Power wire gauge question

**mbrownin** · 09-04-2008, 06:16 PM

I am upgrading the sound system in my SS. Ditching the Monsoon system except for the HU, will have 2 amps in the rear totaling 1350 watt RMS. I've looked all over the internet for power wire gauge recommendations, and still don't know what I should get. Even though I have 1350 watts in 2 amps, I'm sure the typical continuous power draw will be a good bit less than that. Do you think 4-gauge wire split into 2 8-gauge connections would be sufficient? Or should I do either a 1/0 or 2-gauge split into 2 4-gauge connections? The big stuff ain't exactly cheap, but if I need it, I'll get it.

**wikked_r1** · 09-04-2008, 08:07 PM

4ga just to be safe, you could probably get away w/ 6 ga, depending on how much power you are drawing for your sub if you're running one.

**mbrownin** · 09-05-2008, 05:12 AM

I plan to run a 4-channel amp rated at 225 watts RMS per channel powering the 4 front & rear speakers, and a 2 channel amp also rated at 225 watts RMS per channel powering a DVC sub, for a total a 6 * 225 = 1350 watts RMS, with the sub drawing 450 of that.

So, you're saying it's ok to run a 4 ga. primary to the back of the car, and then split that into 2 - 8 ga. that will provide power to the 2 amps?

**wikked_r1** · 09-05-2008, 09:17 AM

definately safe, think of it this way, most ppl that think they need 1/0 ga wire only run 12 ga to their speakers, it doesn't really make sense, i'm able to run over 800 watts to my sub which it will never see and a twin amp to run my components and it is PLENTY loud enough. Im only running 6 ga. 4ga-8ga will be fine. You wont see any power loss.

**mbrownin** · 09-05-2008, 10:14 AM

That's good news. 4-ga. is easier to find, and a lot cheaper, not to mention easier to run the length of the car. Thanks for the info.

**0verkill** · 09-05-2008, 12:20 PM

4ga should be fine for your main you will want to get a cap in thare otherwise your lites will dime when its turnd up.

**mbrownin** · 09-05-2008, 12:48 PM

Yeah, I know I might need a cap. but I will wait and see how badly it dims first. I don't do a lot of night driving, and I probably won't crank it all that often. Besides, I'm out of money now anyway.

**0verkill** · 09-05-2008, 03:29 PM

thay are a good battry saver to when you get in to the higher power draw with big or matapil amps. a yellow top is a good thing to get as well. when i had my big system i whint tru 3 standerd befor the yellow top and it just diyed last week after 9 years and more amps and subs then i can recall.

**wikked_r1** · 09-05-2008, 09:33 PM

with your sub only drawing 500 watts max i doubt you'll see any light dimming especially if you dont crank it that often. If you ever decide to upgrade your stereo, i'd recommend upgrading your alternator and battery and getting a cap like 01 t/a said.

**mbrownin** · 09-06-2008, 06:24 AM

Thanks everyone for the input. I know my system will be EXTREMELY mild compared to some others, but it will be an order of magnitude better than anything I've had up to now.
If it doesn't give me enough bass, I will upgrade the sub later.

**MnLS1** · 09-06-2008, 08:06 AM

4ga and a $40 cap.

**wikked_r1** · 09-06-2008, 09:26 AM

actually i think you'll be surprised, even though youre not pushing a million watts to 15 subs, it'll surprise you how loud it will be.....the way the sound bounces off the rear hatch aims it right at your head....im prolly only pushing 400 watts to my sub when i have it turned up and its perfect, loud and clean and i can still hear my components crystal clear.