To power a car’s speaker system to its full potential, an amplifier is needed. There are many types of car amplifiers, but the 5-channel car amplifier is one of the most popular.
This type of amplifier is designed specifically for powering four speakers and a subwoofer at once. It provides clear, powerful sound reproduction while also handling demanding bass frequencies.
If you’re an audiophile or car audio enthusiast who has four-door speakers and a sub, it’s worth considering a 5-channel model. It will help you save money, time, and space.
In this article, we reviewed thoroughly 10 of the best 5-channel car amplifiers on the market today. At the end of the reviews is a buying guide that discusses what to look for when shopping for a 5-channel amplifier. Have a read, you won’t be disappointed!
Best 5 Channel Car Amplifier in 2022- Quick Summary
If you have a busy schedule, you don’t need to read the full article. Just read this super-concise summary below of our top-ranked 5-channel amplifiers.
1. Overall Best: Soundstream RN5.2000D Rubicon Nano Class D 5-Channel Amplifier
This 5-channel amplifier is powerful and efficient, delivering up to 2000 watts of RMS power while still keeping weight to a minimum. Thanks to its digital circuitry, Class D technology, and MOSFET power supply, it provides clear, distortion-free sound.
2. Best Budget-Friendly 5 Channel Car Amplifier: Planet Audio AC1800.5 5 Channel Car Amplifier
Planet Audio AC1800.5 5-channel car amplifier is by far the best budget-friendly 5-Channel car amplifier in the market today. It offers an extreme value for money with its low cost, high reliability, and high power output. It’s designed for high-quality sound reproduction, natural vocals, and crisp highs while maintaining a strong low end that won’t overpower your speakers.
3. Best Powerful Compact 5 Channel Amplifier: JL Audio XD700/5v2 5-Channel car Amplifier
This amplifier is a powerful, rugged car amplifier that provides exceptional sound quality. It features a compact design and provides five channels of high-quality sound. In addition, it has a low-pass filter and input/output connections to make it compatible with many different vehicles. Plus, it has an optional remote control.
4. Marine-Ready 5 Channel Car Amp: Polk Audio PA D5000. 5-Channel Class D Car Amplifier
This is a marine-ready 5-channel amplifier designed to provide a powerful, clear, and precise sound in all music genres. It was built with marine-grade components to endure harsh conditions such as water and salt air, making it perfect for boats and other sea vehicles.
5. Average Pick for Reasonable Price: Rockville dB55 5 Channel Amplifier
[wptb id=3106]The Rockville dB55 5 Channel Amplifier is one of the best-rated car amplifiers on the market. It produces a clean, clear sound with no distortion at high volumes. Along with being efficient, it is also affordable. Rockville has managed to produce a great amplifier without the price tag that usually comes with it. Plus, it fits any car stereo system.
Our 10 Best 5 Channel Car Amplifier Picks:
Here we go with the detailed reviews for you-
1. Rockford Fosgate R600X5 Prime 5-Channel Amplifier
Rockford Fosgate is a company that audiophiles and car audio enthusiasts know and trust. They make some of the best car audio equipment in the business, and their R600X5 Prime 5-channel amplifier is no exception.
It can provide up to 50 Watts x 4-channel + 200 Watts x subchannel @ 4-Ohm and 75 Watt x 4-channel + 300 Watts x subchannel @ 2-Ohm. It also has a muted turn-on and a MOSFET power supply, which makes it consume low power.
Rockford Fosgate equipped it with a built-in 12dB/octave Butterworth crossover, low-pass filter, and onboard punch EQ control so you can fine-tune your sound exactly how you want it.
Other features of this 5-channel amplifier include an RCA & high-level input with 2/4/5 channel select, separate front, rear, & sub gain control, and a remote for regulating bass output from the comfort of your palm.
This 5-channel amplifier has a power supply thermal sensing and a cast aluminum heatsink for efficient heat dissipation.
However, it has no cooling fan or fin, so it tends to get hot when used for a long period. Safety is provided with overcurrent protection and short circuit protection that ensures the amplifier doesn’t get damaged from a bad current.
The Rockford Fosgate R600X5 Prime 5-channel amplifier combines the features of a class A/B and a class D amplifier. It delivers clean, distortion-free music at any volume level thanks to its Class A/B design.
Simultaneously, its Class D design provides efficient operation and little heat build-up. Note that to use this amplifier, you need a 12V battery. Also, it comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty.
Benefits
- This amplifier combines Class A/B and Class D design, making your stereo system loud, clear, and full of bass.
- You can connect up to four speakers and a subwoofer at once.
