do you need an amp to run subs?
No, but if you don't use an amp, they won't have as much depth, volume, and sound pressure level (SPL), as a system with an amp.
Plus, most better brand speakers have a minimum power level requirement.
A big, high powered stereo system is like building a drag car, you gotta start under the hood, and work your way to the back...
Yeah, you do need an amp if your actually looking to have your subs make noise. If you need something cheap, Pepboys has a nice dual 12" Visonik kit that comes with a 400w amp, the two subs, sealed enclosure, and a wiring kit for $160 and it has a $20 rebate to bring it down to $140. Don't go without an amp on your subs, running a sub off of 22w from the head unit is not gonna give it the juice it wants depending on the sub.
the puppies shop is a great place to find one used... they will hook it up and test it for you too before you leave... and they are cheap because people steal them to buy crack...
Running any sub on that low amount of power will tear up that magnet and voice coils in a hurry.
i'm just wondering because all i want to do is test these f'n subs that my buddy gave me.
Your best bet would be to head to a mobile audio shop. They can test it, and hook it up in a demo room so you can hear it.
Thats is actually a good question, Yes you do need a amp, Voltage is kinda weird in how it is supplied. Say you head unit is 22V as suggested earlier. you subs will pull that ans use it and try to pull everything else it needs to function correctly depending ont the subs rating, Suppling low power to a sub is worse than over powering one, you will ultimately destroy your sub and possibly your head unit.
you need an f'n amp to run those f'n subs... lol
yeah f'n aye!