2volt vs 4volt
 

Hey, im new to the forum. Hopefully this is technical enough to go in here.

Im building a new sound system for my next vehicle. Im debating using my existing head unit, or upgrading to one with 4v output. Is there justification in doing so? What is the big advantage? I want the most bang for the buck, and i have another home i could put the current 2v deck into, but dont wanna throw money out without getting a good return on investment if you will.

Current configuration
- Alpine 9847
- Alpine Sirius Adapter
- Alpine iPod Adapter
- Clarion EQS746 EQ
- Clarion APX4240 4 channel amp
- Clarion APX1300 sub amp
- 2x Clarion 12" subs
- speakers - not purchased yet (will be 6.5component set in front + 4x6" in rear)

If your current HU is working fine and you like it, I wouldn't rush to change it out. However, you will probably notice a difference between 2V and 4V output. At the very least, it sends a stronger pre-amp signal, allowing your amps to produce (full) output without having to 'work' as hard and lowers the noise floor (bottom line, it's a good thing). I switched from a good 4V HU a few years back (with the help of some parasitic thieves) and now have a weak voltage HU (claimed "6V") and my gains on my amps are way up. Boo...
If all things are equal, your present Alpine is a fine HU (Alpine makes a good product). If you can, try a 4V HU (Alpine if possible) and see if your ears like the change. Keep us posted.
Cheers.

Thats kinda what i expected. Thanks for the input. I think i will stick with my current deck until there is more reason to change it out. 4v alone does not seem to be enough. If the difference in clarity/volume was as apparent as going from regular cable to HD, id do it, but not just for a small raise in volume.

Thanks again.

PS: I cant see ever leaving alpine headunits. They are all I have used for nearly 15 years, and NEVER had a problem with any of them. Sure, they cost more for the features you get, but I am so used to their layouts, and controls, I would go crazy with anything else. Besides that, im not 16anymore. Crazy animations, and sliding faces, etc. All a bit too flashy for this guy

MTT is selling the amazing Alpine 9887 for a very lucrative price.

MTT? where is that?

just buy a line driver

MTT is a user on this forum. Look him up on For Sale section.