Garmin Fusion AM Series Marine Amplifier

Curated from 45 real Reddit conversations

Refreshed on: August 11, 2024

Garmin Fusion AM Series Marine Amplifier

Brand: Garmin
Price: $191
Snoop Score:
6.6
Sentiment
3.3
Popularity
6.6
Technical
6.4

Snoop's Take

The Garmin Fusion AM Series Marine Amplifier is a 500-watt, 4 channel amplifier engineered to deliver robust marine audio performance. It is designed to power up to four pairs of speakers or be bridged to drive a combination of speakers and a subwoofer. User feedback paints a divided picture; many appreciate the enhanced durability with comments like 'Marine amps can actually be better than car amps' while others lambast the build quality, noting that 'Garmin already owns Fusion marine audio, which builds shit amps and speakers'. Concerns over thermal issues linked to the protective coatings add fuel to the debate. The community's spirited commentary underscores that while the sound performance is solid, longevity remains a contentious point. In conclusion, if you prioritize robust power and flexible audio tuning and can tolerate mixed reviews on durability, the product stands as a recommended choice in the marine amplifier category.

Not for you? Check out our other rated Marine Amplifiers

Marine amps can actually be better than car amps.

Positive Feedback

Garmin already owns Fusion marine audio, which builds shit amps and speakers but has some of the best head units in the business.

Negative Feedback
Product
6.6
Garmin Fusion AM Series Marine Amplifier
Boat Audio Systems
10 / 10
Marine Events
10 / 10
Watercraft Installations
10 / 10
Custom Marine Sound Systems
10 / 10
See how this compares to all Marine Amplifiers

What it does well!

Key strengths users can’t stop talking about.
Enhanced durability with extra protective coatings
Marine amps can actually be better than car amps.
That was what I was assuming, better protection!

Where it needs some work!

Areas to watch—feedback on possible improvements.
Poor build quality and durability
Garmin already owns Fusion marine audio, which builds shit amps and speakers but has some of the best head units in the business.
Had several friends with fusion’s that broke after a few seasons.
Potential thermal issues from protective coatings
Yes but sometimes the extra coatings also cause higher operating temperatures?
it's normal for conformal coatings to increase temperatures, though it's usually pretty minimal until you get around 100+ microns.

Compare On All Talked About Dimensions

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Core Power Plays

The specs and strengths that make it shine.
Garmin watch battery capacity and life
Remember you will only get about 80% of the capacity of the battery pack.
Curious: Why only 80%?
So they are squeezing quite some life out of that little battery.

Buyer’s Cheat Sheet

What to check before you click ‘Add to Cart.’
General marine audio system and installation advice
This combination was deadly because the Omhs and Watts matched and it was super clean audio from low to highs.
Stay away from cheap stuff. Go with marine spec Kenwood, JL, Rockford Fosgate, Wet Sounds etc.
Don't waste your money on a marine spec head unit or amplifiers if you don't need too.
Maintenance and care tips for marine audio equipment
Just spritz them with water every couple weeks and they will be fine.
Higher pricing due to marine-grade specifications
They are typically more expensive because they are meant for a wetter environment; corrosion resistance, water protection, dust protection, etc.
Marine battery and wiring advice
7 Amp-Hour Sealed Lead Acid battery should be fine.
You need female battery quick disconnects like these linked below.
Running into the problem that the wire is too thin for the opening to the ring terminal.
Also wondering if I should use a different power source other than the battery that’s powering my trolling motor.
Marine speakers recommendations
I'd def look into getting some JL 6.5's, it's worth paying extra for them.
Polk MM6,5’s provide the best bang for the back.
Crutchfield is good place to get an idea what is available.
JL MX650, don't spend twice as much for the M650.

Cautionary Callouts

Know the pitfalls before they catch you off guard.
Discussion on Garmin's acquisition and brand integration
If Garmin messes with that and tarnishes that reputation, it's over for them.
you really dont even need a head unit anymore.
Wow! My fav car audio brand has finally given in and been taken over by the big companies.
General marine electronics brand overview
I personally opted for a B&G Zeus 3 9" and I love the shit out of it.
Regardless, there is no substitute for reading the manual.

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