i just bought an 12 inch alpine type R sub, and im more than likely going to be using a rockford 350 watt amp. my question is, should i get a capacitor for this setup??? its going in a 91 NA, and i dont want to fry my alternator. any feedback would be great. thanks.

 

As a rule of thumb, you use a cap (1 farad or larger) if the lights dim while the stereo is on.

A 350 watt amp would use 25-30 amp peak, and closer to half or a quarter that while at average listing volumns which is not much greater than the stock high power systems draw.

If your headlights or brake lights are dimming then I might think of one.

 

A cap will also give you a better and tighter response with the sub. If there are two quick bass beats in a row, the second one will not be as powerful as the first, the cap will give the amp the extra punch it needs for this second hit. I always suggest a cap with any system.

 

a cap wont be needed if you have a good batery, clean connections and a clean install.

 

That is only true on un-regulated amplifiers or the existing charging system is inadequate.

Since almost nobody builds un-regulated amps anymore; it will make no differance on sound quality unless the existing battery/alt system is not up to par.

 

thanks for the replies, thats some $$$$ i wont have to spend now.