When to put the amp in, ..now or lateR? Options

[amory_Tarr]

Alright, i just bought an alpine 9805 head unit to replace the stock GT tape/radio player. Anyways, i will be adding some form of a RF Punch Amp in in the near future and was just wondering if me and my dad were to put the head in, would it make a differance in finding a used amp to put in now, or is that something that would not be made easier or more difficult if i didnt put it in when i put in the head? Also, how much wattage should i be looking at? for xmas im getting a front component set that'll be powered by the Fosgate(im thinking either the 45.2, 55.2 or 75.2?) and then use the Alpine to power the rear two. Thoughts, suggestions?

Thanks,
Amory

[runriot95]

It absolutely would be easier to install the amp while you're putting in the head unit since you will already have a lot of parts removed. You will have to take the HU out anyway to hook up the amp so you might as well do it while you have everything out. But don't get an amp now just to make the install easier. It's always better to get the equipment you want and put in the extra work.

I have the Alpine 9815 and this is my setup: I have an RF 4 ch. amp powering the front comps and bridged to power a Bazooka sub. I have the rears powered by the HU. Since you're keeping the factory rear speakers I wouldn't be concerned about how you power them because they're not very good. BUT, if you forsee a time when you WILL be replacing them you might want to go with the 4 ch amp to give you that flexibilty.

As for the power rating of the amp, I would base it on the power of your comps that you plan to put in. Try to go a little more powerful than the comps, ie if your comps are 50W then look for a 60 or 70W amp. The extra power will help you push your speakers with clean power.

Try to have a plan when doing the install. Even if you're not putting in the amp now, try to plan where it will go and how you'll run the wires.

If you haven't done so already, check out www.installdr.com Good luck!