Perfect for the Beginner
Written: Feb 08 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Affordable, Efficient
Cons: Overheated and went into protection a few times during high heat or intense bass
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| Sneil_IV's Full Review: US Acoustics USX-2080 Car Amp |
First off, I must begin with one crystal clear statement- I do not actually own the USAcoustics 2080. I instead own its precursor, the 2075, which I purchased about two years ago from Crutchfield. Originally, the 2 x75 watt or 1 x 200 watt amp was to be bridged and run my MTX Thunder 5000 10" sub, which it did perfectly. Recently, however, I added a component set to the mix, and purchased a tri-way crossover, so the amp is running everything in my car.
I paid $175 for the amp, and I feel I have gotten every cent out of that amp. It's been reliable, efficient, and residual- even in the hazardous under-seat location that I have it stowed, it's managed to remain strong, regardless of the muddy and snowy feet that have found a home on it.
The crossover, an adjustable one between about 40 and 180 Hz, seems to work fine, although is now bypassed because of my tri-way Xover. The amp was easy to use, and only overheated a few times this past summer, on very hot days when I was slamming bass. Even then, it went into protection mode, and starts back up perfectly fine.
Admittedly, the amp lacks the glitz and glamour of more upscale amps. But it also makes me wonder if all that glitz is necessary. I recently started an internet car audio/performance shop (www.openroadcustoms.com), and have had a chance to see a lot of people spend a lot of money on amps that they probably didn't need. People, even the most novice audiophiles, go immediately for the Rockford Fosgate or Precision Power amps, paying two or three times what they really need to. When it comes right down to it, if you're going to compete or really push the amp, then USAcoustics isn't for you. But if it's to make your car sound full and rich with a nice component set, or to run a basic subwoofer for a little oomph, then I think the affordable, reliable USAcoustics line is for you.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
Sneil_IV
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Member: Neil Janowitz
Location: Rochester, NY
Reviews written: 93
Trusted by: 192 members
About Me:
Holy halibut, weekly humor columns at www.neiljanowitz.com . Join the mailing list, son.
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