15 BEST CLASS AB CAR AMPLIFIERS - Updated
Class B amplifiers are less efficient but are used in smaller home stereo systems.
👉Tips for Upgrading Your Car’s Audio System with an Amplifier. A Step-by-Step Guide
The best compromise between performance and efficiency is to use a class AB amplifier. Class A and B amplifiers are less efficient but better able to handle power. Car amplifier classes have been explained in the previous article. In this post, we will take a look at some of the best class AB Car amplifiers.
15 BEST CLASS AB CAR AMPLIFIER REVIEWS 2023
If you’re looking for a great way to add some extra power to your car stereo, you should definitely consider a class AB amplifier. It’s a great option for anyone who wants to add some extra power to their system. Here are the top 15 best class AB amplifiers that you can buy today.
1. FPS 2.160 CLASS AB SYMMETRIC CAR AMPLIFIER
The FPS 2.160 is designed to deliver uncompromising quality and power with a class-AB symmetric amplifier configuration. It is equipped with a 2-channel, 105W x 2 RMS per channel amplifier. With its 180W RMS per channel output, this amplifier can drive a pair of large, powered loudspeakers.
It features 4-gauge power and ground leads, with a fuse rating of 30A x 2, and the remote level control allows you to adjust the volume without having to get up.
This Symmetric Amplifier is equipped with a thermostat-controlled, progressive-speed cooling fan that cools the amplifier down to 55 degrees Celsius. It also features a variable high- and low-pass filter with a range of 50-500 Hz or 500-5 kHz, and a variable band-pass filter with a range of 50-500 Hz, 500-5 kHz.
It has a dynamic soft clipping protection circuit that prevents distortion. It is made from metal, and it has a black powder coat finish.
Pros
- Class AB
- Variable high- and low-pass filters
- Thermostat-controlled
- Speed cooling fan
- Dynamic soft clipping
Cons
- Little bit Expensive
2. KICKER 46CXA3604T 360 WATT CAR AMPLIFIER
The Kicker 46CXA3604T is a powerful, efficient, and affordable vehicle audio amplifier for home entertainment and car audio applications. This vehicle amplifier delivers high power and exceptional quality for a low price, and it has all the features you need to create a professional sounding system in your vehicle.
With a total output power of 180 watts, the Kicker 46CXA3604T is the most powerful amplifier that we’ve ever tested, and it delivers the most power with the least amount of distortion, while still delivering clear, detailed sound with outstanding dynamics.
The Kicker 46CXA3604T can be used in a variety of applications, including home entertainment systems, vehicle audio, and portable audio. It’s ideal for use in a vehicle where high power and superior sound quality are important. With a quick 3-second turn-on/off delay, the Kicker 46CXA3604T will eliminate system pops.
It includes a built-in variable bass boost, which allows you to tailor the bass response to your specific needs. The Kicker 46CXA3604T is backed by a 2-year warranty.
Pros
- 65 watts per channel
- Bridgeable amplifier
- Variable bass
- Low-End Bass Punch
- 2 years warranty
Cons
- Not yet found
Sample Customer Review:
“Solid amp! Great sound with good power. No its not really for driving power hungry subs, but it would probably drive a pair of 8s.
I am using it for 5x7s in back and 6.5 components in front… crank up the volume I have a rock concert in my car. Not factory speakers. My co-workers say they can hear me coming and going now. I had no idea it was sounding that good.”
3. FOCAL MONOBLOCK 500W RMS FPP SERIES AMPLIFIER
The monoblock is a professional brand of power amplifiers. The monoblock power amplifier is designed with the latest advances in circuit design and the most innovative technology available. It offers high efficiency, low distortion, and superior sound quality.
Monoblock amplifiers are available in a variety of configurations, and each is individually hand-assembled, using only the finest parts. Monoblock amplifiers feature a solid-state power transformer, which provides constant power output and a high degree of reliability.
This model delivers 1000 watts of power to the speakers, delivering powerful yet clean sound with a smooth midrange and deep, rich bass. The unit includes a wired remote bass level control with LED indicators. The soft-start turn-on feature allows you to turn the amplifier on gradually, and the red and green LED indicators help you monitor the status of the amplifier and the battery.
