Power surge

[Laser0385]

Ok, so I have a Kicker 10" square Solarbaric in a ported box with a 1200W Planet Audio amp, when I crank it up the lights dim and power seems to reduce when it hits. Do I need to get a cap or just not turn it up so loud? Thanks, Jake.

 

[Neo Racer]

A cap might work...might not. It's worth a try tho. Reason I say this is caps are not specifically designed for the benefit of your vehicle, but instead your system. What you really need is a bigger alternator and possibly a factory electrical system rewire (thicker gauge)....which will cost a few bucks, which is why I say try the cap first. You can pick one up off ebay for around $70.

 

[DevilSperm]

one downside to a cap is that they are constantly sucking up power...it doesnt care if its from your battery, alternator or AMP <---- so a cap will help with the dimming problem but hopefully you arent going for spl or your dicking yourself....get an alternator first IMO

 

[Neo Racer]

The reason caps don't work very well with spl systems is that it takes a second for them to charge up...so if you have a song in with really heavy, constant bass....the cap is gonna drain and not be able to charge to it's fullest again quick enough. It really depends on the car and equipment you use tho, there's alot of variables.

 

[ThumperSS]

I say check your alt first. Since your lights are dimming your alt cant give the proper juice to your system. a cap is meant to have power to your amp right then and there. that way it doesn't lag when hitting highs. like i said before, i would invest maybe in an aftermarket alt. i think its better than getting an alt upgraded

luck