Hello all, I am just wondering...is there a way to tell if the distortion you hear from your speakers is because of too much power to the speaker, or not enough power from the amp?...In other words, If I want it louder do I buy better speakers or more powerful amp?

 

Unfortunately, there is a little more to the question than you may realize. You don't necessarily need a very powerful amp to get alot of sound. It depends on how sensitive your speakers are, along with some other factors to a lesser degree (RCA input voltage, wiring, etc). Also keep in mind that some less reputable manufacturers will grossly overstate their specs as a marketing tool. If you give us more exact info, we could better assess your needs. Do you happen to have the exact model info for the speakers and amp(s) in question?

 

Yup, I have an Alpine CDA-9833 Deck with 4v preouts, and Alpine Type-R SPR-17LP all the way around, factory bose/clarion tweeters in the A pillars, the amp is...an Alpine MRP-F250, 40w x 4. the speakers say they can handle rms of 50 watts, and peak out at 250watts. 87db sensitivity. Also anyone know why i hear cracking when I turn it up loud?? It sounds like the factory bose tweeters...I don't believe they have a crossover hooked up to them, when I put the alpines in, I just left the tweeters as is. Oops, I guess thats kinda bad for the tweeters??

 

I have type r's with the f450 (70w). Have the same problem if its 2 loud and 2 much bass. Not sure if its the speakers that cant handle it or if their isnt enough power going to them. Comes from the 6.5 tho not the tweeter...kinda like its tryin to push more air than its capable of. My $.02. Might not be much help but at least you know you arent the only one.

 

Distortion could certainly be from not having a proper crossover or high/low-pass switch turned on. Looking at the pic on Crutchfield for that amp, I'd make sure you have the filter set to HP for the Alpine speakers and set the crossover at around 80-100 Hz. Test out the settings and see if it's any better and tweak as needed. I would avoid using the bose tweeters all together. If you want to use tweeters, get a matched component set. Don (pearl96max) on these forums has a shop in NJ and can get you a SWEET deal on some Rainbow components. Like $200 or so (I think) for an pretty damn good set if you're on a budget.