Phoenix Gold RSD Roadster 66 Amp - Review Amplifier

by CAE, Apr 01, 2008

PERFORMANCE DATA Output power @ 1%THD, 1kHz/100Hz, 14.4 volts Fullrange channels, 4 ohms 81 watts x 4 Fullrange channels, 2 ohms 136 watts x 4 Subwoofer channel, 4 ohms 407 watts x 1 Subwoofer channel, 2 ohms 656 watts x 1

Output power @ 1%THD, 1kHz, 12.5 volts Fullrange channels, 4 ohms 60 watts x 4 Fullrange channels, 2 ohms 97 watts x 4 Subwoofer channel, 4 ohms 309 watts x 1 Subwoofer channel, 2 ohms 498 watts x 1

Distortion at rated power, fullrange channels 1kHz, 14.4 volts 0.07% Input sensitivity 199mV - 9.3V Frequency response (+ 3dB) <10Hz - 66kHz S/N Ratio (A weighted, full 4-ohm power, min. gain) 102dBA Stereo Separation (Crosstalk) -57dB @ 5kHz Output Impedance @ 100Hz, 4 ohms 0.03 ohms Idle current 2.6A Maximum current consumption @ 2 ohms, unclipped 123 amps Efficiency at 1/3 power lowest impedance 27.2% Efficiency at full power, 1%THD, lowest impedance 58.5%

Crossover, Fullrange Channels Highpass 40Hz - 400Hz Lowpass 40Hz - 400Hz Slope -18dB/octave

Crossover, Subwoofer Channel Lowpass 30Hz - 300Hz Slope -18dB/octave Subsonic filter -18dB @ 5 - 55Hz

Dimensions 31.75"L x 11.5"W x 3.25"H

Frequency response measured flat within 3dB from below 10Hz to 66kHz. The gain pots tracked very accurately as well, which may have contributed to the amp's imaging capabilities I mentioned earlier. It's pretty common to find discrepancies of as much as 2dB between the left and right channels, but this sample tracked almost perfectly, with only an inaudible 0.1dB of difference.

The fullrange side of things uses a tried-and-true Triple Darlington configuration that has been the backbone of many well-respected designs over the years, including the highly regarded Phoenix Gold amps of the early '90s. The design is stable and highly regarded as a good-sounding platform.