A viewer asked me for some help -- he lives on the other side of the globe and does not have access to the tools available in the US. But he does have a DMM. You can do a lot with a DMM, get one if you don' t have one. Multi-meter (inexpensive option): amzn.to/3exHjiD
Very simple easy to understand tutorial for setting the amp gain. Now my problem is this. I used a 50 Hz test tone to set my subwoofer amp gain to 31.62 volts ac with head unit at 75% volume. Amp is similar to the video, RF prime 500 watt rms monoblock, pushing a 500 rms 12” d4 sub wired parallel at 2 ohms. but now I have almost no bass? What am I doing wrong? I believe the issue is the test tone vs playing music where the rca signal voltage varies and is generally much lower on average vs the max signal voltage using the test tone. That’s my guess anyway.
I have been watching a crap load of videos all day on setting up amp gain on my amplifiers. I had watched several that were great, and some that should not even be allowed to be watched. I had came across yours and your video was THE BEST of all of them. Not only did you explain the why and the reasons, but also for if one had speakers that were rated lower than their amplifier, which was one of the things that I was looking for. Explaining the target voltage was clear and understandable. Even though I understand electricity, your explanation was direct and to the point. Thanks for a great video!
I just set my gains with this method, I’ve previously always used the “by ear method” and my system is somehow louder and clearer than it was before. Thanks DIY Audio Guy
Super easy to understand video and a solid full-proof way for anyone to set gains without spending a bunch of bucks. We need more useful videos like this in car audio. Thumbed up and subbed!
Last week I tried tuning my setup by ear like I have done since 1993. Well, I am using a Taramps hd3000 which is notorious for clipping with weak electrical. Long story short I over estimated my ear and clipped the sub to death. Ordered another sub and today, after watching this video, I set the gain with my multimeter and man that was easy. Thank you DIY Audio Guy
Just the other day I was helping a friend set gains with my O-scope. He has a buddy that used to work in a shop and his buddy set it by ear. Dude did not trust the ear method, but according to the O-scope it was dead on perfect.
That's going to depend on the amp and how the knob operates. But, if the goal is to prevent clipping then you will want to turn the bass knob all the way up before you set your gains. That way you will not clip with the knob all the way up.
Great video. I have a taramps hd3, 1 ohm, 1 channel. I will wired (4) speakers with 350 rms ea total of 1400 watts rms. So if i understand correctly (taramps said the amp whired at 2 ohms is 2000 watts) 2000 x 2 = 4000 sqr is 63.2 volts. But since i need only 1400 watts then it be 1400 x 2= 2800 & sqr is 52.9 volts is this correct?
This wasn’t mentioned at the beginning of the video where he talked about meters but I did notice he is using a TRUE RMS meter. You need a meter that is true rms. They will be accurate at many different frequencies. A general meter that is not true rms will only be accurate at 50-60Hz since they are made to measure wall voltage in a home, and that is what frequency 120-240 volts AC is. But an audio signal will go from 20Hz to 20kHz, and playing a test tone frequency of 1000Hz is going to generate a voltage that a standard meter will not be able to read accurately, but a true rms meter will. The free one from Harbor Freight will NOT read accurately for full range 20Hz-20kHz signals. If this is just a sub amp, then it might be ok, because you could simply use a test tone frequency of 50-60Hz and get an accurate output reading.
Its called source level and in aftermarket head units can be found in settings. Eave though if you are using an good quality amplifier it doesn't matter if the head unit is clipping. The singnal going in the amplifier is going through a procession that removes clipping from the input. That's why it's so important to adjust gain correctly
@@andreasbongdacity2854 well, the subs are going to amp, but .....4 door speakers are feeding from the Sony head unit. 55x4 Im gonna look for sourse level this evening, if I find it I will bump it down just a hair. thanx
1000% agree with you mainly for customer to keep them from blowing up equipment when they play some trash quality file over bluetooth. Personally i could care less as long as the knob adjustment is fine enough and doesnt have massive jumping in level each number. Since the numbers to me are worthless i use my ears.
@@andreasbongdacity2854 This is completely false. There’s no way to remove clipping from a signal. You can counteract it by turning down like how a compressor works but it’s still going to be a distorted wave.
Great information thanks. One question I have is should I use the amp's quoted "RMS" wattage or the quoted "MAX" wattage? And the same for the speakers.
I stumbled on this video looking at one of your other videos and this answered a question I've been having for a while. I assume this would be a good way to match the outputs of two similar but not identical amps. Thank you very much for making this video!
What's nice bout the Kenwood amps, is the gains are clearly listed to match the RCA voltage on your head unit (1v-5v). No guessing work, my Kenwood single din unit has 4v RCA outs, so I slightly turn the nob from all the way down (5v) just up to 4v on the amp. Its literally a perfect clip free 50w at 100% volume from the head unit ^_^
Great video. Setting up a system. Amp at 240 RMS bridged to 250 RMS speaker. 4 ohms. (240×4=960) square root 30.98... that will be my max voltage on the multimeter. Other speakers: 100 RMS amp to 150 RMS speaker. 4 ohms. (100 x 4 = 400) square root is 20. So multimeter AC volts should be max of 20. Hope this looks correct. Your video was amazing!!! Huge help and so simple! Thanks!
Awesome video I used my liumy O-scope to set the gains on mine and I made sure to write down the voltage I was getting on each one since it shows it to the side👍
Because people trust and like you... We need you to do this same set up... But on a head unit with a subwoofer channel.... And a amp with a bass knob... So people understand that the subwoofer channel level is not a volume..it works like a fader in can be at max 10 when you set up your deck and amp... And people need to know that a bass knob needs to be in full before you set your gains.... These these are two very important factors... That have only caused arguments on Facebook groups... Why I'm asking you is Cause I've taken electronics.. and You speak my language
New Sub!!! Thank you so much for this video, just installed a complete Timpano system and no one could tune it; thanks to this vid I could finally tune it myself and now it sounds great and it’s not clipping at high volumes! 🙌🏼🔥
That is based on the amount of power that you plan on using, or the amount of power that your speakers can handle. Whichever is lowest. So if you have a 75 watt per channel amplifier going into speakers ready for 75 watts per channel then you want to set your gain so that you get 75 watts per channel. I've got a couple more videos on the process. This one shows a cost-effective alternative and gives you some more examples of how to use the multimeter correctly. ua-cam.com/video/c-UTA59pfPA/v-deo.html
I have a question for you. I always run my head unit bass setting at negative 4, so that my dash and door speakers don't get too much bass. Those all run off the power of the head unit, no external amplifier. Even at negative 4, the door speakers are plenty loud and have plenty of bass. When I set the input gain on my subwoofer amp, would I want to leave the head unit's bass setting at negative 4, being that's how I always run it? Everything I've read says that you want to set everything to "flat", which doesn't make sense to me if that's not how it's normally ran.
You have to set everything flat to get an accurate reading, and a lot of times people will turn on their bass boost or crank their bass up causing clipping and distortion. If you're trying to shape the sound it's always better to cut instead of boost. Since you are cutting you're probably not going to do any damage. but you're not going to get the best possible sound either. If your head unit has a crossover then you can use the crossover to pull the bass out of your door and dash speakers. In the end always remember that it's your gear and you can set it up anyway that you like.
