flint

iTrader: (2)

Just looking for everyone's thoughts on this I can get the Alpine for $200 or the JL for $350. I will be running a JL 12w6v2 in a sealed box.

elduderino

Either amp is a good amp. Alpine is the best of the Japanese HU companies in amps, by far. But the JL is the best choice if you can swing it.

Alpine, like most amps, uses a loosely regulated power supply. It makes more power at 14V than at 12. When your voltage drops, your power output drops. Turn on headlights, R defroster, seat heaters, less power from amp.

This is what capacitors help with during momentary hits, what bigger batteries and alternators help with in bigger systems. Not the end of the world, but true nonetheless.

JL "slash" amps use stiffly regulated power supplies. Same power between 11 and 16 V. Speed up to pass a truck, increase alternator RPMs when you floor it, your amp won't sound better momentarily. No cap needed for amp.

Other diffs on features like xover, but that's the fundamental diff.

flint

iTrader: (2)

so which one sounds cleaner or in your opinion will hit harder (more powerful)?

jpswanberg

for max slam, change your box to a vented one, and make sure you have some way to adjust the bass from the front. I have the jl 500/1, and can't say anything but good about it.

elduderino

Specs will tell you that. They are similarly powered. Even though the Alpine can put out slightly more power in some conditions, I would take the JL.

ou sig

for that price difference and if money is an issue to you, get the Alpine - but you wont go wrong with either. I would say the JL is of better quality, but its not nearly twice the quality. I have Kicker amps, not JL standards, but I saved alot of money and it sounds great!

flint

iTrader: (2)

This helps. I think I will go Alpine for the money....

rcz22

i'm very happy with the alpine (mrd-501) amp, only have the gains about half way and my 2 JL subs POUND. only suggestion would be to get the remote volume control - if your using the factory head unit