Cap or not?

[B94Sport]

I am contemplating purchasing either an Audiobahn ACAP20X or ACAP40X (5 farad capacitor, without or with digital readout) to help my A2200HCX and A2601A amps that I will be installing soon.

The amps together draw about 170 amperes of current and produce 2000-2300 watts. I already have a 200 amp alternator installed, so my question is, do you think I will need this cap or would it be overkill? I would rather not spend the $300 if I don't need to.

My system setup and installation is going to be a relatively involved process, so putting it all together and then realizing that I need a cap and having to take it all apart again to install a cap would be very frustrating.

Also, I listen to music with a lot of fast bass in it, which is why I would - if I need to - buy a 5 farad cap rather than a 2 or 3 farad. I figure that it will be better for the bass if the cap does not get totally drained after every bass note.

 

[jordan23]

The only thing that can determine that is your system/setup. Install everything--without the cap...and see if it will suffice. Your amp WILL NOT pull the full current draw at normal listening levels...with the gains properly set.

In other words...install it and test it out for awhile...

Peace!

Jordan23

 

[EliteConcept]

if the combined fuse ratings on the amps is more than 60% of your alternators output then your alternator won't be able to keep up...
if i were you i might buy the 5farad one, just incase.
but its all up to u, depending on how bad your lights dim.

 

[leenjen]

i would recommend a capacitor or a second battery just to power your system.

 

[B94Sport]

Hmmm... Looks like I'm getting a cap then! This may push back my install a bit, but I think it will be well worth it.

 

[MONMIX]

Like my Dad always said " Any thing worth doing is worth doing right "

 

[EliteConcept]

or like my dad says,

do it once, and do it right, then you'll never had to redo it.

 

[exploderdriva]

i say if it ain't broke don't fix it. Hook up the system first if you have problems then fix it. and i wouldn't recomend a cap to fix it anyways.

 

[RoadEnforcer]

Yeah I have the same question this guy does. I will be running a 500/1 jl audio amp like 650 rms to a 12" jl audio W7 any need for an extra battery or cap?

 

[EliteConcept]

road enforcer ,
i am running 560rms to 1 12inch sub and i have a 130amp alternator, and an Optima yellow top battery and it works great!! no lights dimming at all...i'd say if you can do similar to this set up you'll be very happy