so i have an ida-x300 radio and when i put the volume higher than 16 on the radio it shuts off. when its close to 16 and thers bass the lights dim and so does the dash. i have an alpine amplifier only for 1 sub in the trunk. should i buy a new alternator or what? could i run a wire from the radio directly to the battery (with a fuse of course)? if i run the wire to the battery would that stop the lights from dimming? sorry for such a long read but any help would be appreciated

 

It sounds like you have voltage issues. You should take your battery and alternator somewhere and have them checked.

 

the radio itself draws very little power, but if your electrical system is a bit weak, the amp is what will be causing the lights to dim. your voltage is dropping below operating levels for the radio when the bass hits (higher amperage draw, more demand on the system) and the radio thinks power's been cut. don't run a direct lead from the radio to the battery, its not worth the work for what you're doing.

get alt and battery tested, one or both is likely on its way out (and possibly taking the other with it)

 

thanks for the info never thought that my amp was causing the problem i'll go to auto store to by a new alternator and get a new battery while im ther

 

A quick test would be to yank the fuse from the amp and see if the radio still shuts off.