘4 channel’ amp even if it is only controlling two channels (2 speakers).
THE FLEXIBILITY AND BENEFITS OF THE SYSTEM
4 channel amps are very flexible and have many advantages over other models. They allow you to configure different types of sound systems in your car easily.
For instance:
- A 4 speaker system for the front and rear
- A front full-range system with a bridged subwoofer
- A high-pass/low-pass component speaker setup with tweeters on channels 1-2 and woofers on 3-4
- Front speakers with a high-pass crossover and front woofers on low-pass channels.
If you add a second amp, the possibilities are even greater! Don’t worry if you don’t use all the channels on your amp, it’s okay to leave some speaker outputs disconnected.
HOW DOES A CAR AMP WORK?
A 4 channel amp is used to power a set of full-range speakers, which includes a tweeter and a woofer — typically four speakers in all. The 4 channel amp is the only product that can drive the amount of raw power needed to get the most from your speakers.
In contrast, an amplifier that powers two or more sets of drivers may still be useless unless it provides proper bi-amping for channels 3 and/or 4. Bi-amping sends signals from one channel through both sets of drivers at matching volume for improved performance.
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A CAR AMPLIFIER
It’s important to check for these basic features before making a purchase:
- Built-in high and low-pass crossovers (adjustable is preferable).
- Good quality terminals for easy and secure wire connections.
- High-pass feature to prevent distortion and improve sound quality.
- Power handling capacity that matches your needs.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CLASS A/B AND CLASS D AMPLIFIERS
In simple terms, there are two types of car amplifiers: class A/B and class D. The traditional class A/B amp has been around for a long time and uses a design where transistors remain on even when there is no audio, making it less efficient.
On the other hand, class D amps are much more efficient and can be made to fit in smaller spaces. They work by switching transistors very quickly to create an audio waveform, which saves energy and produces less heat.
HOW GOOD IS THE SOUND QUALITY OF CLASS D AMPLIFIERS?
Class D amplifiers may produce slightly more noise than traditional A/B amplifiers, which could be heard as a hiss, particularly when the gain is turned up high. However, purchasing a well-designed brand name amplifier can help to reduce noise levels and improve overall sound quality.
Highs are crisp and bass is tight and punchy. On the other hand, Class A amplifiers are low-noise designs, but they are not as common and are generally more expensive than Class D. Class D amplifiers are much more efficient than older amplifiers, and they produce less heat.
As a result, they can be incredibly compact. For example, the Alpine KTP-445U 45W x 4 mini-amp measures only 7 7/16 x 1.5 x 2.5 inches in size.
WHY A CLASS D AMPLIFIER MIGHT BE THE BEST OPTION?
Class D amplifiers are very small and compact, which makes them ideal for installation in tight spaces in your car. They can be installed under seats, in storage containers or under the rear folding seat in trucks.
They are also more efficient than traditional amplifiers, which means that they can draw less power and can work with smaller power wires.
However, if having the lowest noise level possible is a concern, then choosing an A/B amplifier might be a better option.
HOW MUCH AMPS POWER DO I REQUIRE FOR MY CAR AUDIO SYSTEM?
As an expert in car amplifier installation, I suggest choosing an amplifier that can deliver at least 50 watts of power to each channel when connected to 4 ohm speakers. If you want really strong bass or to power subwoofers, then you should go for a model with higher bridged power.
For most people, an amplifier that can deliver 50 watts of power to each channel is sufficient for good volume, and when bridged, it can provide around 150 watts of power to drive a subwoofer effectively.
If you want more power and great sound quality, I recommend choosing an amplifier that can deliver 75 watts or more to each channel.
WHAT MAKES 4-CHANNEL AMPLIFIERS VERSATILE?
A 4-channel amplifier is a useful tool for playing music in cars. It can be used to power four speakers in a basic car stereo system or in more complicated active setups, it can be used to power two tweeters and two woofers.
Additionally, you can use a 4-channel amp to power two front speakers while powering a subwoofer with the amp’s rear channels bridged together.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN AN AMPLIFIER’S FEATURES?
When looking for an amplifier, there are several features to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
SIZE:
Compact amplifiers can be installed in almost any vehicle, but larger amplifiers with more power and tuning features may require more space.
POWER:
There are three power levels of amplification to choose from. If you want clear sound, look for an amp with 25 to 60 watts RMS per channel. If you want your music to sound exciting, look for an amp with 65 to 80 watts RMS per channel. If you want loud music with a lot of bass, you’ll need an amp that can deliver at least 100 watts RMS per channel.
SIGNAL PROCESSING:
Most sources need processing to fit the speakers in the system. Every 4-channel amp has high-pass filters to prevent low notes from causing distortion in small speakers. Some amps have digital signal processing (DSP) that allows for more advanced customization, such as multiband equalization, time-alignment, and level-balancing.
