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Best CB Amplifier (Updated 2023)

The best CB amplifiers are built for one main reason: to boost the performance and to enhance the range coverage of citizen band radios. But what exactly is the right amplifier to use with your CB radio? That’s what you’re about to discover!

Which Is The Best CB Amplifier?

Here’s the truth: it’s an uphill task finding a reliable amplifier for a CB radio. Many times, sellers promise heaven, yet their products don’t fulfill an inch of the claim. And if you’re not lucky, you can end up with a shitty amplifier.

But since we don’t want you to go down this road, we have compiled an in-depth unbiased review of the best amplifiers for citizen band radios. Also, we provide a buyer’s guide for what to consider when choosing an amplifier for your CB radio.

Sounds like a good deal? So, let’s jump right in!

Top 5 Best CB Amplifiers Ratings Table

ImagesModelsRatingsPrice

MegaWatt S-400-1288%

MegaWatt S-350-1288%

BTECH AMP-U25 Amplifier78%

HYS Ham HF Amplify75%

Kinter MA17074%

Check These:

Top 5 Best CB Amplifiers Specifications Table






Model
MegaWatt S-400-12


MegaWatt S-350-12


BTECH AMP-U25 Amplifier


HYS Ham HF Amplify


Kinter MA170




(Most Powerful CB Amplifier)(Most Reliable CB Amplifier)(Best Value For Money)(Best SSB Power CB Amplifier)(Best Lightweight CB Amplifier)
DC Voltage output13.8 Volts13.8 Volts13.8 VDC13.8 Volts12 VDC
Input Power/voltage120- 240 VAC120 – 240 VAC220-240 V220-240 VAC100-240 VAC
Output power430 watts360 Watts20-40 watts.200 watts2 x 18 watts.
Adjustable range output voltage9.5 to 15 volts9.5 to 15 volts9.5 to 15 volt9 to 14.4 volts
Weight2 pounds3.3 pounds1 pound1.7 pounds0.22 pounds
Dimensions9 x 4.5 x 2 inches9 x 4.5 x 2 inches5.5 x 4.5 x 1.4 inches4.3 x 8.9 x 1.4 inches4.87 x 1.62 x 1.62 inches
Voltage gradient10 kV/inch 10 kV/inch 
Amp Power supply30, 36, 50, 100, 200, 400 amps30 amp output, 33 am momentary peak36 amps 
Impedance50 ohms50 ohms50ohms50 ohms47 ohms
Frequency range47 Hz- 63 Hz47 Hz- 63 Hz400-480 MHz.3-330 MHz20-20,000 Hz
External antenna connectorSO-239SO-239SO-239SO-239 

Top 5 Best CB Amplifiers Reviews

1. MegaWatt S-400-12 – Most Powerful CB Amplifier

PriceRangeReliabilityFunctionalityOutput PowerNoiseOverall Rating
85%90%85%85%95%85%88%

Key Features

  • 9.5 to 15 volts adjustable output voltage.
  • Power output: 430 watts.
  • 30 amps, 36 amp output.
  • 40 amp momentary peaks.
  • No issues of RF noise both in CB and Ham radios.
  • Auto short circuit.
  • RV battery charger.
  • Double ball bearing.
  • 60000 hours dustproof cooling fans.
  • Compatible with CB radios, Ham radios, HF, and shortwave radios.

This is an RF noiseless amplifier for both Citizens band radio and ham radios. It’s created by MegaWatts and is a genuine amplifier.

User Interface and Functionality: Most importantly, it’s easy to set up and use even for complete beginners. This is because it has a friendly and simple to understand user interface with all functions and controls clearly labeled.

Plus, by following through the user manual, any newbie can effortlessly get started with this amplifier. Besides Ham and CB radios, you can use this amplifier with; HF radio, shortwave radio, and a linear amplifier.

Others include LED lighting and an RV battery charger. As you can see, the MegaWatts S-400-12 is versatile and offers almost limitless options.

Power input, output, and Power Supply: To operate this amplifier, you’ll need a power supply of 12 volts or 120 to 240 VAC. The amazing part is that the amplifier works on adjustable power input of between 9.5 to 15 volts. Therefore, you can always adjust according to the need at hand.

At 430 watts, this is the most powerful CB amplifier on the market. Because of this, it is a versatile amplifier and has a number of uses like previously mentioned. Moreover, it comes with a terminal cord and runs on an amp’s power of 30, 36, 50, 100, 200, and 400.