- There is a one-year manufacturer warranty on it.
- It has many features that help you tailor its sound output to your listening preference.
Drawbacks
- It doesn’t have a cooling fan, so it gets hot regardless of its heatsink.
2. BOSS Audio Systems Full-Range PV3700 5-Channel Car Amplifier
When looking for a quality full-range 5-channel amplifier to power your car’s audio system, BOSS Audio Systems is one of the brands that come to mind. Their PV3700 5-channel car amplifier with 3700 Watt max power is for those who want high performance without breaking the bank.
Capable of producing 413 Watt x RMS @ 2 ohms +1125 W X 1 RMS 5th Ch @ 2 ohms, 206 W X 4 RMS @ 4 ohms, and 563 W X 1 RMS 5ht Ch @ 4 ohms, this amp can handle any type of car audio system.
In addition, it comes with several features to help you get the most out of your audio system. The onboard variable gain control, high pass, and low pass crossover let you fine-tune the sound to your liking, while the MOSFET power supply ensures clean, reliable power delivery.
It also features a variable bass boost control and a remote subwoofer control for convenience. However, its sub-channel is significantly underpowered.
The BOSS Audio Systems PV3700 5-channel automobile amplifier is a Class A/B amplifier, which means it can generate high-quality sound with little distortion while improving power output and sound quality.
It features low/high-level inputs, allowing you to build an audio system from almost any conventional factory or aftermarket stereo. Plus, its compact size makes it perfect for vehicles with limited space.
Boss Audio Systems equipped this amp with safety features such as a thermal protection circuit that switches the amplifier off and enables it to cool before turning it back on if it becomes too hot.
In addition, if a speaker breaks, resulting in an electrical short, the amp’s protective circuit will instantly shut the output and remain in that position until the short is remedied. These features ensure the amplifier lasts you for years. However, protection mode kicks in now and then interrupting music playback.
Benefits
- It is an affordable amplifier, reliable, and dependable.
- This 5-channel amplifier is a Class A/B.
- It comes with many features that can help you get the most out of your audio system.
- It produces excellent sound quality.
Drawbacks
- This 5-channel amplifier overheats very quickly.
- It goes into protection mode often.
- Its sub-channel lacks power.
3. Planet Audio AC1800.5 5 Channel Car Amplifier
The Planet Audio AC1800.5 car amplifier is another full-range Class A/B amplifier perfect for audiophiles and car audio enthusiasts alike. With 1800 watts of power, it will provide your audio system with the power it needs to sound its best.
It produces a power output of 225 W X 4 RMS @ 2 ohm, 113 W X 4 RMS @ 4 ohm, 450 W X 1 RMS 5th Ch @ 2 ohm, and 225 W X 1 RMS 5ht Ch @ 4 ohms.
The Planet Audio AC1800.5 comes with features that make it easy to use, including low-pass crossovers, variable bass boost, and remote subwoofer controls. It also has low pass and high pass crossovers, allowing you to adjust the sound of your system to perfection.
Furthermore, the amp was engineered to be cooled without using a fan for a quiet operation. So, it will run quietly and dissipate heat passively.
However, it overheats after about a half-hour of use, so you can add a cooling fan or make an amp cooling enclosure to prevent it from overheating.
Planet Audio included a range of handy amenities like low and high pass filters, a built-in bass boost circuit, and thermal overload protection to ensure it provides nothing but quality service.
This amp is built with a MOSFET power source for clear, distortion-free audio. However, it is large, making it a hassle to find a perfect place to keep it in the car.
Benefits
- It is a sturdy 5-channel amplifier that produces super crisp and clear sound.
- It cools passively, which makes it run quietly.
- This amplifier provides your system with adequate power to function to its fullest.
- It is a budget-friendly full-range Class A/B amplifier.
Drawbacks
- It is a large amplifier, so you might have issues figuring out where to mount it.
- It overheats when used continuously for up to 30 minutes.
4. Rockville dB55 5 Channel Amplifier
The Rockville dB55 is just like other Class A/B 5-channel car amplifiers. This powerful 5-channel amplifier produces crystal clear sound with plenty of power to drive your speakers.
It can deliver 120 Watts x 4-channel + 500 Watts x 1-channel @ 2 ohm and 80 Watts x 4-channel + 300 Watts x 1-channel @ 4 ohms, making it perfect for powering a complete car audio system. However, just like the Planet Audio AC1800.5, it overheats to the point that you can smell it.
This amp has low and high-pass filters, variable 12dB/Octave crossover with differential circuitry, as well as a bass boost circuit, giving you maximum control over your sound.