BEST MINI CAR AMPLIFIER 4-CHANNEL AT A GLANCE:
- Best cheapest 4 Channel Car Amplifier – [Planet Audio AC1200.4 4 Channel Car Amplifier]
- Best inexpensive 4 channel Car Amplifier – [Rockville RVF-2 1200w Peak/300w]
- Best affordable 4 Channel Car Amplifier – [PLANET AUDIO AC1600.4 1600W]
- Best lightweight Car Audio Amplifier – [DS18 S-1200.4/RD Car Audio Amplifier]
- Best compact 4-channel amp – [Audiopipe APMI-4095 Class AB 1300 Watt]
- Best 4 channel amp – [Rockville dB45 3200 Watt/800w RMS]
- Best 4-Channel digital amplifier – [Kenwood KAC-M1814 4-Channel Compact Bridgeable]
- Best class D mini car amplifier 4 channel – [NVX VADM4 400W RMS Full Range Class D]
- Best 4 channel amp for mids and highs – [Rockford Fosgate R300X4 Prime 4-Channel Amplifier]
- Best 4 channel compact car amplifier – [Rockford Fosgate PBR400X4D Punch]
10 BEST MINI CAR AMPLIFIER 4-CHANNEL REVIEWS 2023
Searching for a way to provide your car with superior audio quality without compromising space? Look no further! Check out our top picks for the best mini car amplifier 4-channel models on the market today.With a wide range of features, power options, and price points to choose from, finding the perfect mini car amp for your setup can be tricky.
👉 Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid When Installing a Car Amplifier
But with our comprehensive reviews and buyer’s guide, we’ll help you find the best model for your needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for something simple and low-key or feature-packed and powerful, we’ve got you covered with our top 10 picks for the best mini car amplifier 4-channel models out there.
Let’s Start!
1. BEST CHEAPEST 4 CHANNEL CAR AMPLIFIER
Planet Audio AC1200.4 4 Channel Car Amplifier is an extremely powerful, high performance car amplifier for the price conscious consumer. The amplifier features 1200 watts RMS of clean power at 2 ohms and 800 watts RMS of clean power at 4 ohms.
The ac1200.4 has a Class A/B design which provides increased efficiency over conventional Class AB designs, producing more power with less current draw from your vehicle’s charging system. This means that you get to enjoy your music longer before suffering the inconvenience of a dead battery.
Planet Audio AC1200.4 4 Channel Car Amplifier utilizes MOSFET power supply technology which has lower operating temperature, higher efficiency, and less distortion than typical Class AB amplifier designs.
This is one of the most powerful car amplifiers that you can buy for this price. It has a sturdy aluminum alloy heatsink to keep it cool during high power output. Planet Audio AC1200.4 4 channel car amplifier has RCA level inputs for connecting the front and rear speaker outputs of your vehicle’s head unit to the amplifier.
This car amp also comes with adjustable input gain controls for low or high output RCA preamps to allow you to match up your system’s audio levels perfectly without distortion. This feature allows you to easily install this aftermarket car stereo amp without having to splice any wires or solder any connections…just plug-n-play.
The Planet Audio AC1200.4 4 channel car amplifier has a bass knob control that allows you to turn the amplifier’s bass level up or down independently from your head unit. This is extremely useful when running multiple amplifiers in various locations, so you can tune each one specifically for its location giving your system maximum sound quality.
This amplifier also features a subsonic filter that removes ultra low frequencies below the crossover point to improve your system’s efficiency at producing clean bass. This car amp has 40-level low pass and subsonic filters to fine tune your system to the way you like it.
Pros
- The remote bass knob’s connection cord is around 15 to 20 feet long
- It’s quite simple to install, and the sound is fantastic.
- Cheapest Price
- Also useful for boats
- Bridgeable
- 6 Year Warranty
Cons
- No bass knob, but bass knob cable will be in the box
Sample Customer Review:
“I have read a lot of reviews claiming to overheat, shutting down or not being as powerful as claimed by the manufacturer. I know that at least two of the reviews I read for this amp were for a different product. I will usually rely on reviews but not on car amps. Regardless of the brand or power rating, a lot of people supposedly having the same problems as mentioned above. Here is what I know about this amp.
I run it from a 100 amp 12v custom built power supply and have 4 x 8ohm 3 way speakers wired in series to channels 1 & 2 and a 15 inch dual voice coil subwoofer rated at 1200w 2ohm wired for 4ohm to bridged channels 3 & 4. I am using 8 AWG power cables and 12 AWG speaker cables. The amp doesn’t even get warm at a comfortable listening level.
I have been running my system this way for over a year. I don’t believe build quality is so bad to justify all of the failure complaints. I couldn’t tell you if power rating is RMS or pmp or whatever but I also do not think it matters. Impedance is critical so if you don’t know the difference between parallel and series wiring or what it means regarding the amp and speakers. Don’t try and fit it yourself.”
