Four channels of power, straight from Mount Olympus
Written: Mar 13 '01 (Updated Mar 14 '01)
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Pros: 3 year warranty, good looks, clean power, low price
Cons: Mounting feet
The Bottom Line: Excellent performance for a low price.
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| cspu's Full Review: HiFonics 100W x 2 Amplifier Zeus Z440 |
I've been impressed with Hifonics amps since 1989. They have come a long way cosmetically since then, but the sound quality and durability have remained the same.
The Z440 is a member of Hifonics low end line of amps, the Zeus series. Even though it was built for a lower price point, this amp offers a ton of features and quality for the price.
Specifications
RMS Power - 55 watts X 4 channels
RMS Power Bridged - 220 watts X 2 channels
Built in High and Low Pass Crossovers
Bass Boost - 0 to 12dB
Frequency Response - 10hz - 30kHz
Cosmetics
The Z440 is a nice polished aluminum with HIFONICS written across it in raised chrome letters. The edges of the amp are rounded smoothly, giving it a nice modern appearance. All of the adjustments are mounted flush with the side of the amp and the speaker connections are the type that don't require any special connectors. The Z440's mounting feet do not come pre installed (more on this later), which gives an option of mounting the amp from the back for a more custom appearance. Overall, the Z440 is a very classy looking amp.
Installation
The manual that comes with the Z440 is top notch. It contains specifications and instructions for all of the amps in the Zeus line. It has detailed instructions for installing the amp and also has drawings of EVERY configuration that the amp can be used in. Running wires always takes a while, but once connected, setting the gains and crossover points on the Z440 are a breeze. The adjustments are well labeled with increments; they are large enough that you can use a normal sized screwdriver.
Power Consumption
The Z440 comes with a built in 40 amp fuse. Max current draw is around 38 amps. It has 8ga power and ground connections. A stock alternator will be able to sustain the Z440. Even at high volumes, most electrical systems won't be pushed to the limit.
Sound
Hifonics built their reputation on sound quality, power, and reliability. The Z440 maintains the tradition. It is crystal clear throughout the entire frequency range. Power output is about 10% above what it is rated so you can expect ~60 watts X 4. The sound reproduction is accurate and the amp makes enough power to be uncomfortable at full volume.
The Con
The only real flaw I can find with the Z440 is the mounting feet. They are not pre-attached, which is a neat idea for those who want to mount the amp from the back. The feet are supplied in the box with self tapping screws. On my amp, two of the holes were stripped, the screws would not even start. I had to use larger screws and even with the feet screwed all the way down they are still a bit loose. I think Hifonics should send the amps with the feet attached with the option of removing them. (Most people will mount it using the feet anyway).
Summary
The Z440 is a bargain! It can be had for under $200 and easily beats most of the other amps in it's price range. It combines good looks with great performance and it is backed by a super warranty. If you are looking for an amp, give the Hifonics Z440 serious consideration. The Gods have sent their power to earth!
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 179
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Epinions.com ID:
cspu
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 in Electronics |
 - Top 500 |
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Location: The Island of Misfit Toys (Alabama)
Reviews written: 115
Trusted by: 97 members
About Me:
Sarcastic car audio enthusiast, motorcycle rider, and hunter... and I make NO apologies for it!
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