really stupid question
 

i know that this may sound really stupid. But I have been using basically speaker wire for the power, and ground on my amp. I just want to know do I really need larger power and ground wires to make my system sound better

Unless you've got some crazy big speaker wire... YES...

Speaker wire isn't made to hold the power that an amp will draw from your battery.

Not only is your amp not getting enough power but it's also probably dangerous for you to be running that small of a wire for your amp. My suggestion is to replace it ASAP!

probably wont sound any better to be honest, if you're using that as power wire I can only imagine the rest of the install and I doubt just switching to a remotely safe power and ground supply for your amplifier will affect the sonic qualities of the system.

that must be a pretty micky mouse install, if thats how the power and ground is id recomend going over the whole system with someone who knows something about installing stereos.

I'm thinking maybe it can even cause a fire by melting the speaker wire

I do know how to wire my sound system. I was just told that the bigger wiring wouldn't make a difference. I have used the big wiring kits before. so I will do it that way if its going to help even a little bit. thank for the information.

how much power does the amplifier put out?

I'm not exactly sure. its the rockford p200.2 amp bridged at 4ohm running a single kicker comp. I think that its around 275 bridged at 4 ohm.

You may need at least 8 gauge wire...depending on the distance from your battery.

Thats good to know. I just bought an 8 gauge wiring kit made by boss audio. so I will use that and the rest of the kit. thanks for all the help and info.