How to Pick the BEST Car Amplifier for Your System?

Choosing the right amplifier can completely transform your audio experience—more volume, cleaner sound, and better bass response. But with so many options, how do you know what actually works for YOUR vehicle?

At CAR Audio & Security in Wake Forest, we help drivers choose amplifiers every day—so here’s a simple guide to get you pointed in the right direction.

Why Do I Need an Amplifier?

A good amplifier provides:

• Cleaner sound at all volume levels

• Better bass output

• More headroom (less distortion)

• The ability to power upgraded speakers or subwoofers

If you’re adding aftermarket speakers or a subwoofer, an amp becomes a MUST.

Step 1: Match Power to Your Speakers

Don’t overthink it—just match RMS power.

Check RMS watts on:

• Your speakers

• Your subwoofer

Then choose an amplifier that delivers similar RMS watts per channel.

Example:

• Speakers: 80 watts RMS

• Amp: 75–100 watts RMS per channel

Avoid buying based on “MAX watts”—that number is marketing hype.

Step 2: Choose the Right Number of Channels

Top options:

• 2-channel: midrange or components

• 4–6 channel: full interior speakers

• Mono/1-channel: subwoofers

Quick RuleSubwoofer? → mono ampFull speakers? → 4–6 channel

Step 3: Class A/B vs Class D

Which should you choose?

Type	Best For	Pros
Class A/B	Speakers	Warmer sound
Class D	Subwoofers	More efficient, smaller, runs cooler

Most modern systems use Class D for everything.

Recommended Power Levels

For daily drivers:

• Speakers: 50–100w RMS per channel

• Subs: 300–1000w RMS

For bass lovers:

• 1000w+ mono amplifier

Pro Tip:

Always upgrade your wiring if you’re installing a real amplifier (especially 600w+).Your audio system is only as good as the power feeding it!

When to Upgrade:

• Factory speakers distortion

• Weak bass

• Audio fades at higher volume

• Adding subwoofers

• 
  

Ready to Upgrade? We Can Help!

We design and install systems every day—from factory upgrades to full custom setups. If you want louder, cleaner sound, let us build the right amplifier setup for your vehicle.

CAR Audio & Security – Wake Forest

• Professional installation

• Top amplifier brands

• Custom tuning

Stop by or message us today for a free recommendation!