That makes things a little more complicated. You can use a digital multimeter to test the voltage on the RCA output of the head unit and the EQ. Most of them should pump out 2 to 4 volts maximum. If I were you I'd pick up in a siloscope so that you can test for clipping. ua-cam.com/video/oBNETr9AHwA/v-deo.html
@@DIYAudioGuy come payday that's definitely on the list. from reading manuals i know the deck puts out 2v, and the eq can put out as much as 7v, and the amps input sensitivity max out at 4v, so ideally i'd want the eq to bump up the 2v from the deck to the 4v the amp can take correct?
By the way if your amplifier is in a hard to reach spot or you can’t get to the speaker terminals of the amplifier, you can measure at the end of the speaker cable where it connects to the speaker. Just make sure to disconnect the speaker and measure the speaker leads.
@@DIYAudioGuy Indeed. Mine was pushing my Ultimax 10 for a while with Channel 3 & 4 Bridged. Didn't complain one bit. Now I have a dedicated amp for the sub though.
Every 'pro' audio guy I have ever talked to has these 'hard limits' like you just mentioned (3:13) but I firmly believe it is 100% because of how you guys learned to do stereo stuff. Everything I learned was from practical application or self taught and I'll admit I have blown some equipment, but the limits you guys mention are hilarious and the things you think will happen if you go above/beyond those limits are wholly comical. 99.9% of the time, unless you have wired something very, very wrong or have gone hilariously above the limit (on purpose a huge majority of the time), you're probably just going to get protection mode constantly, distorted sound, or overheat your equipment over and over. Unless whatever you are using is old or was beat to crap/put over it's limits consistently for weeks or months, you're more then likely ok to prod those limits with trial and error.
I highly recommend using a bass control knob. It’s like having the gain control right on your dashboard for those old-school songs that need to be turned up
@@DIYAudioGuy well I bought a JL Audio JX500/1 for $149 on sale 6 years ago. So I’m stuck with their overpriced garbage pot with no clip light (SOLD SEPARATELY) But I’m an adult, so I don’t need a clip light anyway.
For those fine adjustment knobs drill a hole in a ruler big enough to jam the screwdriver in. Then you have an adjuster with a wider arc and you can hit those mv numbers.
I have set my gains according to your video and now I have no problems on my amplifier. Thank you. My subs pumps hard and it never did clip. Again thank you.
This is a good rudimentary way to set gain without DD-1 or O scope. The only issue i see is you don't account for attenuation when running signal via Bluetooth. Most people run their phone volume to max when running BT and that can dirty your signal for sure.
I might also add. I like how you recommend the kicker audio files for test tones. I'd rather point someone that route than to play a random tone generator. The files from kicker are setup with different recording levels 0db, -5db and -10db to help tailor your gain matching even further. Again in addressing attenuation I've always downloaded these files to either a CD or zip drive. You know 100% your signal is super clean that way. I do have a future video idea if you haven't done one yet. A full front to back gain matching. I.e. from the source unit to a DSP, EQ, ect. Showingthe importance of adjusting your gain from the source unit at every piece of gear in the line and ultimately at your amp. Great videos as always and your edit is coming along nicely btw. Keep up the great work.
So i got a quick question i set my sub up and i tune the amp gain up but when i turn it up it doesnt move much like a tiny bit but wen i turn up the bass boost it bumps i dont know what could be wrong before in my charger it bump with gain now in my dart it doesnt
You're not the only one recommending to do the set-up with the volume at 75%... Please explain this fine audience what the down-side of tuning a stereo for 100% volume. We are talking about cars and they should be functional, regardless if the one and only driver is using it, the one who knows about a 75% limit... I would hate to get into someone's car (for various reasons, including emergency situations) and brake something... So what';s the downside of doing all the adjustment to accommodate 100% volume? Thanks!
It's just a rule of thumb. Like all rules of thumb they don't always work. There are better ways to set up your amplifier, but those methods require more tools.
How do we deal with roll off from the factory unit when trying to set using a test tone. 3/4 way up on Ford B&O with a 40hz test tone and the factory system compensates with rolling off the bass once you crank it up. Should I use a -5 or -10 40hz test tone instead?
Good day can you help me adjust my crossover which has a built-in line driver if 5v to match my mids and sub amp and what can I use if I don't have a DD1 available... Can a multimeter be used...?
What would cause a voltage difference between left and right side of the same channel? For example, in my 4 chanel amp there are 2 gain controls. 1 for channel A (fronts) 1 for channel B (rears) Channel A left speaker will read 15v Channel A right speaker will read 7 or 8 Channel B left -15v Channel B right - 7V Using an lc7i from stock head unit in an 05 Acura Tl, to pioneer gmd8604 4 channel amp.
If it were just a few volts I would call it normal variance, but that seems excessive. Cold be the LC7i, I think it has a right and a left gain, but I don't have one handy to double check that. Make sure the balance on the head unit is set to the middle as well.
Do you know any videos that do? I've looked around a bit but haven't found anything. I've been into car audio for a long time but sadly have never used bass knobs with with volt meters nor do i know how to calibrate it with my cars actual voltage.
just a question, to find my target voltage am i taking my: *RMS power of amp and Ohm rating of amp* (RP1200.1D) OR *RMS power of amp and Ohms my speakers will be wired to*(RP1200.1D x Speakers wired to 2 ohms) Other than this question pretty straight forward video!
i am using a powerus 5k on a sub that can handle 8k so do i set the voltage to 89v ( SQUARE OF 8K at 1ohm load ) or do i set the voltage to match 5k which is the amp
If i have component speakers that run at 150rms and 40rms, would I just add those two together at 190? So 190rms @ 4ohms would be 760 and my target volts would be 27.5?
I have a 2000 watt mono block amp. It puts out 2000 at 1ohm. I have 4 8s that are 400rms a piece. Thats 1600watts, There wired down to 1 ohm. If I was to set my gain would it be 2000 x 1ohm or 1600 x 1ohm to find the voltage. Thanks
You can check the preout voltage of the head unit through the rcas Set multimeter to ac Play a 40hz tone with the rcas unplugged volume max(whatever it is for you probably 3/4 like he said in the video) Probe the male end with positive and the shielding with negative Boom preout voltage, look online to figure out how many v of clean preout yours is and match from there turning the volume up or down if needed
I’m confuse, so is the reason for not going above 75% volume is so that you won’t blow the door speakers or blow the subwoofer? Can you blow the subwoofer going above 75% volume on the radio after setting the gain?
You should be able to find the clip point by testing the voltage @ your rca outpout. If the headunit specs call for 4v preouts then youd look for that AC voltage testing the center pin and outer shell of the rca.
After watching all your videos , I installed my amp and speakers. sounds great. The only question I have is that the voltage per channel is 16.12. The rear speakers have a volt of 24.5, do I setup the amp for the per channel voltage 16.12 or for the rear speakers to 24.5. Note. the front speakers and a voltage of 14.14 Thank for all the information
You typically have a separate gain control for front and rear, set them both either based on the power rating of the amp or the speakers, whichever is smaller. Another trick, if you want to emphasize the front stage you can reduce the gain on the rear channels.
