what happens if my amp is underpowered

[dman4486 5,000+ posts]

if there is a problem, which should be first in line for replacement? alternator or battery? also, which should i replace if i want to ensure a steady stream of 14+ volts to the amp? i'm not too concerned about powering everything with the car turned off. thanks.

if you want to supply a good 14+ vdc, then you need to have an alternator that can produce the amperage you need at the RPM you plan to run and do the big 3 so that the wire does not hold back the power.

A good battery is a must. small, or old is bad. stock replacement can be ok, but most will recommend a quicker discharge and/or sealed cell battery.

 

[ChrisUlrich 10+ year member]

if you want to supply a good 14+ vdc, then you need to have an alternator that can produce the amperage you need at the RPM you plan to run and do the big 3 so that the wire does not hold back the power.
A good battery is a must. small, or old is bad. stock replacement can be ok, but most will recommend a quicker discharge and/or sealed cell battery.

Why is this statement conflicting with everyone else's? Can you please explain why a small battery should be replaced with a bigger or better one?

Right now I am seeing between 13.0 - 13.3v with lights, stereo, and AC on. Stereo is not at full blast because I am still breaking in my new speakers, but it's still pretty loud.

Just trying to learn myself here.

EDIT: You should know that was the SAME voltage I saw before the stereo install.

 

[dman4486 5,000+ posts]

batteries can be another draw on a charging system...a new battery can have a lower internal resistance.

VERY GENERAL STATEMENTs TO FOLLOW!!!!

Resting voltage for a old and/or stock battery is typically in the lower 12's while a new battery and/or an AGM battery can be mid to upper 12's

 

[dman4486 5,000+ posts]

the battery will only make a difference when the engine is off or the draw is more than what the alternator can put out.

with engine off and system on, a larger(more capacity) battery will last longer than a smaller one with the same power draw