I just bought a Re-Q for my truck and am about to install it but my question is which gain ***** should i use to set the stereo? The Re-Q has gain controls and so do my amps. Should i crack the Re-Q gains wide open and just use the amp gains or should i put it on half and use the amp gains. I am curious because the re-Q is being put deep in the dash and the only way to get to it is to take the dash back apart so i want to do it right the first time and not blow anything at the same time. Any input would be great.

 

Assuming you don't have any specialized gear to set gains and have to do it by ear...


1) Turn all gains to minimum.
2) Play a 1khz test tone. If you don't have one then find a CD with it or burn one.
3) Increase the volume on the deck until the tone clips - you will definitely know when it clips - the tone will develop an 'edge' to it. Reduce volume until it just disappears. Take note of the volume setting on your deck if it's numeric cuz this is as loud as it goes without clipping.
4) Increase the gain on the Re-Q (or whatever processor) until it clips. Again, back off until the clip disappears.
5) Increase gain on the amp until it clips. Back it off a bit and you're done.