I would, but I do get how that may be a bit of a pain. If the aftermarket head unit has a crossover or a fader you should be able to turn off the speakers.
Hi there , thanks for reply. I have focal flex evo p20 fse subwoofer with focal FDS 1.350 And also focal flex evo ps165 f3e 3 way component speakers Also hertz for back doors mpx 165.3 pro With two amps from focal fpx 4.800 for midwoofer and hertz spekers FDS 4.350 For mid speakers and tweeter Can have set volume for all these please. Thanks
I'm not familiar with the gear so I can't tell you how to set it up. I would advise you to reach out to the dealer that sold you the equipment or reach out to focal customer service.
Do you multiply the rms by the lowest ohm the amp is rated or by your speaker impedance? My amp is 40wrms@4 or 60@2. My speaker final impedance with a tweeter is 2.66ohms. What do I multiply 2.66 with?
I have a kicker cxa400.1 says on the sheet for 1ohm I'll get 400w and the volts should be 20.00v I'm running two 10s 200w dvc 4 ohm each I set my gain at the 20.00v am I right?
If i split my rca kabel wil the voltage be the same or split in 2?. What i tried with A 4channel amp is put 1 rca in chanel 1 and the other in chanel 3 the voltage won’t go to 26 only 20max
My amp is a 2000 watts. My voltage output is very low and idk why. It was in this truck before attached to the same battery and not just isnt pushing power. I need it at 44 volts and with the gain all the way its only at 10volts. Any ideas on my problem?
Thanks for the great video but when i put my multimeter to my terminals the voltage jumps around. Tried 2 different multimeters and some results. Any help?
What about when you have a Line Out Converter? It has it's own gain pot and led light. Leave that gain at zero, dial in amp gain, and add more gain from the LOC if needed? Or should it be reverse order? I've set it by ear before, with the LOC gain maxed out first before setting the Amps gain. I've just went back and dialed in the amp gain first, then added more gain from the LOC to reach my desired voltage. With both ways, the LOCs clip light never gets triggered.
I have a phonics digital amp 1,000 watt model pd-2610 I have level, hpf, life, dials and also I'm powering it with a xbox brick it's details is input: 100v-127v~4.8A, 50/60Hz output: 12v-16.5A, 5vsb-1.0A but I don't know how to set the settings correctly?
I adjusted the voltage to 17 because my amp's speaker output is 75 RMS per channel running at 4 ohms at 75% volume with an 1000 htz tone and i burnt my speaker coils because my speakers were only 25 RMS at 4 ohms.
Do I have to turn up my lpf when setting my gains because when I do it messes with the voltage, so should I leav it at 80hz and get my target voltage while leaving it at 80hz
I have a situation not sure about. I'm getting ready to fire up an old school 2 channel amp in bridged mode the owner's manual doesn't say but I believe I use a y adapter to utilize both inputs. So does this mean that both gain pots will adjust the output voltage. And if so .... Not sure.
A two channel amp with two gain pots? That is unusual. Other than just experimenting with the amps to see what it does with/without two sets of RCA's installed I don't know what to tell you. Which amp are you using?
Before adjusting gain, where should my bass boost , LP and HP filters be set at? Other videos have mentioned to set the bass boost at 0 and the LP and HP filters to highest before setting gain. What’s your opinion on this? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks
Actually no, you want to hit maximum voltage with the bass boost set where you plan to use it. If you plan on adding some boost to certain music, turn it on to the highest setting, set your gain using this method, then turn the boost back down, now you know you can add some boost without clipping. It’s worth noting that if you use boost on your head unit, the max volume you can set it to may be lower. Instead of 75% volume you may be limited to 65% volume. You won’t know actual volume until you use an oscilloscope.
W x ohms. I have a 4 channel amp, each channel gives 50rms. Do I use 50w rms for W or should I use all the channels rms together for W? Or peak power output for each channel? And also, If I run two 4ohm speakers, do I just use 4ohm in the equation or should I add the two speaker together and use 8ohm?
That would mean something like taking a pair of speakers that are rated 4 ohms nominal each and then connecting them parallel to one channel of an amplifier. Bridging is combining a pair of output channels into one channel. Bridging does have an impact on the minimum impedance that the amplifier can handle. Most four-channel amps, for example, are two ohms stable per channel but when you bridge them they're only four ohm stable.
@@DIYAudioGuy Thanks. Explained perfectly. That was tripping me up reading the specs on Sound Digital amps because they have both 4ohm and 2ohm amps and the 4ohm version can be ran with a 2ohm load.
I’m setting gains on a 6 channel amp with the multimeter. 4 of the channels are going to be 4 ohm @165 watts The other 2 are parallel at 2 ohms @290 watts. When setting volts do I count both channels when finding voltage square root or do I do a single channel in the math equation. 4ohm x 165 watts\ 25.69 volts All the way count both channels in the math equation 4 ohm x 330/ 36.33 volts
I tried this but my there’s no voltage at my speaker outputs, RCAS are in, ive got 12v at supply of the amp, when I put the speaker cable on the terminals the speakers play the tone, and My multi meter is on AC, but I’ve got absolutely nothing coming up on my multi meter. What could be going on here? Also great video, cheers!
I have a factory headunit and im using a line out converter. Im running 2 dual 4ohm subs 650rms. On a sundown 2000rms amp subs are wired at 1ohm. I need help to figure out how to set the gain im confused. I only want about 800rms going to the subs.
I don't Have a video covering that specifically. But I do have several videos covering how to set up each individual piece. ua-cam.com/video/oBNETr9AHwA/v-deo.html
I also recommend that you go ahead and get an inexpensive oscilloscope instead of using a digital multimeter. They've gotten really cheap. ua-cam.com/video/c-UTA59pfPA/v-deo.html
I will be adding a sub to my Jeep soon with a mono or Class D amp. When I run the tone though the head unit the sound will still play through the door speakers since they aren't amped. Do I really have to pull them all out and disconnect them at the speaker? Or is there another way to keep the tone out of the door speakers? Thanks!
Autosound 2000 (richard clark) used to sell a test CD with various frequencies that increased in volume to MHBL (the most output a CD can achieve) then exceeded it with an intentionally clipped signal so you can view what clipping should look like on your Oscope, then repeated the same tone up to MHBL without clipping it. I found a super simple (only went to 100khz) BK crt oscope at a surplus store for $100 and never blew a speaker again.
@@DIYAudioGuy was that a Buick he won the SQ championship with? (With USD audio HLCDs) Or was it a T bird? I love horns, there nothing else that sounds so impressive tho theyre a pain to tune.
Hello diy audioguy. Thanks for your videos. The gain is adjusted for both subwoofers and mid and high speakers with the same Output Power (14.4 V) @ 4 ohm. This is the Output Power specification for the Powerbass Amp ASA3-700.5
What deos it mean if my meter is only reading about 1.5-2.5 volts when i turn the gain up and with it off and 40hz playing im resting at less than 0.050 volts
Awesome video. I think I missed the part about adding bass boost after three gain is on point. Anybody know if its safe to add bass boost after setting the gain?
