Amp or no amp?

[DAZ88P]

Hi all,

First of all this is a long post but thought ill put everything i know up here to save those time wasting follow up questions. I am a student on a limited budget (My dad funds the car for me to get me to uni and back alive but not luxuries like new stereos and wants the car to remain very close to stock) so only want to install the amp if it will be totally worth it. I can install the speakers but installing the amp and everything is probably a bit out of my league so wuld be looking at installation cost.

I am currently running:

HU: pioneer DEH-2100IB - 200Watt max...basic unit with ipod integration also love the green illum. as it matches in with the green dash lighting without having to change a thing!

front and back speakers: Kenwood KFC-M1632A - 6.5" 3 ways 260W max, 35W rated input.

For what it is the current set up goes alright at providing all round sound. However I put this system in a while ago and really didnt look into it. So this week I bought:

Set of MTX T6S602 - 6" splits 400W max which I am going to put in the factory positions up front in the hope of adding a little extra bass and crisper sound.

The reason I am posting is because I have an old Kenwood KAC-729S - 600W 4 channel amp that a mate gave to me with a 10" sub. Dont really want a sub in the boot (well dad doesn't) but think I should probably use the amp seeing as I have it to run the speakers closer to their potential so the head deck isnt struggling to run them.

From everyones experience how much better would it be and where should I look at positioning it? It is a few years old so not sure how hot it runs. Any help is appreciated. Cheers

[wraith]

The head deck won't be struggling to run them how ever the speakers will probably be some what underpowered. For a free amp why wouldn't you install it. You could probably install the amp in the boot behind the seats.

[aazn]

if its only just a small amp just put it under the passenger seat.

and the amp would be worth it.

[Philthy]

Definately worth it for free! Someone here might help you out with the install for a 6 pack

[Luke0011]

Yes the amplifier will make a big difference to the sound as well as your upgrade of the front speakers. The Pioneer unit puts out 18 watts rms effective power and although the current speakers give you good overall sound, the unit does struggle to run them because the unit is capable of supplying only half the rated power the speakers can handle. Going up to the MTX splits that are 400 watts with no amplifier will not sound anywhere near as good than running it with the right power from an external amplifier. You should be able to hear the speakers and feel that they actually sound like they need more power especially from the more powerful MTX splits.

[DAZ88P]

Alrighty, cheers for the advice guys. Will have a crack doing it myself next week when I have a uni break and let you know how it turns out.