2. BEST INEXPENSIVE 4 CHANNEL CAR AMPLIFIER
Rockville RVF-2 Car Amplifier is the perfect amplifier for those who want to take their car audio system to the next level. This 1200 watt peak/300 watts RMS 4 channel power amp comes with a built in high speed MOSFET output section, and a fully adjustable bass equalizer.
This unit has been designed with your safety in mind as well! It incorporates several features that help protect you and your investment from electrical hazards and damage. The first is an over voltage protection circuit which will prevent damage due to over voltage by shutting down the unit at 16 volts.
The second is a thermal overload protection circuit which will automatically shut down the unit from overheating due to a lack of airflow or excessive heat in your car at 15 degrees Celsius above room temperature.
Another feature that helps protect you and your car is a clip limit indicator, so if the music being played becomes too “hot” for the amplifier, a red clip LED light will turn on letting you know that the amp is being pushed past its limit and needs to be adjusted.
The Rockville RVF-2 comes with an adjustable low pass filter from 50Hz to 200Hz and a high pass filter from 50Hz to 1.2Khz. This gives you control of the frequencies that reach your subwoofers.
The fully adjustable 12dB bass equalizer allows you to customize the sound to your liking, whether you’re looking for a clean accurate bass sound or a deep booming bass sound. The Rockville RVF-2 is truly versatile!
Another great feature is the input sensitivity switch with clipping indicator on the side of the amplifier. You can set the input sensitivity switch to low or high depending on which type of sound you are trying to achieve. The feature also has a clipping indicator so if it is ever too loud, you will know that your signal is being distorted and needs to be lowered.
Two stages of circuit protection have been built in as well. The first is a short circuit protection circuit which will automatically shut down the amplifier if a short circuit is detected in the wiring of your system, and a thermal protection circuit which will automatically shut down the unit from overheating due to lack of airflow or excessive heat in your car at 15 degrees Celsius above room temperature.
Pros
- It features full IC-Controlled Protection Circuitry
- Install this and it will be easy
- Dyno certified
- Sounds amazing with too much power
- Inexpensive
- The bass is fantastic
Cons
- The knob’s light is far too bright
- Sometimes high level input didn’t work you have to add a converter for remote wire
Sample Customer Review:
“with an hour long drive both ways every day, with very hard bass all the way, they lasted almost exactly one year. Without popping any fuses or entering protection mode, i lost all sound from the subs the other day, and the amp quickly started to smell like burning electronics.
I pulled the inline fuse on my power wire and drove home. after inspecting my wiring i decided the amp had burned up. it lasted way longer than i expected and overall was very good for the money. I’ll use this as an opportunity to upgrade my system. 100% recommend as a beginner amp.”
3. BEST AFFORDABLE 4 CHANNEL CAR AMPLIFIER
The Planet Audio AC1600.4 1600W 4 Channel Car Amplifier is the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy their music at its best performance while driving on the road. The amplifier has a MOSFET power supply that delivers high-current, low distortion power throughout the entire frequency range of your speaker system.
It also features an efficient Class A/B topology and variable filter for superior sound quality. The amplifier is a perfect choice for anyone who wants to add a high-quality car amplifier to their system while maintaining that classic look of traditional audio equipment.
It also includes the remote bass control knob, blue backlit illumination and variable low pass filter controls. The amplifier can be installed in any vehicle with ease due to its adjustable mounting brackets.
This amp has low and high level inputs, variable bass boost, blue backlit illumination, remote subwoofer control, and more.
Pros
- This speaker is easy to install and has great sound
- It is also great for components
- Affordable price
Cons
- Make sure you have good connections otherwise amp gets a little warm
- It is pretty large in size
Also Read: 11 Best Car Audio Amplifiers Ever Made
Sample Customer Review:
“First of all, this is not a 1600 watt amp. At 2 ohms it’s probably more like 200 watt rms. However, going into this purchase I figured this would be the case. I have it pushing 4 kicker cs series door speakers in my jeep and it sounds much better than just the 50 watt head unit.
Which is all I wanted. Just please be informed this amp is really only for door speakers and you will be disappointed trying to use it with a subwoofer. Other than that it has been working fine for 2 weeks.”
4. BEST LIGHTWEIGHT CAR AUDIO AMPLIFIER
This product is a 4 channel, full range, class ab, 1200 WATTS amplifier. This amp has 2 colors brushed and brushed silver color. It is a FULL RANGE AMPlifier which means it can be used for subwoofers or speakers. This amplifier uses progressive designs to produce great sound quality.
The amplifier also has high control filtering adjustment for fine adjustments to the sound quality which will help you achieve the best possible sound from your system.
The amp can be used in a variety of applications including home theatre systems, car audio installations or any other application that requires high power output with great clarity and detail.
Pros
- No overheating issues
- Internal fan sounds super good
- Light and cheap
Cons
- Sometimes gain controls works funny but not after adjustment
Sample Customer Review:
“Great 4 Channel app for $99 what more can you ask I have no complaints perfect for running my front component speakers I have no overheating issues.”
