Are you too enthusiastic about listening to music in the car? If so, you can get a 4-Channel amp to get the finest audio experience. Building a high-quality audio system is not confined to just gathering a few car audio parts.
All it requires is combining a few key components that can reproduce the optimum audio. A four-channel amp is one of the elements needed for great sounding car audio system.
Finding the best 4-Channel car amplifier can be a daunting task. Your dream of getting seat-shivering bass will remain unfilled if you don’t know what to seek. Terms like “ohms” and “high-pass crossover” will definitely make you confused.
Hence, it is indeed essential that you know details about the 4-Channel amp. Here we’ll help understand those tricky terms and technical overwhelm. Also, we’ve assembled a list of the best 4-Channel amp to make your investment worthwhile.
What is a 4-Channel Amp?
A 4-channel amp is a type of amplification that can power small to medium-sized speaker systems. Or it can be said that it’s a stereo simplifier with two additional built-in channels. The amplifier uses power amplification to boost weak signals to higher voltage signals.
By using a high level of power, 4-channel amplifiers can amplify and mixes sound with amplification circuits.
Generally, these amplifiers are used on the speakers or stereo system. It provides power to the four traditional speakers on the cars.
The primary role of the four-channel amp is to connecting channels. In each channel, you can connect two speakers together.
Thus, you can bridge together eight speakers.
Connecting two channels will give you more power and window-shaking bass for subwoofers.
A 4-channel amp can also be considered an electronic amplifier. The amplifier receives an electrical signal and amplifies it.
Unlike others, 4-channel amplifiers send the same power to all four channels. The 4-channel amp is made from a sealed enclosure against a ported enclosure. It is mainly used in vehicles. Also, it is very popular among musicians or artists.
Product Name | Image | Ratings | Price |
Planet Audio AC1200.4 4 Channel Car Amplifier |  | ||
BOSS Audio Systems R1004 4 Channel Car Amplifier |  | ||
Rockville RVF-2 1200w Peak/300w Dyno-Certified RMS 4 Channel Car Amplifier |  | ||
Alpine MRV-F300 4-Channel Car Amplifier |  | ||
Kenwood 2156568 KAC-M1804 Compact 4-Channel Amplifier |  | ||
Skar Audio RP-75.4AB 500 Watt Full-Range Class A/B 4 Channel Car Amplifier |  | ||
2.1 Bluetooth Marine Amplifier Receiver - Waterproof 4 Channel Wireless Bridgeable Audio Amp |  | ||
Hifonics ZXX-1000.4 Zeus Four Channel Car Audio Amplifier |  | ||
Rockford Fosgate R2-300X4 300-Watt 4-Channel Amplifier |  | ||
CT Sounds CT-80.4D Full-Range Class D 4 Channel Car Audio Amplifier |  |
Types of 4-Channel Amps
Generally, amplifiers are classified into four categories such as A, B, D, and AB. However, 4-channel amps are mostly available in class D and class AB. Most fit car amplifiers into these categories.
Class D
Class D amplifiers are also called digital amplifiers. It operates by shifting the sampling frequency to very high frequencies. Class D amps turn the transistor on and off rapidly. Thus, it creates a pulse output signal. The power of class D amps makes it an excellent choice for car audio systems.
Class D amps have the highest efficiency but not as high-fidelity. Due to switching at high frequencies, there is a chance for distortion. Amps include a low-pass filter for addressing this issue.
Class AB
Class AB amp is the combination of class A and class B. It provides more efficiency than class A amps and less distortion than class B amps. Moreover, class AB amps are made by biasing both A and B transistors.
So they conduct while the signal is near to zero. In the case of small signals, both transistors remain active and act like class A amp. Likewise, for large signals, one transistor remains active and acts as a class B amp.
In class AB amps, a constant current flows through both transistors. When there is no signal, the amount of current in the circuit is reduced. These amplifiers are basically analog and used in many car audio systems.
Which One is Better?
- Class D amps are almost 90% efficient, while class AB amps are nearly 50% efficient.
