Rating of the best car audio amplifiers for 2022

Car audio amplifiers are special devices that are necessary to amplify incoming signals to the required level for their high-quality reproduction. They can be of different types. The devices differ in power and performance. Based on the number of channels, they are divided into monoblocks and multichannel.

Rating of car amplifiers

Device Description

Consumers most often prefer to buy devices that have 2 or 4 channels. But now you can also find devices on sale that have an odd number of channels, for example, 3 or 5. Single-channel devices are often purchased only to connect a subwoofer to them.

Modern car amplifiers have a huge range of different functions. Most often in devices you can find the following functionality:

1. Equalizer. This function is usually present only on expensive devices. Using an equalizer, the user has the opportunity to independently adjust the sound of an audio recording without large losses in the sound quality of the audio track.
2. Crossover. This is the name of a special filter that discards unnecessary frequencies. Certain manufacturers equip their devices with crossovers for mid frequencies. This is a useful feature for those who have a car radio installed in their car, since it does not have a built-in crossover.
3. Remote control of reproduced bass. With its help, you can adjust the bass, taking into account the sound of a specific composition.
4. Fader. This is the signal output regulator. Necessary for balancing the sound level on car speakers.

The latest models often have high-level inputs. This allows you to connect the device to standard audio outputs that come with regular car radios.

Conclusion

If you are just starting your journey in car audio, I would recommend stopping at the Kicx SP 4.80AB, or for a little more money buy a SWAT for growth. This will be enough for you and believe me, the bass and volume will turn out good.

What else do you need

Along with the amplifier, you will have to buy a set of wires - approximately 2 thousand rubles. Because the system needs to be connected to the radio, speaker and subwoofer. If your radio is initially 2-channel, then you will need splitters or so-called games.

The sound level of your audio system also depends on the quality of the radio, but we know from our own experience how not to spend money on it and not spoil the sound with a cheap head unit. Read: how to use an amplifier without a radio.

Recommendations for purchasing the device

When purchasing a device, first of all you need to check with the seller what power the device is endowed with. In this case, you need to know that amplifiers produce two powers - nominal and peak (the amplifier can briefly increase performance indicators).

Most manufacturers often indicate peak power values ​​on packaging to attract customers. Therefore, you must carefully read the technical specifications directly in the instructions that should come with the device.

When choosing a device, experts recommend considering the following criteria:

1. Harmonic distortion factor. The maximum allowable value is 1%.
2. Frequency range parameter. It is best to choose devices that have a range of 20 Hz - 20 kHz.
3. Noise value. This parameter is entered by the device into the played composition during amplification. The noise level must be between 75 and 95 dB.
4. The resistance level that the device supports. This parameter must be greater than the input resistance of the vehicle's speakers.

It is not advisable to buy products that have plastic fasteners. The fact is that plastic fasteners fail quite quickly. They won't last long. In addition, in severe frosts, plastic becomes brittle. It can be damaged under the influence of vibrations.

Top Brands for 2022

Before purchasing the chosen model, you should definitely look at the power level, device type, dimensions, build quality and other parameters. High-quality devices should have a sufficiently large radiator, which is designed to remove excess heat. Although there are manufacturers who make thin amplifiers. They are light in weight and do not get very hot, so such designs do not require a radiator.

You also need to look at the name of the manufacturer. Now the best companies producing amplifiers are:

• JBL;
• Pioneer;
• Kicx;
• Sony;
• Alpine;
• Mystery;
• Calcell.

If you need a budget option, you should pay attention to devices manufactured by Power Acoustic and Boschmann. Car amplifiers from these manufacturers are relatively cheap. But at the same time, they managed to establish themselves as worthy models with good components, high-quality assembly and materials.

Description of the highest quality single-channel devices

Such products usually have a large reserve of power, but most often they have poor sound. Therefore, they are often used to connect to a subwoofer. These devices usually have a crossover and controls that allow you to change the volume level.

"Ural MOLOT MT 1.500"

Quite cheap, but despite this, a high-quality device. A special feature is the presence of an adjustment system designed to change the operation of bandpass filters. The device also has special protection that prevents the battery being used from being completely discharged. In addition, there is a limitation on the maximum power consumption.

