I bought a 1/0 to two 4 gauge distribution block, however I dont currently have any monster 1/0 gauge wiring. Is it a problem to run a 4 gauge into the 1/0 spot and have that split into 2 4 gauges temporarily? Will I run into any problems or will that cause any damage to the amps/speakers/sub?

 

As long as the 4awg input wire is secure in there, you shouldnt have any problems. I would use the correct parts for my application though. Either run 1/0 awg or get a distribution block for your 4awg wire.

 

Only reason I am running 4ga wire right now is because all the shops I went to were out of 1/0 awg wire... I have some on order but it'll be here in 2 weeks. Meanwhile I want to at least start the break-in for my new setup.

P.S. Any good resources on how to correctly break in a new subwoofer?

 

Running over a 2000 watt system? If not, you "should" be fine... But, bigger is always better! Upgrade when you get the wire.

 

it depends on the amps you are running.....typically if amp manufacturers put 4 gauge inputs on the amp, it needs it. you are currently running the equivalent of 6 gauge.

it will ncrease resistance. in turn, starve the amps of the proper current/voltage and kill sound quality.
depending on the amp, yes it can damage it.

what brand and model amps are you using?

 

4 channel amp is about 400 watts rms and the sub's amp is 650 watts rms. Nowhere near 2000 watts.

 

4 channel amp:
Alpine V-Power MRPF450
Product Type: Car audio amplifier
Dimensions (W x D x H): 4/3/2-channel
Amplifier Type: 70W x 4 @ 4 ohms
Bridgeable: Yes
Response Bandwidth: 13" x 2.36" x 9.48"
Amplifier Output Details: 7.28 lbs.
Manufacturer Warranty: 1 year limited
Audio Performance
EQ / Level Controls: 4-3-02
Continuous Power / Channel Qty: 10 - 50000 Hz
Input Channel Qty: 100 dB
Output Channel Qty: 70W - 4 ohms - 4 channels
140W - 2 ohms - 4 channels
350W - 4 ohms - 2 channels (bridged)
High Level Inputs: 0.08%
High Pass Frequencies: Gold-plated speaker terminals
Speaker level inputs
Gold-plated RCA inputs
Bottom
Country Of Origin : China


Subwoofer Amp:
Infinity Reference 611a
* Amplifier Type: Mono
* RMS Power: 456W x 1 @ 4 ohms
* THD at 4-Ohm RMS Power: <1 %
* Bridged RMS Power: 657W x 1 @ 2 ohms
* Speaker Level Inputs: no
* Preamp Outputs: yes
* Built-In Crossovers: LP
* Bass Boost: 0 - 12 dB
* Frequency Response: 17-302 Hz
* Signal to Noise Ratio: 70 dB
* Fuse Rating: 2 x 30 amps

 

Easiest way to break in a sub:

However hight the gain on the amp should be after the sub is fully broken in, turn it down about 1/2 of that and use it for about 2 weeks. Turn it up to 3/4 of where is should be and run it like that for about 2 weeks. Then turn it up where it should be set to and enjoy it.

 

You'll be fine with 4 ga. Personally, the 0/1 ga is overkill for your current setup. But that's just me...

 

run a sine to get max excursion in free air for about 10 minutes.

 

Is it me or does this sound like a quick way to blow the woofer?

 

I also think that 1/0 awg is overkill for your setup. Chances are, your car won't be able to supply the amps with all of the juice they require anyway. Do you have an upgraded battery or secondary power source, high output alternator, cap/caps, extra ground wire from battery to chassis, upgraded power wire from battery to alternator. If not, your still not getting the power you could be. And as far as breaking in the subs, I would just listen to your music at moderate levels for a week or two. I always listen to my music at moderate levels so breaking speakers in was never a concern. Anyway, goodluck.

 

I have an Optima Redtop battery, an upgraded alternator and beefier wiring between the battery and alternator as well as a ground kit in the engine bay. Hopefully that should be enough to provide the juice, right? In that case should I go with 1/0 awg or am I still better off with 4 awg?

 

Ok, If you already ordered the 1/0 awg, you should be good to go once you install it. You probably shouldn't have an issue with amp starvation when everything is installed. Sounds to me like you should be good to go with all the other steps already complete.

 

Please share where. or from whom you got the "upgraded" alternator! New until, refrab'd into higher output, etc etc...

Thanks!

BTW, if you've gone that far as to upgrade the alt...what the hell, do the 0/1 ga. You'll probably upgrade the stereo later on anyways!