Pros
- 5-channel car amplifier
- Variable high- and low-pass filters
- Wired remote included
- LED power (green)
- Protect (red) indicators
- Soft start turn-on
Cons
- Not found yet
4. BOSS AUDIO 4 CHANNEL, THE BEST CLASS AB CAR AMPLIFIER
This high-powered stereo amplifier delivers 2600 Watts peak power. It features a fully integrated amplifier with a power transformer and built-in preamp. This high-powered stereo amplifier is designed to work with any 2-channel set of speakers and features four channels (2 x 2) with 2.1-channels and full RCA inputs. Each channel output is rated at 4 Ohm.
The 4-channel amplifier has a high-performance and stable MOSFET power supply for better performance and lower distortion. The remote subwoofer control allows you to adjust the volume of the amplifier and the subwoofer independently.
The amplifier is a true full-range amplifier that offers a smooth, accurate, detailed, and balanced tonal quality. This stereo amplifier is equipped with remote volume control that makes it easy to control the volume of your amplifier and subwoofer.
Pros
- Multiple inputs
- USB port
- High-Efficiency MOSFET Power Supply
- Multi LED Backlit Illumination (2 LEDs on back panel)
- Bridge Channels for More Flexibility
- 6 Year Platinum Online Dealer Warranty
Cons
- A little bit on the heavy side
Sample Customer Review:
“Of course I don’t believe the amp puts out the high wattage it claims but it does get loud enough for me.But more importantly than just loud I needed an amp that sounded clean.I had bought a kicker amp at walmart and noticed at high volumes it just sounded harsh.
So I made the kicker amp a sub only amp which worked out great and used this amp to power 4 6.5 speakers.I had thought maybe my speakers were causing the harshness but it was the kicker amp.I now enjoy cranking up the radio loud.It sounds clear and have had no issues.”
5. CT SOUNDS CLASS AB 4 CHANNEL CAR AUDIO AMPLIFIER
Show off your car speakers with the CT-80.4AB Car Amplifier, 480 Watts RMS. This car amplifier features a small footprint and a compact chassis to ensure it fits perfectly in any car or 4ch amplifier car audio application. This portable amplifier offers superior sound quality with a proprietary MOSFET pulse width modulated power supply, premium components, and a specially designed cooling system.
The four-channel car amplifier has an integrated, high-quality power supply that ensures that it runs at a constant temperature for even the most demanding playlists.
The amplifier has a built-in, high-quality power supply that ensures the four-channel car amplifier runs cool for even the most demanding playlists. The amplifier features four channels, two channels of balanced inputs, two channels of unbalanced outputs, a high voltage, low voltage, over current, and high-temperature protection.
Each channel offers 14.4 volts of power at 2 ohms. The four-channel amplifier is also rated at 80 watts RMS power at 4 ohms, and 160 watts RMS power at 4 ohms for bridged operation. With this car amplifier, you can enjoy crisp and clean sound quality when listening to your favorite songs.
Pros
- MOSFET power supply
- High-quality capacitors
- Advanced transformers
- Cutting-edge inductors
Cons
- Sometimes it gets hot
Sample Customer Review:
“I am using this on a 9 speaker system for a man cave powering it with a 50A 12v power supply. Speakers are inexpensive 8” Pyle 50w RMS 250w peak ceiling speakers . They are wired so that 6.5 ohms is the impedance at the amp. I personally would never run 2 ohms or less on any amp, despite it’s claim to support it. I prefer 6 to 8 ohms. Amp will run nice and cool and will last forever.
If not loud enough, I get a bigger amp! I don’t overdrive the MOSFETS by dropping the load impedance. I chose this one for the low and high pass filters built in. They work very well. I have two channels feeding 8 mid/high speakers, and the other two bridged to run a 12 in sub (dual coil wired for 8 ohms). At 50% gain it gets plenty loud, sounds real clean and barely gets warm. Totally rocks the man cave. I am pleased with it so far."
6. DS18 S-1200.4/RD CAR AUDIO AMPLIFIER
The DS18 is a high-performance amplifier that delivers the power you need while consuming the least amount of electricity. With an output power of 1200 watts per channel, this amplifier provides the highest wattage per channel of any amplifier on the market today.
The DS18 can work with a wide variety of speakers, ranging from midranges to high-powered tweeters. This amplifier is perfect for music, movies, and gaming applications. The DS18 features a high-efficiency rating of 89.6% and a low ripple rating of 0.1% with the ability to provide the power needed for the most demanding applications.
This amplifier is equipped with a fully balanced output circuit, which means that the output impedance of the amplifier is much lower than that of the input impedance. This low output impedance is important in allowing the speaker to respond to the full output range of the amplifier. The amplifier also utilizes a fully balanced signal path which provides a wide bandwidth.
