Amplifier wire gauge chart
How to determine the best size wire for your amp's power and ground
T-Spec wires and hardware ensure full current flow for your amplifier
In order to operate correctly, an amplifier needs its power and ground wiring to be large enough to accommodate its demand for electrical current. What wire gauge (thickness) to use for power cabling depends on how much current your system will try to consume, and on how long the wiring run will be.
Understanding the needs of your system can help you know when to choose 4-gauge wire instead of 8-gauge wire. Do a little bit of math and then consult our wire size chart below. Of course, if you're looking for a new car amplifier, we list the recommended amp wiring kit with each amp.
The formula for current draw
To determine the approximate current draw (in amperes) of your amplifier, you must first calculate the total power of the system (multiply the number of channels by the number of RMS watts per channel). If you have multiple amps, add up the total power figures to arrive at a grand total. Next, double your grand total power figure. Then, divide by 13.8.
Total RMS Wattage times 2 (Inverse of Amp Efficiency) divided by 13.8 Volts equals Current Draw in Amperes (explanation below)
The resulting figure is your system's approximate maximum current draw. Compare this number to the numbers in the "Amperes" column in the chart below. Now figure out the cable length you'll need – that's the distance from your battery to the amplifier's mounting location. Cross-reference these two figures in the chart to determine which gauge of cable you need.
Please note that the smaller the gauge number, the larger the wire. 1/0 ("one-aught") is the common name for a 0-gauge wire; 2/0 ("two-aught") for a 00-gauge wire.
A more detailed explanation
Here is an explanation about the formula we use, in case you want more details. Calculating the amplifier's total power is straightforward, but the other two parts can be confusing.
No amplifier is 100% efficient
First of all, why do we double the total power figure? That's because the typical analog amplifier is about 50% efficient. That means about half of the power it generates is turned into audio output while the other half of the power is lost as heat.
So if your amplifier is putting out 400 watts, it's actually drawing about 800 watts of power from its source, and the amp's wiring needs to be big enough to handle that draw. (Class D amplifiers are much more efficient in comparison, but it's still safest to go with the larger wire size.)
Automotive voltage is neither 12 volts nor 14.4 volts
And the 13.8? Yes, vehicles have a 12-volt electrical system, but we're assuming that the vehicle is running — which means its alternator will bump up the system voltage to about 13.8 volts. This is a better real-world representation of the vehicle's electrical supply. Dividing by 12 results in a larger number, which could point to a larger wire gauge, but it's often in the same color range in the chart. Manufacturers use 14.4 volts, when they spec their gear, to exaggerate their power ratings.
Resistance increases with wire length
The reason different cable lengths bear different ratings is because the electrical resistance, inherent in all wire, builds up as the cable gets longer, until it forces the voltage to drop below a useable level. At that point, up-sizing the power cable will restore the voltage to its intended level.
Wire size matters for current flow
Finally, according to our tech support guys, the primary performance limitation in most amplifier installations is in the current delivery — either a weak ground or insufficient wire gauge. Installing too small of a wire gauge results in poor performance, potentially shorter service life of connected components (your amplifier and speakers), and a potential safety hazard.
On the other hand, installing too large a wire gauge doesn't really have any downside, and there is the potential for better performance. Obviously, there's no need to buy 2-gauge wiring when 10-gauge will do. That kind of overkill would be a waste of money. But if the chart could lean either way between two sizes, going with the larger wire size would be the smart choice.
Speaker wires
Speaker wiring matters too. The signal and power coming out of your amplifier must not be impeded on their way to your speakers and subs. When you replace or run new speaker wiring, we recommend using 18-, 16-, or 14-gauge wires for speakers and 16-, 14-, or 12-gauge wires for subwoofers.
Get the wiring you need
Now that you have some idea of how much amp wiring you need, shop our selection of amplifier wiring and accessories. We have amp wiring kits, distribution blocks, and everything else you need. And if you have any questions about putting together a shopping list, contact our advisors via phone, email, or chat — the info is at the top of this page. If you want to learn more about amplifier installation, read our amplifier installation guide.
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Rob from San Jose
Posted on 12/15/2018Hi Buck, impressed with all the knowledge sharing here! Here's a good one for you: Alpine PDX-F6 (150 x 4 RMS = 600W) powering: - Rear hatch: 2 x Hertz 165 XL (100-300W RMS each) - Rear doors: 2 x Alpine Type R 6.5" (100-300W RMS) (Amp (600W) v Speakers (400-1200W)) Alpine PDX-F6 (150x4 RMS) powering: - Rear hatch: 2 x Hertz 165 XL (100-300W RMS each) (Amp (600W) v Speakers (200-600W)) Alpine PDX-F6 (1x600 RMS) powering: - JL Audiob12W6v3-D4 (400-900 RMS) (Amp (600W) v Speakers (400-900W)) Total: 1800W RMS Other niceties: Head unit: Pioneer AVIC8200-NEX Capacitor: 1.5 farads Northstar 31M AMG battery ARB Element fridge ARB Twin Compressor Radar detector Dashcam QUESTIONS: 1) I'd like to the "Big 3" upgrade. Should I use 4/0 gauge? 2) What gauge wires from the battery to a 3-way power distribution block? (I'm thinking 4/0 gauge) 3) What size inline fuse from the battery to the 3-way power distribution block? 400? 4) What gauge wires from the power distribution block to each of the amps? 4 gauge? 5) What gauge speaker wires? Thinking 12 or 14 gauge?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 12/15/2018Rob, Big Three upgrades are usually done using 1/0- or 4-gauge wire. If I understand correctly, you have three amps with a total power rating of 1800 watts RMS. A 1/0-gauge power wire from battery to distribution block will work. Don't forget the fuse near the battery - a 250 to 300-Amp fuse will make it all safe. Then you can run 4-gauge to each amp from the distribution block. And each amp gets a 4-gauge ground. 14- or 16-gauge wire works well for speakers, but if you can fit it in, 12-gauge speaker wire works too.Don from Parma
Posted on 12/11/2018I'm asking just to be on the safe side. I have a pioneer class D, 1 channel amp, 800 watts rms at 1 0hm, I have one 12, 2 ohm dvc wired in parallel so it's 1 ohm. I did the math mentioned above, my result at about 16 feet was 115, so I'm good with a 4 gauge wire, right? Thanks in advance!