Ural MOLOT MT 1.500 in the rating of car amplifiers

Due to the fact that there are cylindrical protective terminals, the amplifier can be quickly and easily connected to the speaker system and power cables of the car. The involvement of specialists to perform this procedure is not required.

Additionally, the amplifier is equipped with an aluminum radiator, which is made of an all-metal profile. It effectively removes heat and at the same time cools the device.

The harmonic coefficient of the device is 0.05%. Amplifier class – D. The power rating at 4 Ohms is 230 W. Peak power – 500 W. The signal to noise ratio is 95 dB.

Main advantages of the device:

• low price (in stores on average it is about 4,000 rubles);
• there are infra-low and low-pass filters;
• there is a function to enhance balance;
• sound distortion is small;
• high-quality assembly of internal components and housing.

The most common disadvantages include the following:

• fairly large dimensions of the device;
• slight development of the low-frequency range.

AurA VENOM – D1000

This single-channel amplifier belongs to class D. One of the main features is the ability to operate at operating frequencies from 20 to 250 Hz and a high level of efficiency. The device is well suited for installation in a subwoofer audio system, ensuring its high-quality operation without any interruptions. The clarity of the reproduced bass remains at its best.

Car amplifier AurA VENOM-D1000 in the rating of car amplifiers

The device is protected from short circuits, high heat and excessive loads. It also has protection indicators to show the user if it is operating correctly and a bass boost mode.

The main advantages of the device:

• Comes with a remote control;
• there is a linear audio input;
• quite high power;
• equipped with high and low pass filters.

The disadvantages include:

• not equipped with preamplifier output;
• quite large mass of the device - 3.36 kg;
• relatively high cost for a single-channel amplifier (on average 9,500 rubles).

PRIDE Uno XL

The device is characterized by reliability and high quality, and can reliably cope with the task when applying a load of 1 ohm. With these indicators, the power of the device is 1200 W. At this load the NI coefficient is 5%. For normal and high-quality operation of the subwoofer, these indicators are considered the most effective.

PRIDE Uno XL in the rating of car amplifiers

There is a special LED indicator on the remote control of the incoming sensitivity. It is capable of displaying the maximum possible and acceptable distortions. It should be noted that this model is not suitable for use in bridge mode. It is usually purchased for those audio systems that use 2 subwoofers from the same manufacturer.

At 4 Ohms, the efficiency of this device exceeds 90%. The power with the same resistance is 500 W. The device can operate normally at frequencies from 15 to 270 Hz. Damping usually does not exceed 200 units. The device is also equipped with a special protection indicator.

Main advantages:

• high efficiency rate;
• very high quality build;
• high power;
• the device heats up slightly;
• there is a protection indicator;
• The level of input signal distortion is relatively small.

The main disadvantages of the device:

• the PRIDE Uno XL amplifier does not provide cascade connection;
• to obtain maximum quality it is necessary to connect pairs of subwoofers;
• high cost - about 10,000 rubles.

The highest quality two-channel devices

Car amplifiers with two channels are often used in cases where it is necessary to connect them to conventional stereo acoustic systems. In addition, these devices are often used to create an audio system with four speakers or to connect a subwoofer using a bridge circuit.

It should be noted that such amplifiers are considered universal. They can save preset adjustment parameters, which is why these models are able to work efficiently and without interruption.

AurA AMP – A255

This is a budget two-channel AV class model. It is advisable to use it in audio systems that consist of two speakers. This amplifier can be used for 1 subwoofer with a bridge connection. The presence of a crossover allows you to remove unnecessary frequencies from used channels.

Car amplifier AurA AMP-A255 in the rating of car amplifiers

Using this amplifier, you can remove mid-bass or ultra-low frequencies from the subwoofer. When connecting to audio systems, the device cuts off unused speakers, as well as low frequencies. In addition, the amplifier is equipped with a channel combiner and can increase the bass level at pre-selected frequencies.

Power at 2 ohms is 75 watts. Harmonic distortion coefficient is less than 0.15%. Reproduces frequencies in the range from 20 to 20,000 Hz.