Pros
- Full Range Power Amp
- Class AB
- 4 Channel amplifier
Cons
- A little Noisy, if improper wiring
Sample Customer Review:
“The sound quality seems really good. Crazy loud. Better value than buying a $600 or more Rockford Fosgate amp.”
7. HIFONICS ZXX-1000.4 ZEUS 4 CHANNEL CAR AUDIO AMPLIFIER
The Zeus Four Channel Car Audio Amplifier offers four channels of power to ensure that you get the best sound quality possible. The built-in variable electronic crossover allows the amplifier to work in either 2 channel or bridged mono mode. This amplifier is made with a high-quality aluminum heat sink that dissipates excess heat to prevent overheating and ensure maximum sound quality.
The Hifonics ZXX Series includes an illuminated logo on the front of the amplifier, which maintains the classic feel of Hifonics. When the amplifier is powered, the Hifonics logo illuminates, making a statement even in the dark. This amplifier is designed to withstand the rigors of road trips and outdoor activities.
The high-quality, PWM MOSFET power supply maintains the stability of the amplifier and reduces heat generation, allowing the amplifier to operate at its highest potential. The low-noise, high-current preamp circuit creates the most realistic audio experience by eliminating the need for additional signal cables between the source unit and the amplifier.
Pros
- Affordable
- Class A/B Topology
- WM MOSFET power supply
- High-Quality Construction
- Classy Appearance
Cons
- Sometimes gets hot when bridged
Sample Customer Review:
“I,M ONLY USING 2 CHANNELS ON 4 6X9s 5 ways 2 4Ă—1/2 4 ways nice clear sound just haven’t got around to hooking up other 2 channels.”
8. GENIUS AUDIO GFX-55X4 FULL RANGE POWERED CAR AMPLIFIER
The GFX-55X4 is a high-performance, full-range amplifier with true RMS power ratings, and a wide, rich, powerful sound. This amplifier has an intuitive, easy-to-use interface, making it easy to set up and enjoyable. The GFX-55X4 features a full range power amplifier with true RMS power ratings, delivering a maximum of 13.8 volts at 220 watts into 4-ohm loads and up to 280 watts into 2-ohm loads.
A high-pass crossover allows for bass extension from the subwoofer while still maintaining a flat frequency response. The variable high-pass crossover from 40Hz to 3kHz allows the listener to enjoy a wide range of music and movies with superior sound quality.
The GFX-55X4 is equipped with a multichannel input for a variety of music sources, including two satellite receivers, a DVD player, and a computer. Each channel features volume control, a high-pass crossover, and a low-pass crossover to help enhance the sound quality of each source. This amplifier includes a remote control for easy operation.
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Intuitive Controls
- Compact and Stylish
- Multichannel support
- CLASS AB
Cons
- Not found yet
Sample Customer Review:
“Great amp gives you lots of power with no distortion nice amp for the price sound great to love it.”
9. SOUNDSTREAM T4.1500L 4-CHANNEL BEST CLASS A/B CAR AMPLIFIER
Soundstream Tarantula Series 4-Channel Class A/B Car Amplifier is a high-quality, compact, and powerful amplifier that delivers outstanding performance in-car audio systems. This car amplifier is designed for those who want high-quality sound in their car audio system.
The amplifier is made with premium parts, and it has been built to provide high-quality audio performance. It has been engineered to deliver a clean and balanced sound that is suitable for car audio systems.
It features an audiophile-grade pulse width modulated MOSFET power supply and uses a high-efficiency MOSFET power stage to deliver maximum power and efficiency.
Pros
- Unique appearance
- 12-point RGB LED lighting system
- Independent RGB control
- Audiophile Grade IRTM Transistors
Cons
- Strong but not strong enough for a 15 inch speaker
Sample Customer Review:
“Using this to power my door speakers and tweeters. Amazing amplifier. Easy controls. Easy tuning. I will continue updating periodically as I continue using the amplifier.”
10. ALPINE BBX-T600 2 CHANNEL CLASS-A/B AMPLIFIER
This BBX-T600 amplifier is equipped with a 2-channel class-a/b amplifier that can deliver a maximum power output of 600 watts. It is powered by a MOSFET switching power supply that provides constant power and is protected by the red LED indicator. The green LED indicator indicates the amplifier’s status. The amplifier offers you a soft start to prevent sudden noise and distortion.
You can also adjust the pulse width modulation for the output stage for an even smoother sound. The amplifier is equipped with a preamp output, which lets you connect two amplifiers and play music simultaneously.
