A car amplifier is the heart of your car’s stereo. It’s what pumps power to all of the components of the system, and having one of these allows your car audio to perform to its fullest potential.
In this blog, we will compile all of Sonic Electronix’s highest-rated amplifiers from 2022, as determined by the reviews left by our customers!
NVX VAD11005 – 1100W Full Range Class D 5-Channel Car/Marine/Powersports Amplifier with Bass Remote
Durability: 5 | Value: 5 | Features: 5 | Design: 5 | Usability: 5
The VAD11005 is the amplifier to get if you need a lot of oomph. With this amplifier, you can power four speakers with up to 125W of real RMS power each, and your subwoofer with up to 600W.
This 5-channel amplifier has a ton of muscle and can handle any type of music with its crisp, clean sound. This series of amplifiers is distinguished by its built-in 3-way protective circuitry. This provides multiple safeguards against damage to your amplifier and speakers, including heat, overload, and speaker short protection. They contribute to the longevity of the amplifier and the entire setup.
The VAD Series includes amplifiers that come in a variety of sizes and are designed to serve a wide range of purposes. The VADM series is extremely small and can fit almost any place in the car. For the most potent subwoofers, look at the bigger VAD amps, which have an RMS power rating of up to 2700 Watts RMS.
When compared to conventional Class AB amplifiers, Class-D amplifiers like those found in the NVX VAD Line of amplifiers are more power efficient, generate less heat, and use less electricity.
Item highlights
• 4 ohms: 80 watts x 4 chan. + 350 x 1 chan.
• 2 ohms: 125 watts x 4 chan. + 600 x 1 chan.
• Bridged, 4 ohms: 250 watts x 2 chan. + 600 x 1 chan.
• 5/4/2 Channel Operation
“Can’t go wrong!” – ★★★★★
Never having heard of NVX, understandably I was a bit reluctant. But the price for a 5-channel amp was hard to argue. My old boat had a fusion 5 channel amp, which was great, and is still going after 5 years, but also $600. The NVX is less than half the cost, and to be honest I believe more powerful. The kind folks at Sonic Electronix have always given me good advice, and they assured me I would not be disappointed with the NVX. They were not kidding. I have it hooked up to 4 JL Audio MX series speakers – two 650s and two 770s, plus a JL 10″ M series sub, which is better than the MX sub. And I did opt for NVX’s 5-channel amp install kit – definitely worth it.
For the head unit, I went with a JBL gauge style PVR-275. It was inexpensive and had 3 sets of pre-amps, which I figured was important. I have to say, I’m floored by the overall performance. The system gets very loud and stays clean at high volumes. I’ve had the system installed for only a month so far, but I couldn’t be happier, and I can’t believe a $6-800 amp would sound any better. Fingers crossed for years of enjoyment – that will be the true test.
Anonymous Reviewer
Sonic Electronix CustomerJL Audio JD400/4 – 400W RMS JD Series Class-D 4-Channel Car Amplifier
Durability: 4.9 | Value: 4.9 | Features: 4.9 | Design: 4.9 | Usability: 5
If you want to experience the peak of car audio performance, installing a JL Audio JD400/4 amplifier is a must. This little amplifier packs quite a punch, with its four channels of high-powered output providing 50 watts per channel at 4 ohms and 75 watts per channel at 2 ohms.
The JD400/4 amplifier is built to last and is designed to produce high-quality power with low distortion and high efficiency. This little guy can be used as a 3-channel amplifier, putting out 100W x 3, or as a 2-channel amplifier, putting out a staggering 200W x 2, into 4 ohms, and is completely bridgeable.
The input panel of the amplifier is where you’ll find the JD400/4’s controls, while the other end of the extruded aluminum chassis is where you’ll find the power and speaker connections. Dual-range, differential-balanced inputs may accept signals at either line level or speaker level, and there are high-pass or low-pass 12 dB / octave filters (defeatable) for each channel pair, with continuously changing frequency selection from 50 to 500 Hz. The potential for automatic activation (through signal sensing or DC-offset sensing) is built in.
Each input sensitivity knob also has an LED indicator built right in to show when it has been clipped. This function allows you to easily and accurately adjust the input sensitivity of your amplifier without the need for any additional tools. It also includes a series of pass-through, buffered preamp outputs that can be used to send signals to an external amplifier. Powerful and crisp audio is only the beginning; it also has sophisticated features like a tunable bass boost, high-pass filter, and low-pass filter, so you can tailor the sound to your personal preferences. The JD400/4 is also equipped with a high-efficiency Class D power design, which allows it to produce high-quality sound while using less energy. Because of how simple it is to set up, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone interested in improving the sound quality of their car.