You can use a DMM to find your head unit clipping by figuring out what your preouts voltage is from the manufacturer and then use a 0db 50hz test tone,turn the head unit volume all the way up as well as the subwoofer volume on the head unit,then run your test tone and attach the ground of the dmm to the outer pins on the rca and the positive to the center pin on the rca,say your preouts are 2 volt preouts. The dmm should read around 2.8 volts not the dmm,turn the volume knob on the receiver down till it hits the target 2 volts 😎
So I did the 75% of the volume, I’m running a 1 ohm load, my amp is 2500 watts that’ll put me at 50 volts, connected the multimeter probes and it sent my amp into protect mode while trying to set my gains. What did I do wrong???
@@DIYAudioGuy I wasn’t able to measure it honestly. I’m having an issue where my inside speakers cut out at high volume regardless if I set the gains. Someone suggested it might be an electrical issue. I have an extra battery for my 4-channel but didn’t upgrade the alternator, so hopefully that solves it
Sub woofer is 600w rms @ dual voice coil @ 4 ohms, i wire it to produce 2ohms, monoblock is rated at 500w rms @ 2ohms, which rms should i use to calculate the voltage? Amplifier or subwoofer? Does punch equaliser have effect on this process? If yes shoul it be at min level or maximum level while setting up the gain? Does cabinet tuning affect this process in any way? Thanks great video learnt alot.
Always go with the lower number, so 500 watts in your case. I don't recommend using any kind of bass boost. If you have the amp tune so you're just on the edge of clipping turning on the bass boost will cause clipping. ua-cam.com/video/KSdnrBI7a90/v-deo.html The box tuning doesn't matter, but you may need an infrasonic filter. ua-cam.com/video/iWRoIho7A7c/v-deo.html
And one more doubt is that, in every videos regarding the gain setting , they are using RCA input.. is that mandatory.. ?? What would happen if I use speaker level input instead of RCA while doing the Gain setting...
When you are setting the gain on the amp you want to make sure that all crossovers are off, any EQ on the head unit set to flat, and the speakers need to be disconnected from the amp. But, if you have a bass knob (or a bass level on the head unit) you want that turned all the way up. It works the same way if you use line-level inputs.
@@DIYAudioGuy All crossovers on the amp should be off, what if you cannot turn the crossover off you can only turn it down to 50 as in a kicker CX 1200.1? Great video. New subscriber.
Thanks I was going to set it off a single channel but did it bridged. I then checked both channels individually and they were only about a volt below what the calculation says so I think I’m safe either way and not giving up any audible difference if not
So the amplifier puts out ac voltage, and that voltage doesnt change when you add a load? Im trying to set my gain by doing this but my final load is 1 ohm, wonder if the voltage changes when you change the load on the amp
A viewer asked me for some help -- he lives on the other side of the globe and does not have access to the tools available in the US. But he does have a DMM. You can do a lot with a DMM, get one if you don' t have one.
Multi-meter (inexpensive option): amzn.to/3exHjiD
Where'd you get the Blaupunkt? The memories...
Thanks for the video,wasn't sure if I had my gains right and only had a multi-meter. Kudos!
Amazon: amzn.to/2YDhqXM
They are not what they were back in the day, but they are cheap and they work.
@@DIYAudioGuy Should i set my gain before or after setting crossovers?
Very simple easy to understand tutorial for setting the amp gain. Now my problem is this. I used a 50 Hz test tone to set my subwoofer amp gain to 31.62 volts ac with head unit at 75% volume. Amp is similar to the video, RF prime 500 watt rms monoblock, pushing a 500 rms 12” d4 sub wired parallel at 2 ohms. but now I have almost no bass? What am I doing wrong? I believe the issue is the test tone vs playing music where the rca signal voltage varies and is generally much lower on average vs the max signal voltage using the test tone. That’s my guess anyway.
I have been watching a crap load of videos all day on setting up amp gain on my amplifiers. I had watched several that were great, and some that should not even be allowed to be watched. I had came across yours and your video was THE BEST of all of them. Not only did you explain the why and the reasons, but also for if one had speakers that were rated lower than their amplifier, which was one of the things that I was looking for. Explaining the target voltage was clear and understandable. Even though I understand electricity, your explanation was direct and to the point.
Thanks for a great video!
Glad to be of help!
I just set my gains with this method, I’ve previously always used the “by ear method” and my system is somehow louder and clearer than it was before. Thanks DIY Audio Guy
I'm glad it worked for you!
@@DIYAudioGuy now to save up for an oscilloscope or maybe even an SMD
Hands down the BEST tutorial on UA-cam for this. Answered every question I had -- when other tutorials didn't. Thank you so much!
Thanks!
Fantastic video! Didn't get snarky with viewers who complained. Didn't try to sell an overpriced in house product. This guy, is subscribed!
You are far to kind. Thank you.
Super easy to understand video and a solid full-proof way for anyone to set gains without spending a bunch of bucks. We need more useful videos like this in car audio. Thumbed up and subbed!
That's what I was shooting for.
Thanks for the info, bud. Helped me out when I had no idea.
Thanks for the tip! I appreciate you.
Great way to set gains without breaking the bank on single use tools. Thanks DIY Audio Guy!
I have some more short videos like this on the works.
Last week I tried tuning my setup by ear like I have done since 1993. Well, I am using a Taramps hd3000 which is notorious for clipping with weak electrical. Long story short I over estimated my ear and clipped the sub to death. Ordered another sub and today, after watching this video, I set the gain with my multimeter and man that was easy. Thank you DIY Audio Guy
Just the other day I was helping a friend set gains with my O-scope. He has a buddy that used to work in a shop and his buddy set it by ear. Dude did not trust the ear method, but according to the O-scope it was dead on perfect.
I like you guy, pretty cool how you shouted out all the other channels I been watching
Yea, there is so much great info on UA-cam. Not like it was when I was a teenager. You just had to trust the shop selling the gear.
@@DIYAudioGuy I have found the issue. It was something with the rca but it is all fixed now👍Thanks.
This guy is the best. Unlike most other channels this guy explains things very well.
You are too kind.
Great information. What if I have a bass knob (I do)? What do I do with that?
That's going to depend on the amp and how the knob operates. But, if the goal is to prevent clipping then you will want to turn the bass knob all the way up before you set your gains. That way you will not clip with the knob all the way up.
@@DIYAudioGuy Thanks for the response!
Great video. I have a taramps hd3, 1 ohm, 1 channel. I will wired (4) speakers with 350 rms ea total of 1400 watts rms. So if i understand correctly (taramps said the amp whired at 2 ohms is 2000 watts) 2000 x 2 = 4000 sqr is 63.2 volts. But since i need only 1400 watts then it be 1400 x 2= 2800 & sqr is 52.9 volts is this correct?
Bravo! This is your best video to date
Thank you!