- The noise floor in the class AB amps is a bit higher because of the way they operate. That’s why it gives a clearer sound than class D amps.
- Class D amps can fit into smaller chassis.
Comparison Between the Best 4-Channel Amp for Sound Quality
Product Details | Power (RMS) | Class | Bridgeable? | Details |
1. Planet Audio AC1200.4 | 1200W | A/B | Yes |
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2. BOSS Audio Systems R1004 | 400W | A/B | No |
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3. Rockville RVF-2 | 1200W | Yes |
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4. Alpine MRV-F300 | 300W | D | Yes |
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5. Kenwood 2156568 KAC-M1804 | 400W | D | Yes |
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6. Skar Audio RP-75.4AB | 500W | A/B | Yes |
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7. Pyle PLMRA430BT 2.1 | 1000W | A/B | Yes |
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8. Hifonics ZXX-1000.4 | 1000W | A/B | Yes |
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9. Rockford Fosgate R2-300X4 | 300W | D | Yes |
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10. CT Sounds CT-80.4D | 480W | D | Yes |
|
Best 4-Channel Amp for the Money
Below we’ve put together a list of top-notch 4-channel amps, including leading brands and high-power models. We have suggest them in detail so that you get all the information.
Also, we’ve collected information from diverse sources to help you get the right amp for your need. All these amps have incredible versatility, efficiency, and linearity.
1. Planet Audio AC1200.4 4-Channel Car Amplifier
Product Details
- Variable low-pass crossover – 40Hz to 500Hz
- Variable bass boost – 0 to +12dB at 45Hz
- Short circuit protection
- Improved thermal management
- Built-in bass boost
- Frequency response – 20Hz to 20kHz ±1 dB
- S/N ratio – 102dB
- Maximum power – 1200W
- 6 Year Platinum Dealer Warranty
Our first addition is from Planet Audio’s innovative Anarchy series. The Planet Audio AC1200.4 is a class A/B full range amplifier. However, it is built to break the rules. This revolutionary amplifier is best to drive up your music vibes.
The amplifier features 1200 W maximum power and is equipped with a MOSFET power supply. More power means more volume. Besides, it’s a 2 to 4-Ohm powerful amplifier that will power your stereo system for clearer sound.
The MOSFET power supply helps to operate all 4-Channel s at 4-Ohm while driving 113W per channel. It is also stable at 2-Ohm, with which you can achieve 225W per channel.
Since the amp is bridgeable, it will let you drive some unbelievable power out. Moreover, you can customize the sound using Variable low-pass crossover, bass boost, and fixed high-pass crossover.
The Planet Audio AC1200.4 allows you to bridge channels for added flexibility and power. What’s more? The amp has an exclusive linear circuitry designed to minimize distortion and improve sound quality.
Customer’s Feedback
Planet Audio AC1200.4 is the best cheap 4-Channel amp you can get for this price. This is what many users appreciated about the amp. You are getting the amp under $100.
Many customers claim about the amp getting really hot in hotter climates. Though it has a heavy-duty black anodized heatsink, it will help fight the heat.
Pros
- Solid build-quality for durability
- Linear circuitry design reduces distortion
- Super energy efficient
- Work well with any factory head unit
- Easy to install
- Affordable price
Cons
- The amp gets hot too easily
- The large size, which doesn't fit well in small vehicles
Final Verdict
The Planet Audio AC1200.4 will let you fine twitch the sound in a way you like. So you can achieve the loudest, strongest and clearest audio. With something cheap, you cannot expect to have better control. However, Planet Audio AC1200.4 excels in this case.
2. BOSS Audio Systems R1004 4-Channel Car Amplifier– Riot Series
Product Details
- MOSFET Power Supply
- 400 Watts @2-Ohm Max Power
- 200 Watts @4-Ohm Max Power
- Not bridgeable
- Switchable Input Sensitivity
- Power LED Indicator
- High and Low-Level Inputs
- Variable gain control
- Conformal Coated PCB
Get the clearer and louder sound on the trail with the BOSS Audio system R1004. This amplifier is from Boss Audio System’s Riot series, which is perfect for first-time buyers. Besides, it’s a class A/B and full range amplifier.
