9 Best 1500 Watt Amps (2023)

You’ve found the best 1500-Watt amp for your car speaker system.

This article will help you to understand the differences between what to look for, and what to avoid.

There are many types of amps available on the market, but not all of them offer the same performance.

Many of them don’t even have the power output advertised.

If you know the tricks amp manufacturers use to sell amps, but you don’t need to know them all, then you can skip to our list with 9 best 1500-watt amps.

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What is the purpose of a Car Amp.

As the name suggests, a car amp amp receives and amplifies audio signals from your head unit, and then sends them to your speakers.

Your speakers would be dull and quiet without the amp. Today’s cars almost all have a built-in amp behind the head unit.

These small, built-in amps may be enough for some people. Some people however want more.

You will need a car amp if you’re one of them and are considering buying a subwoofer to enhance your car’s audio system.

The small, built-in amp you have is insufficient if you need to install a subwoofer in your trunk. A new amp is essential. What kind of amp should you get? We are now at the second chapter.

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What is the Best Car Amp to Meet Your Needs?

What are you looking to achieve? Before you begin your search, this is the first question to ask yourself.

It takes patience, knowledge, and money to upgrade a car’s audio system. You don’t want to waste your time, or worse, your money.

Ask yourself which upgrade you are looking for. You will need a different amp depending on the size and power rating of your speakers (or speakers). So, let’s get started.

Number of channels (mono-, stereo-, and multichannel) and type of amplification (class AB, class D)

A monoamp (or monoblock) is the best option if you need to add a subwoofer but don’t plan on upgrading in the future.

Monoblocks that are not class-D amplifiers use digital amplification. Digital amplification is much more efficient, which is important when you have to pump power continuously into the speaker (500W+ or 100W+).

Digital amplification also allows for lower operating temperatures, which is important when trying to push as much power.

Digital amplification provides very good, perfectly controlled low-end reproduction.

If you are looking to add a subwoofer, it is clear that class-D monoamps are the best choice.

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You will need either a 2-channel, or 4-channel amplifier if you are replacing your stereo speakers or rear speakers with more powerful speakers.

Class-AB amps make up the majority of multichannel amps, including 2-channel and 3-channel models.

Although class-D amps have many advantages over class A and class-AB amps (smaller and lower operating temperatures and more efficient), they don’t sound nearly as good as class A and AB amps in terms of midrange and high-treble reproduction (not bright enough)

If you are looking to install full-range speakers then you should consider the class-AB amplifier.

There are many options available if you wish to upgrade the speakers and add a Subwoofer.

Two amps could be used – one class-D mono amp and one class AB amp (for daisy chaining with another amp) to power the speakers.

You can also buy a 5-channel hybrid amp for more than $450 (4 Class-AB channels and 1 Class-D subwoofer). A 6-channel amp is also possible. This amp will allow you to use four channels to power your speakers, and then bridge the two remaining channels to provide enough power for the subwoofer.

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Allowable Impedance (max. and min.) and Power ratings

Power ratings and impedance are closely linked. You should look for an amp that can deliver enough power to a load. (Load is the speaker’s impedance).

A 1500W amp usually refers to amps that can produce 1500W, not 1500W continuously.

Also, 15000W is not the peak power output but the RMS output. 1500W is the RMS power output in some cases, particularly when you consider more well-respected manufacturers and higher-priced amps. You should be cautious and verify all specifications.

Recommended Top Rated 5000 Watt Amps

For example, if you have four speakers that are 250W RMS, you will need either a 2-channel or 4-channel amplifier that can produce at least 250W continuously (or more).

An amp with 200W output per channel could be purchased, but it won’t sound as good as an amp that produces more power and will heat up over time.

Although it doesn’t seem difficult to match the power ratings and impedance, there is one thing that can make things more difficult.

Manufacturers aren’t always upfront about power ratings. This brings us to the next topic.

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Our Top Picks

Planet Audio AC1500.1M 

they are extremely affordable so don’t expect to be extravagant with them.

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Avoid buying an amp that is not powerful enough for your speakers

Many manufacturers, particularly cheap generic brands, don’t give accurate power ratings. Although they may publish numbers, these numbers are arbitrary and do not reflect the actual power output of their amps.

You can avoid purchasing something not right for you by doing these simple things.

The first thing you can do is to avoid amps below $100. Generic amps aren’t as reliable as they claim to be.