The main advantages of the model, equipped with the following functions:

• special protection that prevents the device from overheating and overloading;
• bridge mode;
• protection indicator;
• frequency filters included;
• short circuit protection;
• Bass Boost mode.

In addition, the cost of the model is relatively small - within 3,000 rubles. The only negative that users point out is that when a subwoofer is bridged, only a slight increase in power can be observed.

JBL Stage A6002

This device also belongs to the low price segment, but at the same time it is of quite high quality. The sound amplifier of this model is capable of providing excellent sound when playing songs.

Car amplifier JBL Stage A6002 in the rating of car amplifiers

The product is small in size, so it is considered quite versatile in terms of installation. It will not take up much space in the car.

Its design additionally has built-in protection that prevents short circuits and overheating of the device. In addition, the model has protection against too high or too low voltage. The device has a special indicator that can inform the owner about the presence of malfunctions while using the amplifier. There is practically no interference in the power supply circuit during operation.

At 2 ohms the power of the JBL Stage A6002 is 70 watts. Harmonic distortion is at a level of 1%. There is a built-in high-level input, and the model also supports bridge mode.

Pros of JBL Stage A6002:

• small dimensions, due to which it is possible to perform hidden installation;
• there is reliable protection against voltage surges and short circuits;
• does not get very hot under high loads;
• there are frequency filters;
• there is a Bass Boost function;
• reasonable cost, which is at the level of 4,500 rubles.

Among the disadvantages, users highlight:

• low level of low frequencies, due to which the subwoofer cannot work fully;
• JBL Stage A6002 lacks fine tuning.

Sony XM-N502

This model has a black, stain-resistant body that has an excellent ventilation system. The device has a good level of efficiency and is classified as type AB. It also has a low distortion level and the ability to work in two channels simultaneously.

Sony XM-N502 in the rating of car amplifiers

The device operates in the frequency range from 5 Hz to 50 kHz. The low pass filter has a value of 80 Hz. At peak performance, the amplifier power reaches 500 W. Additionally, the model has a thermostat, which improves the operation of the cooling system.

The power of one channel with a resistance of 4 Ohms is 65 W. At the same time, the Sony XM-N502 has a distortion of only 0.05%. The unit is capable of operating in bridge mode.

The main advantages of the amplifier:

• good power;
• small size of the case, due to which it is considered universal;
• hidden installation possible;
• well-designed and reliable cooling;
• low level of distortion;
• relatively high efficiency;
• the average cost is up to 6,000 rubles and this is with high quality.

The only downside is that the system lacks low frequency regulation.

Brief top

Description of four-channel models for cars

Such amplifier designs are used for those cars that have a speaker installed in each door. They need to be connected directly to the standard multimedia systems installed on the vehicle. Each channel is processed separately. Modern devices usually have an installation add-on function.

"Ural MOLOT MT 4.60"

According to reviews from most buyers, this model is budget-friendly and of high quality. It's great for those who prefer analog sound. The device ensures good performance of all speakers and subwoofer. Suitable for connection to high sensitivity and low sensitivity audio systems. Sudden changes in volume during track playback are handled well.

Ural MOLOT MT 4.60 in the rating of car amplifiers

The distortion factor is 0.05%. The power of one channel at 4 Ohms is 60 W. It can operate in bridge mode and also has low-pass and high-pass filters. The operating range varies from 10 Hz to 40 kHz.

Advantages of the model:

• high power of the device;
• high-quality sound reproduction and excellent assembly;
• low cost - 3,500 rubles.

Among the disadvantages, users usually highlight:

• high energy consumption;
• heating during prolonged operation.

Vibe PowerBox65.4M-V7

This is a high-quality and reliable four-channel device for amplifying and reproducing an audio signal in a car. It has a strong body, the peculiarity of which is its small dimensions. The model is suitable for any car interior due to its small size.

Car amplifier Vibe PowerBox65.4M-V7 in the rating of car amplifiers

It has a large power reserve. Can amplify either a subwoofer and 2 speakers, or 4 speakers. Operates at frequencies from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. There is a built-in high-pass filter and protection indicator.