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 12/12/2018Don, If you're referring to a Pioneer GM-D8601, then yes, it does call for 4-gauge power and ground wires.Anthony whitsey from Vallejo ca
Posted on 11/29/2018Hey buck , I'm running a 2400 watt amplifier for my two 1000 watt subs.... what's the correct amplifier wiring kit I need to run it ?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 12/3/2018Anthony, That depends on precisely what amp you have. A Class AB amp capable of that amount of RMS output probably needs 2/0-gauge power and ground leads. A Class D amp could probably get away with 1/0. If you're quoting peak ratings, forget all that, and go with what the manufacturer recommends.Vincent from East Northport
Posted on 10/11/2018I have 2 amps 4k for subs 800 for mids/highs so as far as I understand now my single run 18feet of 1/0 is not delivering enough power to run the amp at 4000 W .?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 10/12/2018Vincent, If your amplifiers can put out a total of 4,800 watts RMS of power, then one 1/0-gauge power and ground wires will not be enough to support them. Can't say anything about it if those ratings you mentioned are actually peak specs.Joe
Posted on 10/8/20181800 watt amp on 0 gauge wire... what size fuse do I need on 0 gauge
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 10/9/2018Joe, A fuse rated for 200A to 300A will safely protect your 1/0-gauge power wire.Joshua Roy C Sanchez from Manila, Philippines
Posted on 9/21/2018Sir, I just want to inquire from you. Is JL Audio 10W3V3-4 subwoofer a good match for Alpine PDX-V9 Amplifier? thanks..
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 9/21/2018Joshua, That 500 watts RMS rated sub will work great with that amp's 500 watts RMS subwoofer output.Jose from Monterey
Posted on 9/12/2018Speakers keep blowing up... 4gauge wiring but I bought the amp kit with 100Amp fuse Installed an alpine mdr M1000 500@4ohm 1000@2ohm Had a 4 ohm dual voice coil 12 sub + to + and - to - =(2ohm?) Also tapped in to the rear sub on my 207 Lexus is250 for the channel going to amp oh, and along with the rca converter Lexus sub->converter->amp It's the amp to strong to handle speakers? Sub was a Audiobahn 12'' 450watt Also had another sub GS Audio 1000 watt max 12'' sub And a JBL 12'' 1000 watt max sub Which all blew up after a couple minutes of music. Started smelling burnt. Manual did say use an 80amp fuse, read your post saying it's ok to go a bit over (remember amp kit I bought came with 100amp fuse). Should I switch to 80amp? How do I wire a 4ohm dvc to 4ohm?,..should I just use one VC (4ohm) so that I don't draw 2ohm from amp? Or just get a 4ohm SVC? Don't knw what's happening? Guess I'll check the RCA converter to make sure wiring is ok? Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated!!!
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 9/13/2018Jose, Sending 1000 watts RMS to a subwoofer rated for half that amount will blow the sub, as you've experienced. If you want to use that amplifier, get a subwoofer rated for 750 to 1500 watts RMS and can get wired as a 2-ohm load. Use RMS ratings, never use peak ratings.Jamie from Dirty Myrtle
Posted on 7/29/2018Hi. I'm hooking up an RF 400-4d to 2 sets of RF T1675 components. I'm planning on using 18ga. 9 (8+remote) conductor wire to get back to the front speakers. The amp came in at 601w @ 2 ohms. I figure it's roughly 400w @ 4 ohms. Is 18ga. enough for 100wpc or should I double and run the 9 conductor as if it were a 5 conductor (4+remote)? I'm planning on using crossovers closer to speakers rather than the amp but in the case that I need to keep crossovers in the back, will the wire be suitable for any and all conceivable configurations of this equipment? Chrysler 300...
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 7/31/2018Jamie, For an amplifier, like yours, that will put out up to 75 watts RMS per channel, 18-gauge speaker wire will work just fine.David from Delray
Posted on 7/10/2018Currently have Pioneer GM-D8601 800W powering a Rockford Fosgate Punch P3D2-12 12" Dual 2-ohm and running 4 gauge from battery to the amp. Looking to BUY a Pioneer GM-D8604 to power my already installed Kicker 40CS674 6-3/4" 2-way Speakers (front doors - but want to replace with some components soon) and Polk Audio DXi691 6" x 9" 3-way Speakers (rear deck). Now my questions are: I get back a amperes rate of 174 (rounded up) and drive a Chevy Impala. Would the already ran 4 gauge cover my power draw or jumping to 2 gauge for sure? 2nd Question: I would then take the already ran 4 gauge and use a T-Spec DB-1424 to handle the ground distro and power distro (as its not a fused disto)?? 3rd: If above I have wrong - options? 4th: Can 4 gauge be used for a 2 battery set up or going to a HO Alt seem more feasible?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 7/11/2018David, This wire chart uses a formula that's conservative and results in safe applications for every kind of amplifier. Your amplifiers use Class D technology which is more efficient and would draw more like 109-A at full-tilt. That means you can use 4-gauge wire throughout your installation.Gabriel from Abingdon
Posted on 6/5/2018Hi, english is not my first language so I'm strugling a little bit to figure which wiring kit I should look for, could you give me a hand? I've got a "Edge twin Subwoofer" it is two 12" speakers with 900w each, it has and built in amp which is an "ED7300". The power is 600w RMS and the peak is 1800w. Thank you in advance Buck. Gabriel.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield on 6/5/2018Gabriel, That powered subwoofer will need a 4-gauge (AWG) power and ground wiring kit.-
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 5/24/2018Jose, I can only assume those huge power specs you quote are peak wattage ratings and useless for planning out a system. Without knowing precisely what amps you're referring to, we can't help you with advice. If you want a question answered about a system, you must identify the gear by brand names and model numbers so we can get the right information to you.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 5/23/2018Nate, Check all the connections. Wires that aren't fastened securely often heat up due to the intermittent contacts and sparks. If you bought your gear from Crutchfield, you could call Tech Support for free help troubleshooting your system. Their toll-free number is on your invoice. If you purchased your equipment elsewhere, you can still get expert Crutchfield Tech Support - 90 days-worth for only $30. Click on this link for details.