They only produce 25-30% of their advertised power output.

Recommended Top Rated 1200-Watt Amps

You could also do your calculations and calculate the maximum power output.

The equation below will allow you to calculate the maximum power output if you know the voltage of your car’s battery (the average voltage is 14.4V), the amplification type (class AB or Class D), and the average/max current draw (fuse ratings), which are usually provided in the user manual.

This equation is a simplified version of Ohm’s Law. Although it won’t give you an exact power output, it can give you a good idea of the capabilities of amplifiers.

Recommended Top Rated 2000-Watt Amps

You can search YouTube for Amp Dyno test results to get more information about power output. These tests are available for almost all types of amps. These tests can help you avoid purchasing a poor amp.

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Now you’re familiar with what to look out for and what to avoid. Let’s get to our list of 9 best 1500-Watt amplifiers.

The 9 best amps are divided into 3 parts: best amps below $100, best amps less than $200, and best amps above $200.

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Best 1500 Watt Amps Under $100

You already know that none of the 1500-Watt amps below $100 can produce the advertised 1500 Watts. So you can know what to expect, we have calculated the max power output of each amp.

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1. Planet Audio AC1500.1M

Editor’s Rating: (4.2 / 5)

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Planet Audio are one of many generic brands available on the market. They are extremely affordable so don’t expect to be extravagant with them.

The AC1500.1M monoblock amp is class-AB and has a max power output of 1500W. These advertised power ratings are far below what the amp can actually produce.

AC1500.1M is not recommended for subwoofers with a 1000W RMS. It could put enough power into your subwoofer’s 200W RMS, but that’s about all you can get.

Impressions

AC1500.1M includes a wired remote for bass, mounting screws, a user manual, and a 1-year warranty. (Can be extended up to 6 years if purchased through Amazon.

The amp is simple and clean. The amp’s top features a backlit Anarchy sign. It is compact and small at 10in by 10in wide and 2.54in high.

AC1500.1M supports both high-level and low level RCA inputs, with a variable input sensitivity.

Variable low pass crossover is available (frequency range 40Hz to 90Hz). There is also an adjustable bass boost of up to +18dB. You can also attach the bass level remote if you wish.

AC1500.1M’s min allowed impedance is 2 and it is not stable at 1.

The amp has overheat and short circuit protection.

The advertised power ratings are highly controversial. This amp is not able to deliver the advertised output due to the fact that it uses fuses rated at 30A. The equation in the introduction will give you 259.2W, which is far below 1500W.

The RMS power ratings were not available. Manufacturers publish only maximum power outputs (1500W at 2 and 750W 4). It can easily push 150W to 200W continuously.

Advantages

• Compact and small
• It is easy to install
• Inputs of high and low levels
• Variable low-pass crossover filter (45Hz-90Hz).
• Variable bass boost (upto +18dB) or bass level remote
• Stable from 2-8
• Protection against overheating and short-circuiting

Disadvantages

• At 1 it is not stable
• Actual max power output is lower than advertised (259W vs 1500W).

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2. New Rockville RXA-T1

Editor’s Rating: (4.3 / 5)

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The CEA-2006 certification is what makes New Rockville amps stand out from other amps on sale.

Rockville amps comply with the CEA 2006 standard. You will also find two power ratings in their manuals (certified or uncertified). RXA-1 is a 2-channel, class-AB amp that has a power output of 1500W.

RXA-1T1 is not capable of pushing 1500W like all other cheap amps.

Impressions

The brushed aluminum housing of the RXA-1T1 makes it look very stylish. You’ll also receive mounting screws, a user manual, 1-year warranty, and a 1-year warranty.

It measures 13in in length, 8.5in width, and 1.8in high. It’s very slim so it will fit easily under your seat.

RXA-1 has both high-level and lower-level RCA inputs. You can also connect another amp to it with the RCA outputs.

There are two types of crossover filters: a variable low pass and high-pass. The low-pass frequency range is between 50Hz and 250Hz, while the high pass frequency range is from 15Hz up to 250Hz. You can also adjust the amp’s bass boost knob to increase its volume (up to 12dB). There is no bass remote input, unlike some cheap amps.

Stereo mode has a min impedance of 2. Bridgeable amps have a min impedance of 2.

RXA-1 is fused at 50A. This equation will give you an approximate power output of 432W. This is 30% less than the advertised power output.

