Best 1 Ohm Amplifier with Pros, Cons & Recommendations
Welcome to the Best 1 Ohm Amplifier Award Show!
I’ve spent the last 11 days locked in my garage tinkering, installing amps, running wires, fine-tuning, and driving around while forgetting all about our anniversary (sorry honey for the 9th time, now can I move back because the garage is uncomfortable…), I’m ready to reveal which are the very best 1 ohm amplifiers on the market today.
Look:
Finding the perfect 1-ohm amplifier comes down to two things your current setup and your budget. As soon as you know these, it will be very easy to pick the right amplifier for your needs.
There are more than two decades of experience under my belt, so I’ve seen my fair share of installs. I’ve thought it would be a great idea to share my experience to help you out. By reading this article, you will be able to cut your research time down significantly, and you might just end up with one of the amps below.
I’m ranking the top 3 best 1 ohm amplifiers on looks, ease of install, clarity, power rating, and of course, value for the money.
Frankly, picking any amplifier from the list below is a guaranteed winner. I’ve only let the best of the best in. These 3 amplifiers are true champions.
Let me see those amps already!
[lwptoc]
#1 Taramp’s Smart 3 – The Best 1 Ohm Amplifier Overall
We have a WINNER!
By far, this is the best 1 Ohm amp on the market, and it kicks serious butt. Get ready because those 3000 Watts are about to hit. Also, make sure that your subs are packed nice and tight because, during my testing phase, mine almost jumped out of the box.
This Taramp’s Monoblock Class D amplifier with torture your subs, and after that, it will make them shine. Here’s what’s under the hood.
Power Specs:
- 1 OHM: 3000W RMS
- 2 OHMS: 3000W RMS
- 4 OHMS: 2000W RMS
With this 1 ohm stable amp, you will be getting a lot of noise in a small package. This little monster made my wiper blades vibrate. Play it as hard as you like, and it will never overheat.
This is why it’s top of my list:
- A Tiny Amp with the Heart of a Beast: I thought that the 3000 Watts is just pure hype. I was shocked to see that this amp really delivers 3000 Watts. It’s not just marketing
- Heavy Bass Coming Through: When this monster is unleashed, it will flex your car, and the door panels might fall off. This is not a joke!
- Huge Bang for your Buck: I don’t know how Taramp’s is selling this amp so cheap. Compared to this amp JL Audio and Rockford Fosgate is highly overpriced.
A few drawbacks to consider:
This is one hell of an expensive amplifier. I mean, not the amplifier itself on the secondary equipment you will need if you want to tap into that 3000 Watts. For that, you need a more than decent alternator and exceptional wiring. Still, it’s all worth it.
I miss that this amplifier doesn’t have a low pass filter. If they would’ve added it, then probably it would be a legendary amp.
I still can’t get over that it really delivers 3000 watts. It’s a perfect amp if you want to run a 1-ohm system. Yes, it has a few flaws, and those are minor insignificant things when you feel that bass kick.
This amp delivers some amazing power at a fair price, so no wonder it will be sold out soon. Here’s your chance, if you move fast, then you might just get the last one. For this to happen, there’s no time to waste; grab one now.
If you want something cheaper, then check out #2 on my list.
Pros:
A small monster that delivers insane power
My subs never sounded this good
It’s a steal of a deal, and you can’t get anything better at this price range
Cons:
Serious investment needed for the electrical system
There’s no low pass filter included
#2 Kicker 46CXA8001– Best Value 1 Ohm Amplifier
If you’re looking for value, then this Kicker amplifier is the one that you’re looking for. It will make things sound so much better. As a matter of fact, after installing this amp, there’s going to be a night and day difference even with a stock system.
This Kicker amp will make your whole vehicle shake. It’s a mono channel Class D amplifier that will deliver some nice power. Here’s what’s under the hood.