This wasn’t mentioned at the beginning of the video where he talked about meters but I did notice he is using a TRUE RMS meter. You need a meter that is true rms. They will be accurate at many different frequencies. A general meter that is not true rms will only be accurate at 50-60Hz since they are made to measure wall voltage in a home, and that is what frequency 120-240 volts AC is. But an audio signal will go from 20Hz to 20kHz, and playing a test tone frequency of 1000Hz is going to generate a voltage that a standard meter will not be able to read accurately, but a true rms meter will. The free one from Harbor Freight will NOT read accurately for full range 20Hz-20kHz signals. If this is just a sub amp, then it might be ok, because you could simply use a test tone frequency of 50-60Hz and get an accurate output reading.
Thank you for this comment. More people need to know this, as I rarely hear it in amp communities and such.
I wish the headunits had a lock point for the volume knobs on the units so that you can turn it wide open to 100 & its fine.
Its called source level and in aftermarket head units can be found in settings. Eave though if you are using an good quality amplifier it doesn't matter if the head unit is clipping. The singnal going in the amplifier is going through a procession that removes clipping from the input. That's why it's so important to adjust gain correctly
@@andreasbongdacity2854 well, the subs are going to amp, but .....4 door speakers are feeding from the Sony head unit. 55x4 Im gonna look for sourse level this evening, if I find it I will bump it down just a hair. thanx
kenwood has a volume offset setting so you can set your max volume setting
1000% agree with you mainly for customer to keep them from blowing up equipment when they play some trash quality file over bluetooth. Personally i could care less as long as the knob adjustment is fine enough and doesnt have massive jumping in level each number. Since the numbers to me are worthless i use my ears.
@@andreasbongdacity2854 This is completely false. There’s no way to remove clipping from a signal. You can counteract it by turning down like how a compressor works but it’s still going to be a distorted wave.
Finally!! Not some over complicated bs that suggest you buy $200 meters. Thank you!!
Glad to help!
@@DIYAudioGuy do you have a video on setting the LPF at exactly 80 hz for a sub amp?
ua-cam.com/video/bNauOkzdTRM/v-deo.html
Great information thanks. One question I have is should I use the amp's quoted "RMS" wattage or the quoted "MAX" wattage? And the same for the speakers.
RMS, for both.
Never EVER go by "Max" or "peak". These are pretty much meaningless ratings
I stumbled on this video looking at one of your other videos and this answered a question I've been having for a while. I assume this would be a good way to match the outputs of two similar but not identical amps. Thank you very much for making this video!
Yes, this is a great way to gain match two amplifiers.
Directly to the point, I subscribed!!! T.y
Welcome to the adventure!
So why did we get a square root for the amp Nd subs??confused
What's nice bout the Kenwood amps, is the gains are clearly listed to match the RCA voltage on your head unit (1v-5v). No guessing work, my Kenwood single din unit has 4v RCA outs, so I slightly turn the nob from all the way down (5v) just up to 4v on the amp. Its literally a perfect clip free 50w at 100% volume from the head unit ^_^
Great video. Setting up a system. Amp at 240 RMS bridged to 250 RMS speaker. 4 ohms. (240×4=960) square root 30.98... that will be my max voltage on the multimeter.
Other speakers: 100 RMS amp to 150 RMS speaker. 4 ohms. (100 x 4 = 400) square root is 20. So multimeter AC volts should be max of 20.
Hope this looks correct.
Your video was amazing!!! Huge help and so simple! Thanks!
Looks right to me.
Awesome video I used my liumy O-scope to set the gains on mine and I made sure to write down the voltage I was getting on each one since it shows it to the side👍
I do it the same way.
Because people trust and like you... We need you to do this same set up... But on a head unit with a subwoofer channel.... And a amp with a bass knob... So people understand that the subwoofer channel level is not a volume..it works like a fader in can be at max 10 when you set up your deck and amp... And people need to know that a bass knob needs to be in full before you set your gains.... These these are two very important factors... That have only caused arguments on Facebook groups... Why I'm asking you is Cause I've taken electronics.. and You speak my language
That video is definitely on my list. Just waiting for a good chance to make it.
New Sub!!! Thank you so much for this video, just installed a complete Timpano system and no one could tune it; thanks to this vid I could finally tune it myself and now it sounds great and it’s not clipping at high volumes! 🙌🏼🔥
Fantastic I hope you get a lot of joy out of your system.
How to check what gain I need for speakers
That is based on the amount of power that you plan on using, or the amount of power that your speakers can handle. Whichever is lowest.
So if you have a 75 watt per channel amplifier going into speakers ready for 75 watts per channel then you want to set your gain so that you get 75 watts per channel.
I've got a couple more videos on the process. This one shows a cost-effective alternative and gives you some more examples of how to use the multimeter correctly.
ua-cam.com/video/c-UTA59pfPA/v-deo.html
I have a question for you. I always run my head unit bass setting at negative 4, so that my dash and door speakers don't get too much bass. Those all run off the power of the head unit, no external amplifier. Even at negative 4, the door speakers are plenty loud and have plenty of bass. When I set the input gain on my subwoofer amp, would I want to leave the head unit's bass setting at negative 4, being that's how I always run it? Everything I've read says that you want to set everything to "flat", which doesn't make sense to me if that's not how it's normally ran.
You have to set everything flat to get an accurate reading, and a lot of times people will turn on their bass boost or crank their bass up causing clipping and distortion. If you're trying to shape the sound it's always better to cut instead of boost. Since you are cutting you're probably not going to do any damage. but you're not going to get the best possible sound either.
If your head unit has a crossover then you can use the crossover to pull the bass out of your door and dash speakers.
In the end always remember that it's your gear and you can set it up anyway that you like.
@@DIYAudioGuy Thank you!
how about the subwoofer output level on the head unit would you sent this to max?
Me useing the exact amp he said not to use
That Alpine is okay bro
No he was using it as an example that's a quality amp.
so i added an in dash eq between the deck and the amps, it has it's own gain knob, does that get set the same way?
That makes things a little more complicated. You can use a digital multimeter to test the voltage on the RCA output of the head unit and the EQ. Most of them should pump out 2 to 4 volts maximum. If I were you I'd pick up in a siloscope so that you can test for clipping. ua-cam.com/video/oBNETr9AHwA/v-deo.html
@@DIYAudioGuy come payday that's definitely on the list. from reading manuals i know the deck puts out 2v, and the eq can put out as much as 7v, and the amps input sensitivity max out at 4v, so ideally i'd want the eq to bump up the 2v from the deck to the 4v the amp can take correct?
Yep
One of the best illustrations of gain settings, out there! Easy subscribe!
Thanks for the sub!
By the way if your amplifier is in a hard to reach spot or you can’t get to the speaker terminals of the amplifier, you can measure at the end of the speaker cable where it connects to the speaker. Just make sure to disconnect the speaker and measure the speaker leads.
Yes, that works.
I was going to say I have that same amp... but that's a R400-4D and I have the Class AB R300X4 haha.
Also really clear and on point. Good job!
Both are great amps.
@@DIYAudioGuy Indeed. Mine was pushing my Ultimax 10 for a while with Channel 3 & 4 Bridged. Didn't complain one bit. Now I have a dedicated amp for the sub though.
Hell yeah brother!
Every 'pro' audio guy I have ever talked to has these 'hard limits' like you just mentioned (3:13) but I firmly believe it is 100% because of how you guys learned to do stereo stuff.
