Better car audio, Tip #7: Set your amp gains properly
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Welcome to this article from the Crutchfield archives. Have fun reading it, but be aware that the information may be outdated and links may be broken. 
Most people think the gain control on their new amplifier is a volume control. But it actually adjusts the amount of input signal coming into the amplifier. Crank it up too high, and you'll hear some nasty distortion. Here's the general idea when setting gain:
- Start playing some music
- Turn your car stereo volume control up to roughly 3/4
- Turn up your amp gain until you hear distortion, then back it off a little
Every amp manufacturer will have specific suggestions, so you'll want to check out your manual for the best way to set the gain on your new amplifier.
Learn more about setting up your new amp.
This post is excerpted from a recent article in our Learning Center, Jeff's Tips for Getting Maximum Sound Quality in Your Car.
Meet Jim Richardson
Jim Richardson worked for Crutchfield for a combined total of about 34 years before his retirement in 2021. He started in 1977 as Crutchfield's lucky seventh employee (or #007, as he put it), wearing many hats in different departments, including writing for the catalog.
Jim spent 10 years away from Crutchfield between 1983 and 1993, during which time he finished college and worked as a newspaper reporter and editor. He returned to the company just in time for our 1995 website launch, and helped pioneer early iterations of our online car-fit tools.
More recently, Jim worked as an editor for our home A/V and pro audio articles, where he made huge contributions to the way we present information to help you narrow down your choices and understand how to get the most out of your gear.
More from Jim Richardson
How to choose 3.5 mm audio cables and adapters
How to choose a phono preamp
How to choose a portable projector
Is Dolby Atmos good for music?
What you need to know about ATSC 3.0
Rear channel speakers for home theater