The amplifier is equipped with 3-way protection circuitry to prevent damage due to high temperatures, short circuits, and overloading. It also features a speaker short protection circuit for preventing your speakers from being damaged.
Pros
- Pulse width modulated MOSFET power supply
- LED power and protect indicators
- Soft start turn-on
- 3-way protection circuitry
Cons
- It may be bigger in size, confirm available vehicle space 1st
Sample Customer Review:
“This little amp is very powerful and the perfect size to fit under a seat or out of the way. I used this because I purchased new speakers and a new $500 pioneer head unit and it sounded like my vehicle had very very little bass. I ran new door speaker wire hooked this amp up and wow.
I cannot turn the gain up over like ten percent because this beast will blow 6Ă—8 speakers. It sounds awesome my mirrors vibrate like crazy. Awesome little amp. Perfect size.”
11. BELVA BB15004V2 CAR AMPLIFIER
The BELVA BB15004V2 is a powerful, high-end, full-range amplifier with a powerful, high-end, full-range amplifier with a massive 1500W of power. The BELVA BB15004V2 provides incredible sound quality, and it can deliver it to the furthest point in your home. It is equipped with a powerful, high-end, full-range amplifier with a massive 1500W of power.
It features an internal amplifier with a built-in power transformer, a power transformer, and a high-power, high-efficiency power supply. The BELVA BB15004V2 also features an analog signal path, an audio processor, and a digital signal path.
This amplifier is equipped with a power transformer, a power transformer, and a high-power, high-efficiency power supply. It also features an analog signal path, an audio processor, and a digital signal path. It offers a very powerful, high-quality sound.
Pros
- 1500 Watts power output
- MOSFET power supply
- 3-way protection circuitry
- 4 gauge power and ground wiring
Cons
- Not found yet
12. BLACK DIAMOND DIA-1150.2 CAR AUDIO AMPLIFIER
Black Diamond is a market leader in the portable audio industry. With its wide range of applications and flexible use, this amplifier will give you the power you need for your specific application. This unit can handle speakers ranging from 1- 4 Ohms.
This amplifier will give you the best of both worlds, with its high efficiency and power output. It has state-of-the-art technology that uses less energy. This amplifier is a full range amplifier, which allows it to handle a wide range of frequencies.
This unit has a full range of 600Hz to 20Khz, and it is fully protected with a high voltage cutoff, thermal protection, short circuit, DC offset, and low voltage protection. With its high quality and stable components, this amplifier is reliable and ready to use.
Pros
- Wide Range of Applications
- LED Lights Status Indicator
- Thermal, DC Offset
- High & Low Voltage Protection
Cons
- Sometimes gets very hot
Sample Customer Review:
“Very small package. But nice power output. Enough to power my speakers and tweeters. Have them only halfway and they are pretty loud. No overheating problems either. Stays warm with the built in fan and is not hot. Been bumping it for 3 weeks. No issues.”
13. RECOIL REA600-4 1040 CAR AUDIO AMPLIFIER
Zecoil’s REA600-4 4-channel car audio amplifier is a powerful, yet easy-to-use solution for powering your car’s sound system, as well as stereo systems, TVs, DVD players, or any other audio source that requires a full-range, high-quality amplifier.
With a depth of user controls such as the gain, LPF, HPF, crossover, and bass EQ, this amplifier is extremely versatile and can be used in countless applications. It is also equipped with a high-speed MOSFET power supply, premium-grade internal components, and 4-way protection circuitry, making it safe for use in virtually any environment.
The high-efficiency heatsinks keep the amplifier cool with a sophisticated new look. The REA600-4 is designed to deliver exceptional performance and long-lasting reliability and can be used with a variety of audio sources. It offers a total of 4 channels and is capable of driving a maximum power output of 1040W while delivering an RMS power rating of 130W per channel.
Pros
- 4 Way Protection Circuitry
- High-Speed MOSFET Power Supply
- Soft Turn-on Circuit
- highly reliable
Cons
- A little bit heavy
Sample Customer Review:
“This car amplifier is easy to install, the instructions are easy to read and understand. It has great sound quality. This is definitely amazing! Great value for money! I highly recommend.”
14. AUDIOBANK MONOBLOCK CAR AUDIO STEREO AMPLIFIER
Monoblock 2000WATTS is a new generation amplifier with top-class performance and reliability. This unit is designed for high power and low noise operation with the ability to handle demanding applications.
