I got a cheapo Sony deck up front atm. Was wondering, what difference would getting a "better" deck like a clarion would have on my sound if im running through a RF amp. Thanks

 

in my experience with car audio, the better quality deck with higher RCA out voltage and more settings, A.K.A. more expensive decks do give better sound, they say 3-5v is good for your line out of your deck

 

+1 to what Big Gary said. The higher the preamp output voltage is, the better the sound will be because there will be better noise resistance. You should also consider what all you want to put in your car. if you have 6 preamp channels you can run 2 sets of speakers and a sub. And a higher number of EQ bands will let you tailor the sound better to your needs.

 

Ok, so the question becomes, how would one know what the output voltage is on a deck?

 

That is... Only IF the amp is capable of accepting a higher input voltage.

You're splitting hairs though. You're going to spend $200 or so on a deck, and you may not even be able to "hear" a difference. Spend the money on some speakers that you actually like, rather than a deck. Speakers are the single biggest thing that defines the character of what you're actually hearing.

 

One word. Alpine

 

I prefer Pionner or Kenwood.Havent tried the newer Clarions yet, but we have a few demo peices here for testing.

 

I just got some Dynaudio 6.5's in front kicks. Looking at getting an Image Dynamics sub next, then will upgrade my door speakers.

 

That is some VERY good equipment you got there. Don't skimp on a head unit and/or amplifier. I'm "retired" from the car audio business after 17 years and what they said about output voltage is very important. Kenwood, Alpine, Pioneer, Clarion all make good quality units. I suggest you find a local dealer that specializes in car audio (not Walmart or Best Buy). They will help you better than anyone.

Also, don't shaft them and buy the unit somewhere else online because it's cheaper. Buy it from them, let them install it (unless you are die hard for doing it yourself), and you'll make a friend for life that will always look out for your best interest in your car.

Good luck

 

Yeah, they are the MW162GT's, they are GREAT. Im using a RF P400.4 to push it, problem is, its 50w RMS @ 4 ohms, and those Dyn's are 120w RMS 1000W Max. Ill toy with that later.

First is to get a Bad *** amp for the Image Dynamics sub Im going to get.