Subwoofer Distort Problem

Carter · 04-16-2008, 01:02 PM

Hey guys, I installed some new Image Dynamics subs. They are 10 inch 1000W RMS each. I don't plan on running them at full force and this is my problem.

I have a kicker 1250w rms mono amp. I wired the subs up to be a 2 ohm load. I'm guessing I don't have the gains and such set right as when I turn them up sorta loud they start to distort. It's not the kind of distort you can hear up front unless I really turn them up, but when you get closer to the firing direction you can hear the distortion noise better.
I wouldn't think distortion would be a problem seeing these subs can handle 1000w rms each and I'm only running about 600 into them.

Could it be the settings on the amp? If so how should I setup the amp? I've never really got into the details of doing so because I've never had a system that required me to do so.
Could it my box? The subs min space requirement is a little more than what the current box is. I didn't have a choice because I have a Nissan 350z and there are only so many places you can put 2 subs.

Any help you guys could give me I'd appreciate it. Thanks

audiology · 04-17-2008, 01:15 AM

Are you using a stock headunit?

If so, you might be sending a distorted signal to the subs.

Another thing could be that the box has a leak which can sound like distortion.

As for the amp if your gains are set incorrectly and you are sending a clipped signal to the subs-- you might fry the coils.

I would suggest using that kicker amp and one of those ID subs-- that would be perfect with 250watts of extra headroom. That way you are sending more than sufficient amount of power to the sub and there would be less clipping involved.

scott_fx · 04-17-2008, 01:22 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by audiology

Are you using a stock headunit?

If so, you might be sending a distorted signal to the subs.

Another thing could be that the box has a leak which can sound like distortion.

As for the amp if your gains are set incorrectly and you are sending a clipped signal to the subs-- you might fry the coils.

I would suggest using that kicker amp and one of those ID subs-- that would be perfect with 250watts of extra headroom. That way you are sending more than sufficient amount of power to the sub and there would be less clipping involved.

if he powers only one sub he won't be at 2 ohms and most likely halve the power, so he wont have the headroom.

i do agree with you that he should check the input signal and turn down the gain.