Power Specs:
- 300 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms
- 600 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms
- 800 watts RMS x 1 at 1 ohm
- 1600 Watts Peak power (output power)
This small unit is fantastic. It has everything you need from easy installation to a small size that offers multiple mounting options, and we shouldn’t forget the raw power.
Now, this amplifier is perfect for a single sub, and still, it can easily power two 10” or even two 12” inch ones.
Here’s why it’s a must-buy:
- Not Your Average Amp: This is a regular beast; it can power two 10” or even two 12” subwoofers without breaking a sweat
- For the Best Sounding System: Holly smokes the bass is insane. Boy, this hits hard and tight exactly how I like it
- Bragging Right Assured: People won’t believe that there’s only a 10” sub in the back; they have to check for themselves
Here are a few drawbacks:
A few people mentioned that their amplifier goes into protect mode on a regular basis. The easy fix for this problem is checking the fuses. You need the right fuse to play with it.
Oh, come on, Kicker, you could’ve kicked in a bone for us. Why do we have to buy the bass knob separately? It’s always great to get it as a freebie.
This is one unique amplifier right here. Yes, it has a flaw or two, and when you hear that bass pounding, you will forget all about it. By far, this amplifier delivers the most value for the price.
I hate to break it to you, but it’s almost out of stock. The last time I’ve checked, there were still a few left. IF you move fast and buy it, you can enjoy that hard-hitting bass soon.
Pros:
Tight and Deep bass that hits harder than you can imagine
Over-deliver since you can power two 10” or two 12” subwoofers
Sounds amazing, excellent quality in a compact package
Cons:
If it overheats, it will shut down
The bass knob has to be purchased separately
#3 Planet Audio PL3000.1D – Best Affordable 1 Ohm Amplifier
I went for broke with this amp. I’ve hooked up a 15” sub and let it have it. To my surprise, it was hitting harder than a with a 5000 Watt amplifier. What the hell?
If you want some good thumping and also enjoy a loud and crisp sound, then this is the right choice for you. Plus is absolutely budget-friendly. This Planet Audio amp is a mono channel Class D one. Here’s what’s under the hood.
Power Specs:
- 3000 Watts Max x 1 at 1 Ohm
- 1500 Watts Max x 1 at 2 Ohms
This is the first amp where I’ve felt my vision vibrating. It’s an experience, to say the least. By far, this is the best deal on the market. It thumps, and it bumps without bleeding your wallet dry.
With this amp, you can make even the longest drives pleasurable.
Here’s why it’s a must-buy:
- Thumps How I Like it: If you want some attention, all you have to do is pull up at the red light and crank it up. You will be shaking the cars around you
- For the Ultimate Sound Experience: This amplifier could be the perfect gift for those who want that premium sound experience
- Unbeatable Price: I have no clue how they manage to sell this powerhouse so cheap.
Here are a few drawbacks:
Sadly this is one of those amps that are overrated. Those 3000 watts are exaggerated a bit. Either way, you’re getting more than enough power to make some subwoofer pound.
A few people mentioned that it’s not the easiest amplifier to install. In all fairness, these issues arise only with a few car models.
All in all, this Planet Audio amplifier is the best choice if you’re on the budget. This 1-ohm amp really kills it. It’s a fact that it has a few flaws and shows me an amp that doesn’t. That unbeatable price and hard bass make it worth it.
This amplifier is selling like hotcakes. So you need to move if you want it. The stocks are running low as we speak. If you buy it now, you will be able to avoid waiting weeks on end. So grab one now.
Pros:
Perfect balance between being enjoyable and pissing people off at the red light
There’s only a minimal distortion at the highest level; it’s perfect otherwise
It will vibrate the mirrors and rattle the trunk
Cons:
Overrated at 3000 Watts
Installation difficulties with certain vehicles
You might also like: Difference between 2 ohm and 4 ohm
Buyer’s Guide for the Ultimate 1 ohm Amp
No matter which amp you’re choosing from the list above it’s a guaranteed winner. I’ve eliminated all lemons and duds. However it might not work for you if you don’t match it with your system. For this reason I’ve decided to put together this simple to use guide
There are two major factors when you’re choosing an amp. If you nail both of them then you will have a sweet-sounding ride. Let me share with you what I’m talking about.