The amplifier uses a dual output transistor design that allows for a maximum output of 200W into 8 ohms or 150W into 4 ohms. Monoblock 2000WATTS is a 2-channel stereo amplifier with a monoblock design that ensures a clean, stable, and low noise signal path.
The unit features a heavy-duty aluminum heatsink with a remote turn-on/turn-off circuit. It has a LED power indicator and a LED protection indicator that lets you know if there is a problem with the power supply. It is built to last with a large volume of power and protection circuitry. It has thermal and speaker short protection circuitry and a heavy-duty aluminum heatsink.
Pros
- Excellent with bass and voice
- Best in budget
- Class AB
- LED Power and Protection Indicators
- Thermal and Speaker Short Protection Circuitry
Cons
- Due to wrong wiring or ground, it can get hot
Sample Customer Review:
“The wired remote does not work but everything else is great it pumps my thousand watt Kenwood and my thousand white kicker perfectly fine great amp if you’re trying to save money and get some hard Bass. "
15. SKAR AUDIO SKV2-100.4AB FULL-RANGE CLASS A/B
With a high output of 800 watts, this speaker amplifier delivers incredible sound quality, and it can be connected to other amplifiers for a complete sound system. This amplifier features four full-range channels for maximum volume and clarity. The low and high-frequency filters provide precise sound adjustments to suit your listening preferences.
It features four high-current power transistors in a single package, allowing the output power to be increased to maximum levels without sacrificing any of the power efficiency. The SKv2-100.4AB offers an extremely wide frequency response.
The amplifier has an advanced design for cooling and efficiency, as well as a unique 4-way protection circuitry with dual power and ground terminals. The SKv2-100.4AB has a signal-to-noise ratio of 105 dB.
Pros
- Competition-grade multi-channel amplifier
- 4-gauge power
- Ground input terminals
- Heavy-Duty Advanced Heatsink Design
Cons
- Speaker terminals are brittle
Sample Customer Review:
“I just got the Skar SKv2-1,500.1D. I have had the RP 2000.1D for about 7-8 months and I just got this one this and it weighs almost three times as much as my RP2000.1D and the quality looks and feels way better, don’t get me wrong I love my RP2000 but I think I’m going to buy another one of these so I can strap them together in my one car and put the RP2000 in the other.
I will update after I’ve ran it for a couple months. If you’re thinking between this (SKv2-1500.1D) and the RP2000 pay the extra money and get this, either way YOU WILL NOT be disappointed with SKAR AUDIO!!!! All of there amps are amazing they blow my Kicker ZX amp out the water and the RMS is always higher then what it says!!!!! Skar audio is very conservative with their ratings my RP2000 was supposed to be 2000 RMS and I’m pushing almost 2,268 RMS at 1 OHM starting voltage was 14v ending voltage was it 12.9V.
I’m done telling you how great this thing is you can watch the videos on YouTube and see people actually Dyno testing these amps yes Shar does do their own dyno but there’s plenty of people that dyno these amp that are not through Skar.
I was skeptical of the videos before I got my RP amp but there’s no question after I got it! I have bought Skar 12” subs and a couple amps and even earbuds “headphones” all are better than I was hoping for with only one exception and that is the earbuds do not buy the earbuds!!!!!!!! That’s all I’ll say about that.”
PURPOSE OF THE GUIDE
The purpose of the guide is to provide information and guidance for individuals who are looking to purchase a Class AB amplifier. The guide will explain what to look for in an amplifier and provide an overview of the top Class AB amplifiers on the market.
It will also compare the key features and specifications of each amplifier and provide recommendations based on different use cases and budgets.
Ultimately, the guide aims to help readers make an informed decision when choosing a Class AB amplifier that meets their needs and preferences.
DISCOVERING THE TOP CLASS AB AMPLIFIERS FOR YOUR CAR WITH MULTIPLE CHANNEL
If you’re looking for a car amplifier that can produce high-quality sound and has multiple channels, it’s essential to choose the right Class AB amplifier. There are many options available, and selecting the best one for your needs can be challenging.
However, this guide will help you discover the top Class AB amplifiers for your car that come with multiple channels, making it easier for you to make an informed decision.
WHAT IS A MULTI-CHANNEL AMPLIFIER AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
A multi-channel amplifier is a device that can handle multiple audio channels simultaneously. In the past, there was a difference between multichannel and multizone amplifiers. Multichannel meant that there was only one audio source that played through multiple channels with the same power level in a single amplifier.
