If you are looking for the best car amplifier, the most important things to consider are the number of channels, maximum output power, and RMS power capacity. . I’ve summarized my favorite products below based on these features. Keep reading if you want to know more about why these features are so important.
One of the best features of a car, aside from its ability to bring you anywhere, is its audio system. You get to listen to your favorite playlist while you cruise through the highway each day. Yet, not all vehicles are equipped with fantastic-sounding systems. Some of them cannot produce all the frequencies—or even provide you with high volume levels. Depending on your audio needs, you might like to add another speaker or replace the one you already have. For this purpose, you should opt for an excellent amplifier that will improve your car audio capacity, allowing you to enjoy your ride as you get infused with vibrant, solid sounds.
However, it can be confusing to find the best amplifier as the market is packed with a multitude of possibilities that all guarantee the best performance. To help you with this predicament, I went ahead and collated the top car amplifier choices based on customer reviews. I made sure to go through the different music stores and identified the most preferred amplifiers, providing you with an in-depth look into their various specifications.
Quick Summary of The Best Car Amplifiers
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Best Overall Channel Car amplifier  |
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Best Power Capacity  |
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Best Amplifier Splurge  |
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The Best Car Amplifiers Review
Alpine X-A90M X-Series Mono Power Density Amplifier – Best Overall Channel Car amplifier
Key Features
- 900W RMS x 1 (2 Ohm, 14.4V, ≤1% THD+N)
- 600W RMS x 4 (4 Ohm, 14.4V, ≤1% THD+N)
- 90dB S/N (ref. 1W into 4 Ohm)
Belonging to Alpine’s X Series, the X-A90M has a power handling capacity of 900 watts RMS. Among all the different choices, this one is by far the most powerful channel car amplifier on the market. It provides a crisp and clear audio output with bass boost, especially since it has a built-in, efficient crossover and bass equalizer, enabling you to finetune your setup. This amp has five channels. It comes accompanied by a remote bass control as well. Developed with Alpine’s ID Sound Stage, this amp creates a solid reproduction of each audio output.
| Pros • Alpine ID Sound Stage • Built-in crossover and bass equalizer • Solid, top-quality performance • 900-watts RMS power capacity | Cons • Generic design |
Rockville DB15 Car Audio Amplifier – Best Power Capacity
Key Features
- Optical Coupler Class “D” Technology
- Fully Adjustable 12dB / Octave Crossover with Differential Circuitry
- Variable Low Pass Filter: 50Hz – 250Hz; Subsonic Filter: 15Hz – 55Hz
- Phase Control Switch, Full IC-Controlled Protection Circuitry
- Remote Dashboard Subwoofer Control
- Fully Adjustable 12dB Bass Equalizer, Mute and Delay Soft Start System
The Rockville dB15 6000 Watts RMS Peak/1500w CEA RMS Mono 2 Ohm Amplifier Car Audio Amp has a frequency response of 15Hz – 250 Hz and an over voltage protection of 16V. Also, its sensitivity rate is at 90 dB. This channel car amplifier can provide clear and crisp audio feedback and bass boost , producing solid power output for lower-end frequencies, despite its lightweight appearance.
| Pros • Equipped with a high-speed MOSFET power supply • Includes a RCA preamp line output • Comes with an optical coupler technology • It comes with a bass remote, owner’s manual, mounting screws, and a tested power birth sheet. | Cons • Substandard durability |
Audison AV Quattro 4-ch Amplifier – Best Amplifier Splurge
Key Features
- 200 Watts RMS x 4 @ 2 ohms (4 Channels)
- 120 Watts RMS x 4 @ 4 ohms (4 Channels)
- 120 Watts RMS x 2 + 200W x 2 @ 4/2 ohms (4 Channels)
- 120W x 2 + 400W x 1 @ 4 ohms (3 Channels)
- 200W x 2 + 400W x 1 @ 2/4 ohms (3 Channels)
If you have a considerable budget set aside for the best car amplifier possible, you should get the Audison AV Quattro 4-ch Amplifier. Unlike Rockford Fosgate amplifiers, this high-end amp is four-channel equipment that can efficiently work in multiple channel modes—four, three, and two. It can deliver a total of 1,700 watts RMS power. With the capability to do several channel modes, this channel car amplifier has an Amplifier Management Processor (AMP) that continuously monitors the system. It indicates current conditions through the provided LED lights placed at its top panel. It also has an Automatic Remote Turn On/Off (ART) that automatically switches on/off the system depending on the remote signals it receives.
