sammyh

iTrader: (1)

To run Infinity references and a 12" DB audio Raptor.

I currently have a Phoenix Gold Qx 4150 but I think its struggling a bit

chiark

Leave your current amp alone for the fronts. Bridge it into the references if you feel the urge to, but do listen to check you've not knackered the sound. Some amps are happier being bridged than others, and you'll almost always increase the THD.

I would add another amp dedicated to running your sub. Buy second hand and you will get an absolute bargain. I sold a rockford fosgate 200x2 for 150 quid, and that delivered 502W into a 4 ohm mono load at not a lot of distortion... Have a look on the classifieds at www.talkaudio.co.uk and you'll find a good deal

I'd go for a quality brand second hand above a cheaper new thing... But I'm a tight yorkshireman

sammyh

iTrader: (1)

Not thought of that, do you think they can handle it?
Afaik the QX amp is 4x40 RMS so I would have 80w RMS going into the speakes.

I have a few spare MTX amps, do you think they would do?

And thanks again Nick

chiark

If it's 4x40 you'll probably find it puts out around 150W bridged. They'll handle it. You just need to watch the gains... If you overdrive them, you'll hear a "crack" from the driver hitting the end stops - turn the gain down

What MTX amps have u got? I daresay there'll be something suitable that'll give your sub some welly

sammyh

iTrader: (1)

Not sure but they are big I have to dig them out of the Ice graveyard i've got

sammyh

iTrader: (1)

Its a thunder 2160

chiark

Apparently that should give you 80W/channel. Bridge it into 4 ohm and you should see over 320W. That'll be a significant improvement (like twice the power - a 3dB increase) over the other amp's bridged output.

MTX are probably a little conservative in power ratings, too, especially for an amp of that vintage.

I'd hook that up and see what you think. Also bear in mind that chucking more power at a sub is not necessarily the best way to get more output. The box will probably make a bigger difference so, if you're still unhappy, have a look at a ported box...

You definitely don't need to be buying a new amp. Some time and experimentation will get you something that you're happier with

Cheers,
Nick.

sammyh

iTrader: (1)

Cool i'll try it later and i'll let you know how I get on!