By James Chevrette
Garmin announced a new amplifier series for marine and off-road vehicle audio systems with JL Audio’s first Bluetooth Direct amplifier.
The AP amplifier series includes a total of four ultra compact amplifiers. The Bluetooth model is a 4-channel amp that enable audio streaming from a cellphone without a special dongle. Retail price is $549.99.
Features of the Bluetooth AP amplifier include:
- Wired Remote
- IP67- Rating
- Class-D Design
- Compact Chassis: 1.85 inches (Height) x 7.28 inches (Width) x 4.90 inches (Depth)
- 40-watts x 4/100-watts x 2 (Bridged) 14.4 @ 4-ohms
- Aux Input source selection
- Protection Circuit including
- Input under/over Voltage
- Over Temperature
- Output Short Circuit
- For the remote control
- surface mounting cup
- flush mount
- template and gasket

The additional three AP models (without Direct Bluetooth) include a mono, 4-channel and six-channel model.
All four models are designed for installation in boats, ATVs, UTVs, and other powersports vehicles and are available to order on January 8. They are constructed with a cast alloy casing with an IP67 rating for resistance to water and dust.
Pricing on the non-Bluetooth amplifiers are $499 each for the monoblock and 4-channel versions, and $699.99 for the 6-channel model. Features for the non-Bluetooth amplifiers are as follows:
- Power Ratings
- Monoblock (300-watts RMS x 1 @ 2-ohms)
- 4 Channel Model (75-watts RMS x 4 @ 2-ohms)
- 6 Channel Model (75 x 4 RMS & 150 x 2 RMS @ 2-ohms)
- Built-In LCD display for manual control as well as use the Easy Tune App feature
- Compact Chassis and Class D technology
- Input under/over Voltage
- Over Temperature
- Output Short Circuit
For more information and specs, go to garmin.com







