measuring gain level setting

[imral3 10+ year member]

is there any way to measure, using a digital multi-meter, the gain level on an amplifier to make sure it exactly matches the output of the head unit? if the HU rca is rated to put out 4.0v would the amp pass through rca out be the same 4.0v if the gain is set properly?

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[Abunai 10+ year member]

Depends on the manufacturer, and there is no reasonable way you can measure the gain on your amp with a multi-meter.

Most of the time if you have a 4-volt output you should turn the gain all the way counter-clockwise (or down).

If you don't have the gain numbers on your amp you would need to use an osscilliscope (can't spell) to measure the distortion, but the recommended is tune to distortion by ear then turn down 1/8th turn.