Design, Cover Material, and Weight: The amplifier is compact, rectangular in shape, and measures 9 x 4.5 x 2 inches. Also, it weighs 2 pounds and is relatively lightweight. This enhances portability, thereby making it easy to transport. If you’re ever on the move, this amplifier would never be a bother.

Detailed Specifications:

  • DC Voltage output: 13.8 Volts.
  • Adjustable range output voltage: 9.5 to 15 volts.
  • AC Input Voltage: 120 and 240 volts.
  • Power output: 430 watts.
  • Voltage gradient: 10 kv/inch.
  • Frequency range: 47 Hz- 63 Hz
  • External antenna connector: SO-239
  • Amp Power supply: 30, 36, 50, 100, 200, 400 amps.
  • Load stability: 0-100%
  • Efficiency: 74%
  • Working temperature: -10°c- + 60°C
  • Weight: 2 pounds.
  • Impedance: 50 ohms
  • Dimensions: 9 x 4.5 x 2 inches.

PROS

  • Compatible with other radio models.
  • Adjustable input power.
  • Heavy-duty power supply.
  • Affordable.
  • Highly reliable.

CONS

  • Some units repeatedly fail to work after a few instances of use.

Verdict: This amplifier is versatile and works well with a variety of radios such as CB radio, Ham radio, HF radio, shortwave radio, and a linear amplifier. If you’re looking for a multi-functional CB amplifier, then S-400-12 would be a good fit for consideration.

Besides, it has a stable input voltage. Even with rapid output current change, the amplifier still protects itself. This is unlike the counterfeit S-400-12 that gets ‘fried’ when there’s a rapid upsurge in power.

As much as MegaWatts describes this amplifier as dead quiet with no RF noise, this is not entirely true. From experience, some users say that the amplifier has RF birdies and is not that quiet. Probably this could be negligible but if noise is an issue for you, this amplifier would not be for you.

2. MegaWatt S-350-12Most Reliable CB Amplifier

PriceRangeReliabilityFunctionalityOutput PowerNoiseOverall Rating
90%85%90%85%90%90%88%

Key Features

  • Adjustable output power supply.
  • Filtered and regulated.
  • Power output: 360 Watts.
  • 60000 hours dustproof cooling fans.
  • No RF noise.
  • Auto short-circuit.
  • Excess voltage shutdown.
  • Real megawatt.
  • Comes with a power cord.
  • Comes with a cover for the terminals.
  • 36 amp momentary peaks.
  • 30 amps 24 hours continuous use.
  • Built-in DC fan for air cooling.

User Interface and Functionality

User Interface and Functionality: Unlike other CB amplifiers, Megawatt S-350-12 is genuine and performs its intended purpose. There are similar amplifiers on the market which are clones. Without due diligence, it may cost you a lot of money.

Therefore, when buying from Amazon or online, this is the real amplifier to consider as advised by the seller—MegaWatt.

That being said, it has a user-friendly interface to give you an easy time operating it. All the functions are clear and well labeled so that you never miss a thing.

Power input, output, and Power Supply: This amplifier operates on a power supply of 13.8 volts DC or 120-240 VAC. Also the power input is adjustable and you can move it from 9.5 to 15 volts. To add to this, the amplifier comes with a grounded power cord.

The power supply features a double ball bearing and 60,000-hour dustproof cooling fans. With the expected high heat dissipation, it’s important to have a fan that cools down the system while it’s in operation.

Moreover, it has an overall power output of 360 watts and an amp power supply of 30 amp, and 33 amp momentary peaks.

Design, Cover Material, and Weight: At 9 x 4.5 x 2 inches, the amplifier is relatively small-sized and weighs 3.3 pounds. It’s not the most lightweight amplifier in our list but it’s still easy to handle. Plus, it has a metal shield covering that is sturdy and protects the internal features from damage.

Detailed Specifications

  • DC Voltage output: 13.8 V.
  • Adjustable range output voltage: 9.5 to 15 volts.
  • AC Input Voltage: 120 – 240 Volts.
  • Power output: 360 Watts.
  • Voltage gradient: 10 kv/inch.
  • Frequency range: 47 Hz- 63 Hz
  • External antenna connector: SO-239
  • Amp Power supply: 30 amp output, 33 am momentary peak.
  • Working temperature: -10ºC~+50ºC
  • Weight: 3.3 pounds.
  • Impedance: 50 ohms
  • Dimensions: 9 x 4.5 x 2 inches.