Jose from LAWRENCE
Posted on 5/22/2018Hi my is Jose I want to know what gauge should I use for my system cause I keep blowing my power line fuse I have a 2500 watt amp for my subs and a 1000 watt for my mids
Nate from Grand Rapids
Posted on 5/17/2018Alright so i have 2 alpine swr-1242d subs that are hooked up at 1 ohm in a Belva BBX212BK box and the amp i have is Rockford Fosgate R1200-1D. Im running 0 gauge ground and power wire with a 150 watt fuse to my amp and i think 12 or 16 gauge speaker from my amp to my subs but for some reason only my negative speaker wire that goes from my amp to subs keeps burning and i dont know why. Should i just get bigger speaker wires or is there something more that im missing?
Christopher Lee Hane from St paul
Posted on 4/19/2018Why is it that all your recommendations exceed what is considered safe in 310.15 b 16. I don't know much about sizing wiring for adio and am interested in reading more about it. Could you link me some good information. If not no worries thanks. I'm probably asking a lot
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/13/2018Cliff, The wire recommendations on our product pages come from each amplifier manufacturer's recommendations. They base their recommendations using worst-case scenarios - long wire runs. You are correct that you can use smaller wires for shorter runs.
Cliff from San Diego
Posted on 4/12/2018Are the recommendations on the amp pages based off the longest length wire runs in the chart? For instance, the amps I am looking at say 4 gauge recommended, but I'm doing the math here and finding 8 gauge to work. For instance, a 4x100 rms amp gets me just under 60 amperes, which at a ten foot or under power wire length should be okay per the chart. Am I doing the math right?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/9/2018Rich, Although we usually recommend using thicker wire with a 100 watts per channel amp, you shouldn't have any issues using 18-gauge speaker wiring.
Rich from Plymouth
Posted on 4/8/2018I have four speakers all Kickers that have 60 watts rms. I'm putting in a Pioneer amp that will put out 100 watts to each one. Question is will 18 gauge speaker wire be ok for this setup? I don't think I'll be cranking it up to high so I'm hoping I can get by with it. Thanks!
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 3/9/2018Sheri, It sounds like your wiring kit is too small for that amp. If it's a Kicker KXA2400.1, then it requires 1/0 gauge power and ground wires and a 200-Amp fuse.
Sheri from Duluth
Posted on 3/9/2018Im having an issue with my fuse blowing in the wiring kit for the positive cable... i have 1600W wiring kit a 2400w kicker and 2 2000w Orion comps subs. What do i need to wire these correctly
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 3/5/2018Logan, Without knowing what size wire you presently have, I have no way of knowing if it needs upgrading or not. I do know that a 600 watts RMS amplifier should use 4-gauge power and ground wires.
logan from spring hill Kansas
Posted on 3/5/2018I have a 300-watt amp now and want to get a 600-watt amp. will I need a new power and ground wire for the 600-watt amp to work
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 2/14/2018John, According to my figures and the stats I can find, those three amplifiers will together try to pull as much as 207A from the electrical system, and 2-gauge wire may be a bit too small for that, unless it's a short run. The rest of your plan sounds fine.
John from Portland
Posted on 2/14/2018Buck, I'm trying to verify my installation configuration. I will have three amps. KAC-X542 rated at 4 x 60 Watts RMS @ 4 ohms & 14.4 volts. 4 speakers are rated at 60 Watts @ 4 ohm KAC-522 rated at 2 x 125 Watts RMS @ 4 ohms & 14.4 volts. 2 speakers are rated at 100 watts @ 4 ohms R750-1D rated at 1 x 750 Watts RMS @ 1 ohm & 14.4 volts. 1 sub (p3d2-12) rated at 600 watts DVC @ 2 ohms I have a 2 guage wire from the battery with a 200 amp breaker. I plan to have a distribution block with 60 amp fuses going to each amp. I plan to use 8 gauge wire from the block to the amp. Have I sized everything appropriately? Thanks!
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 1/27/2018Philip, Using the formula in the article, we figure your 40 watts RMS x 4 amplifier will draw 23.2A. Looking at the chart, we see that at 17-feet, you'd need to change an 8-gauge power wire to a 6- or 4-gauge wire at 50A. Subtracting your amp's draw leaves you with 26.8A in reserve. Now we reverse the article's formula to translate that 26.8A to 185 watts RMS. Sounds like you have room to add a bunch of bass.
Philip seitz from Oklahoma city
Posted on 1/26/2018Hey, so I've been researching my wire, and it turns out it is oxygen free copper(OFC) so would you be able to shoot over the calculations again if I was running 4x40 watt RMS in a 8 gauge OFC at 17ft To see how big of a powered sub I could add to this power wire
Philip seitz from Oklahoma city
Posted on 1/22/2018Thank you
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 1/22/2018Philip, This chart is relevant for copper wire, not aluminum wire - we'll have to point that out. Copper-clad aluminum (CCA) wire has about 1.5 times the resistance as copper, and therefore can carry only about 65% of the current as a same size copper wire. To use the chart, you'd figure it for a current draw 150% larger than usual. So, according to my calculations, you can add an amp of up to about 70 watts RMS in power without needing to upgrade the power wire.
Philip seitz from Oklahoma city
Posted on 1/20/2018Hello, i was wanting to make sure my math was correct, I have an old system I installed , a Rockford fosgate 4-channel rated at 40-watts RMS at 4ohms and the power is a 17ft 8 gauge in (what I believe to be) aluminum wire... I am running on this amp 2x50 watt RMS kicker door speakers, and 2x 50 watt RMS tactile bass transducers.. My question is: is If was to add a powered subwoofer to my system what would be the RMS I would need to keep it at to safely keep the 8 gauge as my power wire and just put a distribution block on it? These are the potential powered subs I am looking at that (according to may math) will work with 8 gauge and my other amp.. Basspro JBL SW (125 RMS) Pioneer TS WX120A (50 Watts rms) Kenwood KSC SW11 (75 RMS) If I could go bigger and still "play it safe" Then I will definitely like to do more watts
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 1/16/2018Mark, You can leave your 4-gauge main power, from battery to distribution block, as is, when you upgrade the amp as planned. You are correct that the short run from that amp to the distribution block should be upgraded to 4-gauge wire.
Mark from Rio Rancho
Posted on 1/15/2018I am currently running two amps. I have I Rockford p300x2 running my components up front and an Alpine mrp m350 running my subs. I currently run a 4 gauge cable about 17 ft. to a distribution block and then run 8 gauge power wires to each amp. I'm thinking about getting a new amp for my subs, the JL Audio JX500/1, but it shows to need a dedicated 4gauge power wire. Can I run a 4 gauge wire from the distribution block to the amp without changing any of the other cables or do I need to now run a 2 gauge from the battery to the distribution block?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 12/26/2017Maciazka, In order to ensure that your amplifier can receive all the power necessary for top performance, use the amp's highest RMS rating to figure what size power and ground wire to use. That JL Audio amplifier you mention calls for 4-gauge power and ground cables whether you consult the owner's manual or this wire gauge chart.
