When adding amps to you system, always make sure your vehicle's charging system (battery, alternator) is up to the task. A weak or worn battery or alternator may soon be history when the additional current demands that amp require are unleashed on it. Below are diagrams illustrating how to install your power amplifier(s). Proper installation is the key to unlocking peak performance and insuring long life out of your audio amplifiers.

When installing your amp(s), make sure you use adaquate gauge of power wire (consult the Recommended Wire Gauge Table linked from the Tech Center Main Page). ALWAYS use a fuse on the main 12V+ power wire (close to the battery terminal). This is not only to protect your amp(s), but more importantly, to protect your battery. If your power wire accidentally disconnects and grounds to the frame, the fuse will blow. Otherwise, it may be your battery that blows (literally).The Ground wire should be at least the same gauge as the power wire. Make sure you get good contact with the surface your grounding to. If it's a painted surface, scrape it to bare metal before connecting your ground. Poor grounding is a common culprit for system noise. Do not run your power wire along side the signal path (RCAs). That may cause the signal path to pick up radiated noise. A good rule of thumb is to run the power wiring down one side of the vehicle and the RCAs down the other.

PERFORMANCE TIP: Use good RCA cables! Compared to what you spent on your entire audio system, stepping up to high quality interconnects is one of the least expensive ways to get the whole setup to sound better. Not only can you audibly hear an improvement in sound with better RCA cables, you greatly improve you chances of eliminating system noise.