Hey guys,

I'm researching an audio setup, and I'm getting into the amplifiers. I am thinking about doing Polk EX-3560 6-1/2" component speakers in both the front and rear of my '95 Integra LS 4-door. (Will this be a difficult install?) These speakers are 10-100 watts RMS and 300 watts peak. I've read or heard conflicting information on how to select a properly sized amplifier for speakers. On the Polk website, it says to buy an amp that is sized according to your speakers' peak power - a 100w peak speaker needs a 100w/channel amp. On the other hand, Crutchfield says that any amp that falls within the RMS range for these speakers of 10 - 100 watts is fine. So I'm considering a US Acoustics USX-4085 85w x 4 amp. Is this a good choice?

Thanks!
Ben

 

In my opionion, you should forget the rear speaker replacements and put the extra money into the best set of 6-1/2" components you can afford up front. Run the amp to power your front components only and if you'd like, run the rear speakers on HU power. Later on, you can add a sub in the trunk for even better sound.

 

Hmm... interesting idea. Because, after all, the driver sits up front and not in the back! BUT... is this corner-cutting going to degrade the music quality for the front passengers?

I guess if I did this idea, my options would be two sets of Polk EX-3560's all around (199.99 ea) [Info: http://www.polkaudio.com/car/product...13&speaker=142 ] or one set of MB Quart PSC 216's up front(399.99) [Info: http://www.mbquart.com/mobile_detail.asp?model=PSC+216 ]. Which way would be better? Anyone have personal experience?

Any thoughts on amplifier sizing, please?

Thanks,
Ben

 

Not setting up the rear is not corner cutting at all. In fact, for CORRECT imaging you should spend the money on the front, the back is only used as a fill. Getting sound to sound like its coming from in front of the driver is very difficult (especially for bass!) and when done correctly results in a very natural sound in which you cannot locate the speakers by ear.

-Rage