Maciazka from EYOTA
Posted on 12/20/2017Sorry, I didn't read through all of the comments. But I'm a little confused on the total RMS thing. I know what RMS is vs peak and blah blah blah. My confusion is in understanding the ohm you should look at for this RMS rating. For instance a JL JX500 is rated 300w @ 4ohms but 500 @ 2ohms. Am I looking at the highest it can do no matter what the ohm rating is? For instance if it's a 1ohm stable amp, then that is the wattage I want to use? Sorry for the long-winded question. I guess for a monoblock amp, the question should be as follows: Do I want to use the highest RMS rating that I find (determined by whether the amp is 4ohm stable, 2ohm stable, or 1ohm stable)? Thanks.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 12/5/2017Rob, You should never use peak power ratings when you plan out a system. That amplifier actually puts out 150 watts RMS x 2 at 4 ohms, 225 watts RMS x 2 at 2 ohms, and 450 watts RMS x 1 bridged at 4 ohms. Normally, the amp requires 4-gauge power and ground wiring, but for your short runs 8-gauge or 10-gauge will work as well.
Rob from Indianapolis, IN
Posted on 12/5/2017I have a Pioneer GM-A5602 amplifier. This things has a max power of 900 watts at 4 ohms bridged, 300 watts at 4 ohms and 450 watts at 2 ohms. I am running 4 ohm subs. It is a 2 channel amp. My battery is in my trunk, so I only need to run the cable like 4 feet. So I should go with 4 gauge cable? Thanks for your help.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 12/4/2017Austin, For your high-power application I recommend using 14-, 12-, or even 10-gauge wire if it fits.
Austin
Posted on 12/3/2017i plan on running a 2000w rms sundown audio amp to power 2 sa-12 subwoofers, with each sub getting 1000w each what gauge speaker wire should i use for this set up? Thanks
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 10/9/2017Radha, Using the formula in the article, (65 watts x 2 channels) + 190watts = 320 watts x 2 (amp inefficiency) = 620 watts/13.8 volts = 46.4 amperes. Looking at the chart, a 10' - 13' run will need 8-gauge wiring.
Radha from Sydney
Posted on 10/6/2017Hi there, I have a Hertz HCP4 amp and I am planning to run to run 3 Ch: 65 W x 2 (4 O) front speakers + 190 W x 1 (4 O) for subwoofer at approx 10 to 13 ft of cabling for my Toyota Landcruiser 200 series. What AWG would i need for this setup. Thanking you from Australia
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 8/5/2017Ari, That amp should work for those subs just fine, wired like this diagram. You won't know whether or not you'll need a second battery until after the sub amp installation you experience light dimming during big bass hits.
Ari from SUNDERLAND
Posted on 8/4/2017Okay so Im planning on getting a "Pair of SA-12 Sundown Audio 12" 750W Dual 4-Ohm SA Series" and I'm wondering if a "SUNDOWN AUDIO SAE-1500D 1500W RMS MONOBLOCK CLASS D" Amplifier will work with this set up. *Further, would I need to get an extra battery to power this set up?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 7/26/2017Joshua, Nothing is bridged in your system. Adjacent channels of a multi-channel amplifier can get bridged together, but that isn't applicable for your 1-channel amp. Your two 12" subwoofers are wired together to present a total impedance of 4 ohms with a total power rating of 600 watts RMS. The ratings of your subwoofers have no bearing at all on what size power and ground wire for your amplifier to use. An amplifier's expected output power determines what size wire to use. 4-gauge will work fine for that amp.
joshua from Danville
Posted on 7/26/2017Okay. I searched high and low for an equation that made sense and I think with your formula I've figured it out. I have a Soundstream Rubicon Nano 3000 watt D rated single channel. It's RMS reading for the application in which I'd like to use it is listed as 600w RMS x1 channel at 4 ohms which matches exactly the reading on my subwoofer setup. The subs are Dual Electronics Illuminite (2) 12" and are listed as 600w RMS x1 channel at 4 ohms. According to your formula I take the 600 watts of RMS and because it's a single channel I simply double that number. After doubling the 600 watts of RMS power and getting 1200w RMS I then divide that by 13.8 to achieve my total of 86.95 amperes. Assuming I've used the correct RMS numbers, my amp has several ratings but this matched my subs numbers, I'd be safe using 4 gauge power and grounding wires. Straight line from my battery to the sub enclosure in the trunk is about 9 feet but I've yet to run it through a firewall and under the carpet so I'll be using closer to 13-15 feet. My amp also had an RMS output of 1200w x 1channel at 4ohms but states bridged. Am I correct in assuming that the formula I used in the top is correct because it matches the power of my subs or is it considered bridged because there are two subs in the enclosure?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 7/21/2017Raimondas, You should never even consider using peak ratings when designing a system - use RMS ratings only. That amplifier can put out 1200 watts RMS into a 1-ohm load. It's owner's manual calls for 4-gauge power and ground wiring, but 2-gauge will work safely if it fits. For your application I'd recommend using a 125-amp inline fuse on the main power wire. As for a capacitor, you don't need one unless your headlights dim a little on loud bass beats. If, after putting your system to work, you do suffer that problem, see Headlights Dim When the Music Plays for possible solutions, which include installing a cap.
Raimondas from Rotherham
Posted on 7/20/2017Hey, I have alpine SWR 12d2 3000w peak, thats 1000rms with pioneer GM -D9601 amp is 2400w. Bought 2 gauge wires for amp. They will be ok? Now not sure about power capacitor wich one I have to buy, 3 farad will be enought? And not sure about amp power fuse how big need? I Will be verry thankful if someon help me. Thank you
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 6/25/2017Lucas, Those two amps will require a 1/0-gauge dual amp wiring kit like Kicker's PKD1. After you get your amps up and running is the time to determine if the electrical system needs upgrading or not.
