Mono Amps?

Discussion in 'Car Stereo Amplifiers' started by tyrant1014, May 11, 2008.

  1. tyrant1014

    tyrant1014 Full Member

    What is the difference between a mono and a regular amp. All I really seem to be able to figure out is that generally if you are just going to power subs than mono seems to be the better way to go.

    I also noticed that they are a lot more capable of running at lower ohm loads, but if someone could really fill me in than that would be awesome
     
  2. aznboi3644

    aznboi3644 Full Member

    mono means one...as in one channel. Stereo amp has 2 channels. Then there are multichannel amps that can have from 3 to 7 channels or more.

    Now amplifier topology is completely different then just comparying just mono vs. stereo amps
     
  3. pedro quiroga

    pedro quiroga Well-Known Member

    mono amps are typically for sub use and yes most are capable of lower ohm loads.

    but some 2 ch amp's can handle lower ohm loads too. not too many but they are out there,but if all you need is a 4 ohm mono load a good 2ch can fit the bill.

    on the other hand if you want tons of power at lower loads a mono amp is usually the way to go.
     
  4. tyrant1014

    tyrant1014 Full Member

    So In theory if you wanted to you could have a setup with 4 mono amps one for subs, one for midbass, one for mids, and one for highs. But you'd run the risk of frying all of your components right?

    If you were going to do that you probably would fry them? But for the 2 or so seconds before you'd have some awesome power?:D
     
  5. pedro quiroga

    pedro quiroga Well-Known Member

    most mono amps have crossovers for subs, also you wouldnt have any stereo seperation.
     
  6. aznboi3644

    aznboi3644 Full Member

    also most mono amps only have LOW PASS crossovers...there is no point in using a mono amp for highs though. Unless you are talking about HT use with full range mono tube amps