PROS

  • Highly efficient.
  • Super reliable.
  • Affordable.
  • Easy to operate.

CONS

  • Its power-on LED is dysfunctional and may fail after a few minutes of powering.

Verdict: MegaWatt S-350 is genuine and reliable. This means you can depend on it to amplify your radios. Nonetheless, it’s not always going to be 100% effective since it’s got a few shortcomings.

It doesn’t make irritating noise while in operation. This makes it the best fit if you love your quiet environment or disturbing other people is not your thing. And with its built-in DC fan, it’s possible to cool down the air while in operation.

The fan is effective and cools the amplifier as expected. If you’re looking for an amplifier with a reliable DC fan, you can give MegaWatt S-350 a shot.

There’s a counterfeit product on the market. If you are not careful, you may find yourself buying the clone instead of the original amplifier. While the genuine amplifier is from the US, the fake one is from China.

Here’s how to tell the difference. The clone doesn’t come with an AC power cord and it has a terrible hash which the genuine amplifier doesn’t. The hash effect affects signal quality as seen in signals interruption in the counterfeit.

From this brief comparison, it’s now easy to tell what the genuine and fake amplifier is. Probably, you can opt for testing the amplifier when you buy it. And only leave with the amplifier that meets the threshold of a genuine MegaWatt S-350-12.

3. BTECH AMP-U25 AmplifierBest Value For Money CB Amplifier

PriceRangeReliabilityFunctionalityOutput PowerNoiseOverall Rating
70%80%80%80%70%85%78%

Key Features

  • UHF amplifier (400-480 MHz).
  • Analog and digital modes supported.
  • Designed for handheld radios such as BTECH and Baofeng.
  • Works well with UT-72 antenna.
  • Usable with analog FM, P25 Phase 1, C4FM, NXDN, IDAS, dPMR, and MPT1327 modes.
  • Supports out of band transmitting with a turned-off amplifier.
  • Inbuilt 4 watts loudspeaker.

BTECH AMP-U25 amplifier is a product of BTECH Company that’s based in the US. BTECH specializes in developing and producing awesome radio products as evidenced in the BTECH AMP-U25 amplifier.

User Interface and Functionality: This amplifier has a friendly user interface and is easy to operate even for first-timers. Why do we say so? You’re probably wondering. On the front plate, all the functions and controls are easy to locate and are clearly labeled.

If you’re new to this amplifier, you’d only have to see to know what control you’re looking for. For example, the on and off button is green, large in size, and has a label under it. To power the amplifier on, you’ll need to long-press the button for 2 seconds.

As you can see, this doesn’t take long and in no time you should be having the amplifier ready for use. Other control functions include; LED power indicator, transmitting LED indicator, voltage warning LED indicator, Mic connector, and K1 radio control connector.

All these are strategically positioned to enhance usability and to give you a memorable user experience. The power indicator will give you a warning when you’re running out of power and when exceeding the permitted voltage.

Also, on the backplate, there are; SO-239 RF output, DC power in port, and the SMA-male RF in. On the top, there’s the 4 watts speaker that gives out a crisp and clear sound.

Most importantly, these controls are made accessible to give users an easy time operating the amplifier. Even if you’re completely new, getting started with the radio is pretty simple.

Power input, output, and Power Supply: To use the amplifier, you need to connect it to a power source of 13.8 volts Direct Current. This equates to a 220-240 VAC power supply that’s stable and has a low ripple voltage. This makes it reliable and guarantees the amplifier won’t stop working in the middle of normal operation.

Besides, the amplifier has an output power of between 20 and 40 watts which contributes to high efficiency and dependability.

Design, Cover Material, and Weight: This amplifier is rectangular, measures 5.5 x 4.5 x 1.4 inches, and doesn’t occupy much space. Besides, it has a metal casing, weighs 1.8 pounds, and is lightweight. Therefore, you can carry it around hassle-free.

