Learn: Home » Comparing car amps — a look "under the hood"
Let's compare!
Let's take a look "under the hood" at two similar amps and see what the differences are. Amp #1 is a four-channel model, rated at 50 watts X 4 RMS, and sells for $129.99. Amp #2 is also a four-channel model, rated at 40W X 4 RMS, and sells for $100 more, at $229.99.
This look at the internal layout of the amps reveals something of the engineering that went into the two models. Amp #1, on the left, has a somewhat more disorganized look, as seen in the long wire runs, than Amp #2, on the right.
In this closer look at the power supplies (above) note how much more separation there is between the components in the more expensive Amp #2, as compared to Amp #1. The spacing of these crucial components allows for better heat dissipation and limits the possibility of interference in the signal path.
In the close-up, above, note the relative size and ratings of the capacitors in the power supply. Amp #2 (on the right) uses two large 3300 microfarad capacitors to regulate the flow of power and keep a reserve of energy for peak demands. The less expensive Amp #1, on the left, uses smaller capacitors. Remember, Amp #2 is actually rated at lower power than Amp #1, yet it uses larger capacitors. Larger capacity components in a lower-rated amp is a good indication of the build quality and engineering that has gone into the design and construction of the amp.
The output transistors, shown above, are an interesting illustration of the differences in the construction of the two amps. Amp #1, on the left, clamps the output transistors to the heatsink with simple metal bars, held in with screws. This is a pretty "low-tech" solution to the problem of keeping these vital components cool. By the way — the white substance around the transistors is called "thermal grease." It aids in conducting the heat away from the transistors.
Amp #2, on the right, utilizes a much more advanced solution. The output transistors in this more expensive amplifier are bonded to a multi-layer insulated metal substrate with a very low thermal resistance. This proprietary process increases the heat transfer from the output transistors, resulting in better reliability, power output, and stability. The manufacturer's commitment to developing innovative and improved technologies is one of the reasons that this amp is more expensive.
Let's take a look at one more interesting photo. When I first opened Amp #1 (below), I was surprised to see a small, square piece of cardboard glued to the top of the capacitors.
I can only assume that this was placed there to prevent components from shorting out through contact with the amp's metal cover. While it works, the better design of Amp #2 ensures that "band-aid" solutions like this are not necessary.
Let's take a look "under the hood" at two similar amps and see what the differences are. Amp #1 is a four-channel model, rated at 50 watts X 4 RMS, and sells for $129.99. Amp #2 is also a four-channel model, rated at 40W X 4 RMS, and sells for $100 more, at $229.99.
 Comparing the internal layout of the two amps. |
This look at the internal layout of the amps reveals something of the engineering that went into the two models. Amp #1, on the left, has a somewhat more disorganized look, as seen in the long wire runs, than Amp #2, on the right.
 A closer look at the power supplies. |
In this closer look at the power supplies (above) note how much more separation there is between the components in the more expensive Amp #2, as compared to Amp #1. The spacing of these crucial components allows for better heat dissipation and limits the possibility of interference in the signal path.
 A close up look at the power capacitors. |
In the close-up, above, note the relative size and ratings of the capacitors in the power supply. Amp #2 (on the right) uses two large 3300 microfarad capacitors to regulate the flow of power and keep a reserve of energy for peak demands. The less expensive Amp #1, on the left, uses smaller capacitors. Remember, Amp #2 is actually rated at lower power than Amp #1, yet it uses larger capacitors. Larger capacity components in a lower-rated amp is a good indication of the build quality and engineering that has gone into the design and construction of the amp.
 The output transistors. |
The output transistors, shown above, are an interesting illustration of the differences in the construction of the two amps. Amp #1, on the left, clamps the output transistors to the heatsink with simple metal bars, held in with screws. This is a pretty "low-tech" solution to the problem of keeping these vital components cool. By the way — the white substance around the transistors is called "thermal grease." It aids in conducting the heat away from the transistors.
Amp #2, on the right, utilizes a much more advanced solution. The output transistors in this more expensive amplifier are bonded to a multi-layer insulated metal substrate with a very low thermal resistance. This proprietary process increases the heat transfer from the output transistors, resulting in better reliability, power output, and stability. The manufacturer's commitment to developing innovative and improved technologies is one of the reasons that this amp is more expensive.
Let's take a look at one more interesting photo. When I first opened Amp #1 (below), I was surprised to see a small, square piece of cardboard glued to the top of the capacitors.
 Cardboard? |
I can only assume that this was placed there to prevent components from shorting out through contact with the amp's metal cover. While it works, the better design of Amp #2 ensures that "band-aid" solutions like this are not necessary.
