Why should you add an amplifier?

It’s a common question. And it involves making an additional investment in your car stereo purchase which can make a huge difference. So why should you add an external power amplifier to your car?

Let’s take a look at what a power amplifier actually does. Put simply, an amplifier takes the low level output from a source device (CD player, tuner or MP3 player) and brings its output level to a range that can drive speakers. This range, or power output, can vary depending on the size of the amplifier. Many car audio systems- both OEM and aftermarket- contain power amplifiers even though you might not know it. They can range from built-in amp stages that are actually inside the chassis of the radio to separate external amplifiers that can be located under a seat or in a rear side panel of the vehicle.

Example of a factory (OEM) power amplifier

Although sufficient for their original purpose, OEM amplifiers and built-in amplifiers cannot come close to a good aftermarket power amplifier when it comes to power, flexibility or sound quality. While OEM amps are limited to being able to drive the factory speakers they were designed for, aftermarket speakers demand more quality power. Where you can really see and hear a difference is when you compare an aftermarket power amp to the built-in amp usually found inside that CD player you are looking to purchase. Take a look at a CD player- and factor in how much room there actually is inside it. Take into account that it has to contain a tuner, AUX input section –AND- that it has to be able to play a CD! That doesn’t leave much room for anything! The amp section actually is about the size of a box of matches. So now, try to justify how that CD player can actually put out 25-50 watts per channel…not to mention without any distortion.

Benefits of adding an external amplifier include more volume but more importantly- better tone quality, more accurate bass response and clearer sound. External amplifiers come in a variety of configurations and wattage capacities, so matching am amp to your particular system is relatively simple. Power amplifiers are available in 1,2,3,4,5 or 6 channel configurations and usually come with on-board variable electronic crossovers as well as bass enhancement circuitry.

When selecting an amplifier, always look at the quality of construction, the brand’s reputation and the stability of the amp. These factors always separate the good stuff from what you’ll find at the local flea market!