IMAGE DYNAMICS i5800 vs Zapco ST-5X

[dsw1204]

I am in the process of upgrading my car audio system. I am currently looking for a 5-channel amplifier, in and around the $300 range. Awhile ago, I almost purchased a Soundstream RUB5.800. It was about $160 and I thought I was going to find a helluva deal, but was convinced that was not my best choice for SQ.

I have, thus, narrowed my choice to two amps and would like your guys' opinions, thoughts, critiques. The two are: Zapco ST-5x and Image Dynamics i5800. I can get the Zapco for about $280 and the Image Dynamics for about $340. I've heard of Zapco and know they are a quality company...but, maybe not a good as they were before being bought out. I don't know Image Dynamics.

The two have similar specs. I can handle the $60 difference, but only if there is going to be a noticeable difference in SQ (and by that I mean dynamics, headroom, etc.). What do you think?

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[adulbrich 5,000+ posts]

I like Zapco. They have a lot of new neat SQ amps. That would be my choice

 

[dsw1204]

I like Zapco. They have a lot of new neat SQ amps. That would be my choice

What can you tell me of Image Dynamics? I probably should know the name, but I don't. Do they make as good (or better) an amp?

 

[adulbrich 5,000+ posts]

I've never ran them. I know they have some good sound quality subs though.

You won't hear a drastic difference between these amps when gains are set correctly.

 

[dsw1204]

I've never ran them. I know they have some good sound quality subs though.
You won't hear a drastic difference between these amps when gains are set correctly.

Well, if that is the case, then there really is no real choice here. The Zapco is $60 less expensive and without a substantial difference in SQ, then the Zapco will be my choice. Unless somebody else says differently.