Detailed Specifications

  • Frequency range: 400-480 MHz.
  • DC Voltage Output: 13.8 VDC
  • External antenna connector: SO-239
  • Output: RF power: 20-40 watts.
  • Input RF power:  220-240 VAC
  • Power supply: 13.8 VDC
  • Number of channels: 1000
  • Weight: 1.8 pounds.
  • Impedance: 50 ohms
  • Dimensions: 5.5 x 4.5 x 1.4 inches

PROS

  • Clear output signals.
  • Versatile and compatible with most radios.
  • Lightweight design.
  • Easy to operate.
  • Value for money.

CONS

  • Actual power may be lower than expected.

Verdict: This is a UHF amplifier that’s made for handheld radios such from Baofeng and BTECH users. Besides, it features the most essential functions to give handheld radio users a perfect experience with their radios. Thus, if you own one of these radios, we’d suggest you get yourself a BTECH AMP-U25 Amplifier. Since it supports both analog and digital modes, it would be a good fit if any of your radios is analog or digital.

On the flip side, the manufacturer is reporting a power output that may not be always true after purchasing. Some users have reported that after testing the amplifier, it was shy from the advertised power output by 4 watts.

BTECH AMP-U25 Amplifier User Manual

4. HYS Ham HF AmplifierBest SSB Power CB Amplifier

PriceRangeReliabilityFunctionalityOutput PowerNoiseOverall Rating
70%85%75%85%75%60%75%
HYS Ham HF Amplifier - Best SSB Power CB Amplifier

Key Features

  • 20-30 MHz ideal operating frequency.
  • The best bands are; 10 meters, 12 meters, and 15 meters.
  • Designed for HF radios.
  • Automatic TX/RX switch.
  • An on and off switch.
  • Inversion polarity protection.
  • Built in band decoder.
  • Forced airflow coolant.
  • 16-bit microprocessor.

Check Price On Amazon

Design, Cover Material, and Weight: This amplifier is designed with a fan on top. It’s also created with the main purpose of amplifying portable two-way radios to improve their performance. So, why does it have a fan on top? You could be asking.

Normally, the amplifier experiences a high degree of heat dissipation which affects the normal performance. To counter this, the manufacturer responded to loyal users’ concerns by adding an additional fan on top of the amplifier.

But this additional feature comes with a downside—loud sound. This can be irritating at best, and may not appeal to many users. However, there’s still another way out of this.

You have the option of choosing either a loud but effective fan or a quiet but less effective fan. They pretty much perform the same function of cooling the amplifier, though one is more efficient than the other.

Besides, it’s rectangular in shape, measures 4.3 x 8.9 x 1.4 inches and weighs 1.7 pounds. As you can see, it’s lightweight and will only cover a small area on any surface. Plus, you can easily move around with it since it’s relatively a light amplifier.

User Interface and Functionality: Moreover, the amplifier is simple to operate. Even as a newbie, you can easily follow the user’s manual and you’re set to go. All the function and control features are labeled in white ink. This makes them legible and easy to read even in dark places. The best part is that they’re right below the control features. Thus it’s not easy to confuse things.

Power input, output, and Power Supply: The general output for AM and FM modes is around 150 watts. However, for more efficiency, 200 watts is the maximum power output. To get this kind of result, you need to connect it to a power source of 200-250 VAC when the input is 5 watts. Also, for single-sideband mode, the power output is 300 watts.

Detailed Specifications:

  • DC Voltage output: 13.8 V
  • Frequency range: 3-330 MHz
  • Adjustable range output voltage: 12-14 V.
  • AC Input Voltage: 220-250 V.
  • Power output: 200 watts.
  • Working temperature: -0℃~ +60℃
  • Voltage gradient: 10 kv/inch.
  • Amp Power supply: 36 amp output
  • External antenna connector: SO-239
  • FM/AM output power: 150 watts.
  • SSB output power: 300 watts.
  • Working mode: AM, FM, SSB, CW.
  • Weight: 1.7 pounds.
  • Impedance: 50 ohms
  • Dimensions: 4.3 x 8.9 x 1.4 inches.

PROS

  • Highly efficient.
  • Has a compact design.
  • Lightweight.
  • Easy to operate.

CONS

  • Loud noisy sound from the fan.

Verdict: This amplifier is best for anyone who is looking for a handheld two-way radio amplifier. If this is you, this amplifier is a great option for you.

Specifically, it will work best with an 11m CB radio (20-30 MHz) since it operates on an input power of 5-10 watts. Therefore, after reading through the product description and seeing the benefits it comes with, you may consider it.