Lucas from Lynnwood
Posted on 6/24/2017Ok so i have 2x hi fonics titan 1000.1 amps (hi fonics txi 1008d) which being class D and hi fonics i assume the 1,000 watt rating is fairly accurate. These two 1,000 watt amps will be powering 2 12" first gen kicker solo baric L7's in a ported kicker made box, and just paired with the factory sound system. These will be going in a 07 acura TL type s. With that set up im wondering if ill need a power cap (would rather not), or upgraded battery/alternator, etc. If i can get away with out anything other then good gauge wire. I would rather save my money, but not sure what would be necessary for this set up.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 6/23/2017Davey, That amplifier needs 4-gauge power and ground wires and a 100-amp fuse on the positive wire near the battery.
Davey Breedlove from Frederick
Posted on 6/23/2017I have a Rockford Fosgate T500/1bd amp and will be running it in parallel to power 2 JL subs. Would I need a 4 or 8 gauge wire kit?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 6/19/2017Kevin, Those two amplifiers will be fine sharing a single 4-gauge power wire. A great all-in-one solution in your case would be to get a dual amp wiring kit, like Crutchfield's CKD4. This wiring kit has everything you need: inline fuse for the main power cable, fused distribution block for the two amps, and even a ground block so you can ground your two amps to the same spot.
Kevin from Thornton,co
Posted on 6/18/2017Dual amp set up. I have a Kicker CX300.1 and KX400.4. If it maters CX300.1 with 2subs Kicker DC12, KX400.4 with 2 KSS650 and 2KSC650. What size amp fuse do I want to use? What size power and ground wire should I use? Distribution blocks on negative and positive or just positive or non? If distribution block what wire size before and after blocks. Do I need a capacitor?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 6/6/2017Will, The fact that your amplifier is blowing 300-amp fuses should tell you that something is wrong. Perhaps the amplifier is not stable at 0.5 ohms - I see no evidence that it is - and tries to pull more current than the fuses can bear. There's no reason to fuse a ground wire if its corresponding positive wire is fused.
will from phoenix
Posted on 6/5/2017hi there buck, its will with the scv7500. i currently have 300 amp fuses in it that keep blowing (even though connections are good). my math was saying around 225 amp fuses as well but id blow them almost instantly upon any clipping indication. im wired at 0.5 ohm load currently and the amp handles fine at that ohm load. so do you suggest 225 amp fuses on 6 runs? or 3 runs?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 6/5/2017Will, That amplifier uses three sets of power and ground cables. Each of the positive power leads should be fused with a 225-amp fuse to protect the wires and your car from catching on fire in the case of a short circuit, and support that huge output.
will from phoenix
Posted on 6/4/2017hi there buck, im running a scv 7500 (clamping 9.5k rms at 13.8v) with 6 1/0 inputs (3 of each), and i was curious as to if i should be using 370 amp fuses or run duel inputs into each one being a total of 12 inputs (6 each) and have them run 300 amp fuses each. im not exactly sure how to go about that but if you could help please :) thanks so much!
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 5/16/2017Matt, If the wattage you quote is watts RMS, then 8-gauge power and ground wires will work in your application. 125 watts RMS is a bit much for thin factory wiring. We recommend installing new 18-, 16-, or 14-gauge speaker wires.
Matt from St. Peter's
Posted on 5/16/2017Mr. Pomerantz, I just ordered speakers that are 100w continuous rms/200w peak and will be running an amp at 4ohm 125w per channel (4 chanels). If my battery is about 4 foot away from the amp, will 8 gauge be efficient? Also will I need to replace the factory speaker wire for these more powerful speakers or will I be able to re-use them and just purchase an amp wire kit to install my new amp? I bought all the equipment, just need to figure out all the wiring I need to buy. Thanks!
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/4/2017Jacub, That amplifier's Owner's Manual calls for 8-gauge power and ground wiring. The number of subs the amp is powering is irrelevant to its maximum potential current draw.
Jacub from Missouri
Posted on 4/4/2017So if it's a monoblock power acoustik RZ1-2300D amp I'm unsure the size wire I have run it's rated at 1600w but I also bought a different wire gauge that's 4g but it's 2800w but it's smaller than the wire I have now would you recommend using the thicker wire and saving the 4g for future use I'm pushing 1400w at 2-ohms ATM to one speaker but I'm about to add another speaker so would you reccomend recalculating my amperes even though it's a 1-channel amp or keep it the same calculations since I'm gonna be running 2 speakers at 4-ohms. The amp runs 900w rms at 4-ohms not sure if I should double that showing there is 2 speakers would they be pulling 900w each or together?
doug from phoenix AZ
Posted on 3/28/2017Mr. Pomerantz, your articles are pure gold. That is all I wanted to say. Thank you for such clear and excellent writing.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 3/26/2017Shawn, It would depend on whether those watts are RMS or peak. If you really do have an amp that can put out 2500 watts RMS, 14- or 12-gauge speaker wire will work just fine.
Shawn from Providence
Posted on 3/25/2017What gauge speaker wire would you run from a 2500 watt amp?
Justin from Irvine, CA
Posted on 3/16/2017THIS is a proper write up for wiring car audio. I did my homework in high school so I wouldn't catch someones car on fire. But this was an amazing refresher! Thanks Buck!!
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 3/9/2017Steve, For that short of a run, an 8-gauge kit will work just fine.
Steve from Joliet
Posted on 3/8/2017Can I use a 8 gauge wiring kit for for the kicker zx550.3? Will be running Rockford fosgate prime 5.25 in doors, one JBL GT5-15 in trunk. Run from battery to amp less than 4 feet away, battery is under back seat of a 2000 Buick lesabre.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 3/1/2017Luis, Your math is correct. If the specs are correct, I don't think there's a single alternator in existence that can handle that much current, so running multiple alternators plus multiple batteries sounds like your solution. And running multiple power wires for your amps as well. The reason the Wire Gauge Chart doesn't show more is that systems larger than 300 amperes are rare and usually involve using multiple power wires, batteries, and high-output alternators. We try to make our charts and articles work for the majority of our customers.
Luis Guzman from New Britain
Posted on 2/27/2017Quick question just to male sure my math is correct. I'm planning on running 2 rockford fosgate power 1000a2 @2ohms bridged (1100rms×1 per), Rockford Fosgate power 800a2 @2ohms stereo (400rms×2) & another rockford fosgate power 800a2 @4ohms stereo (200×2rms) in an excursion (20ft long bumper to bumper). Using your equation 1100+1100+800+400=3400×2=6800÷13.8=492.75 1st; is this correct? 2nd; there's nothing higher than 300 so?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 2/22/2017Kelcey, If you expect a current draw of 289 amperes, you'll need to use 1/0-gauge wire everywhere in the power circuit, not just in one section.