With this full-range amplifier, you can incredibly run both the speakers and subwoofers. The amp includes high-pass and low-pass filtering. Using this, you can tailor the sound quality as you want.
Moreover, it has an 8-Ohm variable load which allows adjusting power sent to the speakers. The amp can power up to four speakers. You can adjust the signal coming from the receiver that is going to the amp.
It uses low and high-level inputs to transfer the signal from the receiver to the amp and speakers. The switchable input sensitivity provides you with adjustable control over the input signal. Above all, this 7.8″ x 9″ x 2″ amp fits snugly in tight spaces.
Customer’s Feedback
Many people appreciate the amp for its excellent sound quality. They find it a good fit for smaller applications. Also, some of them replace their regular series sound.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- It can power multiple speakers and subwoofers
- Controllable input for each channel
- High output
- Silent cooling fan
Cons
- It has a ground loop issue
- The amp doesn't come with cables
Final Verdict
The Boss Audio System R1004 is an excellent choice to power your vehicle’s speakers. Also, it is perfect for buyers who are looking for improved sound and performance at an affordable price.
3. Rockville RVF-2 1200w Dyno-Certified RMS 4-Channel Car Amplifier
Product Details
- High-speed MOSFET Power Supply
- RMS power rating: 75 W x 4 @2-Ohm, 55W x 2 @4-Ohm
- Bridgeable
- Fully adjustable 6dB circuitry
- Status mode LED Indicator
- Full IC-Controlled Protection Circuitry
- Mute and Delay Soft Start System
- Low Pass Filter: 50Hz - 200Hz
- High Pass Filter: 50Hz - 1.2KHz
- S / N Ratio: >90dB
- Under Voltage Protection at 9V
- Over Voltage Protection at 16V
- Fuse: 20A x 2
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
Rockville RVF-2 4 is a budgeted amp that is packed with 1200W power. The car amplifier is designed for people who want high-quality sound without breaking the bank.
The RVF-2 includes under-voltage protection at 9V and over-voltage protection at 16V. It keeps the amp working throughout your drive. Unlike others, the amp features a mute and delay soft start system.
So, the music doesn’t start blaring into your eardrums right after you start the car. The high-speed MOSFET power supply provides the ultimate audio experience. What’s more? The amplifier can produce a substantial amount of bass and clear sound. Above all, the amp is relatively easy to install.
Customer’s Feedback
Many people claim Rockville RVF-2 as the best 4-Channel amp for its price. Also, the amp provides a fantastic bass. Some of them complain about it getting quite warm after a while. We suggest mounting the amp somewhere with good airflow to address this issue.
Pros
- High power output
- Soft start
- Extremely easy to install
- Affordable
Cons
- It tends to get quite warm
- The amp may not look impressive as others
Final Verdict
The Rockville RVF-2 is certainly not lacking in power. It offers earth-shaking sound at 1200W. Most of all, you’ll get the best deal for the price.
4. Alpine MRV-F300 4-Channel Car Amplifier
Product Details
- RMS power rating: 75W RMS X 4 (2Ω, 14. 4V, ≤ 1% THD+N)
- RMS power rating: 50W RMS X 4 (4Ω, 14. 4V, ≤ 1% THD+N)
- Crossover frequency range – 50Hz to 400Hz
- High-level controls and low-level line input
- Anti-shutdown feature
Do you need an amp with decent power and excellent sound amplification for your small car? If so, the Alpine MRV-F300 car amp does a wonderful job. The Alpine MRV-F300 is a compact and lightweight Class D amplifier.
The stainless steel black housing with a glowing blue light will boost your stereo aspect and performance. This quality amp utilizes super-fast technology like other class D amps. It incredibly enhances power efficiency.
The super-fast switching technology reduces the wastage of power as well as the amount of produced heat. Also, it doesn’t need a massive power supply inside. Another thing that amazes us is its high-quality connectors.