Everything I learned was from practical application or self taught and I'll admit I have blown some equipment, but the limits you guys mention are hilarious and the things you think will happen if you go above/beyond those limits are wholly comical. 99.9% of the time, unless you have wired something very, very wrong or have gone hilariously above the limit (on purpose a huge majority of the time), you're probably just going to get protection mode constantly, distorted sound, or overheat your equipment over and over.
Unless whatever you are using is old or was beat to crap/put over it's limits consistently for weeks or months, you're more then likely ok to prod those limits with trial and error.
Better to be safe than sorry. If you need it louder, buy better equipment.
I constantly blow subs and speakers from overpowering them cause I’m too cheap to have someone with a DD 1 set them and I just set it by ear. 😂🤦🏻♂️
I highly recommend using a bass control knob. It’s like having the gain control right on your dashboard for those old-school songs that need to be turned up
I recommend using one that has a clip light.
@@DIYAudioGuy well I bought a JL Audio JX500/1 for $149 on sale 6 years ago. So I’m stuck with their overpriced garbage pot with no clip light (SOLD SEPARATELY) But I’m an adult, so I don’t need a clip light anyway.
@@johnviera3884 That's a hell of a deal on that amplifier.
@@DIYAudioGuy $60 for the bass knob. Lol
It’s an ok amp.
S/N Ratio is only 62db
What test tune frequency should you use? Or does it matter?
For those fine adjustment knobs drill a hole in a ruler big enough to jam the screwdriver in. Then you have an adjuster with a wider arc and you can hit those mv numbers.
Clever trick.
Can you teach us how to use a oscope to find where head units clip and how to set your gains with one.
Sure, I can do that.
ua-cam.com/video/oBNETr9AHwA/v-deo.html
Thanks very much. Now I can try to do this tomorrow for my 1500 amp RF.
I have set my gains according to your video and now I have no problems on my amplifier. Thank you. My subs pumps hard and it never did clip. Again thank you.
Awesome, glad it worked!
This is a good rudimentary way to set gain without DD-1 or O scope. The only issue i see is you don't account for attenuation when running signal via Bluetooth. Most people run their phone volume to max when running BT and that can dirty your signal for sure.
Otherwise great video as always and keep the content coming.
That is a good point!
I might also add. I like how you recommend the kicker audio files for test tones. I'd rather point someone that route than to play a random tone generator. The files from kicker are setup with different recording levels 0db, -5db and -10db to help tailor your gain matching even further. Again in addressing attenuation I've always downloaded these files to either a CD or zip drive. You know 100% your signal is super clean that way. I do have a future video idea if you haven't done one yet. A full front to back gain matching. I.e. from the source unit to a DSP, EQ, ect. Showingthe importance of adjusting your gain from the source unit at every piece of gear in the line and ultimately at your amp. Great videos as always and your edit is coming along nicely btw. Keep up the great work.
So i got a quick question i set my sub up and i tune the amp gain up but when i turn it up it doesnt move much like a tiny bit but wen i turn up the bass boost it bumps i dont know what could be wrong before in my charger it bump with gain now in my dart it doesnt
You're not the only one recommending to do the set-up with the volume at 75%... Please explain this fine audience what the down-side of tuning a stereo for 100% volume. We are talking about cars and they should be functional, regardless if the one and only driver is using it, the one who knows about a 75% limit... I would hate to get into someone's car (for various reasons, including emergency situations) and brake something... So what';s the downside of doing all the adjustment to accommodate 100% volume? Thanks!
It's just a rule of thumb. Like all rules of thumb they don't always work.
There are better ways to set up your amplifier, but those methods require more tools.
@@DIYAudioGuy OK; I was only curious... Thanks for answering and stay safe!
Great videos. Doing a full install now. Was 2nd guessing my ohm configuration and set gains properly using voltage formulas or DbMv
👍
How do we deal with roll off from the factory unit when trying to set using a test tone. 3/4 way up on Ford B&O with a 40hz test tone and the factory system compensates with rolling off the bass once you crank it up. Should I use a -5 or -10 40hz test tone instead?
Good day can you help me adjust my crossover which has a built-in line driver if 5v to match my mids and sub amp and what can I use if I don't have a DD1 available... Can a multimeter be used...?
What would cause a voltage difference between left and right side of the same channel?
For example, in my 4 chanel amp there are 2 gain controls.
1 for channel A (fronts)
1 for channel B (rears)
Channel A left speaker will read 15v
Channel A right speaker will read 7 or 8
Channel B left -15v
Channel B right - 7V
Using an lc7i from stock head unit in an 05 Acura Tl, to pioneer gmd8604 4 channel amp.
If it were just a few volts I would call it normal variance, but that seems excessive. Cold be the LC7i, I think it has a right and a left gain, but I don't have one handy to double check that. Make sure the balance on the head unit is set to the middle as well.
If your amps are very difficult to get to, can you use the wire at the speaker?
Do you have a video showing how to calibrate a bass knob volt meter to be correctly in sync with the vehicles voltage
I do not.
Do you know any videos that do? I've looked around a bit but haven't found anything. I've been into car audio for a long time but sadly have never used bass knobs with with volt meters nor do i know how to calibrate it with my cars actual voltage.
just a question, to find my target voltage am i taking my:
*RMS power of amp and Ohm rating of amp* (RP1200.1D)
OR
*RMS power of amp and Ohms my speakers will be wired to*(RP1200.1D x Speakers wired to 2 ohms)
Other than this question pretty straight forward video!
i am using a powerus 5k on a sub that can handle 8k so do i set the voltage to 89v ( SQUARE OF 8K at 1ohm load ) or do i set the voltage to match 5k which is the amp
If i have component speakers that run at 150rms and 40rms, would I just add those two together at 190? So 190rms @ 4ohms would be 760 and my target volts would be 27.5?
I have a 2000 watt mono block amp. It puts out 2000 at 1ohm. I have 4 8s that are 400rms a piece. Thats 1600watts, There wired down to 1 ohm. If I was to set my gain would it be 2000 x 1ohm or 1600 x 1ohm to find the voltage. Thanks
Always go with the smaller number -- if the amp has less power then go with the amp, if the subs are rated to handle less power then go with the subs.
You can check the preout voltage of the head unit through the rcas
Set multimeter to ac
Play a 40hz tone with the rcas unplugged volume max(whatever it is for you probably 3/4 like he said in the video)
Probe the male end with positive and the shielding with negative
Boom preout voltage, look online to figure out how many v of clean preout yours is and match from there turning the volume up or down if needed
I’m confuse, so is the reason for not going above 75% volume is so that you won’t blow the door speakers or blow the subwoofer? Can you blow the subwoofer going above 75% volume on the radio after setting the gain?
No, that's not the purpose of the 75% rule. Watch this video for further clarification. ua-cam.com/video/c-UTA59pfPA/v-deo.htmlsi=1Lc-Agofp3leXm9K
You should be able to find the clip point by testing the voltage @ your rca outpout. If the headunit specs call for 4v preouts then youd look for that AC voltage testing the center pin and outer shell of the rca.
Correct. I have some RCA to speaker wire pigtails that I use for testing RCA's. Much easier than trying to hold the probes against the RCA wire.
