I've been looking at 5-channel amps, and became very interested in the Alpine PDX-5 when I saw the small package. Unfortunately, it has an SNR of 77dB! That's lower than most low-end audio amps, and I would expect this generates noticeable hiss from the amp (80dB is usually the threshold for detection). Most quality amps have SNR > 100 dB, and even most mid-grade car audio amps are in the range of 90 dB.
Has anyone evaluated the Alpine PDX-5 amp against other similar solutions? I could go with separate 4-channel and mono amps, but space is a premium in my appliation (pickup truck).
Alpine is certainly, as suggested, incredibly conservative in their ratings. I've heard the PDX amplifiers provide a much cleaner audible S/N ratio than many amplifiers rated at 100+. You definitely will not hear anything remotely similar to cassette tape noise.
I've noticed Alpine is pretty low in their S/N ratio on their V-Power amps as well, but haven't heard any complaints.
I suspect they are just really conservative with their specs, but I can't say first-hand.
Hope This Helps!!!
Anyone else have suggestions?
2002 Ford Focus Sony CDX-GT410u Sony XT-100HD HD Tuner Stock speakers, no amp, no subs
unfortunalty i coukd not tell you about the PDX-5 but i own an MRP-m500 and that is what my specs for my amp say too! personally.. i cant even tell.. and im super picky! expecially about bass! i guess your best bet is to listen to it and test it out yourself! :D
JVC KD-AVX44, jl audio 12 inch W1v2, alpine mrp-m500 , JBL GT5-652 fronts, audiobahn dub269's in rear deck, 4 gauge kit, voltage displaying fused distribution block:D .. all wired on my own. :D
Thanks for the replies, guys! I was wondering if I'd be lucky enough to find a local store with a PDX-5 (or other amp with similar SNR) to hear first hand. It's good to know you guys have amps with similar SNR and no complaints. I had imagined a continuous hiss reminiscent of cassette tapes.