How do I check to see if I'm clipping/distorting on deck and subs?

[zorphon 10+ year member]

Title^.

I need to go pick up a DMM or o-scope as I have neither, but basically I'm wondering how I can check when I'm clipping on both my deck on mids and highs and for my subs.

I want to make sure I don't exceed a certain volume on my deck that causes distortion/clipping, but I already had the system professionally installed. What's the easiest way to check this without taking anything apart (since I am not entirely sure how to put it back together). Is it possible?

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[maylar 10+ year member]

It requires an oscilloscope and someone who knows how to read it.

 

[zorphon 10+ year member]

It requires an oscilloscope and someone who knows how to read it.

Do I need to take anything out to use the oscope? As in do I need to 'uninstall' anything?

 

[maylar 10+ year member]

No. You can check the outputs of your amp with the system playing. If you find clipping you can pull the RCA plugs at the amp and check for clipping coming from the HU.

 

[Kangaroux 5,000+ posts]

No. You can check the outputs of your amp with the system playing. If you find clipping you can pull the RCA plugs at the amp and check for clipping coming from the HU.

Just want to add that when you do this you want to shut the car off/turn off your headunit prior to removing the RCA's. Removing them while there is a signal going through it can cause stuff to blow

 

[LosIsATool 5,000+ posts]

You can do it with a DD-1 also. Everybody hates on them cause of the name on it but it works and is affordable