This amp is used in a bridged configuration to drive a single 12" Lightning Audio SVC component subwoofer. Power is coming from an 8g lead fed by a 4g line less than a foot away. The input signal is coming from discrete lead off a Sony CDX-M730 via premium Rockford cabling. This amp was installed on the truck floor of a 1999 Mitsubishi Galant and no capacitor was used upstream. This amp was used in conjunction with a Pioneer GM-X364 to power 2 sets of aftermarket speakers.
Install
The install of this amp was pretty easy overall. Most of the lines for the other components in the trunk (the other amp and CD changer) had already been run, but I did have to run cable for the sub from the head unit, which required removing about four interior panels. Even at a slow pace one can generally do it in about an hour. The power line was run at the same time as the RCA for the sub, so that wasn't any more of an issue than drilling the firewall.
This amp was mounted directly to the fibreboard of the trunk floor. Although they aren't self tapping, the amp does come with four screws to tie it down with. As far as amplifiers go though, one has the freedom of mounting it in virtually any position, even on the seat pass-through. One can even mount it on the inside of the trunk lid for a unique look and space savings as well.
Performance and Features
Here are some of the vitals...
-65w x 2 into 4ohms @ 14.4v (10.8v-15.1v allowable)
-150w x 1 into 4ohms @ 14.4v
-75w x 2 into 2 ohms @ 14.4v
-This unit is not stable in a bridged 2ohm load configuration.
-Current draw @ 4ohm x 1 = 7.4A
As mentioned this unit is set up in bridged mode and as such is driving a 4ohm sub. The sub itself has a max of just 300w, but an RMS of 150w, so it should be an ideal match for the amp, that is if the amp were able to deliver the goods at high volumes.
I am not going to say the amp can't cut the mustard, it does have pretty impressive thump for its diminutive size, but at higher volumes, it can get a little muddy. I see this more as a function of the amp than the sub in this case simply because I can push it very hard, and get amazing punch for such a cheap sub. When the music is fuller and simply contains more bass laden info, the volume has to come down for the sake of the sub.
There isn't much to speak of as far as features. This is a very basic amplifier. Of course you have the standard RCA inputs, ground terminal, power terminal, and 12v trigger. This unit only features a low pass crossover with an off position for full signal. The low pass kicks in at 80hz being convenient if you are using it with another Pioneer amp as this one is, because the other can have its high pass on cutting 80hz and below, allowing for seamless interaction between sub and mains. The is also gain control on this amp as well, allowing for better signal management, but these are common features; adjustability is a premium feature.
The Good
This is a small, but relatively effective amp. It produces decent power at a good price and matches others in this Pioneer line. This amp looks quite fetching next to the GM-X364 in the trunk and the little red lights on top add to the effect. It is easy to set up, is widely available, enough for the majority of consumers. It isn't enough for me, but the buyer was very happy, even though it was part of a thorough upgrade.
This amp does quite well as a single channel, but certainly could be used as one half of a four way system. The only drawback is simply the fact that it only has a low pass option. This being the case it would be strongly recommended that an external crossover be used unless your head unit already features on. This will give you the ability to cut certain frequencies save your primary speakers from getting torn apart by unnecessary bass signals. This will also help to keep the amp from working too hard as well.
The Bad
Not much really. I can't stress enough that this amp isn't a big-un, it is really intended for a smaller system unless used as a two way, which requires more wiring and components for optimal sound.
Conclusion
For the price and even for the meager performance in bridged as well as 2-way mode, this isn't a bad little amp. Don't go expecting to win SPL competitions, but if you are moving up from a stock system and plan to use this with at least one more amp, than it may be a reasonable option.
Pioneer GM-X562 New in the box Peak Music Power 300W Continuous Power: 65W x 2 (4 Ohm), 75W x 2 (2 Ohm), 150W x 1 (4 Ohm) Frequency Response: 10Hz - 5...More at eBay
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