Hey everyone,

This is my first post to S2KI. I am trying to plan a new audio system for my s2k and need som advice on choosing an amp that will power the components I would like. The main reason I ask is that I was seriously considering purchasing the Soundstreem Dartagnan from millionbuy.com while they still have some left but want to make sure it will meet my needs.

I type of music I listen to is mostly electronica, though I also listen to lots of heavy rock/metal.

I am leaning towards the following configuration based on comments and advice given throughout this forum.

-Alpine HU (haven't decided on model yet)
-Focal 165's or Infinity Perfect components (open to other suggestions, will be going to local shop to listen in person and choose)
-e8A.44 sub in WLaurent enclosure
-Soundstream Dartagnan 6 channel amp
-possibly s-pods and speakers if I feel it is necessary later on

My main confusion is whether the Dartagnan will provide enough power for 2 e8A.44 's (does wiring them parallel or serial make a difference?), and will this be too much for the type of music I listen to? If the Dartagnan cannot power 2 e8A.44's (or it is not recommended), would I be better off just getting an VGA 800.5 or something (will I be able to find this for a similar price)? Also I would like to mount the Dartagnan at the bottom of the trunk well so I can keep my spare tire and keep as much sapce available in my trunk as possible. Are there any problems with that?

I thank all you in advance for your help!

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by daedalus
Hey everyone,

 

Thanks PJK3! I had read the earlier post and that is what peaked my interest in the Dartagnan. I was doing research on other posts about the e8A.44's and was worried that the 250 watts per sub wouldn't be enough power. I was a little hazy on the wiring but you cleared it up for me. Thanks again.

What are some of the negative drawbacks I might encounter from only having 250 watts per sub? Would it make more sense to run more power to a single e8A.44? I'm not necessarily looking for "boom".

Thanks again for your help.

On a side note does anyone have any opinions on the Focal 5ws 5" subs? Supposedly they were designed for small sports cars like the NSX. I've heard you wire them in sets of 4 for the best effect.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by daedalus
Thanks PJK3!

 

Thanks again for the help PJK3. Definitely don't go through the trouble of calculations for me I'll contact Elemental Designs and see what they say.

Considering the system I'm considering, do you kow of any other multi-channel amps that might be a better match than the dartagnan. If not I'll probably go ahead and order one while they still have them in stock.

Thanks again!

 

My opinion......if you are looking for block rattling bass, 2 8" subs wont cut it. If you are looking for nice, quality musical bass, then 1 good 8" is MORE than enough. On that note, I recommend either one 8" ED sub for quality and moderate bass, or, one 10" eclipse sub for quality LOUD bass.

As far as speakers, although open for discussion, I believe that Kappas are better for dance music than focals. But hey, I have the Kappas, so my opinion may be skewed.

 

Thanks for the advice NFRs2000NYC. I am definitely leaning towards the "nice, quality musical bass" . My fiance is not too fond of my "techno crap" as it is, she probably like it even less if the bass made her teeth feel like they were going to fall out

My main motivation for the 8" was I didn't want to give up all the trunk space a 10" takes up (trunk well comes in handy with boxes). I think I'll start out with one 8" ED for now if it needs a little more oomph I might consider a second ED or force myself to use the trunk well with a 10".

I am definitely going to check out the Kappas. I'm going to burn a CD of some of my favorite tracks and bring it down to the audio shop to test both them and the Focals. Why do you think the Kappas are better? Not as bright as the Focals?

Thanks again for the advice.

 

Good choice on one 8".

The Kappas are brighter than the focals, hence being better for electronic music. Your ear is all that counts, so buy what you like. Good choice on the amp by the way.

 

Thanks again for everyone's help and advice! I'll keep you guys posted on my system build and post pictures along the way.