Amp Classes
There are multiple amplifier classes on the market. There are two that are dominating and these are the Class A/B and Class D. These are the most popular ones, however there are other classes and hybrid versions as well.
Class A/B is well established and well known. This amp delivers the highest quality SQ possible. The only drawback is that it’s not efficient. The very best of them reach 65% efficiency. The rest is converted into heat. This means that you will need cooling if you don’t want to fry it.
Class D on the other hand is super-efficient. It’s not uncommon for them to reach 95% efficiency. However there are distortions even so it’s just perfect for subwoofers. This technology is rapidly evolving so pretty soon they will eliminate all distortions and will dominate.
Amplifier Power Output
On the sales page there are two typical numbers showcased. There’s the max and RMS. Sometimes the RMS is hidden so you have to search for it. No matter what just ignore the max power output because that’s hyped and inflated. That number only exists to draw you in.
The real number you should always look at is the RMS. This is the nominal power that the amp is running at.
This is one of the most important numbers to check. Make sure that the amp’s RMS power output is similar to your system’s RMS output needs. Here’s a pro tip: you only have to match the power from 70-100%. If it’s slightly overpowered then it’s not a biggie.
You might fry the system if it’s underpowered. Keep this in mind.
Amplifier Frequency Response
This means basically what kind of frequencies the amp can handle. Typically subwoofers go from 20 to 250 Hz. Most amplifiers handle 20 – 20,000 Hz frequency response these are called full range.
What are amp channels?
Amp channels are the number of outputs. There are so many that I don’t want to bore you with it. I will briefly touch on the most important ones.
Mono or single channel amplifier: typically these are class D and they are for subwoofers. These amps deliver a lot of power because subs are power hungry.
Two channel amplifiers: these have two channels they are perfect for two subs or even to speakers. Also there are other variations as well
Four channel amplifiers: these amps are made for the perfect SQ. These cater for speakers and you can power anything from 2 to 6 speakers. In most cases they are Class A/B and deliver the cleanest distortion free sound.
Five Channel Amplifiers: these amps are almost the same as four channel ones and the only difference is that there’s a dedicated channel for the sub. Typically this channel has more power. These amps are hybrids the speaker part is Class AB and the subwoofer part is Class D.
What is the Amp Impedance?
The amp impedance is a fancy term for showing the ohm value of the amplifier. This is the second important number to check and match with your system. The most popular impedance are 1 ohm, 2 ohm, 4ohm. The amps ohm values has to match with the system’s ohm values.
So this would conclude my simple straight-to-the-point buyer’s guide. I hope you have learned something valuable and put it to good use.
Conclusions on the Best Amp for Tweeters Awards
We have reached the end of this award ceremony. I had so much fun cranking up these amplifiers to the max, maybe my neighbors not so much. Also I hope you had a blast reading these reviews at least as much I had writing them. Maybe you even found your perfect amp.
Now to make sure you get your amp you need to move fast. Since these amplifiers are not only best sellers but at an affordable price you shouldn’t wonder why they are almost sold out. However if you move fast and buy it now you might just get the last one. Hurry up.
As you have seen I’ve done my best to give you a variety of options. I’ve not only taken into account the most popular systems but I’ve also considered multiple budgets.
Suppose you happen to have tips or questions feel free to reach out to me. The best way is by email and I will do my best to reply.
Roger and Out
Is 1 ohm bad for an amp?
If the amp is designed to run on 1 ohm then it’s not bad, however if you’re running the amp at 1 ohm and it’s not designed then it will end up bad.
What hits harder 1 ohm or 2 ohm?