The amp’s connectors are so reliable that they will help you achieve flawless connections. It makes sure you get the perfect setup for nonstop, high performance. Moreover, it has protective caps at the ends, which look great.
Above all, the amp features handy controls and switches. It provides you with tight and steady crossover functions. The amp will drive some lower frequencies to your subwoofer with a crossover frequency range of 50-400Hz.
Customer’s Feedback
The installation process is the biggest plus for this amplifier. This is what many people appreciate about this amp. Most of them place it in their door location.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- 40% smaller than previous models with the same power
- Easy to install
- Excellent build finish
- Flexible built-in crossovers
Cons
- A little expensive than what you get
- Leads too many low sounds to the subwoofer
Final Verdict
Alpine MRV F-300 makes an excellent choice if you are limited in your placement. It is ideal for a door speaker or a rear sound. Overall, Alpine PRV F-300 is an efficiently performing app with plenty of features.
5. Kenwood 2156568 KAC-M1804 Compact 4-Channel Amplifier
Product Details
- Max power output: 400 W
- RMS power rating: 4 ohms: 45 W x 4
- S/N ratio – 90dB
- Rated Power into 4Ohms at 14.4V
- Frequency Response – 20Hz-20kHz
- Input Impedance - 10k Ohm
- Speaker Impedance - 4Ω
Kenwood is a legacy brand that has a hard-earned reputation for delivering quality sound. This Kenwood KAC-M1804 holds that legacy with pride. It is expressly designed to slot into tight spaces and harsh environments.
Without overeating space, it provides you with the most reliable way to get the best sound possible. It is hard to find compact amps that don’t stint on power. The KAC-M1804 will not disappoint you because it comes with 400W peak power output.
The amp can fulfill the need for a range of car stereos with four speakers. It provides 45W through all 4-Channel s. Moreover, the amp is entirely circuit protected and coated to allow it to shed moisture.
So you can easily take it out on the water, for example, in a speedboat. Along with the compact body and impressive performance, the KAC –M1804 is built to last for a long. Also, the installation of the amp is a breeze.
Customer’s Feedback
The Kenwood KAC-M1804 is valued mainly by people who want substantial sound for their compact vehicle. Also, it has got a lot of appreciation for its low price.
Pros
- Excellent for smaller vehicles
- Easy to install
- Perform well on the water
- Works in multiple multichannel configurations
- High-quality build
- Stunning look
Cons
- Not perfect for a system with big subs
- Prone to overheating
Final Verdict
The Kenwood KAC-M1804 may not be the most powerful amp on our list. However, it makes a significant impact on any small-sized vehicle at the lowest price. All in all, it will take your stereo to the next level.
6. Skar Audio RP-75.4AB Full-Range Class A/B 4-Channel Car Amplifier
Product Details
- Class A/B amp
- Max power output: 500 W
- RMS power rating: 4 ohms: 75 W x 4, 2Ohm: 125W x 4
- S/N ratio – 105 dB
- Frequency Response – 20Hz-20kHz
- Fuse Rating – 60 Amp
- Working Voltage – 8.5v-14.4v
- Variable low-pass and high-pass
- Bass EQ Switch (0, +6, +12 dB)
The next, Skar Audio RP-75.4AB, is a true powerhouse. This 1000W amp is for people who need plenty of power in their mids and highs. With the clean and crisp power, it will bring the vocals in your music to life.
The Skar Audio RP-75.4AB draws a solid 75W per channel at 4Ohms and 125W per channel at 2Ohms. Thus, it ensures unlimited power all day long. The design features a thick metal outer shell, including built-in heatsinks.
It will keep the amp cool while bringing full and rich sound to the system. Also, the amp features a four-way protection circuitry design for added safety. The high-quality MOSFET power supply powers the amp.
Customer’s Feedback
Since the amp is a bit on the bulkier side, people with limited space didn’t prefer it for the size. However, for a class A/B amp, you would expect this. The power it delivers is just tremendous.