Built to be efficient and convenient, this amp provides clear and crisp audio feedback with bass boost as it sticks to the most natural sound possible. Customers happily report no noise detectable even when its volume levels are pushed to the limits.
| Pros • Multi-channel capability • Premium-grade materials used • Amplifier Management Processor continuously monitors system • Automatic Remote Turn On/Off for remote signals received • Remote control capability • Top-grade audio quality • Low to zero noise detected | Cons • Expensive |
Kicker IQ500.1 Q-Class Amplifier – Best Audiophile Choice
Key Features
- Selectable crossovers per channel
- Configurable Digital Signal Processor
- Graphical User Interface
- TWEEQ IT Bluetooth connectivity and adjustability
The Kicker IQ500.1 Q-Class Amplifier uses Kicker’s TWEEQ IT app that allows you to wirelessly connect and adjust various controls via your smartphone, tablet, or computer. This monoblock amp has an RMS power handling capacity of 250 watts at 4 ohms. It also operates with a frequency response range of 25 to 180 Hz and a sensitivity rate above 95 dB. With its weight clocking in at merely 7.94 pounds, this product can provide clear and crisp audio feedback, producing solid output for lower-end frequencies, despite its lightweight appearance.
| Pros • 25 to 180 Hz frequency response rate • More than 95 dB sensitivity rate • TWEEQ IT app for wireless control • Top-grade bass | Cons • Low power capacity |
Audison AV Quattro 4-ch Amplifier – Best Amplifier Splurge
Key Features
- 200W x 4 @ 2 ohms (4 Channels)
- 120W x 4 @ 4 ohms (4 Channels)
- 120W x 2 + 200W x 2 @ 4/2 ohms (4 Channels)
- 120W x 2 + 400W x 1 @ 4 ohms (3 Channels)
- 200W x 2 + 400W x 1 @ 2/4 ohms (3 Channels)
If you have a considerable budget set aside for the best car amplifier possible, you should get the Audison AV Quattro 4-ch Amplifier. This high-end amp is four-channel equipment that can efficiently work in multiple channel modes—four, three, and two. It can deliver a total of 1,700 watts RMS power. With the capability to do several channel modes, this channel car amplifier has an Amplifier Management Processor (AMP) that continuously monitors the system. It indicates current conditions through the provided LED lights placed at its top panel. It also has an Automatic Remote Turn On/Off (ART) that automatically switches on/off the system depending on the remote signals it receives.
Built to be efficient and convenient, Audison AV Quattro 4-ch Channel Car Amplifier provides clear and crisp audio feedback as it sticks to the most natural sound possible. Customers happily report no noise detectable even when its volume levels are pushed to the limits.
| Pros • Multi-channel capability • Premium-grade materials used • Amplifier Management Processor continuously monitors system • Automatic Remote Turn On/Off for remote signals received • Remote control capability • Top-grade audio quality • Low to zero noise detected | Cons • Expensive |
BOSS Audio Systems R1100MK – Best Audiophile Choice
Key Features
- 1100 Watts RMS Max x 1 @2-Ohms, 550 Watts RMS Max x 1 @4-Ohms
- MOSFET power supply
- Variable low-pass filter crossover
- Switchable bass boost
One of the most popular budget amplifiers, the BOSS Audio Systems R1100MK Car Amplifier, has excellent potential as it adeptly competes with the more expensive brands available. This new alternative uses a bearing 1,100 watts RMS of maximum power capacity at 2 ohms and 550 watts RMS of peak capacity and a four ohms class AB circuitry. With its MOSFET switch, it gets to control electric current, eliminating output current sensing loss and removing secondary feedback circuitry.
