Expert: Cleggsan - 9/13/2008

Question
i have a sony xplode 12oo amp and a 10 inch pioneer sub how do i know what matches my sub power wise from my amp like the level, filter, low boost etc so i dont have to little power or to much to blow it cause when i play it itll play for a little bit then cut out for a min or so then turn back on can it be electrical problems also?

Answer
The answer is:  

ONE: The impedance of the speaker must be matched to the amplifier. You must check the impedance rating of the amplifier output.  Then, you must make certain the speaker impedance is not too low (ok if the speaker impedance is higher).  If the speaker is dual voice coil and you have them in parallel it could be a problem.  For example, if the speaker is DVC and impedance rating is 4 ohms then in parallel it makes 2 ohms; if the rating of the amplifier is 4 ohm loading then you would be in trouble.

TWO:  If the amplifier is in bridge mode it has different loading qualities. If the non-bridge mode is 4 ohm rating, in bridge mode it would usually, but not always, be 2 ohms.  You must check the specs of the amplifier.

THREE: Having too much power (which is unlikely with this amp unless the speaker is really low power) is no problem as long as you have will power in controlling the volume level control.  You can damage a speaker with just about any amplifier if it is overdriven.

FOUR:  Crossover point and boost settings are for your pleasure according to the sound quality and voicing of the system that you want.  

FIVE:  If the amp is cutting out it is a sign of going into protection mode.  It can be caused by speaker impedance being too low as discussed above, by a short in the wiring between the amp and the speaker, by a shorted voice coil in the speaker, by the 12v level in your car dropping too low from drawing too much current when you crack it up too high.

These are things you must check out.  Then let me know if you have further questions.
C