Pros
- High power output
- 4-way protection circuitry design
- Superior quality power supply
- Protection from overheat
Cons
- Somewhat bulkier
- A bit expensive
Final Verdict
The Skar Audio RP-75.4 AB is powerful, efficient, and built to last 4-Channel amp. It can power your whole aftermarket upgraded speaker system. With the high power, it will provide high levels of performance all day long.
7. Pyle PLMRA430BT 2.1 Bluetooth Marine Amplifier
Product Details
- Max power output: 1000W
- 500 Watt x 2 Bridged Output
- 250 Watt x 4 Power Output
- Frequency Response: 15Hz - 30kHz
- Input Impedance: 10k-Ohm (Low), 100-Ohm (High)
- Input Sensitivity: 250mV (Low), 2.5V (High)
- S/N Ratio: >95dB
- Variable Bass Boost: 0 - 18dB @ 60Hz
- T.H.D.: <0.04%
- Fuse Type: 30A x 2
- Power Supply: DC 12V
- Bluetooth Version: 2.1
- Wireless Audio Range: 25’+ ft.
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 12.0'' x 10.9'' x 2.7''
Take your music amusement to another level with the Pyle PLMRA430BT. You can listen to music whether your head unit is compatible with the amp or not. The PLMRA430BT is engineered as a bridgeable marine amp.
The amp is universally compatible so that it can power up your speakers. However, the main attraction of the amp is its built-in 2.1 Bluetooth connectivity. With a wireless range of 25+ feet, it can connect to all Bluetooth devices.
Moreover, the amp is waterproof since it has a marine-grade rating of IP-01. There are silver-plated stereo speaker output terminal connectors. It makes the amp weatherproof.
The amp has a range of features to protect the amp and your vehicle from short circuit situations. However, it has a 1000W powerful receiver. The dual MOSFET power supply comes along with dual adjustable input gain controls.
Customer’s Feedback
Getting a powerful and bridgeable 4-Channel amplifier is tough. Thankfully, Pyle PLMRA430BT makes it possible. This unique combination makes the amp an excellent choice among many. However, some users claim about a bit of background noise besides the power.
Pros
- High power efficiency
- Marine-grade waterproof construction
- Excellent performance and reliability
- Smart auto-connect option
Cons
- Chances for background noise
Final Verdict
This Pyle marine amp provides waterproof power for all your speaker’s needs. With the versatile waterproof performance, it also ensures next-level amplification.
8. Hifonics ZXX-1000.4 Zeus Four Channel Car Audio Amplifier
Product Details
- Max power output – 1000W
- RMS power rating – 4Ohms: 125W x 4, 2Ohms: 250W x 2
- Bridged: 500W x 2 at 4Ohms
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 15.7 x 10 x 2.4 inches
If the amp kicks out noises while improving the overall sound quality, it would be a menace. Thankfully, this doesn’t happen in the Hifonics ZXX-1000.4 audio amplifier. It keeps the background noise to a minimum level.
The aluminum alloy casing keeps the amp cool. Unless you use it too severely, there shouldn’t be any issue from overheating. Its excellent heat dissipation makes the amp unique from other class A/B amps.
Furthermore, the military-grade printed circuit boards ensure great sound for longer. Because of the flexible installation, you can run the amp in bridged mono mode or two channels.
The PWM MOSFET power supply minimizes heat generation and produces music at high power efficiency. However, the amp is tested in severe environments. Its gold-plated connections are found to be highly corrosion-resistant.
Above all, the amp is well-protected from short circuit, overload, and thermal. The protection feature turns the amp off whenever it heats up. Apart from these, the ZXX-1000.4 will provide you with a few more robust services.
Customer’s Feedback
The Hifonics ZXX-1000.4 is cherished for its unmatched power and reliable sound. Most people recommend the amp for its excellent sound quality for mids and highs. But, some claim that it is challenging to install the amp.
Pros
- Excellent heat dissipation
- Non-corrosive construction
- Low-level RCA inputs and outputs
- Flexible bass
- Superb aesthetics
Cons
- In case of extremely high power, the amplifier heats up
- Require expert help for installation
Final Verdict
All in all, the Hifonics ZXX-1000.4 is one of the most powerful and dependable amps you can get. You can use it as a part of a more stylish system.