Kelcey from Fort Leonard Wood
Posted on 2/21/2017By my calculations I need 1/0 gauge wire because my number was 289. Could I run 4 gauge from my alternator to my second battery then 0 to my capacitor and amp from the battery ?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 2/16/2017Zach, Crutchfield recommends using 16-, 14-, or 12-gauge wires for subwoofers.
Zach from Ocean springs
Posted on 2/16/2017I am running two 12's rms 700 watts each and 1200 peak. I am running off a mono block amp into one input inside my box then it runs from one speaker to the next. What gauge speaker wire should I use for this setup?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 2/15/2017Katlego, I suspect those huge power ratings are exaggerations, otherwise I know of no wire size that can support such massive current draw. I also don't know what car stereo equipment or even what model vehicles are available in your country. An online search ought to bring up at least one car stereo dealership somewhere near you. Sorry I can't help.
katlego from sasolburg
Posted on 2/15/2017Good day I just bought a 7000w Targa sub and 10000w amp,so need to make a good sound what cables,fuses and capacitors should I buy in order to get the best sound and good power so my sound can be clear and good
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 1/27/2017Cody, That amp and sub should work together just fine - just be sure to set the amp gain so no distortion ever plays. If the amplifier's power consumption is beyond the capacity of your automotive electrical system, you may require an electrical upgrade that could include a high-output alternator, a second battery, or both. I'm not sure what it's tuned to, but a Memphis Audio 15-PE1X15V2 ported enclosure might work for you and your sub.
cody from Plymouth
Posted on 1/26/2017So I am looking at an Ascendant Audio Havoc 15 inch 1500W, dual 2 ohm, will wire in parallel to produce 1 ohm, planning on using AMPERE AUDIO AA-2000.1D amp; single channel, 1-ohm stable @ 2 KW. Firstly is this a good match up? Secondly, what are your recommendations in regards to vehicular upgrades, if necessary? All is stock as of now. (Vehicle is 2005 Toyota Rav4)...one more thing, I planned on a ported box tuned to 32 hz, again, any recommendations...I love SQ, but I do like volume as well. Input from someone as knowledgeable as yourself would be a blessing, thank you!
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 1/2/2017Leon, Your 4-gauge power wire and 100-amp fuse will work fine and using 8-gauge power wire from the distribution block to each of those amps will be okay. The Planet Audio amp has an onboard fuse so it wouldn't need a fuse after the distribution block. The Rockford Fosgate amp, however, will require a 50-amp fuse between the block and amp in order to be safe.
Leon from Duluth
Posted on 1/1/2017I have 2amps I'm installing sub amp is R500X1D prime and my doors is is planet audio RC800.4 I ruining 4 gauge from battery to distribution block would it be ok to run 8gauge from block to amps runs from block to amps is less than 2'' also do I need to fuse each amp from distribution block to amp on my 4 gauge to battery is 100 is this sufficient or do I need go larger
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 12/12/2016Chris, Going by those "power cube" specs you provided, the T1000-1bdCP will be a better match for those two subs. Going by what Rockford Fosgate lists as their nominal specs, the T1500-1bdCP would be better. In any case, either amp will work well with those subs. Subs don't pull power from amplifiers - they take it - so a subwoofer can never overburden an amplifier.
Chris from Texarkana
Posted on 12/12/2016Buck, I recently purchased 2 of the Rockford TOd412 subs, I will wire them for 1 ohm impedance to the amp, according to the Rockford power cube test the Power series t1000 at 1ohm will provide 1390 watts of power and the t1500 power series amp would do 1712 watts of power. The RF T0d412 is rated at 700rms/1400 peak, my question is which amp would be more sufficient to power this pair of subs? I'm afraid if I get the t1000 running those subs at 1ohm would overburden the amp, on the other hand the t1500 would be 125 watts over their rims.thanks for your help
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 12/1/2016Nathan, Subwoofers do not produce power (watts), they produce sound and heat. Amplifiers produce power. If you have an amplifier that can produce 450 watts RMS (important: RMS, not max or peak) it will require 4-gauge power and ground wiring. As for the speaker wire, between the amp and sub, 12-gauge or 14-gauge will do.
Nathan Johnson from Clewiston
Posted on 11/30/2016If I'm running a 12 inch sub that produces 400 watt RMS and 1500 watts Peak with a 450 watt amp. Will 8 gauge wire be ok?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 10/21/2016Gavin, I suspect that 2400 watts spec is a peak rating and not useful for planning an installation - I know of no 2-channel amp that can put out 1200 watts RMS per channel. But if you really do have an amp that can put out a total of 2400 watts RMS, then it'll need 1/0-gauge power wiring if it's a Class D amp, and 2/0 wiring if it's Class AB. If you want a more accurate answer to your question, you'll need to identify your gear by brand names and model numbers.
Gavin from Mountain ranch
Posted on 10/20/2016I have a 2400 watt 2 channel amp for 15"s .what gauge power wire should I use.I currently have a 6awg wire installed.is that enough
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 10/14/2016Shawn, Using that over-sized copper-clad aluminum wire should handle those amps' current draw just fine. Just be aware that CCA corrodes pretty quickly when exposed to the elements so be sure to protect and coat all connections.
Shawn from Orange
Posted on 10/13/2016I am running an Alpine PDR F50 to my JL components and a PDR M65 @ 2 ohms + JL line driver to a SWR 12D4. I have some 1/0 power wire that is CCA instead of OFC. Am I ok using the cheaper wire in a larger size such as this? Is the chart you provide for OFC or CCA wire? Will be running about 10-12' of the CCA wire to a dist. block and then 4 ga OFC wire to the amps.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 10/10/2016Pankaj, Most stock vehicle system have about 15 watts RMS output per channel and use 18-gauge (1.02 mm diameter) wiring. If you plan on adding an amplifier with a total output of 110 watts RMS, then you will need a 10-gauge (2.59 mm diameter) or a 12-gauge (2.05 mm diameter) amp wiring kit, depending on the length of your installation. A good kit will include the proper fuse, for the safety of your car and system.
