360 Watts is it enough?

[joserobl]

I've installed an Alpine MRP-F240 4 channel amp 360 max pwr 40x4 rms. it's connected to the stock HU. I replaced the speakers with Polk Audio db 650's. Not enough bass from speakers so now I'm looking to install a 10" subwoofer if there is enough power in the amp. Could someone tell me what's the best way to go? Also what would be a decent 10" subwoofer to ad.

[ragingfish]

I dunno much about this, but I DO know you need an independent amp to run a sub...

[Stang2Vibe]

It is not absolutely necessary to power your subwoofer(s) with an independent amp as long as it is wired properly. I did it in my Grand Prix when I had it years ago. It is highly recommended, though. Dividing the amp's power among the 4 speakers inside the car (I think there are 6 in Vibes equipped with the factory amp) will take up most of the power it produces. He'd probably be best to connect his amp to a sub or two and buy a second, less powerful amp to power the other speakers.Check the max power rating on the new Polk's that you bought. Did you buy one pair or two of them? I doubt that the factory speakers could handle more than 75 watts, if that, so if you're keeping any of the original component speakers, be careful not to overpower them. The amp you just bought might already provide more power than the 4 speakers you're connecting it to can handle, so check your max ratings. Small speakers typically require relatively low wattage, it's the subs that need the power from the big amps. Make sure that you use good quality amps also, I've always been told that the cheap ones just aren't worth it. I'm not saying that your Alpine amp is no good or anything like that. I've been away from the mega car audio systems for too long to know what's good or not on the market today, so I can't really help much with that. You might try talking with Jahntassa about that, he works with car audio systems and is up to date with that kind of info.

[Mr. Poopypants]

I wouldn't risk underpowering the sub and ruining it. I would go with a seperate amp.

[lazytiger]

You should definitely get a separate amp for a sub. Since you already have an Alpine MRP-F240 amp, might I suggest you get an Alpine MRP-M350 for the sub? I have one, and it just happens to fit perfectly into the space inside the spare tire under the floor. Keeping your amp separate from the sub enclosure makes it very easy to take out when you need the cargo space. I haul my drums in my Vibe a couple times a month, and all I have to do is unclip the speaker wires (I have banana clips on them) from the sub box and take it out. I installed everything in my stereo system myself, and did it very non-destructively. I have pictures that I've been meaning to post for quite a while.As far as what subwoofer to get, if you've already got Polk db650 speakers, I'd suggest getting the matching Polk db104 10" subwoofer. Can't really go wrong with Polk.

[joserobl]

Thanks, that seems to be the consensus here.

[joserobl]

Thanks for your insite.

[joserobl]

I'm leaning towards that. Maybe and amp/woofer combo like a bazooka or something. Thanks for your help.

[joserobl]

I would really like to see those pictures. There was another member that did the same thing and had some pictures posted. Before I installed my amp I checked that location out but it did not fit.

[lazytiger]

Here's a picture of the Alpine MRP-M350 in the Vibe's spare tire well. It fits perfectly. I don't have it screwed down or anything - it just stays put. All the wires go through the hole in the bottom; I didn't do anything destructive.

Attached files

[joserobl]

That's the picture I saw awhile back. Nice, I like the idea of being able to remove the speaker when you need the extra cargo space. I think it's a little more money going that route though. Amp, 10" subwoofer, box, wiring kit vs amp/speaker like a bazooka, a kenwood WooX or a Infinity Basslink. Got some figuring to do. Thanks for your help.