This amp is not recommended for speakers with higher demands (e.g. 300W RMS).

The user manual will contain two sets of power ratings. The CEA-certified specifications state that RXA-1 will output 125W per channel continuously (at 4), or 185W per canal (at 2).

The uncertified specs can be a little more optimistic. According to the manufacturer, the amp can deliver 250W per channel continuously (into four speakers), 375W per speaker (into two speakers), and 750W per channel (into one speaker, bridged mode).

Advantages

• Compact and slim
• Inputs of high and low levels
• RCA pre-amp outputs
• Crossover filters with variable low-pass (50Hz – 250Hz) and high pass (15Hz – 250Hz)
• Variable bass boost (0-12dB)
• Stereo mode: Stable at 2-8
• Bridged Mode: Stable at 4-8
• CEA-certified RMS power ratings

Disadvantages

• The stereo mode is not stable at 1
• Bridged mode is not stable at 1-3
• The actual max power output is lower than advertised.

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3. BOSS Audio Riot R1600M

Editor’s Rating: (4.3 / 5)

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BOSS Audio has been a top-selling brand when it comes to car amplifiers. BOSS Audio Riot R1600M class-AB amp is 1-channel.

Although the advertised maximum power output is 1600W, the BOSS R1600M can’t push that far, like other cheap amps.

R1600M has a similar power output to the previously reviewed New Rockville RXA-1T1, but they are two different types of amps (1-channel and 2-channel).

The amp will probably be able to push enough power into one subwoofer of 300W RMS. For subwoofers that require power, you will need something stronger and more expensive (e.g. 500W RMS).

Impressions

This package includes your R1600M car amplifier, wired bass remote and mounting screws. It also comes with a 1-year warranty.

It is compact and clean looking. It looks very stylish with its brushed aluminum chassis and BOSS logo backlit. R1600M measures 12.3in in length, 10.4in width, and 2.3in high. It shouldn’t be difficult to install the amp.

R1600M supports both low-level (RCA), and high-level inputs so that you don’t need to purchase adapters.

The amp features a variable low pass crossover filter. The amp’s crossover frequency ranges from 50Hz through 250Hz. You can also get a variable bass boost of up to +12dB and a wired remote for your bass.

R1600-M is stable between 2-8 and 1. Two 25A fuse (50A) are included in the amp. Our calculations show that the amp can produce approximately 432W.

You can see that 432W isn’t even close to 1600W, but at this price, it’s hard to get more. The manufacturer does not provide any information about the RMS power ratings.

Our experience shows that the RMS power output ranges between 250W to 300W. This means that if your subwoofer is 500W RMS, the BOSS amp would be a poor choice as it would heat up quickly.

The amp has overheat protection and short circuit protection.

Advantages

• Easy to install and compact
• Inputs of high- and low-level (RCA),
• Variable low-pass crossover filter, 50Hz-250Hz
• Variable bass boost knob (12dB) and remote bass level
• Stable from 2-8
• Protection against overheating and short circuit

Disadvantages

• At 1 it is not stable
• It is not possible to deliver the advertised 1600W (maximum power output is only 432W).
• It does not have a subsonic filter

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Best 1500-Watt Amps Under $200

These three amps provide much better and more stable performance than all of the budget amps. They are also not too expensive.

These amps are affordable and can be used to power 1500 Watts or close to 1500W.

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4. Audiopipe APCL-15001D Mono Amp

Editor’s Rating: (4.6 / 5)

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Audiopipe APC-15001D is a great choice when it comes to the W/$ ratio.

This amp is a Class-D amplifier with a single channel. 1500W is the RMS power output of this amp (at 1), and it’s surprising that it gets close to these advertised values.

There are a few & dyno test videos on YouTube that you can check out. The APCL-15001D is an excellent option if you don’t have a budget of more than $160.

Impressions

Your mono amp, remote control, mounting screws, manual, and 1-year warranty are included in the package. The package does not include a wiring kit.

Although the amplifier is small, it’s not too small. It is important to plan your installation and placement. APCL-15001D measures 14.1in in length, 7in wide and 2.2in high.

APCL-15001D only has low-level RCA inputs. If your head unit does not have RCA outputs, there are no high-level inputs. You will need an adapter. You can also daisy-chain two amps using the RCA bridge-in or bridge-out ports.