DO CLASS AB AMPLIFIERS PRODUCE BETTER SOUND QUALITY?
When it comes to amplifier design, Class A is the least efficient but produces the highest sound fidelity. Class B is a bit more efficient, but it’s prone to distortion. On the other hand, Class AB design provides a balance of power efficiency and good sound quality.
WHAT DOES CLASS AB AMPLIFIER DESIGN MEAN?
Class AB amplifiers are a combination of Class A and Class B amplifier designs. They are designed to be more efficient than Class A amplifiers while producing less distortion than Class B amplifiers.
This is achieved by setting the bias of both transistors so that they conduct when the signal is close to zero, which is the point where Class B amplifiers start to introduce non-linearities.
ARE CLASS AB AMPLIFIERS SUITABLE FOR SUBWOOFERS?
When it comes to amplifiers for passive subwoofers, Class AB or Class H amplifiers are the best options. Class D amplifiers are too slow to keep up with repetitive bass.
Class AB amplifiers are equipped with toroidal transformers and coke can capacitors, which allow the woofer to respond instantly when the kick drum is played, resulting in excellent sound quality.
DIFFERENT TYPES AND CLASSES OF AMPLIFIERS
There are two fundamental types of power amplifiers: analog and switching. These are then broken down into more than a dozen classes, including proprietary designs like T and Z and more widely used designs like A and B. While all power amplifiers function the same way, the different classes have varying performance levels and quality.
COMPARISON OF AMPLIFIER CLASSES
Here’s a comparison of different amplifier classes:
CAR AMPLIFIERS WITH CLASS A DESIGN:
Class A amplifiers are designed to remain on continuously, with current flowing through their output transistors. This design has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that make it suitable for some applications but not ideal for others. One of the main drawbacks of using class A amplifiers in car stereos is their size, which can be a challenge to accommodate.
PROS:
- Class A amplifiers have the highest sound quality and offer better clarity than other amplifier classes.
- Class A amplifiers have low distortion levels, resulting in better sound reproduction.
- Class A amplifiers produce a smooth, warm sound that’s pleasing to the ear.
- Class A amplifiers are ideal for low-power applications, such as powering headphones and small speakers.
CONS:
- Class A amplifiers have low efficiency levels and produce a lot of heat, which can be a problem in car audio systems.
- Due to their design, class A amplifiers consume a lot of power, which can be a concern in mobile audio systems.
- Class A amplifiers tend to be larger than other amplifier classes, which can make them difficult to fit into car audio systems.
CLASS B AMPLIFIERS FOR CAR AUDIO SYSTEMS:
Class B power amplifiers used in car audio systems are different from class A amplifiers. These amplifiers are designed to switch off their output transistors when there is no audio signal to amplify.
This improves their efficiency and makes them a good choice for car audio systems. However, class B amps are known to have a decrease in audio quality compared to class A amplifiers.
PROS:
- More efficient than Class A amplifiers, resulting in less heat generation and lower power consumption.
- Can deliver higher output power than Class A amplifiers of the same size, making them suitable for high-power applications.
- Generally less expensive than Class A amplifiers.
CONS:
- Less audio fidelity than Class A amplifiers due to the switching mechanism that can introduce distortion.
- May have cross-over distortion due to a small gap between the positive and negative parts of the waveform.
- May require additional circuitry to reduce distortion and eliminate cross-over distortion, which can increase the cost and complexity of the amplifier.
CLASS AB AMPLIFIERS FOR CAR AUDIO SYSTEMS:
Class AB car amplifiers are a combination of class A and B amplifiers. They have current flowing through their transistors at all times but they also use circuitry that reduces current when there is no audio signal. This makes them more efficient than class A amplifiers while producing less distortion than class B amplifiers.
As a result, class AB amplifiers are commonly used as full-range amplifiers in car audio systems due to their balanced performance.
PROS:
- Good balance between efficiency and sound quality.
- Lower distortion levels than Class B amplifiers.
- Suitable for powering full-range speakers and subwoofers.
- Can handle higher power demands than Class A amplifiers.
CONS:
- Less efficient than Class D amplifiers.
- Generates more heat compared to Class D amplifiers.
- May have slightly higher distortion levels than Class A amplifiers.
- Can be more expensive than Class B amplifiers.
WHICH AMPLIFIER CLASS SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?
Choosing the right amplifier class for your car audio system may seem complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. Generally, A/B amplifiers are recommended for full-range and most component speakers, while class D amplifiers are better suited for subwoofers.