5. BEST COMPACT 4-CHANNEL AMP
This amplifier also features bridged mode operation so you can run two subwoofers in a single channel without sacrificing performance or power output. There is also a wired remote bass knob that allows you to control the output level of each channel from the dash of your car.
The amp has 4 channels that can be used together or individually for more flexibility in your setup.
The amp has built in circuitry for soft start turn-on and short circuit protection. This unit features a high profile, easy fit chassis with die cast aluminum end caps and heatsink for maximum heat dissipation.
Pros
- Customizable operation utilizing a bridge
- Remote gain control
- Signal to noise feature
- compact size
Cons
- Improper wiring may cause overheating
Sample Customer Review:
“Perfect replacement for the 4090 that went out on me. Works good didn’t cost an arm and a leg. Showed up on time. Well 12/28/18 8 months and it quit working. JUNK.”
6. MOST POWERFUL MINI CAR AMPLIFIER
Rockville dB45 4 Channel Amplifier Car Audio Power Amplifier is designed to power 2-channel or 4-channel car audio systems. This amplifier can deliver up to 3200 Watts of peak power and 800 Watts RMS at 2 ohms, making it ideal for powering a high performance subwoofer system.
The Rockville dB45 is equipped with four independent channels that are fully adjustab
le via the included remote control. Each channel has its own level control knob, bass boost switch, low pass, and high pass filter control, phase invert switch, and gain knob.
The Rockville dB45 also features a superior soft start and delay system which can easily be programmed via the adjustable Soft Start and Delay Time Control.
Pros
- Dyno-Certified RMS
- Status Mode LED Indicator, lighting up with blue letters
- Voltage Protection
- High-Speed MOSFET Power Supply
- Fully Adjustable 12dB / Octave Crossover
Cons
- It is a little bit big in size so please measure your available space
Sample Customer Review:
“This amp sounded good on my doors but when I decided to sell my amp that my subs were on I put the door speakers back on the head unit and put the subs on the amp. Could not bridge or it would go into protect and wouldn’t come out.
So I put each voice coil to its own channel and it plays good but if I turn it up past 10 and play it for a few seconds it goes into protect and won’t come out until I turn the truck off and back on and its not the wiring, any way I wire it it does this. However, on door speakers or mids/highs it does perfect and sounds great would recommend for that only not subs.”
Related Article: 12 best 4 channel car amplifier 2023
7. BEST 4-CHANNEL DIGITAL AMPLIFIER
This amplifier is an amazing product. It has many great features that make it a top choice for any person who wants to listen to music at home or in the car. The compact size of this amplifier allows it to fit into small spaces like under seats and behind seats, making it very easy to install.
This makes the amplifier perfect for vehicles that are already packed with equipment or vehicles that have limited space. Another great feature about this amp is that it can be used as either a bridgeable marine/motorsports amp or as 4 separate channels. This allows you to separate the power and give it to each speaker as nee
ded.
The amplifier has a 400W max power which is perfect for those who want to listen to music at high volumes without slowing down their vehicle. This model also has a signal sensing turn-on, which means that it automatically turns on when an audio signal is detected on the input. This feature makes this amplifier very convenient because you do not have to worry about turning it on and off while using your vehicle.
This model also includes a power MOSFET switching power supply which helps give the amplifier a clean and focused power, allowing all of its features to work perfectly.
The amp has 1m RCA cables included with the purchase which allows you to get started using the amplifier right out of the box. The amp has protective plastic covers that allow you to protect its connections from damage and also includes a conformal-coated circuit board that protects it from dust, moisture, and salt which keeps your music going no matter what kind of weather conditions might be prominent.
Overall this amplifier is a great product for both home and vehicle use. It has many features that make it a top choice for any person who wants to listen to high quality music.
Pros
- No extra wiring kit is required
- No volume control knob. It does have level input adjustment
- Easy installation
Cons
- It is not fully waterproof
Sample Customer Review:
“I think it’s a very good amp for what it is and the price. I put it 8n a 2008 street glide with an aquatic av AQ-MP-5BT-H and a set of Polk Db652 speakers. I used the splitters and wired it 2 ch high power. I’m happy with it you can hear it at any speed and my bike is loud.”
8. BEST CLASS D MINI CAR AMPLIFIER 4 CHANNEL
NVX VADM4 400W Car/Marine/Powersports amplifier is a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their sound system. It’s got 4 channels that are able to deliver up to 800 watts of peak power.
This model works well with any type of vehicle, thanks to its compact size and mounting versatility. Its cutting edge technology gives you the ability to enjoy fantastic sound quality.
The NVX Car Amplifier features balanced differential inputs with speaker-level (high-level) i
nputs, 3-way protection is for your speaker. It keeps it safe if there is a shortage, if there is too much power, or if the temperature gets too hot.