You can also use the amp’s variable low-pass crossover filter (40Hz – 180Hz) and subsonic filter (0Hz-50Hz). The amp also has a bass boost knob that can be adjusted to up to +12dB. You can also choose the frequency to be boosted (30Hz-80Hz). The bass level remote can be installed and used in place of the bass boost knob.

The amp fused at 100A, and stable at 1. The amp’s advertised continuous output (at 1, mono operation) is 1500W. Although the amp cannot deliver 1500W continuously, it is close.

Although our equation states that the maximum power output is 1152W at 1 (at 1), in actuality, it can produce even more (check out those dyno videos on YouTube).

You can get 950W continuous power into one speaker, or 600W into one speaker. If you own a subwoofer that is large enough to power 500W, 1000W/2 or more, the APCL-15001D amp will power it.

Advantages

• Compact
• Low-level (RCA) inputs
• RCA bridge-in/bridge-out ports
• A variable low-pass filter, 40Hz-180Hz, and variable subsonic filters (0Hz-50Hz).
• Adjustable bass boost frequency (30Hz-80Hz), and bass boost knob (up to +12dB).
• Stable at 1 (one speaker connected to mono mode)
• You get reliable and stable performance, with an impressive power output.
• Excellent W/$ ration

Disadvantages

• There are no high-level inputs

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5. Hifonics BRX1516.1D Brutus

Editor’s Rating: (4.5 / 5)

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Hifonics amplifiers may not be as great as they once were, but they’re still very good. They offer more than satisfactory performance, especially considering their price.

The Hifonics BRX1516.1D mono-amp is a class D mono amp that has a power output of 1500W. We hate the specs of Hifonics amps.

The manufacturer seems to not care about providing the complete specs. It is impossible to determine if 1500W is RMS or peak unless you actually test it.

Some details are missing from the specs list. BRX amps have been claimed by some online dealers and reviewers to be CEA-certified. However, the manual does not contain any information on this certification and, even more important, no CEA certified power ratings.

Impressions

Your amp, bass knob (with cable), mounting screws, and user manual are all included in the box. The wiring kit is not included.

Although the amp isn’t very elegant, it looks great in the dark due to the blue lighting (backlit Hifonics logo & ports). It measures 12.5in in length, 10in width and 2.5in high.

BRX1516.1D has only low-level RCA inputs. There are no high-level inputs. There are also two RCA preamp outputs that can be used to daisy-chain another amp.

An adjustable low-pass crossover filter (35Hz -250Hz), and variable subsonic filters (15Hz -35Hz) are some of the amp’s features. Bass boost (up to 10dB), and a bass remote allow you to adjust the bass to your preference.

BRX1516.1D provides overload, overheating, and short-circuit protection.

Let’s now talk about power ratings. The amp is fused at 140A with two 70A fuses.

Applying the equation in the introduction will give you 1612W. This is quite cool.

We’ve already mentioned that it is difficult to determine if the advertised power ratings refer to RMS or Peak. However, our calculations indicate that these are likely the peak values. This amp can power 1500W in one load, 900W in two loads, and 500W into four loads, according to the specifications.

Advantages

• Easy to install and compact
• Low-level RCA inputs
• RCA daisy-chain outputs
• Variable low-pass filters (35Hz-250Hz), and subsonic filters (15Hz-35Hz).
• Bass boost (up to 10dB) & bass level remote
• 3-way protection: overload, overheat and short circuit
• Stable at 1
• Reliable performance at 1500W+ maximum power output (at 1)

Disadvantages

• It does not have any high-level inputs

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6. Pioneer GM-D8601

Editor’s Rating: (4.5 / 5)

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Pioneer is a well-known brand when it comes to car audio equipment, particularly head units.

Although their amps may not be as well-respected as their subwoofers and head units, they are still worthy of your attention.

Pioneer amps have all been CEA-certified. Even though they may be a little optimistic in peak power ratings, the CEA-certified RMS ratings of the amps are extremely accurate. This means that you can rest assured that the amp will produce the promised power output.

Pioneer’s GM8601 mono-amp class-D mono is presented to you with a max power output of 1600W.

Impressions

An amplifier is supplied with a wired remote for bass level, high-to-low adapter, mounting screws and a user manual. The warranty lasts 1 year (extension able to 3). The wiring kit is not included.

It looks sleek and elegant. It is small and compact. It measures 10.4in in length, 7.9in width, and 2.4in high.

