Car Amplifiers The Next Generation
“I often thumb through mobile audio publications and never seem to reach the back cover without coming across at least 10 new amplifier manufacturers that claim to have the latest and greatest amp on the planet.” …Chuck
I’ve spent my time working in the Car Audio Audio Industry for nearly the past 20 years
and have been able to try many flavors as the technology has morphed from one design to another. Despite one claim versus another, the car amplifier has for the most part, remained pretty much the same. The differences between cheap models and good performers lie in the construction and components being used. (And the fact that you no longer have to install a surfboard in your trunk) One such amplifier that seems to be doing well is the Class Design which solves just about every problem associated with installation space while providing pretty reliable operation and good sound quality.
What is class D?
Amplifier technology revolved around the traditional Class A, B or Class A/B design, which consists of a set of output devices that are either constantly on or two sets that switch. While both of these topologies had advantages, both were for the most part, inefficient (Class A 20 and Class AB about 50%) and required large power supplies/ heat sinks, thus making the physical chassis larger. Some of the popular amps in this category include Alpine, Kenwood, Clarion, MTX and many others.
In a Class D design, also known as a PWM or switching amplifier, the output devices are either fully on or off. This results in efficiency ratings in the 90-95% range. Add to that, the lack of a large power supply and reduction in heat sink capacity, and you now have a nice efficient amplifier in a small package that can still pack a good punch. (And won’t heat up your trunk an extra 100 degrees)
The Players:
Two such players in this new and good sounding car amplifier market are Alpine and JL Audio. Both companies bring a great tradition of car audio design and performance to the table and offer a wide range of these great amplifier choices. Alpine offers six models which provide configurations from 1 thru 5 channels complete with on-board variable crossover networks in sleek chassis designs. Alpine’s technology incorporates Direct FET a very efficient MOSFET design which enables these amps to run cooler than other designs. JL Audio brings it’s expertise in amplifier design to bear with its HD Amplifier line. The company offers three current models including a 1, 4 and 5 Channel that boast features including Single Cycle switching technology and similar regulated power supply technology found in the company’s solid Slash series car amps.
The Jury Speaks:
In today’s diluted car audio amplifier market, you’re sure to come across many lower-end manufacturers offering smaller, cheaper and better solutions, but don’t be fooled. Many of the ‘old school’ players are actually poor oriental offerings. Both Alpine and JL Audio designs offer the installer and consumer the ability to add a great sounding amplifier to their existing system or replace older technology with a great sounding component that takes up a fraction of the space- which in today’s cars is at a premium!
Summary of the Technology:
- Class D Amplifiers offer the following benefits:
- Reduction in size and weight of the amplifier
- Multi-channel configurations with on-board variable crossover networks
- Reduced power waste as heat dissipation and hence smaller (or no) heat-sinks
- Reduction in cost due to smaller heat sink and compact circuitry
- Very high power conversion efficiency, usually greater than 90%
- Stackable design for increased use of limited space during installation
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