Main advantages:

• all components are of high quality;
• small dimensions allow for hidden installation;
• produces excellent sound quality;
• high performance;
• affordable price - approximately 5,200 rubles.

Disadvantages of the model:

• you will have to buy adapters yourself to connect to the standard wiring;
• Some users say that the device is only suitable for radios with an ISO connector.

Pioneer GM-D8704

A fairly powerful four-channel device for car speaker systems. It has small dimensions, but the device is very productive. To prevent the power circuit from tripping, this amplifier has automatic internal temperature control. If necessary, it will independently reduce the level of incoming signals. This feature ensures the durability of the device. And thanks to a well-thought-out electrical circuit, you can connect several subwoofers to it at once.

Car amplifier Pioneer GM-D8704 in the rating of car amplifiers

The model is equipped with an input signal sensor. This allows you to connect it to the standard radio without using Remote Control wires. The low-pass filter provides fairly flexible adjustment and good sound. Pioneer GM-D8704 has almost zero efficiency reduction.

The device is equipped with low and high pass filters, a bass boost function and a protection indicator. Capable of working in bridge mode.

Advantages of the model:

• you can change operating modes using the remote control;
• high level of efficiency and productivity;
• small sizes;
• almost does not heat up during operation;
• good sound quality.

The only disadvantage can be considered the high cost.

Purpose and technical parameters

In fact, the amplifier increases not only the volume, but also the sound quality, even with quiet playback. Therefore, the installation of equipment will be useful both for lovers of deafening music and for motorists who prefer a moderate listening mode.

When playing audio tracks at extremely high volumes without using an amplifier, sound distortion is usually observed. This happens due to the discrepancy between the output power of the acoustic system elements and the coefficient of nonlinear distortion. Even the most modern equipment of a car with audio equipment with built-in amplifiers does not give the results that can be obtained by additionally installing a good amplifier. The device's high output power provides increased sound purity and increases the upper volume threshold, which is beyond the control of a standard radio.

Amplifiers differ from each other in many ways. They may have a different number of channels, which are used depending on the connection scheme, that is, the number of connected subwoofers and speakers. Structurally, devices are divided into digital and analog. The former process the digital signal, the latter process the electrical signal. A digital amplifier will allow you to personally select adjustable parameters and remember the frequency characteristics for a specific acoustic speaker.

Devices are selected taking into account the basic parameters, power and frequency range. It is the output power that is the main indicator when choosing which you should take into account the front and rear speakers. For speakers this parameter should be 75 - 100 W, and for a subwoofer 150 - 300 W. The frequency characteristics of the device allow you to adjust the sound of the acoustics according to the characteristics of the car’s interior. They allow you to attenuate frequencies that interact with interior elements, and enhance them when sound is absorbed by interior components.

The best five-channel amplifiers

In general, these devices are practically no different from four-channel amplifiers. But they have an additional channel designed to connect a subwoofer. The remaining channels are used for speakers.

Hertz ML Power 5

This is a high-quality and energy-efficient model. It is equipped with a monitoring system that monitors the operation of the device in real time, signaling the owner about the occurrence of various problems.

Car amplifier Hertz ML Power 5 in the rating of car amplifiers

Hertz ML Power 5 is capable of producing balanced and high-quality sound. Has a distortion level of 0.08%. It also has a high-level input, a bridge function, and high-pass and low-pass filters.

Pros:

• high-quality assembly;
• high performance;
• wide functionality;
• there is protection against heavy loads and overheating;
• universal connection.

The downside is the very high cost when compared with similar devices.

Kicx SP 4.80AB – from 4,500 rub.

An excellent device for good entry-level bass or a high-quality audio system. The 4-channel amplifier produces 80 W per channel, and when connected with a bridge it delivers an impressive 240 W. This is enough to rock budget subwoofers.

The adjustments are the same as all others with a maximum range from 50 hertz to 5 kilohertz, although the previous one was adjustable up to 8 kilohertz.

It handles a good initial audio system with four speakers and one 12-inch subwoofer without any problems. If you strain him too much, he will of course go into defense, but he can hold even maximum power for some time.