At 1 ohm your amplifier delivers more power than on 2 ohm. This means that at 1 ohm it will hit harder than on 2 ohm.
What does it mean when an amp is 1 ohm stable?
1 Ohm stable amp means that you can run the amp at 1 ohm all day long without issues. In most cases these amps can run at 0.5 ohm however that it’s not highly advised.
How do I know if my amp is 1 ohm stable?
If an amp is 1 ohm stable then it’s mentioned in the manufacture’s specifications. If it’s says it’s 1 ohm stable than it is.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ):
What features does these 1 ohm stable amps (car amplifiers) have?
If you’re interested in the best 1 ohm stable amps (car amplifiers) here they are:
- Taramps 1~2 Ohms 3000 Watts Class D Monoblock Amplifier; mosfet power supply; car amplifier; Frequency Response, 8Hz – 200Hz; wired bass remote control; variable bass boost; variable low pass filter; variable subsonic filter; wide bass range; variable low pass crossover; remote subwoofer level control; remote control; maximum current flow; low pass filter;
- Kicker 46CXA8001 Car Audio Class D Amp Monoblock amplifier 1600 Watt Peak power (maximum power) Amplifier; mosfet power supply; car amplifier; frequency response: 25-200 Hz; variable bass boost; variable low pass filter; ground input terminals; switchable input sensitivity; variable subsonic filter; variable gain control; dynamic thermal management system; low pass filter;
- Planet Audio PL3000.1D Class D Car Amplifier – 3000 Watts, 1 Ohm Stable, Digital, Monoblock; mosfet power supply; Frequency Response: 15Hz – 150Hz; variable bass boost; variable low pass filter; variable subsonic filter; low level rca inputs; high power output; adjustable low pass filter; thermal protection; low pass filter;
Are 1 ohm stable amplifiers (1 ohm stable amps) any good?
There are no issues what so ever with 1 ohm stable amplifiers (1 ohm stable amps). Since the impedance is that low it means that they deliver strong power. With the help of bass boost the best 1 ohm stable amplifiers makes the sound output of the audio system pitch perfect. With more power to the audio system all the audio signals will deliver great sound quality. The 1 ohm stable amp is perfect for car speakers to give a balanced sound to the sound system. These best 1 ohm stable amps are perfect for audio systems. A powerful amplifier can turn the input signal into a high sound quality.
What power rating does the Taramp’s Smart 3 amplifier have?
The Taramp’s Smart 3 amplifier has a power rating of 3000 Watts.
What is the overall clarity of the Kicker 46CXA8001?
The Kicker 46CXA8001 has great overall clarity and delivers excellent sound quality.
How easy is the Planet Audio PL3000.1D to install?
The Planet Audio PL3000.1D is relatively easy to install and comes with all necessary hardware for a hassle-free setup process.
What value for money does the Taramp’s Smart 3 offer?
The Taramp’s Smart 3 amplifier offers good value for money as it provides high-quality performance at an affordable price point.
Is 1 Ohm good?
Yes, a 1 ohm load is suitable for many car audio applications. A 1 ohm stable amplifier can provide more power than other amplifiers and has the capability of providing higher current demand.
How much Power?
The amount of power an amplifier can handle depends on its power rating and impedance. A 1 ohm stable amplifier can typically output up to twice as much power as a 4 ohm amp of the same wattage.
Build Quality?
When it comes to build quality, look for features such as thermal protection circuits, overload protection, and mosfet circuit design to ensure high performance with low distortion. Additionally, make sure that the connections are well-built and solid so you know your amp will last for many years to come.
Mono Amp Line Out Converter?
A line out converter (LOC) is an electrical device used to convert a standard speaker level input into a low-level preamp signal which can be connected directly to an amplifier or subwoofer system. Many monoblock amplifiers have built in line out converters which allow you to connect multiple amps together or add additional signals such as a remote bass control from the head unit without having to purchase separate LOCs.
Last Updated on April 6, 2024 by Brian Beasley