Item highlights
• 75 watts x 4 channel @ 4 ohms
• 100 watts x 4 channel @ 2 ohms
• Bridged: 200 watts x 2 channel @ 4 ohms
• Total RMS Power: 400 watts
• Class D 2 ohms Stable 4-Channel Amplifier
“Amazing sound! – ★★★★★
This amp is phenomenal. I am blown away by how well it performs. I believe in name brands when it comes to sound, and J/L hit the nail on the head with this one. I am running two subs bridged in two-channel mode and it has a punch. QUALITY like this is meant to be heard. I wonder how great it would sound on my 6x9s. Makes me wish I still had my jl1000/1 to pair it with. Thanks, Sonic Electronix! You made my day.
Ethan
Sonic Electronix CustomerNVX VAD10004 – 1000W RMS Full Range Class D 4-Channel Car/Marine/Powersports Amplifier
Durability: 5 | Value: 5 | Features: 5 | Design: 5 | Usability: 5
The VAD10004 is an amplifier that delivers massive power. Offering up to 250W of real RMS power across four channels while still fitting comfortably in a tiny enclosure.
The VAD10004, like its fellow NVX amplifiers in the VAD series, has a marine-grade, conformally coated circuit board that protects it from moisture and corrosion. You can put it in your automobile, boat, or Powersports machine.
In addition to being an efficient Class D amp, each model in this series features a comprehensive set of protections to prevent damage in any of three potential scenarios. This safeguards your amplifier and speakers from damage by preventing overheating, overloading, and shorting out the speakers. These will help keep your amplifier and entire setup running well for years to come.
The RCA level inputs and screw terminals are protected from rust and corrosion by platinum plating. Amplifiers that lack this characteristic will degrade significantly more rapidly over time, and may eventually become useless.
Item highlights
• 150 watts x 4 channel @ 4 ohms
• 250 watts x 4 channel @ 2 ohms
• Bridged: 500 watts x 2 channel @ 4 ohms
• Total RMS Power: 1000 watts
• CEA-2006 Compliant
• Class D 2 ohms Stable 4-Channel Amplifier
“NVX for the win!” – ★★★★★
Had this amp installed for bout 2 weeks now….. Ensure the gains are set at the midpoint or less…. Solid ground…. And this amp will tickle your ears. Pure listening enjoyment with zero background hiss\engine noise! Very accurate reproduction of the upper stage in my vehicle…. No more debating….. Grab this 4 channel!
Jonathan
Sonic Electronix CustomerKicker CXA800.1 – 800W Peak (600W RMS) CX Series Class-D Monoblock Amplifier
Durability: 5 | Value: 5 | Features: 5 | Design: 5 | Usability: 5
If you’re wanting to power a high-performance subwoofer, go no further than the Kicker CXA800.1 amplifier.
This monoblock amplifier packs a whopping 800 watts of RMS output, making short work of even the most power-hungry subwoofers. To further improve sound quality and reduce distortion, it has variable input choices that may be set to correspond with the voltage output by the head unit. To get the most out of your subwoofer, the amplifier has a built-in crossover that lets you change the operating frequency. Over-current and heat protection features built into the CXA800.1 keep the amplifier running smoothly and quietly, no matter how hard you push it. The small and streamlined form factor allows for simple integration into any car.
One-ohm stability has been added to this CX-Series mono amp, expanding your system’s power and flexibility. The CXA800.1 is powered by a Class-D amplifier and includes a variable bass boost with KickEQTM, allowing for an additional 6dB of oomph to be added with a simple twist of the included CXARC Remote Bass Controller. You can easily fine-tune your system with the inbuilt 12dB crossover and 24dB subsonic filter. Connect additional bass amplifiers or a full-range amplifier to the full-range outputs to create a more powerful system.
Item highlights
• 300 Watts RMS x 1 @ 4 ohms
• 600 Watts RMS x 1 @ 2 ohms
• 800 Watts RMS x 1 @ 1 ohm
• Efficient Class-D Monoblock Amplifier
• KickEQ™ 6dB variable bass boost for those additional low frequencies
• FIT+™ (Fail-safe Integration Technology-PLUS) means it works with nearly every radio
“Work Horse!” – ★★★★★
I was surprised at how small this amp was when I received it. It’s an absolute workhorse. It’s a solid well-built amp. It came with an Amp Dyno Certificate, 867 watts at 1ohm. You get more than the rated power which in my book is a no-brainer. The price may be a little high for some, but like I said you get what you pay for.
