Expert: Peter G. Lee - 2/6/2007

Question
i have an old sony exploid 500 watt amp. i got some kickers the small ones for high pass, n midrange. two are 800 watts a pair, the other two are 690 watts per pair. all speakers are4 ohm. but when i cut the volume up all the way it sounds like the speaker is tearing, and then the amp goes into overload/protector. there is a dial that goes from 0.3v to 0.5v to 1 ot 3to 6v what should i put this on, n how do i keep from distortion n overloads. why is this, please, please help me.  

Answer
HI Tron,
You have a mismatch. The old Sony 500 is not up to all that output at hi volume,  4 x 125  needs 4 x 180w speakers or 2 x 180 and a 1 x 360 bridged.

The two 690w( 345w each) speakers would need a 2 x 250w amp, it's a matter of about 50% larger speakers than amp output, bigger speakers need bigger amps.

Bit like having a Nissan 1.1 liter engine in a Dodge Ram, it will move it, but not for long.

Plan your balanced set up and buy accordingly including cable of the correct size and preferably with a separate battery on a split charge relay or you will kill the vehicle's battery.
Peter