http://ambdesign.net/alpine.jpg - The amp in question is a MRV-F450 5 channel.

Can someone please tell me why Alpine are advising wiring the amp up for 3 channel mode using only 1 set of RCAs and Y leads? I'm bridging the front components over channels 1-4 and running a sub of ch5. Surely I should be using the front and rear pre-outs of the headunit on seperate cables to the amp??

In 4 channel mode the manual shows 2 sets of RCAs and in 5 channel mode it shows 3 - as you would expect. But why do I only need one set in 3 channel? Surely Y leads are only going to lower the signal quality and strength?

Any help and advice appreciated

Cheers

Andy

 

If you're bridging then surely you need exactly the same signal to go to both sides of the bridged amp? What would be the point of feeding two loudspeakers (your front left and right) with more than just two signals (left and right)?

Y-leads etc. do not 'automatically' lower signal quality and strength.

It may be useful if your HU has a 'sub out' RCA, so you can use that to power the Sub channel if possible - then you could alter the sub level etc. from the HU rather than using the amp controls.

Otherwise, follow their drawing and enjoy the sounds!