Single vs. Dual Amp?

[scrumdidlyumptious]

Hey,

Looking for some advice on which direction I should take for a full audio overhaul. Have 2025 OBX (non-BO) and have seen a lot of discussion on running a single amp to power 4/6 speakers and a sub, vs running two (typically the kicker 200.1/500.1) combo.

I know there are dual harnesses available for wiring multiple amps, but it seems like there’s still not a lot out yet that specifically states it’s compatible with 2025s.

Ultimately, I’m trying to just figure out the easiest way to install and power 6 new speakers (probably focal 4s+6.5s) and a 10” sub (probably JL). I’d really prefer not to have to run separate lines to the battery or mess with the firewall if at all possible as well.

Any advice is appreciated.

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[Area51BS]

I went with a Helix V eight DSP 8 channel amp. Designed to work with Ford SB type amp without any additional level adaptors. No wires issues and sounds amazing after proper tune. Expandable as well.

 

[Area51BS]

Fire wall is easy.

 

[Brian_B]

I went with a 5 channel amp.

In hindsight - mixed on if I would do it again. I went 5 channel so I could mount it all up front and keep it tucked away. And this amp does it. And has plenty of power for what I listen to (50x4+500). I did end up pulling the dash speakers off the same line as the kicks and running them from the ACM direct, so I am kinda sorta running it like a ghetto 6-channel system. And it sounds not too bad.

But I do kinda wish I had got an amp with an integrated DSP.

The “more power” part of me says I should have got a 75x6 up front and dropped a separate 800W in the back - but realistically the DSP is the only thing I kinda wish I had.

Any amp worth installing is gonna require a run through the firewall, so just accept that. Do it once and do it right. You can always run one larger cable through the firewall and branch/fuse it off inside the cab to multiple amps.

 

[Alassise]

A single amp for simplicity. I suggest that you get a high end amp to ensure that you have enough clean power for all the upgrades. I have a JL XD series (no marine) pushing 4in dash and pods speakers, doors and dual 8 in JL sub box. Plenty of power and clarity. At the time, the marine grade amp from JL was not available. If I was doing it again, I will look at that line of amplification. As far as DSP, I don't think that you need it and should use that money for better speakers. I have a soft top, and I am happy with what my installer did.

 

[Ukko Wildtrak]

I overhauled the whole thing too. Used the PAC 4ch LOC and t-harness that feeds my JL TWK-88. From there, I have 2 MB Quart 440.4 amps. 1 runs the 4" dash and 6.5" rear and one runs the kick midbass 6.5" and the tweeters. Finally I have a Kicker CXA 1200.1 running a DC Audio 18”.

 

[Ukko Wildtrak]

I realized I really didn't give you but if you're really comfortable with installing audio gear then I would go multiple amps but if you're not comfortable and you're going to a shop, then it would probably make sense to buy like a six or eight channel amp with DSP. This might not exactly fit your power requirements but something like the audio control d-6.1200 would be great. You could run channels one and two to the dash and rear speakers, channels three and four would run your kick panel speakers and channels five and six can be bridged to run a small subwoofer. Has builtin DSP and accubass. Most major companies will have a similar offering..Alpine PXE-C80-88, JL VX800/8i, Kicker 51LX1300.7 are some good amps with DSP built in.

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