Do I need a bigger amp?

[pond]

I have a Crown XLS1000 driving a pair of Lab-15 T60s in parallel, amp sees a total load of 4ohms. Amp is rated for 1100w bridged @ 4ohms.

The maximum voltage I can get out of the amp is ~45v. (Max safe voltage for these T60s is 60v). Every gain control in the signal chain is maxed out to reach said 45v. This is already mighty freakin loud, but sounds like shit in my basement because all the ductwork starts vibrating, so I can't do a proper listening test. Not sure which will run out of steam first, the subs or my tops.

Occasionally, the clip light will flash on hard bass hits when the knob is turned to 10, turning it down a click stops this.

So:

How much power am I missing out on with that last 15v?

Am I going to shorten life of my amp by running it full-throttle?

I would probably get an XLS1500, rated 1550w bridged @ 4ohms, should a bigger amp be the way to go.

[Bruce Weldy]

I started with a bridged 1000 for 2 T39s, but moved up to a 1500 bridged - no problem getting over 60 volts and a little more headroom. But, playing live music I'm not asking for anything lower than 50 hz.....with T60s, I imagine that you are hammering the amp pretty hard.

[Bill Fitzmaurice]

Occasionally, the clip light will flash on hard bass hits when the knob is turned to 10, turning it down a click stops this.

That indicates your source isn't delivering enough voltage to drive the amp to full output. You should be able to get the clip indicator to flash rather easily. You don't want it constantly lit, but occasional flashing is OK.

[Ryan A]

So:

How much power am I missing out on with that last 15v?

Am I going to shorten life of my amp by running it full-throttle?

I would probably get an XLS1500, rated 1550w bridged @ 4ohms, should a bigger amp be the way to go.

You are missing out a good amount with 15 V less, however 45 volts should be quite enough with dual T60. Might wanna check your polarity against each other and against the tops just to be sure.

A well-designed pro amplifier should not have any problems running into the clip lights on a regular basis.

You might wanna test them in a venue before you decide if you need a new amplifier. If you need the output, go ahead a get a bigger amp. Otherwise, be happy with the headroom that you have with your subs.