The GM-D8601 has only low-level RCA inputs, but it also comes with high-to-low adapters so that you don’t need any extra equipment (except the wiring kit). There are also two RCA line outputs, not preamp outputs.

The amp has a variable low pass crossover filter that can be adjusted between 40Hz and 240Hz, but no subsonic filter. The amp does not have a bass boost knob, but the included remote can do the same thing. The frequency of 50Hz is the center for bass boost and can be used to increase the bass up to 18dB.

The amp is fused at 80A and uses two 40Afuses. The equation in the introduction will give you the max power output of 921W. This is not the same as the advertised output (1600W).

The RMS power ratings have been CEA-certified. They are very accurate. Watch some amp Dyno Tests on YouTube to see them in action. The amp can push 300W continuously at 4, 500W @ 2, 800W at 1, and 800W at 2.

GM-8601 has 3-way protection (overheating/overload, short circuit).

Advantages

• Compact and small
• It is easy to install
• Low-level RCA inputs
• RCA outputs
• Variable low-pass crossover filter (40Hz – 240Hz).
• Remote bass boost (up to 18dB).
• CEA-certified RMS power ratings
• Performance that is reliable and stable
• 3-way protection: Overheat, overload, and short circuit

Disadvantages

• It does not have a subsonic filter
• It does not have high-level inputs. A high-to-low adapter comes with the package.

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Best 1500-Watt Amps Over $200

These are our top three picks. All three amps can pump 1500W, and sometimes more. Although they are advertised as 1500W amps these amps can actually produce 1500 Watts continuously (1500W is their average power output, not their peak power output).

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7. Skar Audio SKv2-1500.1D

Editor’s Rating: (4.8 / 5)

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Skar Audio has been a favorite brand. They are affordable and have high power ratings.

There won’t be any power outputs that are too high. We present to you the Skar Audio Skv2-1500.1D class-D mono amplifier. 1500W is the RMS power output, while the peak power output is 2200W.

Impressions

Your Skar Audio mono amplifier, bass knob, manual, and 1-year warranty are all included in the packaging.

It looks sleek and stylish. Although it isn’t super-small, it should still fit in your trunk. It measures 13.8in in length, 9.1in width, and 2.4in high.

Only RCA inputs (low-level), are available on the amp. The amp does not have high-level inputs. You can also use the RCA outputs to strap it.

The SKv2-1500.1D includes both subsonic and low-pass crossover filters. The low-pass frequency range is between 35Hz and 250Hz, and the subsonic frequency range is from 10Hz up to 50Hz.

There is also a bass boost dial (0-9dB) on the amp and an additional remote for bass. The amp also has a phase shift switch (0-180deg).

According to our calculations, the amp has one 150A fuse that will allow for a maximum power output of 1843W. Although the manufacturer’s power rating of 2200W is slightly higher, it’s still pretty close. YouTube shows even higher values in the Amp Dyno test.

According to the Amp Dyno test, this mono-amp can deliver either 1500W continuously (at 1) OR 930W continuously (at 2)

The amp is stable as you can see. If the power output is too low, you can strap it. The SKv2-1500.1D can power 2 subwoofers at 1000W RMS.

Customers have reported that the unit can power the 15 EVL-15D2 subwoofer (1250W peak, 2500W RMS), which is impressive, but we wouldn’t go so far.

The amp has 4-way protection: overheat, overload and short circuit protections, as well as DC protection.

Advantages

• Compact and sleek
• RCA Low-Level Inputs
• RCA outputs
• Variable low-pass crossover filters (35Hz-250Hz), and subsonic (10Hz-50Hz).
• Variable bass boost (0-9dB), and bass remote
• Stable at 1
• Strappable
• Continuously delivers 1500W at 1
• Performance that is reliable and stable
• 4-way protection

Disadvantages

• It lacks high-level inputs

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8. NEW Orion XTR1500.1Dz

Editor’s Rating: (4.9 / 5)

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Orion Car Audio produces powerful, affordable equipment. The Orion XTR1500.1Dz mono-amp is a beast. It can be yours for as low as $250, which is a fantastic deal.

The amp is CEA certified and the certified ratings verify that it can deliver 1500W continuously (at one load). New Orion XTR1500.1D will be a great choice if you have a $250 limit or $300.

Impressions

The XTR1500.1Dz includes a wired remote for bass, a user manual, and a 1-year warranty.