The crossover mode varies. You can choose which one you want based on your preference. You can also choose between full range, high pass, and low pass.
The LED indicator light is also present with its multicolor design, this way you will be able to remember what color represents each one of your speaker outputs.
All of its controls are mounted on the top panel, making it easier for you to adjust the volume and crossover settings. These top mounted controls make it very easy to adjust your sound output. You can simply use a small screwdriver in order to change your speaker’s output.
The NVX VADM4 400W Car Amplifier is meant to be used with 4-channel high-level input that is provided by the factory or aftermarket head units. They are perfect for adding subwoofers to your system.
Pros
- Conformal Coated Marine grade circuit board
- Marine Certified waterproof
- The platinum plating on the RCA level is very good
Cons
- This amplifier runs a little hot but never gets too hot. It does not overheat
Sample Customer Review:
“Amp is great. Good wattage, low heat, compact size, marine rated. Great price and easy installation. Very pleased. The sound for the value is unbeatable.”
9. BEST 4 CHANNEL AMP FOR MIDS AND HIGHS
Rockford Fosgate Prime amplifiers are the perfect combination of value and performance. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced audiophile, these amps will deliver everything you need to drive your speakers with total authority.
The R300X4 is the ultimate 4-channel Class A/B Circuit Topology amplifier for powering your entire sound system. It delivers 50 Watts x 4 @ 4-Ohm / 75 Watts x 4 @ 2-Ohm / 150 Watts x 2 @ 4-Ohm Bridged while maintaining low distortion and providing superior sonic accuracy.
You can choose between 0/6/12dB gain settings on board Punch EQ, and high- and low-level inputs with separate gain controls for more flexibility.
The MOSFET power device delivers ample current to the outputs via a heavy duty fully discrete output stage. This design results in less distortion and more reliable operation with long life in comparison to a Class D counterpart amplifier.
A large aluminum heatsink improves heat dissipation so the amp can run cool. Oversized screw-type power/ground connectors provide a solid electrical contact between the amplifier and power wire, improving conductivity and reducing resistance so you get maximum output.
Pros
- 2/4 channel input switch
- Real time output and power supply thermal sensing
- 4 Gauge power/ground connectors
- Great for full-range or component speakers
- Great for miss and highs
- It’s simple to put together
Cons
- Because of the screw holes being at the bottom of deep wells, mounting may be difficult
- It’s best to store it in a cool place away from the sun and any other heat source, otherwise it may get warm in some cases
Sample Customer Review:
“Just had my Rockford installed and was amazed by the sound quality produced. I have a 2015 Toyota Tacoma 4dr. The amp was installed below my front passenger seat. I am running all Rockford speakers/tweeters on all the doors using the same amp.
I have a separate amp specific for my 8 in. sub box on the rear passenger deck. I am running a stock player using a Memphis 6 channel line level integration unit which allow me to use my volume controls on my steering wheel.”
10. BEST 4 CHANNEL COMPACT CAR AMPLIFIER
This is a full range, 4 channel amplifier that has been designed specifically for compact car audio installations. The PBR400X4D is packed with the power and performance you would expect from Rockford Fosgate in a small, lightweight chassis.
The class D car amplifier features an 8 AWG power and ground system to ensure that it can handle up to 400 watts RMS in 4 ohms applications without breaking a sweat. This amp offers variable high-pass/low-pass crossovers on all four channels, variable bass boost on two of the channels, and extremely accurate thermal protection all built into the amp.
The amplifier will accept both speaker level and RCA level signal types through the same inputs, allowing it to be integrated into OEM and aftermarket systems alike. This versatility makes the amplifier perfect for a wide variety of installations and vehicles.
Not only is this amp extremely small but it is also quite efficient; making it ideal for use in pickup trucks, where space is at a premium.
Pros
- The amp is smaller and more efficient while still supplying power on demand thanks to the use of Boosted Rail Technology (BRT)
- This amplifier is also suitable for UTVs, motorcycles, and tiny mobile installations
- It does not consume a significant amount of juice from your electrical system
- The C.L.E.A.N (Calibrated Level Eliminates Audible Noise) integrated level setting technology helps to quickly establish the amp output controls by eliminating guesswork and preventing any speaker damaging distortion.
- No overheating or distortion
Cons
- During hot days in some areas, you should install an extra cheap fan of 12v on it
Sample Customer Review:
“Installed this in a 2012 Harley Ultra, and paired with Harley stock radio (25w/channel), Hogtunes 2 ohm 6.5 front speakers (had to modify 5.25 mounts in batwing for them to fit), and 4 ohm 6×9 Polks in the saddle bag lids. I was amazed at the distortionless volume increase! Can hear the system clearly at highway speeds. The set up was straight forward but I didn’t receive the test tone cd needed to set the gains.
