PERFORMANCE/BENCH MEASUREMENTS
On the bench the Memphis Car Audio 16-PR1x1000 vastly exceeded all of its published specs for power, signal to noise and distortion. I measure about 100 amps a year, and this amp is in the top 5 or so for exceeding the published power numbers. Nowadays it seems so many amps just barely squeak by in this regard, it was nice to see that there are still some brands that believe in delivering more than they promise.
I completed my full battery of tests and measurements, and as I suspected, the 16-PR1x1000 is actually -3dB down in output at 23Hz. This explained my earlier listening experience, and to be fair, the way the filter works is actually a benefit for most users, especially those using a vented subwoofer enclosure. The low pass crossover worked as expected, as did the bass boost. Efficiency was excellent, and the amplifier protected properly when I tried to over and under voltage it, or when I dead shorted the outputs. The normally blue illuminated logo turned red, indicating a protection circuit had been engaged, but there was no drama, just a quick reset of the power and all was back to normal and working perfectly.
CONCLUSION
If you consider the 16-PR1x1000’s performance and build quality, it’s tough to figure out how it comes at such a reasonable price. And after listening to it and thoroughly checking it out, I’m even more amazed. If you’re looking for a great quality amplifier at a very reasonable price, the folks at Memphis Car Audio may have just what you need. With a couple of PR Series amps in your trunk and the right tunes playing you might just close your eyes and find yourself down on Beale St.
For more visit www.memphiscaraudio.com
