Another amp decision thread. (5-channels)

[atoz350 10+ year member]

Currently I have a Kicker ZX700.5 running my system. I'm looking for an upgrade, but I can't afford any Zapco, Audison, DLS, or ARC amps. I was looking at the Soundstream Picasso PCA5.540 for $239.99 on SonicElectronix but it doesn't give me enough power on the sub channel with only 180 watts. I like the other specs and I have heard really good things about the Picasso series. I find it odd though that it still has a 30a X 3 fuse rating just like my Kicker.

I also saw the Tarantula series TRA 880.5. It seems to have even better specs such as a higher S/N ratio and more power on the sub channel (400watts). for $299.99. It also has the ability to run an active setup from the amp provided you use the highpass on your head unit to crossover your mids. I havent heard anything about it though. It is a good amp? Does it put out its rated power?

The reason that I am looking around is that I want to see if there is a difference in SQ from my Kicker. My kicker was tested at a 1.2% THD which seems very high to me.

Any help would be appreciated.

Click to read more...

 

[enzowho 10+ year member]

I have heard from several sources that a THD below 2-3% is inaudible to the human ear. I would stick with the amp you have.

 

[IamDeMan 5,000+ posts]

If you need a lot of power on the sub channel then a Memphis Belle is the way to go IMO(1100RMS on sub) or an RF Power1000 25 to life edition(800RMS on sub). The RF is more money and is the route I am going. The RF cost more making the Belle a better buy, but I like the RF for some reason.

Another choice is a 5 channel directed which gives 600RMS on the sub channel and is inexpensive.

 

[atoz350 10+ year member]

Bump for more opinions...

 

[mazdakid 5,000+ posts]

i have an xtant 604x 6 channel in my garage. dont know if its anything like what your looking for though

 

[Worlddre 5,000+ posts]

604x = 4 channel //content.invisioncic.com/y282845/emoticons/fyi.gif.9f1f679348da7204ce960cfc74bca8e0.gif

 

[squeak9798 5,000+ posts]

The reason that I am looking around is that I want to see if there is a difference in SQ from my Kicker. My kicker was tested at a 1.2% THD which seems very high to me.

That level is inaudible. Don't waste your time and money switching amps for that reason....a reason you can't even hear.

Now, if you want to switch to gain something important, like more power....then that would be a good reason.