An amplifier is an essential component in building a great aftermarket car audio system. It's a key product for anyone who cares about great sound quality, and not just seasoned audiophiles.
The reason being: car head units are equipped with built-in amps, but many of these aren’t much to write home about. So, if you want your speakers to really sing, amplifiers are definitely part of the picture.
The first thing to do is to read our unrivaled car amplifier buying guide in which we explained in details all the relevant specifications and guidelines of how to choose the best amplifier for your vehicle.
External car amplifiers are categorized by the number of channels. In other words, they are are categorized by the number of speakers they can power simultaneously. There are mono channel amps and multi-channel amps - with 2, 4, 5 and 6-channels.
For the purpose of this article, we'll be reviewing a few of the best 4 channel amplifiers on the market.
So, without any further ado, onto the reviews!
Top 9 Best 4 Channel Amplifiers Reviews
When it comes to external car amplifiers, Rockford Fosgate is probably one of the most legendary. They offer a wide range of reasonably priced car amplifiers.
The R400-4D is one of the top-rated 4 channel amplifiers on the market. It uses a class D topology, which makes the amplifier energy efficient with very low operating temperatures.
The Rockford Fosgate R400-4D is one of the best car amplifiers under $200. It can put out up to 75 watts RMS to each of your front and rear speakers, which is more than enough to push them to their full potential. This 4 channel amplifier is bridgeable.
In other terms, you can use two of its channels to drive your front speakers while using the other two channels bridged to run a subwoofer with up to 200 watts RMS. And, of course, you can bridge the whole amp to 2-channel mode to drive a couple of subs.
This amplifier comes with various features including high- and low-pass filters, along with Rockford Fosgate's famous Punch EQ bass/treble boost, so you can tune your stereo system to get well-balanced sound output.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Number of Channel: 4
- Bridgeable: Yes
- Class: D
- RMS Power
- @4-Ohm : 75 Watts X 4
- @2-Ohm : 100 Watts X 4
- @4-Ohm Bridged : 200 Watts X 2
- Max Power : 400 Watts
- Frequency Response: 20 - 20,000 Hz
- Features
Variable high- and low-pass filters (50-250 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
Variable Punch EQ bass/treble boost (0-18 dB at 45 Hz and 12,000 Hz)
Preamp inputs and outputs
Warranty: 1 year
- The PRIME R400-4D is an ultra-efficient 4-channel amplifier (1.97" x 6.77" x 9.10”) with top mounted controls and delivering 400 Watts RMS of power!
- Optimized for 4-channel front/rear systems (RMS Power Output: 75 Watts x 4 @ 4-Ohm OR 100 Watts x 4 @ 2-Ohm OR 200 Watts x 2 @ 4-Ohm Bridged)
- High efficiency, Class D design produces maximum power with minimal strain on the vehicle's electrical system while being able to power a full-range system
- Delivering more bass and treble where you want it most with On-board Punch EQ for +18dB boost @ 45Hz. Operating Voltage - 9-16 VDC
- Featuring RCA pass-thru outputs, 12dB/octave Butterworth crossover, 2/4 channel input switch, 4 Gauge power/ground connectors, and Tri-stage protection covering thermal, over-current and short circuits.Input sensitivity:150 mV to 4 V
The P600X4 is another great 4 channel amplifier by Rockford Fosgate. It's going to be the most expensive pick of the lot by far. It is the best performing amplifier in the Rockford Fosgate Punch series.
It's very well-engineered and would be a great investment for anyone who's looking for a solid car amplifier with impressive power output.
At 4 ohm, the P600X4 can put out 75 watts RMS to each of your front and rear speakers, which is plenty of power to make your aftermarket speakers sing. You can also switch this amp into 2-channel mode - also known as amp bridging - to drive a couple of subs with up to 300 watts RMS each.
