Need help on choosing an amplifier

[maskedwolf]

I have gutted and rebuilt a 19ft Galaxy Openbow boat and am now ready to install a stereo system.

The pieces that I have gathered so far for the system are:
Sony DSX-MS60
2 Alpine SPS-MS600 Coaxial Speakers (4-ohms, 35W RMS per speaker)
- Located front driver and passenger sides
2 Clarion CM1625 Coaxial Speakers (4ohms, 50W RMS per speaker)
- Located back driver and passenger sides
1 Dual DMS692 Coaxial (4-ohms, 80W RMS)
- Located front openbow area
1 Kicker 12M Impulse Subwoofer (4-ohms, 110W RMS)
- Located back in front of motor box

What I would like to know is what size amp (or amps) I should get for this system. I would like to keep the cost under $200 Also, what gauge of wire would you suggest.

Thanks

 

[pheasanthunter]

Re: Need help on choosing an amplifier

How many pre-outs does your head unit have.

 

[maskedwolf]

Re: Need help on choosing an amplifier

It has 4 preouts, but no sub preout. Here's the link to the head unit information on Crutchfield: http://www.crutchfield.com/p_158DSXMS60/Sony-DSX-MS60.html?tp=1721&tab=features_and_specs

 

[Silverbullet555]

Re: Need help on choosing an amplifier

The under $200 is the challenge. I like class D amps for marine since they use so little power compared to a class a/b.

As for wiring, I like to overbuild in case I want to add something in the future. You will probably be able to get away with 4awg or 2 awg power and ground wires.

Your head unit's RMS is only half of the lowest draw speakers which makes it a challenge. You might be able to power the alpines from the deck.

For an amp, take a look at 5 channel amps so you have everything in one. You'll probably be over $200 but you might be able to go all in one.

Are you comfortable buying off ebay or are you wanting to buy from crutchfield or another retailer?

 

[maskedwolf]

Re: Need help on choosing an amplifier

I was afraid I would have to spend a bit more, but if I can get everything in one amp it will be worth it. No problem with ebay purchases, I'll also check out craigslist and amazon to see what they might have.

Thanks for the help. I'm hoping to purchase everything this week and get it installed next weekend.

 

[bayliner198819]

Re: Need help on choosing an amplifier

Your going to want to amps for sure I have a jl 250/1 on a jl w3 and it pushes it great! I got it for 100 bucks as far as the highs I would prob get a 2 channel 800 watt or so and run the pairs parallel to eachother + to + - to - that's just what I'd do!

 

[pheasanthunter]

Re: Need help on choosing an amplifier

I'd do a five channel with internal input for the sub and run the single speaker off the head unit. You can always add another amp in the future and bride the five channel.

 

[kmarine]

Re: Need help on choosing an amplifier

Just a quick reminder, make sure you do not exceed the capability of your alternator. Some marine alternators do not produce more than 60 amps. You may need to add additional deep cycle/AGM batteries. Better to plan now, you want to have enough battery to get you home from the beach. I suggest two batteries and a battery switch.

 

[ac0j]

Re: Need help on choosing an amplifier

Just a quick reminder, make sure you do not exceed the capability of your alternator. Some marine alternators do not produce more than 60 amps. You may need to add additional deep cycle/AGM batteries. Better to plan now, you want to have enough battery to get you home from the beach. I suggest two batteries and a battery switch.

VERY important point I agree, If your altenator is too small for one battery and a power hungry stereo, a second battery wont help connected directly to the original. If you cant maintain the charge on one, you absolutley will not keep up with two! So a battery switch is a MUST!

A decent 5 channel amp may use the whole of 60 amps, leaving nothing for the other systems on the boat! Have an alternator shop upgrade the output if possible.

 

[maskedwolf]

Re: Need help on choosing an amplifier

I am planning to get a second battery for the stereo system and adding a solar panel charger to keep it charged up