A subsonic filter, a fully adjustable bass equalizer, and mute & delay soft start technology are other features of the Rockville dB55 amplifier. Additionally, its high-speed MOSFET power supply ensures it delivers only crisp, and clear sound.
An IC-controlled circuit protects this amplifier from electrical damage. It also has a professional peak limiter circuitry to ensure distortion-free music playback at all levels.
If voltage is below 10V, it goes into protection, similarly, if the voltage is above 16V, it goes into protection. The Rockville dB55 5-channel amplifier is a large-sized amp, so ensure you have enough space in your car before buying it.
Benefits
- This 5-channel amplifier sound is great, has lots of power, and is easily tunable.
- It is durable, lasting for more than two years.
- You’ll get the best bang for your buck.
- It has a sleek appearance.
Drawbacks
- It is a large-sized amplifier
- It overheats too quickly.
5. Kenwood Kac-M8005 5-Channel Power Amplifier
The Kenwood KAC-M8005 5-channel power amplifier is a great option for audiophiles and car audio enthusiasts looking for quality sound. It is capable of powering your whole sound system, with each full-range speaker receiving 50 watts RMS and your sub receiving up to 500 watts RMS.
Additionally, the KAC-M8005 can be configured to 3-channel mode, which will drive your speakers with 150 watts RMS, while still transmitting 500 watts to your subwoofer.
Kenwood includes a range of features that make it easy to adjust, ensuring that you can always get the best possible sound. It features a built-in crossover, so you can easily configure it to run full range or tweeter-only speakers. Plus, the included bass boost lets you customize your sound to your taste.
The Kenwood KAC-M8005 5-channel power amplifier is a Class D amp, which works more effectively and generates less heat than Class AB amps since it employs a digital switching power supply.
Because of the Class D design, the amplifier doesn’t overheat and it fits in tight spaces effortlessly. If it overheats, it’s because you’re using the wrong ohm loads and pushing it too hard. However, Class D amplifiers don’t sound as clear as Class A/B amplifiers.
Benefits
- It’s a Class D amplifier, and it doesn’t overheat.
- It is easy to install.
- This amplifier can be configured to 3-channel mode to drive more power to your speakers.
- It offers great value for money.
Drawbacks
- It may not last long.
6. Soundstream RN5.2000D Rubicon Nano Class D 5-Channel Amplifier
If you’re in the market for an all-in-one affordable car audio amplifier, the Soundstream RN5.2000D Rubicon Nano Class D 5-channel amplifier may be just what you need. This powerful little amp can deliver 2000 watts of power.
It delivers RMS power of 75W x 4-channel + 300W subwoofer channel @ 4 ohms, 100W x 4-channel + 500W subwoofer channel @ 2 ohms, and RMS bridged of 200W x 2-channel + 500W subwoofer channel @ 4 ohms (2 ohms).
The Soundstream RN5.2000D Rubicon Nano Class D 5-channel comes with built-in crossovers and equalizers, bass boost, and other numerous adjustments so you can get the most out of it.
It also features a MOSFET power supply with audiophile-grade IRTM transistors to ensure it produces nothing but the best possible sound.
This 5-channel amplifier is a Class D amplifier, so you should expect nothing but powerful bass with no overheating issues.
Plus, it has a hybrid aluminum alloy heatsink for optimum heat dissipation. Thanks to its state-of-the-art design and construction, you won’t have any problems installing it in your vehicle.
Benefits
- It comes with numerous adjustments so you can fine-tune your sound to perfection.
- It is a Class D amplifier.
- It doesn’t overheat.
- You won’t have any issue installing it in your car.
Drawbacks
- None.
7. JL Audio XD700/5v2 5-Channel car Amplifier
Many audiophiles consider JL Audio to be among the best in the business. JL Audio products are well-known for their high quality and superb sound reproduction, making them a popular choice for anyone looking for the perfect audio experience. One of their masterpieces is this XD700/5v2 5-channel amplifier.
The v2 Spec feature of the JL Audio XD700/5v2 5-channel amplifier includes automated turn-on functionality.
It drives effortlessly four-speaker systems with 75 watts RMS x 4-channel + 180 watts RMS subwoofer channel @ 4 ohms and 100 watts RMS x 4 + 300 watts RMS subwoofer channel @ 2 ohms. However, it can’t power large subwoofers.
This 5-channel amplifier is expensive but worth the money. It has a variable slope low-pass filter for its subwoofer channel and 12 dB /octave high-pass filters for the four main channels.
