So I've decided to go with a new setup in the Max. Right now I have JL amps and sub. Looking for advice on a new sub amp, 4 channel and component speakers.

I am thinking about going with Memphis amps not sure what speakers yet. I hear a lot guys on here talk about Arc audio and Dynaudio or even Rainbow. All of which looks like nice stuff but I am not personally familiar with (never actually listened to this stuff).

So looking for some suggestions. I do work for a retail store and can get Infinity for super cheap and same for the Memphis stuff, but I would be willing to pay more if the other stuff is that much nicer.... Any suggestions?

 

Memphis makes *decent* stuff, if you cant get those cheap (amps only) and want to save money.. or just keep the amps you already have. JL makes decent amps IMO and since you already own them, you don't have to worry about their outrageous price points

Dyn/Arc/Raibow and more float around here because these products are much nicer than anything mainstream for the price, and not even. Rainbow comps or if you have the coin some Dyn's would blow you away if you're used to infinity or anything mainstream.

that said, contact Don (Pearl96Max). If you want to spend some money on a nice system, he is man to go to. Ask here if you want reviews on anything in particular, many members here have a variety of drivers and can give you a good review.

 

You should contact Don to get pricing on some Tru Technology amps. I just purchased the Tru S44 and I have to say, it's the cleanest sounding amp I've ever owned. Zero background hiss! As far as speakers go, I absolutely love the Focal's.

 

I might just go with Infinity Kappa Perfect components. I can get them for $144. So can't beat the price.

I am sellin the JL amps for $800. A 1000/1 and a broken 300/4. I don't want to bother sending the amp out to get fixed and I like my stuff to match.
So not set on amps yet. Still thinkin Memphis. But then do I keep my one 13.5" W7 or go with new subs? Maybe two?

What do Tru amps go for?

 

If you're settling with kappa components don't even bother asking the price on the Tru. There are better subs out there for less, than the W7. With the right box and power, 1 sub can get plenty loud for any basshead.

 

I'm running ARC a KS300.4 bridged to my front comps (Morel Dotech Ovation 6), I'm running another KS300.4 bridged to two 8" Hertz EBX200R subs, and I've got an ARC mini KS125.2 to power my ARC co-ax's in the back doors.

 

lol! yea... just did a lil research. My pockets aren't that deep.

The kappa perfects are nice components. I've put a few in cars. Just not sure I'm gonna notice that huge of a difference in sound for so much more money.

Any experience with the Memphis amps? A friend of mine has some older ones. I like the size and he's never had an issue with them.

ALso, how do you feel about a 5 channel compared to 1 sub amp and 1 four channel.

 

I've put a few Kappa comps in some cars as well. And while the difference isn't HUGE until you triple the price of the kappas, you can step into Rainbow SLC comp line for only about 50ish more. And the difference is definitely noticeable. I enjoy my sound as much as the next enthusiast, but I'm not one to sink 1000's in a stereo system, so I run these in my car. I love them, and even years later they surprise me often.

Memphis has a decent track record. I've only ever owned 1 memphis amp, and it was a sub amp. It never gave me any problems and it was fairly powerful.

as for 5 channel vs 4 + 1, doesn't really matter/its up to you. As long as on the 5 channel, the sub channel is enough for your sub (usually they're around 400-500w, only a few out there go as high as 1200 for the sub) they'll work fine. They're great for ease of install and sometimes nicer to your wallet. For max output tho, its much easier to find 75x4+ and 1000w+ in 2 separate amps.

 

You're starting to convince me to go with Rainbow!

I appreciate all the help!

Next question is.... What's the difference in all the different systems?
kick, kick ng and so forth?

 

Im not exactly certain. I know the kicks cost a bit more, but thats all I know. I think the ng was just added to the model name on the reg SLC comp line but Don will have to chime in.

 

Don has good pricing on the Tru amps.

 

Kicks have a bit more emphasis in the 80-180 range, although should not be crossed below 80.

NG = Next Generation. Simply speaking = newer model/design with added features.

TRU amps will certainly vary depending on line and model.

 

rainbow is a great choice. i ran the germanium and the soundlindes in the past.

 

Couple more questions... Is it worth the $200 to get my JL 4 channel fixed or sell both amps for $800 and start over?

Also where can I get some Rainbow comps? I saw them on woofersetc.com but just wondering if there are better prices out there?

 

sell them and start fresh.

also, i would stay away from woofersetc. they're not authorized to sell a lot of the higher end stuff. so in case you need warranty work, you may be out of luck. shoot pearl96max a PM. he'll help you out with rainbow products, AND he's authorized.

 

If you can get 800, DEF sell those JLs.

 

Yea I like installing new stuff! Makes me feel new again!!

How are the iPaul amps from Rainbow? The THD% was like 0.04 or something!!

So I guess I decided on Rainbow comps. Now tryin to figure out between amps.

Arc - KS1000.1 and KS300.4 OR FD1200.1 and FD4150

Memphis - 16MC1.1100 and 16MC4.75

Rainbow iPaul - DM2000 and 4.300

 

Arc or Rainbow would be better over the Memphis.

Again, Don should have both and is still a dealer for both, i believe.

 

yep, just give Don a call.

 

I pm'd him.

Anybody have experience with the iPauls or Arc?

Which would you say is best?

 

Still on the fence about the iPaul or Arc.

From what it looks like the only gain adjustment on the iPaul amps is though the remote ****.... Is that true?

Also, any thoughts on Boston comps or subs? I can get the pro60 for under $300 and the SPG555 for $300.

 

I can't speak on the iPaul vs Arc, but Boston makes great speakers. The Pro60s are a very warm, nice sounding set, I wouldn't mind owning a set of those comps in my car. The SPG is a really nice woofer. Great design, and gets very loud while sounding clean doing it, its surprising

If you get that stuff cheap it wouldn't be a bad way to go