However, before making the final decision, it’s got some shortcomings that you need to be wary of.

The amplifier is designed for High Frequencies (HF). Therefore, it won’t be a good fit if you own a VHF or UHF cab or want to use it for a similar purpose.

The fan is loud and noisy. You may find this a nuisance as it interrupts normal communication. Also, using this amplifier with your radio in close proximity results in sharp and annoying electromagnetic noise.

If you’re not ready for this, this amplifier may not be a good fit for you.

5. Kinter MA170Best Lightweight CB Amplifier

PriceRangeReliabilityFunctionalityOutput PowerNoiseOverall Rating
95%80%80%83%65%60%74%
Kinter MA170 - Best Lightweight CB Amplifier

Key Features

  • LED colored volume knob.
  • MP3 RCA input.
  • 2 x18 watts per channel.
  • 12 volts DC power source.
  • Micro TDA 7266 Chip amp.
  • Adjustable bass and treble.

Check Price On Amazon

Kinter MA170 is developed by the Kinter brand and is a 2-channel HI-FI stereo amplifier for cars and MP3.

User Interface and Functionality

The amplifier has a friendly user interface that’s easy to navigate. This enhances usability and makes the radio easy to operate. Since all the controls are clearly labeled and easily accessible, you’ll find it easy to set the amplifier to your preference.

It features a multi-color LED-lit volume knob that keeps shifting when the amplifier is powered on. Besides helping out with volume control the variation in LED lighting gives a good visual impression.

Other features on the front plate include; the on and off power button that enables quick powering without delays. In a few seconds the amplifier powers after long-pressing the button. There are also bass and treble control knobs. You can use these two for fine-tuning the output sound and giving it a clear and appealing tone.

Power input, output, and Power Supply

Moreover, it has 2 channels, each operating at 18 watts. This equates to an input power supply of 12 VDC or 100-240 VAC. VDC is reliable and using it with this amplifier only means you won’t be experiencing power interruptions.

 At a power output of 18 watts per channel, the amplifier is dependable and gives out quality sound. Also, on the backplate, there’s a white-red audio input, speaker impedance of 2 to 8 ohms, and the DCV 12 V input port. All these are easily accessible and help in enhancing usability.

Design, Cover Material, and Weight

The amplifier features a sturdy metal material design that’s durable and helps in protecting the inside features of the radio. It measures 4.87 x 1.62 x 1.62 inches and occupies a small surface area.

Thus, it won’t take much space during any setup. Besides, it weighs 0.22 pounds and is super lightweight. This contributes to an easy handling experience.

Detailed Specifications

  • Output Voltage: Standard 12 VDC
  • Power output: 2 x 18 watts.
  • Frequency range: 20-20,000 Hz
  • DC plug size: 2.1 mm 5.5 mm
  • DC input polarity: center positive.
  • External antenna connector: SO-239
  • Voltage gradient: 10 kv/inch.
  • Adjustable range output voltage: 9 to 14.4 volts
  • Working temperature: 16℃~ +46℃
  • Speaker impedance: 4-8 ohms.
  • Input impedance: 47 ohms.
  • Frequency response: 20 Hz-22 kHz.
  • Input voltage: 100-240 VAC.
  • Weight: 0.22 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 4.87 x 1.62 x 1.62 inches.

PROS

  • Designed for home, car, garage, and DIY.
  • Affordable.
  • High performance.
  • Small and lightweight.

CONS

  • Doesn’t come with a power supply.

Verdict: Kinter MA170 is a great multifunctional amplifier which you can use not only for your CB radio but a number of devices for your car and home.

At 36 watts output power for the two channels, this amplifier is adequately powerful to handle any applications.

Kinter MA170 User Manual

Buying Guide: How To Choose The Best CB Amplifier

With tons of CB Amplifiers on the market, the main challenge becomes settling on the right one. Definitely, you should base your buying decision on logic more than emotion.

But when you have no idea how to choose the best CB amplifier, it becomes impossible to make progress. To help you save time and find the right amplifier, here’s what to look for.

1. Federal Communication Commission (FCC) CB Radio Regulations

According to FCC regulations on personal radio services, CB radios should be short-range and low powered. Therefore, a CB radio is only allowed to operate at a power output of between 4 to 12 watts.