These filters have a changeable cutoff frequency that can be changed at any time (50-500 Hz). Also, you can set up the filters as a genuine 3-way crossover with a low-pass filter for the subwoofer channel.
Benefits
- This amplifier puts out a lot of power.
- It has great sound and amplification.
- It is sleek, small, lightweight, and easy to install.
- It runs cool and doesn’t overheat.
Drawbacks
- It can’t power a large subwoofer.
- It is expensive.
8. Polk Audio PA D5000.5 5-Channel Class D Car Amplifier
When you’re looking for an amplifier to power your car audio system, you want one that will deliver great sound without taking up a lot of space. The Polk Audio PA D5000.5 Class D car amplifier is ideal for people who want a high-quality amplifier that doesn’t take up much space but is also pricey.
Its sleek design ensures it will look great in any vehicle. It can also be mounted on a boat due to its corrosion-resistant stainless steel structure and short circuit protection.
This 5-channel amplifier provides plenty of power to drive your speakers. It can provide up to 500 watts RMS to a sub and 70 watts RMS to each of your front and rear speakers.
You can even use this bad boy in 3-channel mode to power a pair of high-level components with 200 watts RMS per channel while still delivering 500 watts RMS to your subwoofer. Additionally, it has protection from heat, DC offset, reverse DC voltage, and short circuits.
The Polk Audio PA D5000.5 Class D car amplifier comes equipped with a high-speed MOSFET power source to produce a clear, crisp sound without distortion. It also features built-in crossovers, adjustable high- and low-pass filters, subsonic filter, and punch bass technology to give your music an extra boost.
To guarantee a full signal transfer, Polk electroplated the wire terminals and RCA connectors of this amplifier with Nickel.
Be informed that there seem to be quality control issues with the recent batch of these amplifiers Polk released to the market. If you buy it, ensure you properly test it before the return window closes.
Benefits
- This amplifier is made from stainless steel hardware, making it durable.
- It produces clear, crisp sound without distortion.
- It doesn’t take up a lot of room.
- It may be mounted on a boat since it is resistant to marine damage.
Drawbacks
- It is expensive compared to other 5-channel amplifiers in its category.
- There is a defective inflow of these amplifiers in the market.
9. Alpine PDR-V75 5-Channel Class D Amplifier
The Alpine PDR-V75 5-channel Class D amplifier is a powerful and versatile addition to any car audio system. With 75 watts x 4 channel + 250 watts x subchannel @ 4 ohms and 100 watts x 4 channel + 350 watts x subchannel @ 2 ohms, it will provide plenty of juice for even the most demanding setups.
Its adjustable feedback control loop circuitry and MOSFET power source ensure that the power output is as clean and distortion-free as possible. However, it delivers low power to the subchannel.
This 5-channel amplifier features a 12 dB/octave variable high-pass filter on the 4-channel section and a variable low-pass filter (50-400 Hz, 24 dB/octave) on the subchannel.
There’s also a 24 dB/octave variable subsonic filter on the subchannel that allows you to set the desired low-end frequencies to play through your subwoofer. Thanks to its built-in crossovers and signal processors, you can adjust its sound to your preference.
The Alpine PDR-V75 5-channel amplifier has a two-stage power management circuit that monitors critical component temperatures throughout the amplifier and limits power output if one becomes too hot.
If you play music for an extended period while under heavy load, the circuit cuts power output little at first, then more if necessary in a second step. This power management ensures you have an uninterrupted listening experience.
Benefits
- It is a compact amp that does it all.
- It features a multi-stage power management circuit that ensures you don’t experience interruption when enjoying your music.
- It has many adjustable features that allow you to tailor its sound output to your taste.
- This amplifier produces a clean, crisp sound.
Drawbacks
- It delivers low power to the subchannel.
10. Rockford Fosgate Punch P1000X5 5-Channel Amplifier
The Rockford Fosgate punch P1000X5 5-channel amplifier is the last 5-channel amplifier on our list. It’s perfect for audiophiles who want to create an immersive listening experience in their car, and it’s also great for drivers who like to turn up the music while they’re on the road. It delivers 75 Watts x 4-channel + 150 Watts x subchannel @ 4-Ohm and 125 Watts x 4-channel +300 Watts x subchannel @ 2-Ohm.
This 5-channel amplifier is Class A/B + Class D, meaning it has better efficiency and effective heat dissipation. Its three-stage protection system protects against heat, over-current, and short circuits.
It features Rockford Fosgate innovative C.L.E.A.N. (Calibrated Level Eliminates Audible Noise) circuit with in/out clip LEDs to help match a source to the amp and optimize output.
