ads P240 PowerPlate

Year / Model Reviewed:
 The ones I'm using are the "older" P240's, ~1998-99, not the newer P240.2's

Summary:
Two P240 Powerplates yield essentially the same amount of power as one P440. I went with the two P240's because my hi-fi shop was having a sort of clearance/promotion, and was willing to sell two new P240's for $400, as opposed to $500 for a P440.2. Notice that the ".2" is an important distinction. While the P240 cost $200 each, a newer P240.2 would have cost $300 each. According to my installer, the newer models have slightly more power and small changes in circuitry, but it was not worth the extra money. Anyhow, I am happy to save $100. But who knows - maybe they fixed the "bop" sound in the .2's?

Overall, these are good, clear and crisp amplifiers. But if you own a convertible or love to drive with the windows down, you might want to consider more power (like two P440's, say).

Strengths:
This is a very versatile amplifier. As I stated in my review of the a/d/s 336im's (of which I use four), I use two of these amps, one to drive the fronts, and the other the rears. It has sufficient power, but more would definitely be welcome (especially if you are using 336's, like me). Delivers crisp and detailed sound.

Weaknesses:
The most annoying feature about this amplifier is not its insufficient power rating (which of course is relative to the type of speaker you're using). It is the loud "bop" sound which occurs whenever the amp is turned on, and off. Quite scary if you're not expecting it, it still is annoying even when you're ready for it. Rumour has it that this is a fairly common symptom of a/d/s amplifiers. Perhaps I should get my installer to take a look at it. In case you're wondering, it is not the fault of the headunit, because I connected two different models and the "bop" occured both times. Other than that, there are no other apparent weaknesses I could think of.

Similar Products Used:
This is my first time upgrading a stock stereo system.