Heres the deal. I have a Kenwood 1800-watt amplifier that is powering 2 MTX 7500, 800-watt (1600 combined) subwoofers. I only have one Raptor 1 Farad Capacitor hooked up with it. I am adding a MTX 9500, 2000-watt subwoofer to the setup. I am also adding another Kenwood 1800-watt amplifier. I plan to add 3, 1 farad capacitors. 2 for the new amplifier and the other to the existing setup. My dilemma is whether to upgrade the alternator. I have a 2003 Grand Am GT and I think it has around a 110-amp alternator. Before I go spend my money, I want to make sure that these capacitors will get the job done. I just play loud music, I do not play test tones. Any help or opinions on this matter would be appreciated.
2006-12-22 18:42:30 · 4 answers · asked by Jarrad 2 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Car Audio
I'll use 1000 watts RMS as an example...
To calculate the current draw of an amplifier, multiply the number of channels by the RMS watts per channel (a 2 channel amp rated at 1000 watts RMS per channel would be 2000 watts). Double it to account for amplifier inefficiency (2000 watts X 2 = 4000 watts), then divide by the average output voltage of an alternator, 13.8 volts (4000 divided by 13.8 = 218 amps). Since the average music signal requires about 1/3rd of the average power in a test tone, divide by 3 (218 amps divided by 3 = 73 amps).
This is an average approximation of current draw and can go higher. So I would gather between 73 and 109 amperes for this system.
The alternator of a:
compact car is about 35 amps
mid-sized car is about 65-75 amps
SUV is about 145 amps
Calculate 40% of the amperes of the alternator you have now. This is the average current the car uses when running. Add this number to the approximate average current draw of the amps, and you will come up with the actual size of alternator you need.
2006-12-23 11:50:17 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would say ensure you have a really good battery and the alternator should do the job. The Cap's will take up the high momentary draws and the battery will refill the cap's.
I would stay with the alternator you have now... and if it does prove to be a weak link you can always replace it down the road, but I think with 4 caps and a good battery you should be ok.
2006-12-22 19:14:48 · answer #2 · answered by shovelkicker 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
if you know about alternators and all it may be wise to check with a mechanic to see if the alternator can handle the load it will be powering or maybe another battery may be used inline somewhere also...good luck
2006-12-22 22:25:23 · answer #3 · answered by John N 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
the inventory deck in that automobile is greater suitable then the single you elect.useful that one seems cool yet seems arent everythnig that amp is absolute crap why might you purchase a md amp? and the kickers are the only good element your getting. if your finding for the cheap amp purchase a hifonics there fantastic. and to date as head contraptions pass seem at pioneer and alpine they the two make actual notch products
2016-10-15 11:56:11 · answer #4 · answered by arleta 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