The top-mounted control panel not only gives the amp a polished design but also protects the important settings. Rockford Fosgate employed an aluminum heat sink design to maximize heat transmission from the output MOSFETS to the surrounding air, keeping the circuitry cool even when power and output demand get high. Without the need for a signal converter, the RCA inputs of this amp can handle both high and low-level audio signals.
The Rockford Fosgate also features an onboard punch EQ with a +18dB boost @ 45Hz, 12dB/octave Butterworth crossover, Infrasonic filter, and a 2/4 channel input switch.
Benefits
- This 5-channel amplifier has a three-stage protection system that protects against heat, over-current, and short circuits.
- It is a Class A/B + Class BD, so it doesn’t overheat.
- It has an amazing sound quality.
- For its small size, it has plenty of power.
Drawbacks
- It may not last long.
Best 5 Channel Car Amplifier Buying Guide
Unless you are a pro audiophile, choosing an amplifier can be hard because there are so many factors to take into account. That’s why we have compiled a list of factors to consider to help you make an informed purchase. If you follow them to the book, you’ll leave no stone unturned to find the perfect 5-channel amplifier for your needs.
Types of 5-channel Amps:
The majority of modern 5-channel amplifiers are classified as Class A/B or Class D. A lot of people would claim that Class D amplifiers are the best, and while this is true in many cases, certain Class A/B amplifiers surpass them. Now, let’s discuss these classes of amplifiers in brief.
Class A/B Amplifier: Class A/B amplifiers are the most commonly used car amp. It uses a push-pull circuit and is well known for its low distortion at higher output levels, making it ideal for reproducing music with excellent sound quality. However, it overheats easily.
Class D Amplifier: Class D amps require less energy than Class A/B because they operate on half-cycles rather than full ones, so don’t need as much power from your car’s electrical system to perform well. Hence, they are more efficient and run cooler than other classes.
Although, some 5-channel amps incorporate both classes, using A/B technology for the four main channels and D Class technology for the more energy-intensive subwoofer channel.
Power Rating Output:
The power output of an amplifier is one of the most important factors to consider when making your purchase. This number tells you how much power the amp can deliver to your speakers, and it is measured in watts.
The two types of 5-channel amplifier power rating are peak power and RMS. The peak power is the maximum power your gadget may output for brief periods, whereas the RMS power is a steady level of power that it can operate at. So, if your four speakers draw 75W each and your subwoofer demands 450W, you’ll need an amplifier with an RMS rating of at least 900 watts.
Understand that it is better to overpower your vehicle’s speakers and subwoofer than to underpower them. When a speaker or subwoofer is underpowered, it won’t work as well as it should and can easily be damaged. Therefore, buy a 5-channel amplifier with more than enough power to run your speakers and subwoofer.
Impedance Rating:
The impedance (ohms) of your speakers is another factor you need to consider when purchasing a 5-channel amplifier. Impedance tells you how much resistance your speaker offers to the current flowing through it.
Most 5-channel amplifiers are designed to work with a certain range of impedances (2-ohm or 4-ohm), which is usually stated in the specifications. We also listed them in each 5-channel amplifier we reviewed.
If your speakers’ impedance doesn’t match that of the amp, you’ll end up not only with decreased sound quality but potentially damage to your equipment as well. You can find out your speaker’s impedance by looking at its specs or contacting the manufacturer.
Voltage, Overheating, and Short Circuit Protection:
Three of the most important features that your amplifier should have are voltage, overheating, and short circuit protection.
- The voltage protection ensures that your amplifier is not harmed if it is connected to a power source with a voltage that is greater or lower than what it is built to use.
- The overheating protection prevents the device from getting too hot, which could damage it or even start a fire.
- The short circuit protection prevents the amp from being damaged if there is a sudden surge in power.
All of these features are essential for protecting your amplifier and ensuring that it will last for a long time.
Budget:
The next thing you should think about before buying an amplifier is your budget. Car amplifiers can range in price from as little as $120 to $1000, so it’s important to set a limit on how much you’re willing to spend before beginning your search.
Size of your vehicle space:
Some amplifiers are designed specifically for small cars, while others are meant for larger vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs. If you have a smaller car, be sure to purchase an amplifier that will fit comfortably inside of your trunk or under your seat.
Final Thoughts
The 10 5-channel amplifiers we’ve reviewed are all great options for anyone looking to upgrade their sound system without hassle.
If you’re unsure of which one is best suited for your needs, just take a moment and go over the buying guide again. It should help clarify any questions you have about what features an amplifier has or how it’s different from another model.
Choose wisely by considering these factors before making a purchase. Happy Buying!