There are multiple websites with free test tones that you can download to your smart phone or cd (in my case) or just set up with music from your radio. Also, the “auto-on” feature that was supposed to work with line-out setups with the radio didn’t, so I had to connect the “REM” input on the amp to a 12v source (cigarette lighter in my case), to get the amp to power up. Not a big deal, but just an extra step. Only have used this for about a month, so not sure of long term reliability but so far, it’s great!”
WHAT ARE THE THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING BEST MINI CAR AMPLIFIER 4 CHANNEL?
Before finalizing best 4 channel car amplifier you need to consider some of the most important things. Let us read on further to know what are those things.
Power output: To begin with, power output of the amplifier is an essential factor that must be considered. You can find exact power ratings at the back or bottom of the amplifier. These power ratings are RMS (Root Mean Square) which is the continuous average output of an amplifier.
Maximum power output: There are some amplifiers that can handle more power than their recommended capacity. You should consider it while buying an amplifier to get the best out of your money. Moreover, purchasing an amp with maximum power output gives you flexibility for future upgrades too.
WHAT DOES BRIDGEABLE MEAN?
A bridgeable amplifier is an amplifier that splits the input signal into two amplified outputs. The name comes from the process of combining two of four channels into one or two channels with half the power (bridge) and these amplifiers are often used for signals, like guitar signals, which need to be split before they become too large to handle.
Related Article: 7 Signs of a bad car amplifier-Guide
CHANNEL BRIDGING:
Channel bridging makes it possible for you to use the amplifier as a mono, two-channel (one speaker), 3 channel (two speakers), or 4 channel (four speakers) system. By adding high power amps to each of your front and rear channels, you can dramatically increase the quality and clarity of your music.
Channels: You should consider the number of channels suitable for your car or vehicle. Four-channel amplifiers are best to use if you have one subwoofer and two speakers on front side of your car. However, you can also use it with two subwoofers if your car has space for them.
Class: The amplifier class is very important to consider before buying an amplifier. Knowing this will help you know the grade of sound that will be produced by the amplifier. There are three classes of amplifiers; A, B, and D. Class A is the oldest one having least efficiency but best sound quality.
Design: The design of the amp must also be considered for better installation in your car or vehicle. Mostly, people prefer vertical design amplifiers as they occupy less space than other designs. There are some latest designs like mono-block, digital and chip amplifiers too that are good in quality.
Automatic Tuner: If you like listening to FM stations in your car then it is better for you to buy an amplifier having built-in tuner. Automatic tuning feature of the amp will help you get the best available FM station with least interference.
Built-in crossover: Most of the high quality amps have built in crossover to separate low, mid, and high frequencies for better sound quality. Separation of these frequencies is done by an adjustable crossover slope control switch present in the amp. However, power output of the speakers must be checked before buying them.
Also Read:
Size:
The size of the amp is measured in inches or cubic feet. Amps with lower heights are preferable as they occupy smaller spaces which is not the case with bigger amps.
Price:
The price of the amplifier is also an important factor to consider before buying it. You should purchase it according to your per month budget and future upgradation need. However, you must purchase a good quality amp for good sound production and long-term services too.
Frequency response:
When you buy an amp make sure that the frequency response is more than 10 Hz. This is because low frequency signals are major cause of sound distortion and these amplifiers produce good quality bass music.
Power protection:
To avoid damage to your speakers or amplifier during short circuits or high voltage fluctuations, go for an amp with power protection feature. This will help it work efficiently in any condition, making sound production better.
Efficiency level of the amp:
The sound quality and power output of an amplifier depend on its efficiency level. There are many amps available in the online market with different levels of efficiency. So, consider buying one with high-efficiency to get better sound quality without loss or distortion at higher volume levels too.
Well! All these things must be considered before buying an amplifier to get the best amplifier for your car. Just keep in mind the factors mentioned above and check out some of the top selling amplifiers that can help you make a good choice.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS OF AMPLIFIERS
When buying an amplifier, it’s important to consider a few technical specifications such as power output, frequency response, and speaker sensitivity. These specs can help you decide if the amplifier will work well with your current sound system.
POWER AN AMPLIFIER CAN PRODUCE
When you want to make your music louder, an amplifier can help. However, it’s important to not use too much power, or it could damage your speaker. There are two ways to measure a speaker’s power handling: Maximum RMS and Peak Power.
Maximum RMS tells you how much power a speaker can handle safely on a continuous basis, while Peak Power is the maximum limit. Amplifiers also have power ratings, and you should make sure that the amplifier’s RMS and peak power are equal to or less than your speaker’s ratings.
SPEAKER SENSITIVITY AFFECTS SOUND QUALITY
Speaker sensitivity is a measure of how loud a speaker gets when you supply it with one watt of power. If your speaker has high sensitivity (90dB or above), it can get loud without much power, so you won’t need a powerful amplifier.
However, if your speaker has low sensitivity, it will need more power to get loud. Speaker sensitivity helps you determine how much power output your amplifier will need to have. Every additional watt increases the volume by 3dB.