You can use the amp's high-pass filter to filter out and prevent the amp from sending low frequencies to your speakers so they'll play more efficiently. Similarly, you can use its low-pass filter to avoid sending high frequencies to your sub(s). The Punch EQ2 includes bass and treble boosts, in case you want to add some boom and sizzle back into the mix.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Class : A/B
Number of Channels : 4
RMS Power
@ 4-Ohm : 75 Watts x 4
@ 2-Ohm : 150 Watts x 4
@ 4-Ohm Bridged : 300 Watts x 2
Total Power : 600 Watts
Bridgeable : Yes
Frequency response : 20 – 20,000 Hz
Features
Variable high- and low-pass filter filter (50-250 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
Variable PEQ2 bass/treble boost (0-18 dB at 45 Hz and 0-14 dB at 12.5K Hz)
Preamp inputs and outputs
Speaker-level inputs
- The Punch P600X4 600 watt 4-channel amplifier (2.38” x 7.76” x 13.28") is perfect for a 4-way full-range system or a 3-way system having a front stage with subwoofers on the rear channels
- Versatile multi-channel design can power just about any audio system configuration (RMS Power Output: 75 Watts x 4 @ 4-Ohm OR 150 Watts x 4 @ 2-Ohm OR 300 Watts x 2 @ 4-Ohm Bridged)
- RCA inputs can accept both Hi and Low level audio signals without the need of a signal converter
- Featuring Class A/B topology, RCA pass-thru outputs, on-board Punch EQ with +18dB boost @ 45Hz, variable 12 dB/Oct Butterworth crossovers, and C.L.E.A.N. Set-up
- Famous Rockford Fosgate build quality with a full 1-year warranty when purchased from an authorized Rockford Fosgate reseller
Kenwood is one of the most recognized brands in the car audio industry. They offer a well-rounded collection of various car audio components including headunits, amplifiers, subs, and speakers.
The KAC-8406 is one of the best 4 channel amp under $200 that Kenwood has to offer. It's designed to deliver 70 watts RMS per channel to your speakers.
Or you can Switch it over to bridge mode, and you can get great performance from a set of powerful components or a couple of subs with up to 200 watts RMS per channel.
The Kenwood KAC-8406 uses class AB design and MOSFET power supply. It comes with high- and low-pass filters, preamp inputs and speaker-level inputs with signal sensing turn-on.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Class : A/B
Number of Channels : 4
RMS Power
@ 4-Ohm : 70 Watts x 4
@ 2-Ohm : 100 Watts x 4
@ 4-Ohm Bridged : 200 Watts x 2
Max Power : 900 Watts
Bridgeable : Yes
Frequency response : 5 – 50,000 Hz
Features
Variable high- and low-pass filters (50-200 Hz, 12 dB per octave)
Switchable bass boost (0, 18 dB at 40 Hz)
Preamp inputs
Speaker-level inputs with signal sensing turn-on
- New Kenwood KAC-8406 900 Watt 4-Channel Class AB Car Audio Power Amplifier Amp
- Power Handling
- RMS:
- Power:4 ohms: 70 watts x 4 chan.
- 2 ohms: 100 watts x 4 chan.
JL Audio is a brand we haven't come across very much at all. However, they're making a name for themselves in the car audio industry. Their JX400 in one of the best compact 4 channel amplifier on the market.
Its tiny size makes a great option for people with very limited space inside their vehicle as well as for those who don't want to sacrifice their cargo space.
Despite its small size, the JL Audio JX400 is quite powerful. It can put out 70 watts RMS to each of its four channels. In bridge mode, this versatile amplifier can power a pair of speakers or subs with 200 watts RMS each, and fill your ride with well-balanced sound.
The JL Audio JX400 is a very well-engineered amplifier. Its controls are nicely labeled and well spaced out. It comes equipped with variable high- and low-pass filters, speaker-level inputs, along with pre-amp inputs and outputs, so its compatible with virtually any car stereo.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Class : D
Number of Channels : 4
RMS Power
@ 4-Ohm : 70 Watts x 4
@ 2-Ohm : 100 Watts x 4
@ 4-Ohm Bridged : 200 Watts x 2
Max Power : 900 Watts
Bridgeable : Yes
Frequency response : 20-20K Hz
Features
Variable high- and low-pass filters (50-200 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
Preamp inputs and outputs
Speaker-level inputs
When it comes to affordable 4 channel amps, the KAC-M3004 from Kenwood is no doubt the cheapest amplifier yet in our list.
Thanks to Kenwood’s reputation in the audio equipment industry, we see no reason why you shouldn’t try investing in this product.
One of its key features is that it’s very easy to use to install.
It features a peak 600W power output which is more than enough for most car owners. Apart from that, you can even use it with a three to four-speaker setup.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Class: D
RMS Power
4-Ohm: 50 Watts x 4
2-Ohm: 75 Watts x 4
Max Power: 600 Watts
Bridgeable: Yes
Features
Built-in high and low-pass filters (50 to 200Hz)
Low distortion at all voice levels
- PEAK POWER: Max Power 600 Watts. RMS (50 Watts x 4 @ 4-Ohm or 75W x 4 @ 2-Ohm
- RMS POWER: (50 Watts x 4 @ 4-Ohm or 75W x 4 @ 2-Ohm. High Quality KENWOOD sound you can depend on
- MARINE CERTIFIED: Conformal coated marine grade circuit board is great for any application including Car, Boat, ATV, UTV etc.