9. Rockford Fosgate R2-300X4 300-Watt 4-Channel Amplifier
Product Details
- Class D amp
- Max power output – 300W
- RMS power rating – 4Ohms: 50W x 4, 2Ohms: 75W x 2
- Bridged: 500W x 2 at 4Ohms
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 1.9" x 6.8" x 10.1"
The Rockford Fosgate R2-300X4 is another compact 4-channel amp from the mighty Rockford. This chic little unit can easily fit into an ATV, a truck, and even a motorbike.
Not everyone may not interest in a dinky amp, but people with smaller vehicles search it badly. This Rockford Fosgate 4-channel amp has solved this issue. Despite the compact body, the amp provides enough power needed for small vehicles.
In fact, it is more than enough for a smaller vehicle. Moreover, the amp includes an aluminum heat sink. It comes in handy to keep the amp cool even when the volume rises.
Customer’s Feedback
The Rockford Fosgate R2-300X4 amp is overall decent at a low price point. The only issue about which people claim is that the amp is not bridgeable. Also, the punch is only stable at 4Ohm.
Pros
- Very small footprint
- Superb value
- Exceptional heat dissipation
- Play clear and loud music all day long
- Complete control over everything
- High power efficiency
- More lightweight
Cons
- It only supports 4Ohm in bridged mode
- Not suitable for selective audiophile
Final Verdict
The kind of 4-channel versatility Rockford Fosgate R2-300X4 offers is really commendable. The power is enough to juice up any music.
10. CT Sounds CT-80.4D 4-Channel Car Audio Amplifier.
Product Details
- Max power output: 480W
- RMS power rating: 120W x 4 @2 Ohm, 80W x 4 @4 Ohm
- Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz
- Gain adjustment: 0.2V – 6V
- Bass boost: 0dB – 12dB
- Operation voltage: 9V – 16V
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 9.31 x 5.62 x 2.18-inches
The CT sounds CT-80.4D let you enjoy the crisp and clear sound with the window down on the highway. Indeed, it is possible to drive even at 70mph while enjoying loud music. It’s a class D amp as well as a powerhouse multichannel amplifier.
Moreover, the amp has a small footprint and compact chassis. It makes the amp easy to install in any sized vehicle. Don’t let the size of the amp fool you. This 4-channel amp can produce amazing sound even in the compact body.
The amp features a MOSFET pulse width modulated power supply and proprietary heat dissipation. All these help the amp to remain cool for the most demanding music. Also, the 4-way protection circuitry protects it from high and low Voltage, over-current, and high temperature.
Customer’s Feedback
Though the amp looks compact, it is a bit heavy. Many customers claim that it has plenty of headroom. At the same time, they claim the amp can get really hot on 2Ohm.
Pros
- Crisp and clean sound
- Compact body and small footprint
- Heat dissipation
- Ultimate protection from over-current, high and low Voltage and high-temperature
Cons
- It gets really hot on 2Ohm load
Final Verdict
Overall, the CT sounds CT-80.4D is a pretty good amp for the price. Also, the sound is excellent. It works well even you connect 8 speakers.
Why Do You Need a 4-Channel Amp on the Car?
A 4-channel amp does a great job at providing more power to the front and rear speakers. It is by far the best choice for the car. A 4-channel amp ensures the most efficient sound system for the car. So you get the right sound for your music.
Moreover, this amp boosts the overall sound to encase the road noise. It not only improves the music clarity but is also capable of playing sudden blasts of music. Thus, you can enjoy the right music whenever you are driving.
A large number of car owners prefer 4-channel amps over other amps. The first reason is that it offers good value for the money. Besides, the amp offers vast versatility; you can connect 2-6 speakers at a time.
The 4-channel amp can be installed anywhere in the car, including the tight spaces. Also, you can connect it in several ways. When properly connected, the amp ensures a high-quality sound experience.