FREQUENCY RANGE OF SOUND
Frequency response refers to the range of frequencies an amplifier can process. Some amplifiers can process the entire range of sounds we can hear (20 Hz to 20 Khz), while others can only handle low frequencies (20 Hz to 250 Hz), which are the ones produced by subwoofers.
The first type can work with any type of speaker, while the second type is designed only for subwoofers.
NUMBER OF SPEAKER CONNECTIONS
It depends on your speakers and how many you have. For example, if you have two speakers on either side, you need a stereo dual-channel amplifier. Stereo channels transmit left and right signals separately, making the sound more accurate. If you only have one speaker, then a mono one-channel amplifier is enough.
For subwoofers, you need a high-powered mono channel amplifier. However, you can also bridge a dual or 4-channel amplifier into a single or dual-channel mode to deliver more power.
WHY WE SELECTED THESE AMPLIFIERS?
These amplifiers are very popular among our customers and have an average rating of four or more stars. Customers who buy them are very satisfied and happy with their purchase, and they even leave feedback to share their experience.
You can use this list of amplifiers as a starting point to help you find the right amplifier. If you want to learn more about what to look for when shopping for a 4-channel amplifier, you can explore further.
KICKER 47KEY200.4 – SMALL AMPLIFIER WITH AUTOMATIC DSP
The Kicker 47KEY200.4 car amplifier is very small in size and has an automatic signal processor that adjusts the sound based on the interior of your vehicle. It has 4 channels that can send 50 watts of power to each of your front and rear speakers.
This is more power than most aftermarket receivers. You can set it up by using the included microphone and software, which automatically adjusts the crossovers, equalizer, and sound timing for the driver’s seat.
KICKER 46CXA360.4T: AMPLIFY YOUR MUSIC WITH POWER
If you like loud and clear music, then Kicker’s 46CXA360.4T 4-channel amplifier is perfect for you. It can produce 65 watts of power per channel, which makes your music sound louder and clearer.
Additionally, you can use the amp’s bridged rear channels to power a subwoofer with 180 watts, while using 65 watts each for a couple of front speakers.
The front and rear channels have separate high- and low-pass filters that help you shape the sound, giving you the best possible sound quality.
There are also variable bass boosts for both the front and rear channels, which give you the flexibility to add low-end punch to your music. If you want, you can use an optional wired remote to control the bass level from the front seat.
AUDIO CONTROL D-4.800: AMPLIFIER WITH COMPUTER-CONTROLLED PROCESSING
The Audio Control D-4.800 is a powerful 4-channel amplifier that can drive your car’s speakers with plenty of power. Instead of knobs, you make adjustments using your laptop (PC or Mac) via Audio Control’s Smart-User DSP software package.
The software offers many features to control the sound, including crossovers, equalizers, filters, time delay/alignment, phase correction, AccuBass™ bass correction, and real-time analyzers (RTA) for the inputs and outputs.
COMPACT POWER AMPLIFIER BY ALPINE – KTP-445U
The Alpine KTP-445U power pack is a small and easy-to-use device that increases the power of your car’s radio. It can boost the radio’s power output to 45 watts RMS for four channels.
Normally, car radios only put out 7-20 watts per channel, but with the Alpine KTP-445U, you can get a lot more power to drive high-quality speakers or keep up with a powerful subwoofer amplifier.
AFFORDABLE YET POWERFUL CAR AMPLIFIER: JL AUDIO RD400/4
JL Audio’s RD400/4 is a powerful amplifier that can make your music sound clear and loud even when you’re driving. It can power all four of your car’s speakers with 75 watts RMS, or you can use it to run two subwoofers with up to 200 watts RMS each.
The RD400/4 uses special NexD amplifier technology to play your music with great sound quality and without overloading your car’s electrical system.
KENWOOD KAC-M1814 – AMPLIFIER FOR USE ON LAND OR SEA
Kenwood’s KAC-M1814 amplifier is very small and can fit in tight spaces in a vehicle or a boat. It is made for use on both land and water and is rated for use in marine environments. The amp has four channels and can add more power to your audio system.
It provides 45 watts RMS per channel, which is more than double what most car or marine stereos offer. The amp is protected from moisture and salt, so it will keep working even if it gets wet.
ROCKFORD FOSGATE R2-500X4 – AMPLIFIER FOR HIGH VOLUME SOUND
Rockford Fosgate’s Prime Series R2-500X4 amplifier is designed to make your music really loud. It has four channels, which can provide 75 watts RMS each to four speakers.
The amplifier also has bridged, 2-channel mode which can power a couple of subwoofers with 250 watts RMS each. It also has high- and low-pass filters which help you get the most out of your vehicle’s speakers.
JL AUDIO VX400/4I – POWERFUL AMPLIFIER WITH BUILT-IN DSP TECHNOLOGY
The JL Audio VX400/4i VXi Series is a combination of an amplifier and a processor. The 4-channel amp uses JL Audio’s latest technology and AKM™ software, resulting in high-quality sound with high efficiency.