Pankaj
Posted on 10/9/2016How can I know the power and speaker cable size (awg) of my stock car wiring to its connector? Is a Ford Aspire 2016 (Indian Model) Is there commonly used stock wire sizes in cars? I plan to use a 110W RMS amp (without any head unit) and I doubt I need additional power wiring. But want to be sure instead of planning to fry my car wiring.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 10/7/2016Chris, I don't think you've used the correct values for your amplifiers' RMS outputs. If your Orion CO800.1 is to run two 4-ohm subs, it'll probably see a 2-ohm total impedance load and could put out 400 watts RMS. That Rockford Fosgate amp will put out a total of 100 watts RM (50 x 2) to two 4-ohm speakers. This makes your amps' potential total output power 620 watts RMS, and potential power draw of 90A. For a 12-foot install, 4-gauge wire is good. As for the rest of the power and ground wiring, I'd use what each amplifier's specs call for, in this case, 8-gauge wire all around. Each amp will require at least that size for its ground, and you may as well match that for the short power wire from the amp to the distribution block. But 4-gauge will work fine, if it fits.
Chris from Boise
Posted on 10/6/2016I am getting ready to install 3 amps in my 97 Ford Explorer. I am going to be running an Orion Cobalt 8001 to drive a pair of 10" 4 ohm subs. An Orion Cobalt 3002 to drive a pair of 4 ohm components in the rear doors and a Rockford Fosgate P200-2 to drive a pair of 4 ohm components in the front doors. According to my calculations, 300+120+148=568x2=1136 divided by 13.8=82.32 total amp draw. At a distance of 12 ft. it shows I should run 6g or 4g. Since I already have 4g on hand, I'm going to run the 4g. My question is, should I run 4g off the distribution block to each of the amps as well as from the battery to the distribution block?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 7/15/2016Brandon, Ordinarily I'd recommend using 12- to 16-gauge speaker wire for subwoofers, but you have something special (huge power) and I think 10-gauge or 12-gauge speaker wire will work best. That amplifier calls for three pairs of 1/0-gauge power and ground wires, in order to feed it power correctly. Sundown recommends a high output alternator and additional battery for this amp, and goes on to say "a factory electrical system is NOT capable of supporting [this amp's] current draw demands."
Brandon from Dallas
Posted on 7/15/2016What kind of wires do I need for 2 sundown Zv5 15s 2000w rms rated, and and an Ns-1 6500 watt rms amplifier? I'm going to get an XS battery but I'm still deciding which I should get
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 7/11/2016George, Looking at the owner's manual for those amps, I see the source of the confusion. Alpine says one thing on page 7, another on page 8, and then reverts to what it said on page 7 on page 9. I'll throw another curve your way. For consumer safety reasons, this article uses calculations based on a typical Class AB amplifier, which are usually about 50% efficient. Your Alpine amps are Class D, which typically run at 75% to 80% efficiency, and together won't draw more than about 65 amperes from the electrical system. You'll be fine running 4-gauge wire from the battery to a distribution block for those two amplifiers.
George from Concord
Posted on 7/10/2016Hey Buck, hoping you can help clarify something for me. I'm installing an Alpine MRV-M500 that will be driving 2 JL Audio 10's wired in parallel to present 2 ohms to the amp, so 500 Watts RMS. I'll also be running an Alpine MRV-F300 for my front and rear channels, which will be 50 Watts RMS x4 channels so 200 Watts RMS. Based on the formula above, I'm looking at total current draw of 101.4 amps which means that for up to a 16' foot run, I should be fine with 4 gauge from the battery to the distribution block. My issue is, Alpine is recommending 2 or 1/0 AWG for any run over 3 feet for the MRV-M500 and 4 or 2 AWG for longer than 3 foot runs feeding the MRV-F300. Based on the chart and formula above, I would think I should be able to run 4 AWG to the distribution block, then feed 4 AWG to the MRV-M500 and 8 AWG to the MRV-F300 but that contradicts what Alpine has in their manual. Which one is correct in this scenario?
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 6/24/2016Derek, Like this article says, for a subwoofer, use 16-, 14-, or 12-gauge speaker wires. A single voice coil (SVC) 4-ohm sub (if that is what you have) gets wired to a 2-channel amplifier like this. That amp's specs call for 4-gauge power and ground wiring.
Derek from San Jose
Posted on 6/23/2016I am trying to figure out the correct gauge wire to connect a single 4 ohm 400rms subwoofer to a crunch gpv1100.2 amplifer that has these specs 2 x 250 W at 4 Ohms, 2 x 500 W at 2 Ohms, 1 x 1000 W at 4 Ohms Maxx Power. I am not sure how to wire the speaker to set the correct ohms to make sure it will run properly with the amplifier I have, and I am not sure what gauge i need .
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 6/22/2016Ahmed, Crutchfield recommends using 16-, 14-, or 12-gauge speaker wires in all car audio applications - so yes, 12-gauge wire will be safe to use. Remember, in the American Wire Gauge (AWG) system, the smaller the gauge, the larger the wire. Using the metric system, 12-gauge wire (excluding the insulation) measures 2.05 mm in diameter and 3.3 square mm in cross sectional area.
Ahmed from Sydney
Posted on 6/21/2016Hi There, I have 12 AWG speaker wire, is it safe to connect these to my sound system: AMP: JL Audio XD700/5 v2 Components: Jl Audio ZR650CSI Components Sub: JL Audio 10W3V3-2 Just wondering if this will cause any harm to my sound system
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 6/9/2016Shaun, The owner's manual for the Polk Audio PA D4000.4 amplifier recommends using 4-gauge power and ground wires. For your two amps, 4-gauge wire should work fine between the battery and a distribution block, especially if the run is shorter than 13 feet.
SHAUN
Posted on 6/9/2016Hello Buck, I have POLK PA D4000(125RMS @4OHM) and JVC KS-AX3101D (400RMS @2OHM). So, as per the calculation 900RMSx2=1800/13.8=130. As per the chart, I may need to go ahead with 4 gauge considering the length of wire. But the recommended gauge for the POLK amp seems to be 0 gauge. Can you please help me with which one should I go ahead with? Thanks so much!
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 6/8/2016Jerry, Try wiring your subs to that amp like this.
