2-Channel and 3-Channel Car Amplifiers Compared: Pioneer GM-A3702, JL Audio XDM200/2 and XDM500/3
A 2-channel amp powers one pair of speakers, or bridges to one channel for a small sub. The Pioneer GM-A3702 makes 60 W x 2 at 4 ohms and takes RCA or speaker-level input with auto turn-on, so it can work with a factory radio. The JL Audio XDM200/2 makes 75 W x 2 at 4 ohms in a 6.85 x 7.09-inch chassis. If you want two speakers and a sub from one amp, the JL Audio XDM500/3 adds a third channel with 300 W at 2 ohms.
When a 2-channel or 3-channel amp fits
A 2-channel amp is the simple choice for one pair of speakers, like the front doors, or for one small sub when bridged. A 3-channel amp runs a pair of speakers and a sub from one chassis. For four speakers, see our 4-channel amp comparison, and for four speakers plus a sub, our 5-channel amp comparison.
Every amp here is on our listings. We are an authorized JL Audio and Pioneer dealer, and Tony installs amps in our own bay at 8696 Atlantic Ave in South Gate.
Side by side
This table is built only from our own product listings. Where a listing does not state a spec, the cell says so instead of guessing.
Power is RMS as each listing states it. Bridged means the two channels combine into one, which is how a 2-channel amp drives a single sub.
2-channel and 3-channel car amplifiers compared, from our product listings. "Not in our listing" means our product page does not state that spec, so ask us before you count on it.
| Model | Main channels (RMS) | Bridged | Sub channel | Filters and inputs | Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pioneer GM-A3702 | 60 W x 2 at 4 ohm, 95 W x 2 at 2 ohm | 190 W x 1 bridged at 4 ohm | No sub channel | Switchable 80 Hz low-pass, bass boost, RCA and speaker-level inputs, auto turn-on | Not in our listing |
| JL Audio XDM200/2 | 75 W x 2 at 4 ohm, 100 W x 2 at 2 ohm | 200 W x 1 bridged | No sub channel | Selectable low-pass or high-pass filter, 50 to 500 Hz | 6.85 x 7.09 x 2.05 in |
| JL Audio XDM500/3 | 75 W x 2 at 4 ohm, 100 W x 2 at 2 ohm | Not in our listing | 180 W at 4 ohm, 300 W at 2 ohm | High-pass on the main channels, low-pass on the sub channel, 2 or 4 inputs | 8.52 x 7.09 x 2.05 in |
Pioneer GM-A3702: for a factory radio
The Pioneer GM-A3702 is a bridgeable Class AB amp rated 60 W x 2 at 4 ohms, 95 W x 2 at 2 ohms or 190 W bridged at 4 ohms. It has RCA and speaker-level inputs with auto turn-on by signal sensing, a switchable 80 Hz low-pass filter and adjustable bass boost, per its listing, so it can power front speakers or a single sub from a factory radio.
JL Audio XDM200/2 and XDM500/3: compact Class D
The JL Audio XDM200/2 makes 75 W x 2 at 4 ohms, 100 W x 2 at 2 ohms or 200 W bridged, with a selectable low-pass or high-pass filter from 50 to 500 Hz. It measures 6.85 x 7.09 x 2.05 inches.
The JL Audio XDM500/3 adds a sub channel: 75 W x 2 plus 180 W x 1 at 4 ohms, or 100 W x 2 plus 300 W x 1 at 2 ohms, with a high-pass filter on the main channels and a low-pass on the sub. It measures 8.52 x 7.09 x 2.05 inches and accepts 2 or 4 inputs. Pair a sub from our 8-inch or 10-inch subwoofer comparisons with it.
How to choose, and how to get one
Count what you want to power: one pair of speakers, one small sub, or two speakers and a sub. Text (213) 674-9042 with your year, make and model and whether you are keeping the factory radio, and Tony will tell you which amp fits. A wiring kit goes with the amp; see our amp wiring kit guide.
Everything is bought and installed or picked up at the shop at 8696 Atlantic Ave in South Gate, and you can ask about our Payment Plan. Stock moves, so call (323) 944-7844 to confirm the amp is on the shelf before you drive over.
In the shop
Gear from this post
Buy Now, Pay Later
JL Audio XDM200/2 Car and Marine 2-Channel Amplifier
- 75 W x 2 @ 4 ohm
- 200 W x 1 bridged
- Car and marine
$529.99
Buy Now, Pay Later
JL Audio XDM500/3 Car and Marine 3-Channel Amplifier
- 75 W x 2 + 180 W x 1 @ 4 ohm
- Car and marine
- Class D
$679.99
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Read itQuestions on 2-Channel and 3-Channel Car Amplifiers Compared: Pioneer GM-A3702, JL Audio XDM200/2 and XDM500/3
What is a 2-channel amp for?
One pair of speakers, like the front doors, or one small sub when the two channels are bridged into one.
Will a 2-channel amp work with my factory radio?
The Pioneer GM-A3702 has RCA and speaker-level inputs with auto turn-on, per its listing. Tony checks your car's system before you buy.
Can one amp run two speakers and a sub?
Yes, with a 3-channel amp like the JL Audio XDM500/3: 100 W x 2 plus 300 W x 1 at 2 ohms.
What if I want four speakers?
Look at our 4-channel amp comparison, or our 5-channel amp comparison for four speakers plus a sub.
Can you install it?
Yes. Tony installs amps in our bay at 8696 Atlantic Ave in South Gate. Call or text first to set up a time.