It generates 75 watts RMS per channel and comes with six channels of digital signal processing. This enables the amplifier to power the front and rear speakers of your car and process the signal for a separate subwoofer amplifier.
COMPARISON OF MINI CAR AMPLIFIERS
Mini car amplifiers are a great way to improve the sound quality in your car’s audio system, without taking up too much space. Here’s a comparison of some popular mini car amplifiers:
- Alpine KTP-445U – This compact power pack can increase your receiver’s power output to 45 watts RMS by 4 channels, which is a big jump up from the 7-20 watts per channel typically put out by a car radio. It’s a simple way to crank up the power of your receiver.
- JL Audio RD400/4 – This 4-channel amplifier can power each of your car’s front and rear speakers with 75 watts RMS, and can switch to 2-channel mode to run a couple of subwoofers with up to 200 watts RMS each. It features JL Audio’s proprietary NexD amplifier technology for true fidelity and impressive impact.
- Kenwood KAC-M1814 – This super-compact amplifier will fit in a lot of places when space is tight. It’s a marine-rated 4-channel amp that can pump up your audio system with 45 watts RMS per channel, and features a conformal-coated circuit board to keep out moisture and salt.
- Rockford Fosgate R2-500X4 – This amplifier can power four speakers with 75 watts RMS each, or can be used in bridged, 2-channel mode to power a couple of subwoofers with 250 watts RMS each. It features high- and low-pass filters to help you get maximum performance from your speakers.
- JL Audio VX400/4i – This VXi Series 4-channel amp puts out 75 watts RMS per channel and features six channels of digital signal processing. It combines JL Audio’s latest amplifier technology with micro-device maker AKM software to create a customized processor-amp hybrid.
When choosing a mini car amplifier, consider the power output, number of channels, and any additional features such as digital signal processing or bridged mode. Think about the size and installation options to ensure it will fit in your car’s audio system.
Also Read: What are the causes that make a car amplifier hot?
FAQ’S:
WHICH IS THE BEST AMPLIFIER FOR SMALL CARS?
The answer is the Rockville dB45. This powerful mini amplifier delivers incredible sound quality, making it perfect for any small car or vehicle. You’ll be able to turn up the volume with no distortion and enjoy a great audio experience.
The dB45 also has multiple input options so you can easily add extra devices to your setup, including Bluetooth receivers and more. The amplifier also has a high efficiency design that will keep your car running cooler while providing maximum performance.
Whether you’re looking for great sound quality or just want to pump up the volume, the Rockville dB45 is definitely the way to go. It’s one of the top rated mini car amplifiers on our list and is sure to give you a great audio experience.
WHICH IS THE MOST POWERFUL MINI AMPLIFIER?
The Rockville dB45 is an impressive 3200 watt amplifier. It has incredible power and sound quality that will have your music sounding rich and clear. With adjustable bass and treble controls, you can make sure your sound is just the way you want it.
This mini amplifier also has a built-in LED display to show you your settings quickly and easily. With its high wattage, it can power any car audio system with ease.
1. HOW MANY SPEAKERS CAN A 4 CHANNEL AMP RUN?
A 4 channel amp may only have the power required to run up to 8 speakers. If you need more, then you will need a higher wattage amp with more channels.
2. CAN I RUN 2 SUBS ON A 4 CHANNEL AMP?
Answer: Not designed to power subs
An amplifier can be configured to handle up to 4 speakers (2 per channel). However, the number of channels and how they are used is determined by their make and model.
You may want to consult the manual for your amplifier or talk this over with a professional technician before attempting any configurations yourself.
3. WHAT DOES BRIDGEABLE MEAN IN CAR AMPLIFIER?
Bridgeable means that the speaker is able to be connected by a bridge. If it needs bridging, you typically will need an amplifier with dual inputs and outputs for left and right channels to amplify these frequencies.
Otherwise, if you plug it in without bridging, the input voltage will not be enough for such high-demand tasks as producing loud music or heavy bass; leading to possible noise and compromised sound quality.
Bridgeable will require amplifiers with adequate power if they output low-level signals (less than 3V) like passive speakers typically do: this is because higher voltage signals (4-15V) can travel longer distances without affecting signal strength due to less electrical resistance on the wire.
4. WHAT IS SIGNAL-TO-NOISE (SNR) RATIO?
The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is one measure of how strong a desired signal is in relation to noise. A low SNR means the desired signal is not as strong as the noise, so you can’t hear it. A high SNR usually means the noise will not disrupt reception of the desired signal, so transmission quality will be better.
CONCLUSION:
In conclusion, this guide about the Best mini car amplifier 4-channel, has discussed a variety of things to consider before buying a mini car amplifier 4-channel. We have also provided an overview of the best brands in order to help you find the right product for your needs. So what are you waiting for? Get started today!