- FEATURES: KENWOOD Triangle Indicator Light, 3-Way Protection Circuitry, Balanced Inputs, Speaker-Level (high level) inputs and Selectable corossover modes
- COMPACT SIZE: Cutting Edge KENWOOD Amplifier technology allows extremely compact design. (WxHxD) 6-1/2" x 1-3/4" x 3-7/8"
Yet another Rockford Fosgate product, the R300X4 is a class A/B amplifier which produces a far efficient sound quality and less distortion than most class A and B amps in the market.
It comes with tons of power as well as a crisp tone at all sound levels.
Technically speaking, the R300X4 is an all-round amp capable of delivering between 50 and 150 watts per channel. It includes a number of amazing features including temperature sensors, aluminum chassis, and speaker-level inputs. Overall, it’s a really good audio system amp for any standard setup.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Class: A/B
RMS Power
4-Ohm: 50 Watts x 4
2-Ohm: 75 Watts x 4
4-Ohm Bridged: 150 Watts x 2
Max Power: 600 Watts
Bridgeable: Yes
Features
Speaker-level inputs
Built-in temperature and current sensors
Heavy cast-aluminum chassis
- 50 Watts x 4 @ 4-Ohm / 75 Watts x 4 @ 2-Ohm / 150 Watts x 2 @ 4-Ohm Bridged
- Accepts High Level & RCA Level Input
- Cast aluminum heatsink with Top Mount Controls
- 12dB/octave crossover
- Class A/B Circuit Topology
The Thunder series from MTX has been in the market for more than 20 years already. This alone is enough to speak for the quality of its products.
The Thunder75.4 amplifier is currently the smallest Thunder amp they have in production.
It comes with a surface mount design for enhanced vibration resistance even on uneven surfaces. Just like most 4-channel amps, it also has variable crossovers.
Additionally, its compact build quality won’t compromise your audio quality, not to mention it’s very easy to install and use.
Lastly, while it won’t provide you with the highest sound quality, it sure is a great choice as far as affordability is concerned.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Class: A/B
RMS Power
4-Ohm: 75 Watts x 4
2-Ohm: 100 Watts x 4
4-Ohm Bridge: 200 Watts x 2
Max Power: 400 Watts
Bridgeable: Yes
Features
Variable low and high-pass filter (10 to 200Hz, 12dB/octave)
Low distortion at all voice levels
- Class A/B Topology
- Variable LPF and HPF
- Surface Mount PCB
- Small Foot Print Design
Despite its pretty small and compact size, the Alpine MRV-F300 is packed with decent power, easy installation, and excellent sound amplification.
It’s a class D amplifier with a smart design and weighs only 4 pounds, making it one of the lightest amplifiers in the market.
Aside from that, it has an excellent build quality due to its stainless steel housing.
If you have a main amp and planning to install a second one, then this could be a really good option.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Class: D
RMS Power
4-Ohm: 75 Watts x 4
2-Ohm: 50 Watts x 4
4-Ohm Bridged: 150 Watts x 2
Max Power: 640 Watts
Bridgeable: Yes
Features
Superfast switching technology for excellent power efficiency
Variable high and low-pass filter
- 75W RMS X 4 (2Ω , 14. 4V, ≤ 1% THD+N)
- 50W RMS X 4 (4Ω , 14. 4V, ≤ 1% THD+N)
- Same Power In A 40% Smaller Chassis
- Evolution To Class D Digital Platform
Pioneer is another excellent brand that offers affordable yet quality stereo components. The Pioneer GM-D8604 amplifier provides you with decent sound at a relatively affordable price.
Additionally, its compact design allows you to fit it into your car without any problem.
If you’re looking for an amplifier which is a good balance between performance and affordability, then you certainly won’t be disappointed with the GM-D8604. In our experience, it was more than enough to provide us with a crisp and excellent audio quality in our car with a bass-heavy sound.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Class: D
RMS Power
4-Ohm: 100 Watts x 4
2-Ohm: 150 Watts x 4
1-Ohm: 125 Watts x 4
4-Ohm Bridged: 300 Watts x 2
2-Ohm Bridged: 250 Watts x 2
Max Power: 1,200 Watts
Bridgeable: Yes
Features
Variable high and low-pass filter (40-500 Hz, 12dB/octave)
Small, lightweight, and compact amp
- This Certified Refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, a minimum 90-day warranty, and may arrive in a generic box. Only select sellers who maintain a high performance bar may offer Certified Refurbished products on Amazon.com
- Class FD 4-Channel Amplifier
- 4-channel car amplifier, 1,200 watts max power.
- Compact design for versatile installation options
- Extreme efficiency and high-quality sound
Last update on 2021-12-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
