what test tones

I want to se the gain on my 4 channel 450/4 JL amp -----

I want to use a test tone CD ......

I have 2 sets of component speakers........ but I have no idea which test tone to use...

Any help?  I will be using a DMM

TJ

search for 'gain'

• setting amplifier gains
• dmm method for setting gain
• clarification gain setting
• tone generator for setting gain

• amp running volts?

Use the test tones for all:  setting the head unit output level, setting the gains, and setting the crossovers.  Use a DMM as a backup but also use your ears to hear the clipping, which is quite apparent when running a pure sine wave.  And use ear plugs to block out some of the db's.

No, gain is set at just below the point of clipping.  In other words, at full blast.  Crossover settings, on the other hand, may be set at very low volume so that you can more easily distinguish the dropoff of sound at the desired frequency.

By the way, keep the sine tones in short duration so that the voice coils don't overheat.  You may need to allow some cooling time as well, so take your time doing the gain setting.  When testing voltage output using a DMM, the speakers are disconnected, so length of time to test is not important with this method.  But as I said above, you'll be better off using your hearing over the DMM / Ohm's Law method, simply for the fact that there are a few assumptions that have to be made when you measure voltage for the purpose of setting gain.  One is that the amplifier's power output is truly rated.  We know what a farce that can be nowadays.