5ive Channel Solutions

I have recently taken keen notice of how many of people prefer a single multi channel amp versus the multiple amplifier scenario,especially those who have space issues in their vehicles.

So,I thought I'd do a little write up on what is available as multi channel solutions as I have access to a few.Unfortunately, I havn't had the pleasure of listening to all of them but I can offer some specifications and pricing as guidelines to those looking at purchasing a multi channel amplifier in the future.

To start of with,Alpine comes in to the multi channel arena with there tiny(smallest,size wise) PDX5.Boasting an impressive 75w RMS(4ohm) x 4 + 300w RMS(2ohm) on the spec sheet,however the birth sheet states otherwise.A whopping 103w RMS x 4 and 383w RMS on the sub channel,all at 4 ohms at 14.4v!Wow how does Alpine cram all that power from such a little package.I think the saying "Dynamite comes in small packages" describes this little amp perfectly.

Alpine's trick is of course the power density design power supply which uses I.C.E technology and delivers huge power outputs and sound quality while still operating at 90% efficiency,which is also what adds to the "BIG" price tag!
The tiny footprint of this amplifier means it can be hidden easily or mounted out of the way using minimal space.As with all Alpine goods,this amp comes well supplied,with a simple to understand manual and tools and nifty little input jacks for the speaker outputs.

Recommended retail-R6900

Next on our list we have Audison's LRX5.1k.A really sleek and neat design(typical Italian) and also has the largest price tag from the lot.This amplifier makes use of Class A,AB and D circuitry.The class A channel,normally the fronts,push out 50w RMS at 4 ohms,ideal for running an efficient pair of splits or a set of tweeters,or even a mid a tweeter combo from a 3 way split setup.The second set of channels on the hand are a different story altogether.Making a staunch 160w RMS at 4 ohms,this would be perfectly suited to a pair of dedicated woofers.Now the sub channel on this amp is just astounding,boasting a hefty 650w RMS at 4 ohms and a 1150W RMS at 2 ohms this mono section is packin' BIG TIME!!This amplifier would be well suited to users who want to run their system full active.

As with all Audison amps these too come very well equipped.Other standard equipment on this monster are,computer monitored fan cooled system,which continuously monitor the amp temperature and adjust fan speed accordingly.The ECI(Easy Common Interface) is a hi level input system which also has a signal sensor that automatically turns the amp on for cars which do not have a remote turn on from there source units.This interface basically just slots in place after removing the RCA module from the ECI slot.A stencil layout to help setup the switching according to your system layout,the famous Audison amp tool,and even a long philips bit for your cordless power drill to aid with mounting.The manuals too are very informative.Like the Alpine,this amp also comes supplied with nifty terminal connection blocks.

Recommended retail-R8500

A newcomer to the scene,Massive Audio enters with their P950.5.I have mentioned before that to me the Massive amps have a rather conservative but clean look to them.Then again,Massive is about performance and not just looks.The gift box packaging of this amplifier is very very cool though!Now regarding power figures,this amp also has some very impressive figures.Belting out 100w RMS x 4 + 550w RMS @ 4 ohms at 13.8 volts.Judging from my previous listening experiences with Massive amplifiers this 1 should really be a treat as the multi channel alternative.

I stated before that these Massive amplifiers run really cool to touch after strenuous listening sessions.I inquired as to how this was possible from the local distributor,and according to them,the heatsinks used are made from 100% aluminum!I'm really keen on giving this baby a listen to ASAP.

Recommended Retail-R5400

JBL's new offering to the multi channel field has changed from the previous 6 channel arrangement to a 5 channel.Design wise,the amplifier no longer has the plexiglass covers but sport blue neon strips which light up around the badge and the center of the amplifier.JBL borrowed there DBO(Dynamic Bass Optimizer) circuitry from the larger Power series amplifiers,this allows you to extract and tune your sub to it's peak!In terms of power,this amp puts out 55w RMS x 4 + 225w RMS at 4ohms and 75w RMS x 4 + 360w RMS at 2 ohms.

I have had a listen to this amp before,typical JBL signature sound,very warm,I did however find the sub channel a little on the flat side though.Don't get me wrong,there was grunt there,but for some reason it lacked the current of it's predecessor when bridged.As well,the DBO does tend to get on the fiddly side when you try and set it up,something not for the amateur user to get involved with!This amp does come supplied with a bass remote,making it easier to adjust levels for those who do not have a source unit with a separate sub level control.

Recommended Retail-R4500

Another entry from the Elettromedia house is the Audison SRX5.Completely revamped from the ground up,these new SRX amps look the business.The new SRX range kinda remind me of the older Alpine V12 amps as far as the cosmetic department goes.The little SRX badge on this amplifier glows blue when turned on,as well the silver trim panel lifts up and can be removed showing all the controls,input and output terminals and the fuse.Power ratings are 53w RMS x 4 + 175w RMS @ 4 ohms

This amplifier also comes well supplied,with the fancy Audison multi-tool a very detailed and an easy to understand manual.I would be keen on listening for the difference between this and the previous model,as the previous model didnt fail to impress.

Recommended Retail-R4550

Another offering from the Harman International stable is the Infinity REF5350A.At first I thought it would be another JBL amp in Infinity clothing.Wrong!!There are a few differences between the 2 as far as specifications go.This amp as well has a dual blue neon strip that lights up the center of the amp.The Infinity does share the IMS input as with the Harman Kardon amplifiers,which allow for Ipod control and bluetooth pairing via special interface.
This amp puts out 50w RMS X 4 + 150w RMS @ 4ohms making it the weakest from the lot here.

I have listened to this amp,very warm and smooth,typical Infinity,but the sub channel lacked a lot in the oomph department.I was rather disappointed with this amp versus it's 6 channel predecessor.I wouldn't recommend this amp to any of you who would like to keep your weight levels low in your vehicle because this is the heaviest amp from the pack!!

Recommended Retail-R3199

Lastly,and yet another offering from the Harman stable,is the new Harman Kardon CA5250.These amplifiers are available only to Europe,Asia and our South African market.The smoked plexiglass tops showing the internals and a Harman logo which glows blue when the amp gets life.Boasting some cool features such as IMS input and output which allow connectivity for IPOD and bluetooth through an interface.Power ratings on this amp are 55w RMS x 4 + 200w RMS on the sub channel @ 4 ohms.

I am really keen on listening to this amplifier as Harman claim this amp has awesome sound quality attributes.Judging by whats on paper and the build quality I hope it will not disappoint!

Recommended Retail-R5170

So there we have it,a basic insight as to what is available and what will suit your fancy and pocket.Keep a look out for a competitive listening test on these in the very near future!