5 replies to this topic

[freshairmini]

I've heard people talking about these when talking about amps, I've had a look on the internet but cant really find anywhere which explains what they do and what there for, i know that they are just big capacitors, but what i want to know is what there use is for in a system with an amp??

thanks

[Puddings]

a big capacitor

Edit after reading op, they charge and discharge when the power is needed, to help prevent power loss

Edited by Puddings, 17 February 2011 - 06:07 PM.

[Bungle]

they store power that can be used when there is a big surge (big deep thump thump from the sub)

[freshairmini]

they store power that can be used when there is a big surge (big deep thump thump from the sub)

so if you where gonna fit just some 6.5" speakers on the parcel shelf for a bit of base would you need one?

[Bungle]

no they are normally only fitted when large subs are used

[pbrain]

the typical rule of thumb was 1Farad for each 1000W.

Power caps are no substitute for a poor alternator, thin cables & small battery.

If your lights dim with a bass-kick/drum hit, power caps can help. Although they won't do anything for heavy/deep bassline music such as Jungle etc. This kind of music needs power...full stop.

A separate battery for audio use is better in that case, with possibly an alternator upgrade.

For running 6.5" speakers, then generally they're not needed...but can be added if you want to improve voltage fluctuations. Fit the cap as close as possible to amp with thickest & as short cables as possible.

The good thing is, they're very cheap these days (i used to pay around £100 for a 1Farad) you can get 3 or 4 for that price now or a single 5-10Farad