4-Channel Amp vs 2 Channel Amp
You can use a 4-channel amp to power either 4 speakers, including 6×9 speakers with front speakers. Conversely, you can power 2 front speakers and a subwoofer while bridging 2 channels.
On the other hand, the 2-channel amp can power 2 standard 6×9 speakers. But, 2-channel amps are not designed for this purpose. It is often used to power 1 or 2 subwoofers.
Note that a 2-channel amp will bring out extra power through each channel than 4-Channel amp. This added RMS wattage pushes the bass and serves its purpose. Overall, a 4-channel amp power the speakers while a 2-channel amp power the subwoofers.
You may wonder if you can connect 4 speakers and a subwoofer to a 4-channel amp. Ideally, it is not a good practice. The 4-channel amp will not provide the best performance or may get damaged. It is better to use a 5-channel amp in that case.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best 4-Channel Amp?
The 4-Channel amp provides added power through four different channels. You can expect prevailing and clearer sound only from the best 4-Channel amp for sound quality.
However, it has a number of features you should be informed of. You should have a minimum understanding of what they mean and what you can expect. Followings are some of the most important features you should be aware of.
Wattage: Primary power for the amp
Amplifiers and wattage are related to each other. More wattage denotes more amplification, and the more the amplification, the better the sound. In most cases, 50W to 75W RMS is enough to produce good sound.
This much power is also enough to power the subwoofer for potent bass. Besides, 100W per channel works well when you expect the volume to reach the competition level. It is wise to buy a more powerful amplifier than you actually need.
The added power will enhance the richness and add depth to the audio without distortion. If you are using an amp with more than 1000W, you’ll need an extra battery.
The Size of Amplifier
The size matters when it comes to installing an amp in the vehicles. You’ll need an amp that can easily fit into the space available in your vehicle. The size may not be a matter of concern if you have a large SUV.
However, in the small roadster, there is not much space to install additional equipment. So make sure the size you buy will fit well in your vehicle. Basically, the size differs based on the power of the amp.
More power means a larger size. Generally, amplifiers are installed under one of the seats or in the trunk.
Resistance
The term “resistance” is a technical feature of an amplifier. But, you don’t necessarily need to understand it in detail. The value of resistance is denoted as impedance rating. This value determines how much power an amp can push to the speakers.
A great sound system is all about matching the right speakers with the right amplifiers. It is called creating synergy. So check the amplifier’s output ratings and speaker’s power strategy for creating synergy.
It is better to connect high impedance speakers to the amplifier. Regardless of the impedance rating, the amplifier must be able to push power through its channel. You cannot connect a fewer impedance speaker with a higher amplifier impedance.
The Size of Amp’s Fuse
Knowing how big the amp’s fuse is will help you understand if the amp can generate continuous wattage. You can know the size of the amp’s fuse by multiplying the watts by 2. Then divide it by car battery voltage.
Is the Head Unit Compatible with Amplifier?
Most head units don’t come with preamp outputs (RCA) in the case of input plugs. The receiver does not matter when the amplifier can receive a signal of speaker level. But when the amp gets a preamp signal only, the head unit will need a LOC (Line-Out Converter).
The function of LOC is to convert a speaker-level input to a preamp-level signal. So, you can connect the stereo to the amplifier. Also, you can connect a new stereo to the car factory’s amp.
Sound Quality
Several factors actually have an impact on the overall sound quality. They are frequency response, filters, sensitivity, total harmonic distortion (THD), and exposure to sound. Some of them are very important than others.
But in total, they all contribute to different characteristics of the sound system. Generally, the best 4-Channel amp includes three filters, of which two are available in most amps. These two will be high pass and low pass.
Moreover, frequency response decides the highest range of frequency signals the amp can push. The highest the frequency response, the border the audio. When an input signal pushes through to speakers, the THD defines how precisely it can imitate the signal.
Additional Features
Some more features make the amplifier more anticipated.
- Well-designed and quality Builds: The best 4-Channel amplifier will have an excellent design with a high-quality build. Some of the well-known brands have the best designs, which we’ve included in the list.
- Decent Terminal: Preferably, a good amplifier should be easy to connect to the speaker and power. Having decent terminals will make sure the amp is well-connected in all applications.