The amplifier measures 11.5in in width, 9.3in high, and 2.5in high. The amplifier is not too large, especially when you consider the impressive power ratings.

This amp has only low-level RCA inputs and no high-level inputs. It can be daisy-chained (with another amp) thanks to its RCA outputs, Data Link port and Data Link port.

There are two types of low-pass crossover filters: a variable low-pass filter (between 15Hz and 250Hz) as well as a subsonic filter (0-25Hz).

The amp has a bass boost of up to 18dB. You can adjust the bass response using the remote included with the amp or the knob on the amp.

The XTR1500.1Dz boasts some insane power ratings. The advertised maximum power output (6000W) is a little too optimistic. This amp can produce 2880W max based on its fuse rating and amplifier type (see the equation below).

The advertised RMS ratings for this amp are correct and CEA-certified. The amp can output 1500W continuously at 1 (with less than 1% distortion), 975W when it is 2, and 600W when it is 4. These power ratings are confirmed by all amp dyno test results on YouTube.

You can attach two amps to the amp, and it will be stable at 1. The new Orion XTR1500.1Dz is capable of driving your subwoofer 1000W/2.

The amp has overheated, DC offset, short protection, and under-voltage protection.

Advantages

• Well-built, compact, and small
• Low-level RCA inputs
• Strappable (RCA outputs, Data Link port).
• Variable low-pass crossover filters (between 15Hz and 250Hz)
• Variable bass boost (upto 18dB) or bass remote
• Stable at 1
• Amazing power ratings from CEA, especially when you consider the price (1500W at 1).
• Performance that is reliable and stable
• 4-way protection

Disadvantages

• It does not have high-level inputs (speaker level).

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9. Rockford Fosgate T1500-1bdCP

Editor’s Rating: (4.9 / 5)

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As you may have seen from our amp reviews, Rockford Fosgate has been one of our favorite brands. Their top-of-the-line 1500W amp is the T1500-1bdCP.

T1500, like the other amps on this list, has an RMS power output (at 1). The CP (Constant Power technology) is a unique circuit topology that makes this amp stand out.

This technology means that T1500-1bdCP can power up to 4 loads with the same power rating as 1 and 2.

Rockford Fosgate amps are CEA compliant, meaning they have CEA-certified power ratings. This is another great feature. This amp’s only problem is its price, which is approximate. $800).

Impressions

The user manual and 2-year warranty are included with the amp. This amp is not like other amps.

It is possible to purchase the remote separately, which is disappointing considering the cost. The wiring kit is not included, but it’s to be expected.

The amp is simple and sleek. It measures 14.91 in length, 8.14in width, and 2.14in high.

T1500-1bdCP has RCA low-level inputs as well as RCA outputs. You will need an adapter for high-to-low inputs if your head unit doesn’t have RCA outs.

You can adjust the audio output using the variable low-pass crossover filter (35 to 250Hz) or fixed subsonic filter (8Hz).

The bass boost feature is available, which can be adjusted to up to 18dB and is centered at 45Hz. You can also install the bass remote but it must be purchased separately.

The amp’s most notable characteristics are its power ratings and quality output signal. The equation in the introduction will give you a 2304W maximum power output.

The manufacturer was more conservative. The advertised maximum power output (at 1) was 1715W.

RMS ratings are quite impressive. It can continuously push 1500W at 1, 2, and 4, and can push 1000W at 4, with less than 1% distortion.

CEA-certified power ratings. YouTube has many amp Dyno tests that confirm these power ratings.

The amp’s stability is at 1. It also features overload, short circuit, and overheat protection.

Advantages

• Compact and sleek
• Low-level (RCA), inputs and outputs
• Variable low-pass crossover filter, 35Hz-250Hz and fixed subsonic filters (28Hz).
• Adjustable bass boost (0-18dB)
• CEA-certified power ratings
• CP (Constant Power) technology
• Amazing RMS power outputs (1500W at 1, 1000W at 2, and 4)
• A 1500W/2 subwoofer delivers reliable and stable performance

Disadvantages

• Expensive
• It doesn’t include a remote for the bass (sold separately).
• It lacks high-level inputs

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This is the end of our list of 9 best 1500-Watt amps. Hopefully, there was something for you on the list.

For those who want to continue searching, here is a quick summary of the most important aspects to consider when purchasing an amp.

