Johnny Drama
5,000+ posts
Banned
Is there a way to determine the most powerful amp I could use in my vehicle without having to upgrade the electrical system? Doesn't amp efficiency need to be factored in and how do you go about finding out how efficient a given amp is? I don't want to have to spend a bunch of moola on stuff like H.O. alternators, caps, additional batteries, etc.
'99 Corolla and I think the stock alternator is rated for 80 or 85 amps.
Ok now I can chime in.
There is only one way to determine the most powerful amp you can use. Try it out and see what happens.
Efficiency does NOT play enough of a factor into this in any way shape or form to worry about.
My suggestion. You drive a rather small car. You should find you a nice amp that will produce in the 1-1000 watt range, set the system up correctly and monitor your voltage at all times. If you don't have a voltage gauge in your car, get one. There are even ones that plug into your cigarettes lighter.
Ill add some math or something later when I get time.
