what's the best way to tune the gains on an amp hooked up to door speakers? I have a 1000 watt amp powering 300 watt memphis audio components. Also (if this has been posted I'm terribly sorry) should I use the high pass filter function? What does it do and how would it make my stereo sound better? Any kind of walkthrough or help would be great.

 

I would turn all the levels all the way down, then turn the volume up to 80 percent of the max volume. Then crank the gain up until your speakers start distorting, then back the gain off a bit. Bass boost is for an untrained ear, and since you are using components I wouldn't suggest using it anyway if there is the option. Your high pass filter should be set between 80 and 120 Hz, it is up to your own tastes. It filters out frequencies below your set frequency level at a slope of usually 6 to 12 db per octave, each amp is different. If you have a sub then your high pass should be set to a level near what your sub's low pass is set at. If you don't have a sub i would probably set it at 90 to protect your speakers. Good luck at getting a good sound.

 

What he said. If you want some more in depth info here's a link to a very good gain setting tutorial and here's a link to Basic Car Audio Electronics (It has lots of info on all sorts of stuff).

 

why in the hell do you have a 1000 watt amp powering 300 watt components?

oh wait those are all MAX POWER

 

ppl tend to go bigger on the amps anyway. i know i do (well at first i did, now i need more )

 

1000 watt on 300 watt?

____ you must be crazy

 

it's 1000 watt 2 channel because I don't have the extra cash right now for a (good) multi channel amp. As long as the gains are set low I should be good right?

 

in theory

 

what amps and components did you actually get?

 

There's nothing wrong with "too much power" or fearing you'll be "overpowering" your speakers...

I'd also use a lower xover point. Keep in mind that the speaker will have to move 4X further for each octave lower - for a given output. Example: The speaker moves 0.25" for 80hz at "X" spl, and an inch at 40hz at "X" spl.

I'd pick something between 80hz and 40hz, like 60hz. Most speakers can play this without bottoming out, but 60hz is borderline for the bass-heavy music and weaker speakers...

 

don't be too harsh (haha). but it's just a cheap amp, it's an insigna. And the component speakers are 300 watt memphis audio's.

 

thats like saying i'm having problems with my car.

what kind is it?

oh a scion.... yeah you need to be more specific man

 

What do you mean 'more specific?' I'm sorry, I thought i answered your question. You just asked me what amp and what components (I'm assuming you meant my speakers.)

 

yes like what model number

 

I have the Insigna NS-A1000 and the memphis mclass 15-msync6 component speakers.

 

http://www.insignia-products.com/pc-...amplifier.aspx

http://www.memphiscaraudio.com/produ...ails.asp?id=21

The amplifier is rated at 110 X 2 @ 4 ohms. Use the high pass filter set to ~60hz, and set the gain **** as low as practical. What I mean by this: You want as much gain as early on in the signal chain as possible. I'm guessing the only other item in your system is the head unit. Set the H/U to about 80% of it's capable output, and dial up the gain **** to where it's loud enough for you - or the speakers start to distort, then back off a bit. For what it's worth, my gains are almost all the way down...

 

Yeah, I got it now. I'm not very fond of this amp, but, I have the eclipse cd3100 headunit, and it makes everything sound soooo crystal clear. And the speakers go loud as hell. Thanks for all your help everyone.