Because it has an integrated variable low-pass filter crossover, you get to have your sub reproduce lower-end frequencies and specify your desired bass range. This channel car amplifier also has built-in thermal overload protection, permitting you to enjoy continuous performance without the danger of unnoticeable overheating. An excellent amplifier for a little more than a hundred dollars, this one is worth a try. This is also a recommended product and one of the best car amplifiers if you’re looking to upgrade an already excellent car stereo system.
| Pros • MOSFET power supply • Built-in thermal overload protection • Lower-end frequency response range • Provided with a lot of extra wires • Easy to install • Affordable | Cons • The LED indicator light is too bright • The actual power capacity is low |
Planet Audio PX4000D Class D Monoblock Power Amplifier – Best Affordable Amplifier
Key Features
- 4000 Watts RMS Max Power (1 Ohm)
- Switchable Input Sensitivity: 100mV-2V or 2V-8V
- Variable Bass Boost (0 to +18dB)
- Chrome Plated Connections and Illuminated Logo
- Strapping Capability
Another low-cost option is the Planet Audio PX4000D Class D Amplifier. This amp has a peak power capacity of 4,000 watts RMS at 1 ohm. Weighing merely 11.33 pounds, the PX4000D provides a lot of power for your car stereo system.
Coming from a pretty unknown brand but still one of the best car amplifiers, this one has been garnering many positive reviews from its customers, mainly because it comes with an affordable price tag and can adequately provide a variable bass boost of 0 to more than 18 dB. If you already have an excellent car audio system, you can add this to maximize your existing setup’s capacity. Because it has the strapping capability, you can even connect this to another amp to provide more power.
One of the highest-rated amps in the market, this product is a must-try.
| Pros • 4000 watts RMS maximum power capacity • 0 to more than 18 dB variable bass boost • It can be connected to another amp for added power | Cons • Unknown brand |
Pioneer GM-A3702 2-Channel Bridgeable Amplifier – Best Budget Car Amplifier
Key Features
- 500 Watts RMS Max Power
- Automatic signal sensing and Turn-On
- Hi-Volt input level control
- Balanced isolator input circuit
Price: $79.95
If you want an amp that’s big on sound and incorporated innovations, get the Pioneer GM-A3702 2-Channel Bridgeable Amplifier. This product is merely 3.1 pounds but is tagged as the most technologically-advanced amplifier in the world. With this amp, you get to finetune each of its channel’s frequencies. You get to have clear and crisp feedback irrespective of the music choice you have. It allows you to maintain excellent music quality even when you opt to push its sound levels to the limit.
A high-end product, this amp is a serious, professional choice. Plus, it is affordable! With this one, you get to maximize your car system’s full potential and get more than your money’s worth.
| Pros • Has an integrated high-power performance • Has a space-efficient size which comes in handy for installation in different car cabins • Can automatically detect the input signal and select RCA level or speaker level. • Easy to use, functional, and durable | Cons • Amp doesn’t have many options |
Blaupunkt 1500W 4-Channel, Full-Range Amplifier – Best Entry Level Car Amplifier
Key Features
- No of channel: 4/3/2 Channel
- Max. Output Power: 1500W x 4
- RMS Power (4 Ohms): 150W x 4; RMS Power (2 Ohms): 300W x 4
- Signal-To- Noise Ratio: 90dB; Gain Adjust: 150mV-6V
- Frequency Response: 10Hz – 45Hz; Crossover Frequency: 50Hz – 400Hz
- Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.05 percent; Crossover Slope (dB/oct): 8-10dB/oct
Most car owners like to maintain their car system’s audio integrity even when they opt to replace their vehicle’s stock amplifier. If you already have an excellent-sounding car audio system but would still want to improve its overall performance, getting the Blaupunkt 1500W 4-Channel, Full-Range Amplifier can give you that. You can fully upgrade your car’s audio system performance without losing its original stock functions.