While there are other types of amplifiers available, following this basic guideline can ensure good sound quality without getting too complex.
FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE QUALITY OF AN AMPLIFIER
When it comes to car audio amplifiers, quality is measured by how well the amplifier passes the signal to the speakers without adding any distortion or unwanted noise. The goal is to have the amplifier add as little as possible, as every amplifier will add something. The less the amplifier adds, the better the quality of the sound.
Let me simplify this paragraph for you. This paragraph is about comparing two car audio amplifiers. The first amplifier is called the ARC Audio ARC1000.4 DSP. It is a high-end amplifier that produces 250 watts per channel and comes with a digital signal processor.
The second amplifier is a cheaper four-channel Class AB amplifier from an internet brand. The size of the amplifier is bigger than the high-end amplifier. Power measurements do not determine the quality of an amplifier.
This big amplifier is supposed to provide around 135 watts of power to four 4-ohm speakers or 200 watts per channel if you use four 2-ohm speakers. According to the company’s website, you can bridge two pairs of channels to produce 450 watts of power for a 4-ohm load.
But this statement is problematic because the power ratings for bridged connections should be close to the sum of the stereo 2-ohm ratings. If I read this information, I would already question whether the data is accurate. Nonetheless, let’s see what happens.
COMPARING TOTAL HARMONIC DISTORTION AND NOISE
In simpler terms, when we talk about amplifier sound quality, we’re talking about how well it amplifies the sound without adding any extra noise or distortion. To test this, we’ll be running both amplifiers on an audio analyzer with a 1-kHz test tone and an output level of 1 watt into a 4-ohm load.
The graph shows the measurements we took, with the tall spike at 1 kHz being the test tone and the smaller spikes at 2, 4, and 5 kHz being harmonics added by the amplifier. The lower these spikes are, the better the amplifier is at not adding any unwanted noise or distortion.
In this case, the ARC Audio amplifier had very low levels of distortion, which is a good thing. The Class AB amplifier adds a lot of unwanted information to the sound, even as high as 100 kHz, which would sound bad, especially for tweeters.
The percentage of distortion is 0.18766% on the left and 0.17991% on the right channel, which is more than 15 times as much as the distortion added by the ARC Audio amp. The ARC Audio amp is the winner in terms of sound quality.
IMPEDANCE MATCHING
Impedance matching is the process of making sure that the output impedance of a signal source matches the input impedance of the load that it’s being sent to.
In simpler terms, it’s about making sure that the device sending the signal and the device receiving the signal have the same resistance, which allows the signal to pass through without any loss or distortion.
This is important in audio systems, as improper impedance matching can lead to poor sound quality, reduced power transfer, and even damage to equipment.
AMPLIFIER EFFICIENCY COMPARISON
The power measurement chart shows how effectively the amplifiers turn electrical power into signals that drive speakers. Class D amplifiers are more efficient in this regard than Class AB amplifiers. Typically, people prefer Class AB amplifiers as they believe they offer better sound quality.
However, in this case, the ARC Audio amplifier is more efficient and produces better sound quality than the Class AB amplifier. The ARC Audio amp produces 80% more power to drive speakers while using only 18% more current than the Class AB amp.
So, if you want your system to play at high volume levels, you should choose a very efficient Class D amplifier like the ARC Audio ARC1000.4 DSP.
MEASURING AMPLIFIER POWER OUTPUT
At BestCarAudio.com, all power measurements are done following a standard called ANSI/CTA-2006-C Testing and Measurement Methods for In-Vehicle Audio Amplifiers. This standard sets guidelines for the amplifier to be powered by 14.4 volts DC, and the output signal should not contain more than 1% total harmonic distortion and noise (THD+N).
The ARC amplifier was not able to meet its 250-watt rating when driving 4-ohm speakers but was very close. The Class AB amplifier was also slightly short of its 4-ohm rating. Both amplifiers were similar in this regard.
However, when driving 2-ohm loads, the Class AB amplifier performed close to its rating, while the ARC Audio amplifier exceeded its 250-watt-per-channel rating by a significant margin by producing 353.8 watts. Therefore, ARC Audio wins this test for exceeding its power ratings by a considerable amount.
In the final power test, they ran the amps with two channels bridged to a 4-ohm load. The ARC1000.4 DSP was supposed to make 500 watts, but it actually produced 703.4 watts with a voltage of less than 14.4. The Class AB amp didn’t do as well, making only 397.1 watts per pair of channels at 1% distortion.