- Remote Control: Some amps come with a remote control to turn on the lead connection, while some do not.
- Adjustable Equalizer: Having adjustable equalizers will give you additional control to enhance your vehicle’s audio system.
- Crossovers: With built-in, high, and low pass crossover, you can easily modify the sound system. Hence, it is better to have an adjustable crossover in the amp.
How to Bridge a 4-Channel Amp?
Simply bridging each channel in a 4-Channel amp will double the output power. While using the same set of subwoofer or speakers, attach the opposite pair of negative and positive inputs together. This will give the maximum output power.
Moreover, you can connect a 4-Channel amp to any speaker pair with 4 ohms’ load resistance. Do that by wiring the positive leads from the first two-channel in parallel. Repeat the act for channels three and four as well.
Then connect the negative leads accordingly and complete the bridge connection between the first two and last two channels. Below is the way how you can bridge a 4-Channel amp.
Step 1: Find the Speaker Wire Terminals
In a 4-Channel amp, there will be 4-Channel terminals. These include positive and negative channel wire accompanied by a speaker down clamping system. It allows holding the speaker in place in a static manner.
Step 2: Connect the Wires
Now connect a red wire with the positive terminal of the first channel and accordingly on the subwoofer. Strip both red and black wires from about 3-inches away from the end.
Make sure no metal part is exposed, which may cause a short circuit. Then, insert each wire to the speaker connectors into their own positions.
Step 3: Connect to the Speaker
Attach one end of the positive speaker to positive terminals on all four channels. Similarly, connect another end of the wire to the negative terminal.
Now strip about half an inch from the end of speaker wires using a wire stripper or pliers. Last of all, cover all the exposed wires with electrical tape for protection.
Final Words
Investing in the best 4-Channel amp can be an ideal move to get premium sound from the speakers. There is no need to spend a lot of money to get full-range sound. You can check our recommended options discussed above.
There is no science that points to one of these amps as the best. Each of them excels for its unique features. Depending on your budget and needs, you can pick one or more. If budget isn’t a matter for you, Alpine X-A70F is the way to go.
But if you are looking for great value all around, Planet Audio AC1200.4 cut the mustard. With its 900W RMS, it will make your stereo roar. Also, it utilizes MOSFET technology to operate with minimal heat production.
FAQ
1. What do 4-Channel s mean on an amp?
The 4-Channel s are meant to amplify weak input signals to a higher voltage signal on an amplifier. It’s a stereo amp with two additional channels. These built-in channels increase the amplifier’s versatility. Above all, they can provide power to a complete speaker system and subwoofer.
2. How many speakers can you put on a 4-Channel amp?
Generally, you can connect one speaker per channel in most amplifiers. The number of speakers you can connect depends on the way you wire the amp. With correct wiring, a 4-Channel amp can power up to eight speakers.
If you wire it correctly, an amplifier can give twice its RMS power rating. Check the amplifier specification to see if the amp can safely set more than four speakers. Overall, you can configure a 4-channel amp in some different ways.
3. Is a 4-Channel amp worth it?
A 4-Channel amp is definitely worth it if you need more power for your car audio system. Besides, it makes sure your speakers play louder and better. The purpose of the amp is to enhance both the power output and sound quality.
4. What is the best 4-Channel amp for mids and highs?
For mids and highs, you’ll need an amp with excellent sound quality and decent power. In most cases, 50W per channel amp works well. You can also use high-pass crossovers on your midrange speakers or tweeters. This will block distortion-causing bass. The Rockford Fosgate 4-Channel amp is best for mids and highs.
5. Is a 4-Channel amp better than a 2 channel amp?
If you are looking to power just a single pair of speakers, a 2-channel amplifier is a good choice. But for rear-fill sound, especially in the car, you’ll need a 4-channel amp.
A 4-channel amp gives you more flexibility than a 2-channel amp. Think 4-channel amp as a blend of two 2-channel amp. So definitely, a 4-channel amp is better than a 2 channel amp.