When you say power are you talking about RMS or wattage from the amp?
RMS wattage
After watching all your videos , I installed my amp and speakers. sounds great. The only question I have is that the voltage per channel is 16.12. The rear speakers have a volt of 24.5, do I setup the amp for the per channel voltage 16.12 or for the rear speakers to 24.5. Note. the front speakers and a voltage of 14.14 Thank for all the information
You typically have a separate gain control for front and rear, set them both either based on the power rating of the amp or the speakers, whichever is smaller. Another trick, if you want to emphasize the front stage you can reduce the gain on the rear channels.
I’m running door speaker to aftermarket deck do need to disconnect door speaker to tune mono amp
I would, but I do get how that may be a bit of a pain. If the aftermarket head unit has a crossover or a fader you should be able to turn off the speakers.
Dude. Gonna try and do this right now on my powered kicker 10”
🤞🏼🤞🏼
Hi there , thanks for reply. I have focal flex evo p20 fse subwoofer with focal FDS 1.350
And also focal flex evo ps165 f3e 3 way component speakers
Also hertz for back doors mpx 165.3 pro
With two amps from focal fpx 4.800 for midwoofer and hertz spekers
FDS 4.350
For mid speakers and tweeter
Can have set volume for all these please. Thanks
I'm not familiar with the gear so I can't tell you how to set it up. I would advise you to reach out to the dealer that sold you the equipment or reach out to focal customer service.
Do you multiply the rms by the lowest ohm the amp is rated or by your speaker impedance? My amp is 40wrms@4 or 60@2. My speaker final impedance with a tweeter is 2.66ohms. What do I multiply 2.66 with?
Can I use the tune here on UA-cam. There are a few videos of them???
Head over to Kickers website, they have free ones you can download. You can be sure that those are clean.
I have a kicker cxa400.1 says on the sheet for 1ohm I'll get 400w and the volts should be 20.00v
I'm running two 10s 200w dvc 4 ohm each I set my gain at the 20.00v am I right?
If i split my rca kabel wil the voltage be the same or split in 2?. What i tried with A 4channel amp is put 1 rca in chanel 1 and the other in chanel 3 the voltage won’t go to 26 only 20max
I've heard people argue both ways. But honestly don't know. You could always use your multimeter to measure the voltage coming out of the RCA's.
@@DIYAudioGuy il try it out thanks for the useful video
My amp is a 2000 watts. My voltage output is very low and idk why. It was in this truck before attached to the same battery and not just isnt pushing power. I need it at 44 volts and with the gain all the way its only at 10volts. Any ideas on my problem?
Might need to turn the head unit up a bit.
Thanks for the great video but when i put my multimeter to my terminals the voltage jumps around. Tried 2 different multimeters and some results. Any help?
Are you playing a test tone or are you playing music?
Test tones.
What about when you have a Line Out Converter? It has it's own gain pot and led light. Leave that gain at zero, dial in amp gain, and add more gain from the LOC if needed? Or should it be reverse order? I've set it by ear before, with the LOC gain maxed out first before setting the Amps gain.
I've just went back and dialed in the amp gain first, then added more gain from the LOC to reach my desired voltage. With both ways, the LOCs clip light never gets triggered.
ua-cam.com/video/c-UTA59pfPA/v-deo.htmlsi=tS63HL3lc4C3nfRO
Is there a video to help set your Subsonic and LPF's with a multimeter?
ua-cam.com/video/iWRoIho7A7c/v-deo.html
What do i do if the ohm load is just 1?
Assuming same formula but just want to make sure
Yep.
I have a phonics digital amp 1,000 watt model pd-2610 I have level, hpf, life, dials and also I'm powering it with a xbox brick it's details is input: 100v-127v~4.8A, 50/60Hz output: 12v-16.5A, 5vsb-1.0A but I don't know how to set the settings correctly?
I'm not familiar with that piece of equipment so I really can't tell you much on how to set it up other than the generic advice that in my videos.
What about cross over settings? Will they change the output voltage on gain setting?
Yes, which is why you set the gain first, then x-overs, then EQ.
Sir this is helping me understand but what about the high pass?
Do you mean how to set the crossover? ua-cam.com/video/bNauOkzdTRM/v-deo.html
How do you set the gain on a pre-amp subwoofer?
I adjusted the voltage to 17 because my amp's speaker output is 75 RMS per channel running at 4 ohms at 75% volume with an 1000 htz tone and i burnt my speaker coils because my speakers were only 25 RMS at 4 ohms.
If your amp puts out more power than your speakers can handle then you have to turn the gain down.
Do I have to turn up my lpf when setting my gains because when I do it messes with the voltage, so should I leav it at 80hz and get my target voltage while leaving it at 80hz
I have a situation not sure about. I'm getting ready to fire up an old school 2 channel amp in bridged mode the owner's manual doesn't say but I believe I use a y adapter to utilize both inputs. So does this mean that both gain pots will adjust the output voltage. And if so .... Not sure.
A two channel amp with two gain pots? That is unusual. Other than just experimenting with the amps to see what it does with/without two sets of RCA's installed I don't know what to tell you. Which amp are you using?
Before adjusting gain, where should my bass boost , LP and HP filters be set at? Other videos have mentioned to set the bass boost at 0 and the LP and HP filters to highest before setting gain. What’s your opinion on this? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks
This is correct. I'll make sure to include that information the next time that I make a video on setting gains.
Actually no, you want to hit maximum voltage with the bass boost set where you plan to use it. If you plan on adding some boost to certain music, turn it on to the highest setting, set your gain using this method, then turn the boost back down, now you know you can add some boost without clipping. It’s worth noting that if you use boost on your head unit, the max volume you can set it to may be lower. Instead of 75% volume you may be limited to 65% volume. You won’t know actual volume until you use an oscilloscope.
W x ohms.
I have a 4 channel amp, each channel gives 50rms. Do I use 50w rms for W or should I use all the channels rms together for W? Or peak power output for each channel?
And also, If I run two 4ohm speakers, do I just use 4ohm in the equation or should I add the two speaker together and use 8ohm?
what does it mean to run something in a 2 ohm load? is that the same as bridging?
That would mean something like taking a pair of speakers that are rated 4 ohms nominal each and then connecting them parallel to one channel of an amplifier. Bridging is combining a pair of output channels into one channel. Bridging does have an impact on the minimum impedance that the amplifier can handle. Most four-channel amps, for example, are two ohms stable per channel but when you bridge them they're only four ohm stable.
@@DIYAudioGuy Thanks. Explained perfectly. That was tripping me up reading the specs on Sound Digital amps because they have both 4ohm and 2ohm amps and the 4ohm version can be ran with a 2ohm load.
For the Watts in the equation, do we use the RMS rating of the sub or the peak Watts?
ua-cam.com/video/NuO9b1fYisY/v-deo.html
I’m setting gains on a 6 channel amp with the multimeter. 4 of the channels are going to be 4 ohm @165 watts
The other 2 are parallel at
2 ohms @290 watts.
When setting volts do I count both channels when finding voltage square root or do I do a single channel in the math equation.