The ARC Audio amp won by a landslide, exceeding its ratings by 40%. This is great news for consumers because they are getting more power than they expected.
MEASURING BACKGROUND NOISE
The background noise of both amps is very similar. The noise of the Class AB amp starts at a higher level at low frequencies and decreases as the frequency increases. The ARC 1000.4 DSP has almost the same level of noise.
We can say that this is a tie, even though the Class AB should be better. The ARC amp has an extra digital signal processor in the signal path that can add noise.
SOUND QUALITY – INTERMODULATION DISTORTION
Another type of sound distortion to test is intermodulation distortion. It happens when an amplifier adds a tone that’s the difference between two tones played together. In this test, 19- and 20-kHz tones were played, and the CCIF2 IMD test was used.
The ARC Audio amp won this test again, as the difference produced at 1 kHz was at a lower level compared to the Class AB amp. The Class AB amp had a 1 kHz product that was more than 44 times as bad as the ARC Audio amp.
Additionally, both amps had unwanted information at 18- and 21-kHz, but the ARC Audio amp had it at a lower level. Therefore, the ARC Audio amp is the winner of this test too.
EXPERT DESIGN ENGINEERING RESULTS IN HIGHER-QUALITY AMPLIFIERS
I can give you more examples where the amplifiers’ performance differed significantly. The cheap amp had issues with crosstalk, distortion at different frequencies, no differential inputs, and more, which makes it not a wise choice for someone who cares about their audio system’s sound quality.
On the other hand, the ARC Audio ARC1000.4 D four-channel Class D amplifier is much better than the entry-level Class AB amp in every aspect. Even in situations where the Class AB was expected to perform better than the Class D, the Class D performed significantly better. It’s not a tie, and I think it’s better to give a score of 5 to 0 to represent the difference between the two amplifiers accurately.
The author tested two amplifiers – an entry-level Class AB and an ARC Audio ARC1000.4 D four-channel Class D – and found that the ARC Audio amp outperformed the cheaper Class AB in many areas, including crosstalk, distortion vs. frequency, and lack of differential inputs.
Despite being cheaper, the Class AB should not be excused for its poor performance. The author argues that quality is always important, regardless of price. Comparing the two amps to a drag race, the winner is the one that performs better, regardless of cost.
The Class AB amp failed miserably in the comparison, and the author believes it is not a good option for anyone. For those shopping for an amplifier, the author recommends visiting a local mobile enhancement retailer and focusing on accuracy, not just loudness.
FAQ’S:
Q:1 WHAT A CLASS AB AMPLIFIER IS?
Class AB amplifiers are the most popular audio amplifier and are often used in portable equipment. Class AB is a compromise between a class D amplifier and a class A amplifier, with the output power being controlled by the bias current of the transistor. Class AB has low distortion and high efficiency. However, a class AB amplifier needs a large bias current.
Q:2 WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF BUYING A CLASS AB AMPLIFIER?
Class AB amplifiers offer greater performance than class A and class B amplifiers because of their high power supply rejection and low output distortion. If you compare a class AB amplifier to a class A or class B amplifier, the most obvious difference is that the input signal is connected to both the emitter and the base of the transistor, which allows for more power to be supplied to the transistor.
Q:3 WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF BUYING A CLASS AB AMPLIFIER?
Class AB amplifiers are inherently inefficient. They have high input and output impedances, so there is a loss in converting the power to current and back again, as well as the added losses of the active devices (e.g., transistors).
The higher input impedance also means that the amplifier will need more headroom at low volumes and frequencies, which will limit its ability to perform well at very low volumes and frequencies.
Q:4 ARE CLASS AB AMPS LOUDER?
When a signal goes through a tube amplifier, it gets amplified very quickly because the tube is always fully operational. This means that a 30-watt Class A amplifier will sound louder than a 30-watt Class AB amplifier.
Q:5 WHAT IS A GOOD WATTAGE FOR AN AMPLIFIER?
If you want to play music live, you might want to consider getting a bigger amplifier that’s 12-15 inches and has a power of 50 watts. For larger venues, you’ll need an even more powerful amp that’s at least 100 watts.
CONCLUSION:
In this article, we have reviewed the best class AB car amplifier. We have listed these car amplifiers in order of preference based on their reviews and ratings. All these amplifiers are affordable and offer high-quality sound. We have also shared their features and specifications.
We hope you will be well aware about best class AB car amplifiers, after reading this comprehensive guide. If you have any questions, feel free to comment below!