My current head unit has the option to turn the built in amp off so of course I turned it off. I'd like a nice solid eq as I'm slowly learning your system is only as good as it's weakest link. Mine being my front stage/headunit. I was also looking at Polk mm6501 components. At a price of 250$ with an rms of 125watts my JL amp can give those some nice clean power. All reviews I've read say they are very good for the price. I'll probaly Start another thread soon as this one was for my substage which I now have figured out. Looking forward to more input from yourself (vwdude) and others. I like having the ability to tune and tweak my sound to get it Just right and I feel my current headunits eq is weak although so far the sound is pretty nice. Il be starting another thread soon enough so stay tuned ! Thanks for the input so far