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What to Look Out For When Buying an Amp

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Price

When buying any equipment, budgeting is a must. If you don’t have the budget to spend more than $100 on car amps, it is difficult to get a powerful amp.

There are many budget amps available on the market, but not all of them can deliver the power outputs advertised.

You can expect them to deliver 30% of their advertised value, which is not enough if you are looking to install a subwoofer with a 1000W RMS or 500W rating.

These amps are great for installing small speakers but are not capable of pumping 1500W.

These amps are relatively inexpensive ($100-$200), and offer decent performance. If you want to save money while still getting satisfying results, set your budget at $200.

You will need to spend at least $250 to get the best performance. There is no upper limit – high-end amps can be priced at over $1000.

Wiring kit

It is important to know that wiring kits are not included with car amps. You will need to purchase a wiring kit on your own. It is very simple to order wiring kits.

There are two choices: cheap kits (usually less than $30) with copper-clad aluminum wire or pricier kits up to $100 with OFC (oxygen-free copper) wire.

Do not underestimate the importance and value of a quality wiring kit. If you want to get the best performance, invest in a quality OFC kit.

Numbers of speakers/channels

This topic has been covered in great detail, so let’s just summarize. It is up to you to decide which type of upgrade you want. Depending on your choice, you can choose an amp with one, two, or three channels.

Also, make sure to check the permissible impedance. It is a waste to buy an amp that does not work well with your speakers.

Option 1: Adding a subwoofer to a mono amp (preferably a class-D amp).

2nd option – Replace two front speakers with at least a 2-channel amp (or 4-channel amp in bridged mode).

Option 3. – 4 Speakers (2 Front and 2 Rear). At least a 4-channel amplifier

Option 4, replacing all 4 speakers with a subwoofer. An amp of at least 5 channels (preferably 4 channel-AB and 1 channel-D subwoofer) or 2 separate amps.

Power outputs – advertised VS real. RMS VS Peak

The most debated topic in car amps is power output. It would be much simpler if there were some sort of standard or certification process.

There is a standard for car amps called CEA2006, but it is not mandatory and manufacturers are not required to follow this standard. If two amps are advertised as 1500W, that doesn’t necessarily mean they can push the same amount.

You can verify whether or not the power rating given is accurate by doing a few simple things.

Check the price first. It’s probably too good to true if it is too cheap.

The power rating of most cheap amps, which cost less than $100, is only 30%. It can deliver as much as 500W if it is rated at 1500W (peak) power.

Amplifiers that cost more ($100-$200), can deliver the advertised power ratings or even more.

CEA-2006 certification is also available for some amps below $200. Most amps above $200 are more powerful than amps below $200. They can produce 1500W per hour (and sometimes more)

The equation below can be used to calculate the maximum power output.

This story is about power ratings. It’s important to remember that power ratings are not something you should take for granted.

Before you buy an amp, make sure to check the price and check that it is CEA-compliant.

Amplification Type: Type-AB VS Type D

The most popular amp type is the class AB. Multichannel amps tend to be class-AB. These amps are less efficient, have higher operating temperatures, and offer better/fuller treble and midrange reproduction.

Mono amps are the most common type of Class-D amps. They are more efficient and operate at lower temperatures, making them ideal for powering subwoofers.

If you are looking to install a subwoofer you should consider class-D amps. However, if your goal is to install regular speakers or 2 or 4, class-AB amps will be a better choice.

Dimension

These dimensions are not important. Comparing these dimensions to the space available in your car is much more important.

You should select the right amp based on how much space you have. If you need the amp to fit under your seat, it may be necessary to adjust the amp’s height.

You will need to allow for airflow, especially if you are installing class-AB amps.

Additional Features

You should look for amps that have either high-level (aka speaker-level) or low-level inputs (RCA). This will depend on whether the receiver/head unit is pre-installed or aftermarket.

You may have both input types in some cases. Some amps can accept both speaker-level and low-level signals via RCA inputs.

Recommended Top Rated 3000-Watt Amps

You can have either fixed or variable low-pass and/or high-pass crossover filters depending on which amp you choose. Mono amps that are made for subwoofers may also include variable subsonic/infrasonic crossover filters.

Some amps can be bridged, while others cannot. This is another important thing to consider when purchasing an amp. Mono amps cannot be bridged, but some are trappable. If you need more power, you can connect two amps.

Some amps with high-end features have additional inputs that can be used for advanced technologies such as ADAS or HALOSonic.