4ohm x 165 watts\ 25.69 volts
All the way count both channels in the math equation
4 ohm x 330/ 36.33 volts
Just a single channel
I tried this but my there’s no voltage at my speaker outputs, RCAS are in, ive got 12v at supply of the amp, when I put the speaker cable on the terminals the speakers play the tone, and My multi meter is on AC, but I’ve got absolutely nothing coming up on my multi meter. What could be going on here? Also great video, cheers!
Could it be a problem with the multimeter?
DIY Audio Guy well it worked when I tested for power, but it is one of my dads old ones, I’ll try with a better one I have, thanks though xx
I have a factory headunit and im using a line out converter. Im running 2 dual 4ohm subs 650rms. On a sundown 2000rms amp subs are wired at 1ohm. I need help to figure out how to set the gain im confused. I only want about 800rms going to the subs.
Multiply the power times the resistance. And then take the square root of that number.
Do you have a video showing how to install 2 different kind of amps one (monoblock) for subs, the other is 500w 4/3 Chanel for mids and high
I don't Have a video covering that specifically. But I do have several videos covering how to set up each individual piece. ua-cam.com/video/oBNETr9AHwA/v-deo.html
I also recommend that you go ahead and get an inexpensive oscilloscope instead of using a digital multimeter. They've gotten really cheap.
ua-cam.com/video/c-UTA59pfPA/v-deo.html
I will be adding a sub to my Jeep soon with a mono or Class D amp. When I run the tone though the head unit the sound will still play through the door speakers since they aren't amped. Do I really have to pull them all out and disconnect them at the speaker? Or is there another way to keep the tone out of the door speakers? Thanks!
. If your head unit has crossover controls you can disable your door speakers from the head unit.
how to set the output gain on the helix dsp mini using the smd dd1
I don't have any experience with either of those pieces of equipment so I really can't tell you.
Your videos are the best. Should I use the test tones you recommend at o db
0db test tones are fine.
Autosound 2000 (richard clark) used to sell a test CD with various frequencies that increased in volume to MHBL (the most output a CD can achieve) then exceeded it with an intentionally clipped signal so you can view what clipping should look like on your Oscope, then repeated the same tone up to MHBL without clipping it. I found a super simple (only went to 100khz) BK crt oscope at a surplus store for $100 and never blew a speaker again.
Richard Clark did amazing things. He now builds hot rod Buick Grand Nationals.
@@DIYAudioGuy was that a Buick he won the SQ championship with? (With USD audio HLCDs) Or was it a T bird? I love horns, there nothing else that sounds so impressive tho theyre a pain to tune.
@@johnlucier5654 Yep, a Buick Grand National.
Should I flatten the bass and treble on my head unit, before setting the gain?
YES!
Another question the head unit offers subwoofer level how do I adjust or where should it be?
That depends on the head unit -- I use an alpine and I set the gain on my subwoofer amp with the subwoofer level at mass.
Hello diy audioguy. Thanks for your videos. The gain is adjusted for both subwoofers and mid and high speakers with the same Output Power (14.4 V) @ 4 ohm. This is the Output Power specification for the Powerbass Amp ASA3-700.5
OK.
What deos it mean if my meter is only reading about 1.5-2.5 volts when i turn the gain up and with it off and 40hz playing im resting at less than 0.050 volts
Awesome video. I think I missed the part about adding bass boost after three gain is on point. Anybody know if its safe to add bass boost after setting the gain?
I have a strong opinion about that: ua-cam.com/video/KSdnrBI7a90/v-deo.html
You can use a DMM to find your head unit clipping by figuring out what your preouts voltage is from the manufacturer and then use a 0db 50hz test tone,turn the head unit volume all the way up as well as the subwoofer volume on the head unit,then run your test tone and attach the ground of the dmm to the outer pins on the rca and the positive to the center pin on the rca,say your preouts are 2 volt preouts. The dmm should read around 2.8 volts not the dmm,turn the volume knob on the receiver down till it hits the target 2 volts 😎
So I did the 75% of the volume, I’m running a 1 ohm load, my amp is 2500 watts that’ll put me at 50 volts, connected the multimeter probes and it sent my amp into protect mode while trying to set my gains. What did I do wrong???
That's not fun -- where you able to get the amp out of protect?
@@DIYAudioGuy I wasn’t able to measure it honestly. I’m having an issue where my inside speakers cut out at high volume regardless if I set the gains. Someone suggested it might be an electrical issue. I have an extra battery for my 4-channel but didn’t upgrade the alternator, so hopefully that solves it
@@flying-fijiantv6282 do you have someone local that can help you? It's very hard to troubleshoot problems in the UA-cam comments.
@@DIYAudioGuy not personally lol buncha shops and I’m not trying to pay 😬
Sub woofer is 600w rms @ dual voice coil @ 4 ohms, i wire it to produce 2ohms, monoblock is rated at 500w rms @ 2ohms, which rms should i use to calculate the voltage? Amplifier or subwoofer?
Does punch equaliser have effect on this process? If yes shoul it be at min level or maximum level while setting up the gain?
Does cabinet tuning affect this process in any way?
Thanks great video learnt alot.
Always go with the lower number, so 500 watts in your case. I don't recommend using any kind of bass boost. If you have the amp tune so you're just on the edge of clipping turning on the bass boost will cause clipping. ua-cam.com/video/KSdnrBI7a90/v-deo.html
The box tuning doesn't matter, but you may need an infrasonic filter. ua-cam.com/video/iWRoIho7A7c/v-deo.html
@DIYAudioGuy thanks very much for you feedback. I really appreciate your knowledge
Sir, can you explain what should be the positions of HPF, LPF, & X-overs while doing the gain setting for speakers and subwoofers
In a 4 channel amp.
And one more doubt is that, in every videos regarding the gain setting , they are using RCA input.. is that mandatory.. ?? What would happen if I use speaker level input instead of RCA while doing the Gain setting...
When you are setting the gain on the amp you want to make sure that all crossovers are off, any EQ on the head unit set to flat, and the speakers need to be disconnected from the amp. But, if you have a bass knob (or a bass level on the head unit) you want that turned all the way up.
It works the same way if you use line-level inputs.
@@DIYAudioGuy Thanks 💝💝
@@DIYAudioGuy
All crossovers on the amp should be off, what if you cannot turn the crossover off you can only turn it down to 50 as in a kicker CX 1200.1? Great video. New subscriber.
@@hakenkreuz7076 For your subwoofer amplifier set the low pass crossover to it's highest possible setting.
So for a bridged application you calculate at the actual load of the speaker? I wasn’t sure if you had to half the ohm load
Use the actual speaker load.
Thanks I was going to set it off a single channel but did it bridged. I then checked both channels individually and they were only about a volt below what the calculation says so I think I’m safe either way and not giving up any audible difference if not
So the amplifier puts out ac voltage, and that voltage doesnt change when you add a load? Im trying to set my gain by doing this but my final load is 1 ohm, wonder if the voltage changes when you change the load on the amp
Sam over at Barevids has confirmed that the voltage does change under a load. But this is a good way to get close without spending a lot of money.
Can you please also show how to set gains and crossover frequencies on an inbuilt amplifier. Pioneer ts-wx1210a thanks
I don't have any experience with that equipment.