amp for 2 solobarics L7's

[M@nJo 10+ year member]

im looking to get more spl/loud with my current setup: 2 12" Kicker Solobaric L7's in a sealed box (1cu ft) powered by an hifonics bx500d (500rms). i want to upgrade the amp with something more powerful, but alternator friendly since i still rock the 70amp factory alternator. im not looking to particpate in compeitions or anything crazy like that, just 'daily driver bass'. i would like to avoid any alternator/electrical system problems for any reason. my wires are 4ga too.

first, i wanted to know if by going with a ported enclosure, will i notice dramatic results in my subs getting louder/spl?

second, how many watts rms would you think is on the "safer" side for my situation? *i know theres a difference between getting 700watts from a kicker amp compared to an hifonics...so please be clear on actual watts *

budget: $250. im willing to go a little more if the break is worthy. looking for 1ohm stable since my subs are DVC 4ohm

my electrical system is a 14.4v on a cold start. after warm-up and playing music on 50% level, it stays within the 13v range with all accesories off (a/c, lights, etc). during high playing volume, it would eventually knock it down to 12.2v-12.9v on the bass hits. lights dim little on these bass hits as well

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[iceteebone 5,000+ posts]

you can get a huge advantage in spl going ported vs. sealed. i would suggest doing the big 3 (please search because it's been discussed many times before) might want to look into finding a used crossfire vr1000D. very effiecient, is underrated, makes rated power at 12.5 volts.

 

[bikejunkie223 10+ year member]

First off, a fully regulated amp will help you with your alternator woes as it will make the same power at 12.6v as it will at 14.5v. Secondly, a capacitor should eliminate the dimming lights with the bass hit thing, as it provides a buffer between the electrical system and the amp, ensureing constant voltage at the amp. The big 3 sould help some. If your subs are dual 4ohm voice coils, you only need a 2ohm stable amp.I wish I had a suggestion, but everything I would recomend is too expensive (Zapco, JL Slash series,DLS) Though, the DLS amps are loosely regulated, so not realy the best choice for a small alternator unless you have a cap. If your current system sounds good to you, but it's the dimming light thing, try just a cap with your current amp. you might be pleasantly surprised.

 

[06si]

i had 2 L5's running off a memphis 1000D amp in my old 2002 civic EX and it 147 db a USACi competition. just thought i would throw that out

 

[2LouDFoRThiS 10+ year member]

get a capacitor bank .. i have one .. 10 farads ..