Maybe I should have searched, but it is VERY late, and I am tired!

[SAG3 5,000+ posts]

You set the power output to however much you want by adjusting the gain.

 

[80_Cutlass_mn 10+ year member]

Eh...this is somewhat true. The gain is simply used to match the output of the amplifier with the input it receives from the h/u. Say you have a h/u that gives out a full 2 volts at full volume (this is just an example is not true to real world). If your amp has a gain adjustment of .2v-8v then lets say you set the gain to 1v. What this means is that when the h/u is at half volume giving out half its total output potential, the amplifier will be producing maximum power. Now if you turn the gain up to 2 volts then the amplifier will then produce half its rated power to correspond with the half full volume from the h/u. See its just used to match an amplifiers output with the h/u's. This is however an EXTREMELY rough example and in no way should be taken very seriously because even though it is true, it is alot more complicated than that. If you research gains then you will numerous threads about setting the gains and what exactly it is.

 

[geowick07 10+ year member]

i think that is a good explanation. that is the reason that to set gains correctly, (and at least relatively safely), you should use a DMM. then, adjust HU settings to your desire. if you have your gain all the way up on an amp, but your head unit is only on 5/50, then you are NOT getting max. output from your amp. otherwise, i would think it would sound as though you have no front-stage, just subwoofers and bass.

 

[geowick07 10+ year member]

and, to be totally off topic, what the hell do the squares under everyones names mean? just curious.

 

[80_Cutlass_mn 10+ year member]

Umm I actually believe its kinda like a status symbol. Shows your overall possible knowledge based on post count. Ive been a member a really really long time and still only have 4 but then again I only have 1800 posts...oh wait this is my 1800th post..WOOT!!!!

 

[geowick07 10+ year member]

its a milestone for ya, 80! party!!