Jerry from Poteau
Posted on 6/8/2016Thanks for your reply buck. I guess I need to rewire the subs to maybe 4 or 8 ohms then. Ill get right on that as I have not pushed it in the slightest yet. And thanks for your help. I used to be good at this stuff when I was 16 but now? geeze.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 6/7/2016JD, Perhaps this amplifier wiring diagram will help. It sounds like you're using a bridged 2-channel amp for your sub, your 4-channel amp has pass-through RCA connections providing input for the sub amp, and you don't use a capacitor - which is all fine. What's not-so fine is that four 8-ohm subs wired together in parallel form a 2-ohm total load, and your 2-channel amp isn't supposed to handle that properly in bridged mode. For power, you have a 50 watts RMS x 4 amp plus a 125 watts RMS x 2 amp, for a total potential output of 450 watts RMS. Using the formula (65A current draw) and chart, you can see that an 8-ga or 4-ga main power wire from battery to distribution block will work, depending on the length of the wire run.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 6/7/2016Jimmy, Even if that amp were to put out a total of 403 watts RMS, drawing 58.4 amperes of current, an 8-gauge wire will handle its power needs just fine, especially through a short, 7-foot run.
JD from Poteau
Posted on 6/6/2016Hello Buck. I will just try to describe how I hooked up my little old school set up and see if you see any issues. As I am kinda new at this at the ripe age of 54. 4 gauge from battery to fuse block @12" to Rockford Fosgate 400 A4 and a 4 gauge ground to body. I had to reduce this down with a block at the amp because the amp only takes 8 ga wire in the terminals Amp is rated at rms50watts @ 4 ohms or 100 @ 2ohm and thats hooked up to 4 channels of 1ch each l &right to rms100watt 4 ohms mids and 2 tweets in front and 2 100amp 4x7 4 ohms in rear doors on the other 2 remaining channels I then used passed through to a second Rockford Fosgate 250a2 amp in back (about 4 ft) with 8 gauge power wire. I bridged both channels into one and use 4 -8inch 8ohm subs wired parrallel to I think 2 ohms(might be 4ohm). I used all 12guage speaker wire throughout. Did I get it right or need to change a wire size? I think with both amps I am about 625watts total and they are about 57% & 59% efficient. This gets confusing to me sometimes. Stock battery, no capacitor and a 105amp stock generator.
Jimmy from Glendale
Posted on 6/6/2016I bought the RF Prime 300x4 amp and the Kicker 8AWG kit (OFC wire) and when I received the amp, it had a sheet from RF inside saying it actually tested at 403 watts. Now I am concerned I need the 4AWG kit rather than the 8AWG. I am running the power wire approximately 7 feet.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 6/6/2016James, Without knowing the exact models of your amps, I can't tell for sure, but you'll probably be alright using 1/0-gauge wire from the battery to a distribution block. From there, 4-gauge to each amp ought to work.
james from Romance
Posted on 6/4/2016I have a 4000 watt rms massive audio amp and a 800watt pb 4 channel for mid and highs 300 amp alternator and 1 100ahr battery what Guage do I need to use battery is in trunk next to big amp 0 Guage running from alt to battery 17 ft mid amp is running of starter batt 4 Guage wire
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 5/18/2016Mike, If you are replacing the receiver in your car you need a wiring harness to connect between the new receiver's harness-plug and your vehicle's harness-plug - there should be no need to run any wire to the fuse box. If you had purchased your receiver from Crutchfield, the correct harness for your car and receiver would have been included for free or at a good discount. Getting all the right parts for an installation is one of the benefits of shopping at Crutchfield.
Mike Greenwood from Bryant
Posted on 5/18/2016My receiver block has like 18 gauge wire. Can I use 14 or 12 gauge wire to take it to the fuse box or should I just by some 18 gauge wire and keep it the same? I'm just hooking up a basic system with 6 x 9 speakers for now.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 5/9/2016George, The formula here uses a typical AB amplifier's 50% efficiency in order to play it safe with all amplifiers. If you want to be more precise while dealing with Class D amps, you can use an estimated efficiency as high as 80%. So, the formula becomes: total RMS wattage divided by 0.8 efficiency divided by 13.8 volts equals current draw in amperes.
George from Gallatin
Posted on 5/8/2016How does the calculation change with D class amps, for example, If I run a Pioneer GM-D860, what is the calculation change then? Do you just go one step down or is there a conventional position for the conversion number? (ie. instead of 100%, 50% for the addition.)
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 5/2/2016Jone, This article is about what size wire to use for power and ground connections for amplifiers. The ratings of the speakers and subwoofers are irrelevant to that discussion - only the amplifiers' total RMS wattage output ratings are. For that, start with the amplifiers' brand names and model number numbers and do a web search for the specs.
Jone Yohannes from Beltsville
Posted on 4/30/2016Hello, I have infinity primus 6.5 and 6x9 as well as a infinity 1260 subwoofer. I think my math might be off but I arrived at 460 amps which isn't listed. Could you please advise? Thanks.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 4/26/2016Colin, If those huge power ratings you quote are truly RMS power ratings, then I doubt any aftermarket alternator and battery setup will safely support the system. But I suspect those numbers are peak, or max power ratings, which are useless for system-design. Always use RMS ratings and the results will match real world performance.
Colin Neighbers from St Augustine
Posted on 4/26/2016So I have a 400 watt two channel amp for my mids, 300 watt two channel for my highs, and I will be getting a 2400 watt mono for my subs. I plan on getting a new alternator, around the 220-270 amperage range, and maybe even a second 12 volt battery. I know that I also need to do the big 3 upgrade and I'd like to use 1/0 for that. What do I need to do? Still sort of just getting into car audio. I want to be able to push my subs to their full 2400 watt capacity without causing damage to my alt or battery(ies). Any help and suggestions would be very much appreciated. Thanks.
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 3/28/2016Chris, If your subwoofer is set up as a 2-ohm load and your amplifier is a Rockford Fosgate Punch 500 watts RMS rated mono amp, then it should be sending up to 500 watts RMS to the sub. If that's not enough bass for you, then you should look into getting a larger amp and more subs.
Chris from Texarkana
Posted on 3/26/2016I am pushing a Rockford T0 4ohm with a Rockford punch 500 mono, the speaker is rated 600 rms, the speaker is wired to 2ohms so I think the speaker is getting 250-300 watts.Should I go with a bigger amp? And if I did would I really notice the difference? Thanks
Buck Pomerantz from Crutchfield
Posted on 3/17/2016Christopher, Like the chart indicates, what size wire to use is entirely dependent on the power of the amplifier and the length of the wire run. If your amplifier requires a 2-gauge power wire, using a larger, 0-gauge wire for ground won't hurt anything.
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