Is there any way to measure power for subs?

[jtomsic 5,000+ posts]

Watts Up Pro power meter

Testoon / instruments de mesure - Fluke 345 - Wattmeter clamp 1200/1650 kW 1400/2000 A - Wattmeter clamp

 

[keep_hope_alive Premium Member]

Calculations voltage current resistance and electric power calculator - electricity calculation - electrical power formula general ohms law physics electricity electronics formula wheel formulas amps watts volts ohms cosine equation audio engineering

Ohm's Law Calculators

Voltage = square root (power times resistance)

For more accuracy, use a scope and 0dB tones to verify the amplifier isn't clipping. This requires setting a max head unit volume and note using bass boost after setting gains can cause clipping when you reach max volume.

The purpose of amplifier gain is to maximize the incoming audio signal without clipping the amplifier. Stronger preout voltages require less gain. Preout voltage varies with music and program material, so you'll only get max output with a 0dB recorded signal.

I recommend tuning the system the way you like it, bass boost and EQ, then adjust the gains with a scope and test tones at 1/3rd octaves. Turn up the head unit to your loudest setting, either max or whatever number you will remember to stay below. Then adjust gains so you are just below clipping by verifying the waveform on the scope.

Using a DMM requires you know the actual RMS output of your amplifier(s). Sadly, since most amps have less power at 12V compared to 14.4V, the actual power will vary. If you set gains at 14.4V, some amps can clip at 12V. All depends on the amp construction, but you can verify with your scope.

 

[ChevyRidinLow]

Im not looking for cheapest, and thank you, but i am a high school student in my graduating year. I just want to see the numbers RIGHT as I go.

youd need an rms clamp and even then you need to use a dmm, btw rms clamps are over 150 dollars if they are accurate and the good ones are way more there is no difference between 1000 watts and 1006 watts, the difference is nominal. kid, your ignorance is amazing

 

[keep_hope_alive Premium Member]

MCMelectronics sells True RMS clamp DCA meters for $60