Hey everyone,

I am starting to have second thoughts about my initial plans for a a stereo install and would like everyone's advice on what course of action I should take.

My current plan is:

HU: Alpine 9833
Amp: Soundstream Van Gogh 500.4
Speakers: Focal 165K2P
Sub: Eclipse SW8102.4 or Adire Brahma 10"

I currently only have the Soundstream amp. My problem is that I am having second thoughts about the amp and am considering returning it. It is unopened and I have until the 22nd to RMA it. I am starting to think that it would be better to run two separate amps instead, since I have been severely constrained by the subs I could run using this amp (need either a DVC 2-ohm or SVC 4-ohm capable of handling 500wrms).

Maybe I'm paranoid (probably) but after hearing about the trouble Jim has had with these amps it's also making me think I should consider a different amp
Reference to Jim's Problems

I think I need to rethink my entire audio project (with your guys help) and not make the mistake of purchasing an item until I have decided on everything (again).

Please give me some feedback guys. Am I just being paranoid, and should I stick to my initial plan..... Or should I return my amp and start from scratch under the guidance and wise advice of you the gurus? Or am I just insane and should check into a sanitarium?

Awaiting your help,
Luke

 

Whats up bro...

Well, based on Jim's problems, although they were good to him, being without an amp sucks.

If you want, return it, ....acaraudio.com is running great deals on all ALPHASONIK gear....I just got a sub from them....and will be buying an amp as well. So....let me know if you need help hunting parts down.

 

Hey dave,

I had my eye on that Alphasonik equipment. It looks pretty sweet. Do you know anything about their 800 series components? It claims they can handle 200wrms and seem reasonably affordable (compared to the 165 K2P's).

It seems to make a little more sense to get two separate amps so that I can get ones that will compliment the components and whatever sub I choose best. The only thing nagging me is that I would have to get rid of my spare. I guess I can always get AAA

Just to update you on where I'm at. I haven't been able to find a shop nearby that has the Focal K2P's set up to listen to, but my local shop has the Access line set up and they sounded pretty sweet for their entry level speakers. They also had a pair of Boston Accoustics set up and they sounded far too bright for me. I think for my musical taste the focal's have the most pleasing sound. I am just having a hard time spending $679 + tax on them from this shop. Hence, why I'm asking about the Alphasonik's. I was wondering if they might be a good, more affordable alternative.

It terms of subs, I am hoping to be the volunteer for John's fiberglass project (waiting to hear back from him, I know he's been busy with his build-up). I am currently looking at the Eclipse Ti, Adire Brahma, and more recently the Alphasonik 600. I know you are a fan of the eclipse and the alphasonik, but do you have any experience with the Brahma?

I guess depending on what I decide on for speakers/sub will ultimately determine my amp choices. Like I said, the alphasonik's caught my eye. Any other suggestions?

Good to hear from you, and as always, thanks for your help

-Luke-

 

Im not gonna lie, I havent heard them in person, but I spoke to some people and they said it was very very nice, and they do indeed, eat 200rms.

They have a fantastic deal on them. I have never owned Alphasonik. I bought the sub, and buying an amp from recommendations from people who know about it, used it, and who's word I trust. Here is my thread on a nice setup that would allow you to keep your spare.......check it..

http://forums.s2ki.com/forums/showthread.p...threadid=206438

I bought the Alphasonik 800 10"


and the reviews for them have been nothing but stellar.

Im ordering the amp next week....the PMA4150...again, based on what I read and reco's from numerous people I trust (not very many people whos opinion matters to me....there are a number on this board however )

Anyway, if you like the focals....the alphas also have a silk liquid cooled tweeter, and their speakers are made of KEVLAR, which is very strong....thus the 200rms. Im always for trying new equipment, so I am giving them a shot. For my SPODS, I will probably get a pair of their top of line components, assuming everything else serves me well. If I like those, I will change the doors as well (and you KNOW I love Perfects )....For the price, its a really good buy. Their reputation preceeds them.

 

That is freakin sick!!!!

It seems like a great idea and I'm sure it is going to get you major *bling* points with everyone here on the board. I think I am going to go for something a little more low key

Have you ever been to Taj Mahal Car Stereo and Audio on Canal Street? Alphasonik lists them as the nearest seller, wondering if they might have the components hooked up to listen to. If so I might have to make a trip into the city. Any word on whether they are more on the warm side or the bright side?

Depending on what speakers and sub I end up with, I definitely would like to try one of their amps for one of the applications. I was also looking at the new Phoenix Gold Xenon amps. I am going to try and do some more research in the different amps and try and figure how I want to mount them.

If you come across any good deals or other equipment ideas, let me know (that goes for all you other audio gurus too )

 

Ive been to Taj Mahal. THey are authorized....but I dont know if they have the speakers hooked up.


The Xenon line is good and bad. The good is they put out the same power at any ohm. The bad is that put out the same power at any ohm. Meaning, for speakers, its good, for subs, its not good. (regular amps push more power at lower ohms for sub use)....

I cant wait to get my stuff from them. Im excited! Im sure I will be pleased. I dont care about warranty. Good manufacturers stand behind their product regardless, and the price difference is great. Taj will usually match online pricing....so you can check them out.

 

Good to know about the Xenon line! I had no idea that they were the same power at all ohms. I figured they just hadn't finished updating their website with more details.

I was looking at the PMA2300A for the sub since I can run just about any of the subs I'm looking at with it. The amp for the components will ultimately depend on which components I choose since the Focals have a 100wrms rating and the Alphasoniks a 200wrms. Size also becomes an issue if I am going to fit everthing in my trunk!

I would just get a 150wrms amp figuring I could power either or, but I'd worry about possibly frying the focals with that much power. I'd probably be better off with a 100wrms amp for those or something closer to 125wrms.

I'll give Taj Mahal a call tomorrow and see if they have the speakers available to listen to. Either way I will have to decide whehter to save a few hundred dollars online or pay more for the peace of mind of purchasing through an authorized dealer (debating on whether that really matters).

 

Well, my Infinities are rated at 100wrms (although 400 max) and my audiobahn is 150x2.....and I have no problems. You just have to set everything up correctly. And because my amp isnt giving its all, its not running hot.

 

Has anyone installed the Alphasonik Components yet?