Nitewing911

I'm looking into getting a 5-channel amp and a sub to power everything in my system. I already have a Premier DEH-P750MP headunit, and Infinity Reference components in front and coaxials in the back.

I've narrowed down the amp choices to either the Alpine MRV-F450 or the Kicker KX700.5

At 4 ohms, these are their ratings:

Alpine - 50 x 4 + 200 x 1 RMS
Kicker - 40 x 4 + 200 x 1 RMS

However, it should be noted that the Kicker amp's sub section can go to 2 ohms, with a rating of 400 x 1 RMS. I have found nothing telling me that the Alpine's sub section is 2 ohm capable.

So which is the more appropriate amp? I'm not trying to blow out my ears, but I'm looking for something clean and something quality. And I want to stick with a single amp setup...just want to do a nice, low-power application system.

Going with the Kicker amp opens up more doors for a sub, considering it's best to match the sub with the amp. But the RMS ratings for the four channels that will be powering my Infinitys isn't as high as the Alpine's. Are 10 watts that big of a difference? Will I even notice?

Lastly, and this is more of a side note, I plan on Dynamatting all four doors and the hatch. I've been toying with the idea of getting new speakers all around, replacing my Infinity References. Mind you, I've been very happy with the Infinitys, but since I'm taking the door panels off anyway, I'm wondering if it's worth getting better (more expensive) speakers. Considering the amp choices and everything, do I stand to gain a significant amount, or am I just being too fickle and potentially wasting money?

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated, and thanks for taking the time to read this.

Aydu

I would decide on a sub first and then the amp. If your subs are are wired to be able to use the extra power of the Kicker, I'd go that direction. If not, both are good quality amps. Unless one has a particular feature you like, you won't hear a difference between the two once installed.

Your current speakers will perform at a higher level with the addition of an amp. Personally, I'd recommend leaving them in place until the amp is installed. You might be pleasantly surprised.

Upgraded speakers will sound better than your current ones because of the amp. Unless you are planning to upgrade to components, which will take your sound to another level with a good set.

The sub will make the biggest difference. Adding the bottom end to the sound, and enabling you to cross over your speakers so that they play in their optimum range is well worth the cost!

TooLoPro

I don't think the Alpine is 2 ohm stable, but I can check on it for you. I work for an Alpine dealer. If you want to drop resistence, Memphis builds the Big Belle (75x4, 1100 mono @1 ohm, 700 @2 ohm) and the Baby Belle (55x4, 600 Mono @ 1ohm, 300 @2 ohm). Both are REAL NICE. $999 and $699 respectively. There's also the Eclipse 5 channel (55x4, 130 mono 4 ohm only). It's about $350.