Jeffrey
Sonic Electronix CustomerAlpine MRV-M500 – 500W V-Power Series Class D Monoblock Digital Amplifier
Durability: 4.9 | Value: 5 | Features: 4.9 | Design: 5 | Usability: 5
For those in the market for a small, powerful amplifier capable of driving a full-range speaker setup, Alpine’s MRV-M500 is an excellent option. This Class-D amplifier packs 500 watts RMS of power, making it capable of driving even the most demanding speakers without sacrificing sound quality. It has a built-in crossover that lets you set the frequency at which the speakers play, resulting in a more even and natural sound.
Though V-Power amplifiers are small in stature, their output should not be underestimated. It generates the same amount of electricity as its predecessors yet take up 40% less space. These amplifiers have a thermal management processor that keeps the temperature from rising too high, guaranteeing uninterrupted, distortion-free playback.
Four speaker-level inputs on the V-Power allow it to be used with virtually any head unit without the need for additional converters. Because of this, V-Power amplifiers are great for use with both stock and aftermarket audio. Putting in these flush mount controls is a breeze. The terminal covers snap-on without the need for any additional hardware, protecting the electrical connections and giving the whole thing a polished look.
The V-Power mono amplifiers feature the same dual internal error correction technology found in the PDX and X-Power stereo amplifiers. While passing through the amplifier, the audio input signal is examined, compared, and rectified dynamically twice. The resulting amplifiers boast the best frequency response, damping factor, and noise floor in their respective classes.
Item highlights
• RMS: 300W x 1 @ 4 ohms, 500W x 1 @ 2 ohms
• Total Peak Power: 1000W
• CEA-2006 Compliant Amplifier
• 4-Channel Speaker-Level Inputs
• Heavy Duty Aluminum Alloy Heat-Sink
• Dimensions: 7-7/8″W x 7-7/8″L x 2-3/16″H
“Really good” – ★★★★★
Had this amp connected to my Dodge factory head unit using high-level output connected to a 2- 12inch pioneer champion series at 300 RMS 4ohm. unbelievable quality and sound. Once you tune your subwoofer and amp to specs you will have no problem. more than enough bass is needed, Great amp!!
Ricky
Sonic Electronix CustomerRockford Fosgate Prime R2-1200X1 – 1200W RMS Prime Series Class-D Monoblock Subwoofer Amplifier
Durability: 5 | Value: 5 | Features: 5 | Design: 5 | Usability: 5
The Rockford Fosgate Prime R2-1200X1 is an excellent option for those in the market for a highly portable and powerful amplifier.
The R2-1200X1 is a 1200-watt, class-D amplifier that can run in mono at 4-ohm, 2-ohm, or 1-ohm impedances, and it has been designed with performance in mind. With class D technology, this amplifier is incredibly energy-efficient and easy on the car’s battery. The amp’s C.L.E.A.N. circuitry makes it easy to fine-tune the gain, the P.O.W.E.R. Supply produces more power at higher voltages, and the integrated Punch EQ fixes any sonic flaws while pumping out as much as three times the bass of the competition. Using a remote control and an adjustable infrasonic filter, you can set the bass of your subwoofers to the perfect level for your music.
The amplifier’s high-level auto turn-on circuit allows it to function with both stock and aftermarket stereo receivers. It’s a terrific choice for anyone interested in automotive audio due to its simple and straightforward installation technique and compact design.
Item highlights
• 400 Watts RMS x 1 @ 4 ohms
• 800 Watts RMS x 1 @ 2 ohms
• 1200 Watts RMS x 1 @ 1 ohm
• CEA-2006 Compliant
• R.L.C. Remote Level Control
“The Best Purchase Ever!!!!” – ★★★★★
You know what your getting when you buy Rockford Fosgate amps. I had the Prime 750 Watt Class D 1 channel Amplifier with 2 KICKER – CompR 12″ Dual-Voice-Coil 2-Ohm Subwoofers and the sound was good. But since I put the Rockford Fosgate Prime R2-1200X1 and 2 Skar Audio SVR-12 D4 12″ 1600 Watt Max Power Dual 4 Ohm Car Subwoofer in my truck it’s amazing. The deep bass is amazing. You feel everything. It makes your ears hurt. You feel it through your body. I couldn’t have made a better purchase. If you want a amp that will stand the test of time go with Fosgate. You won’t regret it.