This amplifier weighs 0.3 pounds and is accompanied by compatible screws for a more straightforward setup. This item has a four-channel input. It can also accommodate a maximum capacity of 1,500 watts RMS. This amp enables you to improve audio performance tremendously while, at the same time, maintain various stock features, including balance and fade.
| Pros • Budget-friendly • 1,500 watts RMS maximum power capacity • Multiple-channel input/output • Suave performance • Crisp and solid audio quality • Durable built | Cons • No built-in fan |
Best Car Amplifier Buying Guide
When purchasing an amplifier, it is crucial to know what you are looking for. Here are several elements to remember:
Amplifier Definition
Each car audio system has an amplifier. Nevertheless, most stock car stereos have built-in amps, so you rarely notice their presence. They allow your car’s audio system to increase signal power, driving your speakers to produce audio feedback. This means, then, that the more powerful your amplifier is, the better audio you get to have. Your speaker, however, must be able to handle your amp’s power.
Amplifier Necessity
While stock car audio systems already have built-in amplifiers, an upgrade can maximize your system’s overall potential. Most car owners either replace their existing stock amplifier or upgrade it to have better sound quality. While the market is filled with various options to choose from, you would need to pinpoint the one that fits your preferences and allocated budget. Listed above are the best amplifiers based on customer positive feedback and specs.
Amplifier Specifications
Amplifiers have different specifications. You need to know which amplifier is compatible with your existing car audio system. The channels differentiate amps they get to handle, and at least one channel is necessary per speaker. A mono amp, for instance, can power up your subwoofer, and a four-channel amplifier can power up to four coaxial speakers in your vehicle.
Some amps have high- or low-pass crossovers that allow you to maximize your tweeter or woofer capacities. Other amps have bass boosting abilities which are perfect for subwoofers and bass audio output.
You need to consider your amplifier’s maximum and RMS power handling capacities as well. Peak or maximum power capacity refers to your amp’s capability of managing sudden power bursts, while RMS (Root Mean Square) refers to its continuous power capacity at any given time. You must determine the power capacity to eliminate the possibility of overheating. Your amp’s RMS must match that of your speaker to get the best sound quality, as well.
Best Car Amplifier FAQs
Do car amplifiers make a difference?
Yes. Car amplifiers provide you with the capability of playing solid, loud music with little to zero incidence of distortion. It is highly recommended to connect a stock car audio speaker to an amplifier to produce better sound quality.
Do amplifiers affect sound quality?
Yes, they do. It can affect audio tone and linearity as it helps modulate volume level capacity. Typically, amplifiers and all the different devices in your audio system impact your music or sound’s overall quality.
Do you really need an amp for car speakers?
It depends on your preference. While stock car speakers work fine, their audio output can be further improved by connecting them to efficient amplifiers. Amplifiers help modulate volume levels and also limit noise or distortion. They provide more power to your speakers’ performance, as well.
The Verdict
There are a lot of car amplifiers in the market. However, here are the best based on positive customer feedback:
- Best Overall—Alpine X-A90M X-Series Mono Power Density
- Best for Power Capacity— Rockville DB15 Car Audio Amplifier
- Best for Incorporated Technology—Audison AV Quattro 4-ch Amplifier
- Best Audiophile Choice—BOSS Audio Systems R1100MK
- Best Affordable Amplifier—Planet Audio PX4000D Class D Monoblock Power Amplifier
- Best Budget Car Amplifier— Pioneer GM-A3702 2-Channel Bridgeable Amplifier
- Best Entry Level Car Amplifier—Blaupunkt 1500W 4-Channel, Full-Range Amplifier