This maximum output power is determined by the type of transmission. For AM transmissions, the power level should not exceed 4 watts, while for single-sideband transmissions, the maximum is 12 watts.

Since CB radios operate at a frequency range of 20-30 MHz, the most compatible amplifier to use with a CB radio should also operate within the same range.

These regulations also require that only the permitted power input from amplifiers should be used with CB radios. Therefore, the appropriate CB amplifier should be the one that meets this threshold of power input.

Also, FCC requires that every manufacturer should get certification for their amplifiers before releasing them into the market. And that they should clearly use labels to show the amplifier is FCC certified.

Therefore, our top 3 recommendations are MegaWatt S-400-12, HYS Ham and HF Amplify. This recommendation is based on the fact that these amplifiers operate within the FCC CB regulations for a maximum input power of 5-10 watts. The other consideration is on the permitted frequency range of 20-30 MHz.

Purchasing any of these three CB amplifiers will be a great investment since you’ll get value for your money.

2. CB Amplifier Output Power

The output power determines how powerful and effective the amplifier can be. Thus it goes without saying that the higher the output power the more powerful and effective the CB Amplifier. And the lower the output power, the less powerful it is.

Therefore, we’d recommend MegaWatt S-400-12 at 430 watts, MegaWatt S-350-12 at 360 watts, and MFJ-260 at 300 watts. Any of these CB amplifiers will not let you down based on their high output power.

3. CB Amplifier Cooling Option

Due to the high energy emitted by amplifiers, they tend to heat up so fast. If this is not taken care of, the amplifier is likely to malfunction. For that reason, manufacturers are advised to fit their amplifiers with the right fans to cool the system.

While some fans are effective, powerful, and efficient for the role they play, others fall below par and never make a significant difference. Moreover, some fans are noiseless during operations while others produce a lot of irritating noise.

All these amplifiers have a cooling system. The only difference lies in their performance and how advanced they are. For that reason, we’d recommend HYS Ham HF Amplify.

It has an additional fan installed on the top that provides an additional cooling effect. Also, it’s the only CB amplifier with a fan on its top.  Therefore, this makes it more effective at cooling down the system from high heat dissipation.

However, the main shortcoming is the loud noise the extra fan produces. But there’s a quick solution to this. You can either decide to install the powerful but loud extra fan or install the less powerful but almost noiseless fan. The choice is really yours and based on personal preference.

4. Ease of Transportation

CB amplifiers have different sizes, shapes, and weights based on the manufacturer’s choice of design and construction materials. All these considerations influence the portability of the CB amplifier in one way or another.

These amplifiers have a compact design, metallic protective shield, and a rectangular shape. All these have an influence on how easy or difficult it can be to transport a CB amplifier.

Thus, based on the above considerations, all of the seven amplifiers weigh under 3 pounds which is considerably lightweight and easy to transport.

However Kinter MA170 and BTECH AMP-U25 weigh under 1 pound. This makes them the lightest and the easiest to transport.

5. Cost of CB Amplifier

While some CB amplifiers are quite costly, others are affordable. The most important thing to compare pricing with is the functionality of the amplifiers. How much value does it offer? And do I get the value for the money I invest? These are some of the critical questions to ask yourself when comparing prices for the best CB amplifiers.

Here’s the pricing analysis for these CB amplifiers. HYS Ham HF Amplify and BTECH AMP-U25 amplifiers are the more expensive ones, while MegaWatt S-400-12 is somewhere in the middle.

Both Kinter MA170 and MegaWatt S-350-12 are quite affordable if you are on a budget. From this price standpoint and your set budget, you can now settle on the right CB amplifier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are CB amplifiers illegal?

CB amplifiers can be illegal based on whether the manufacturers have followed FCC regulations or not. According to FCC regulations on CB radio, the allowed output range should be between 4 to 12 watts.

FCC also permits a frequency range of 20 to 30 MHz for all CB radios. Therefore, FCC expects all CB amplifiers to operate within the frequency range of 20-30 MHz and that their input power shouldn’t exceed 14 watts.

The regulations compel every CB amplifier to have an FCC certification and there should be proof for that on the amplifier. Thus, any CB amplifier that doesn’t meet the threshold is illegal.

How many amps does a CB need?

A CB radio requires between 3 amps and a maximum of 4 amps for optimum performance. Normally, CB radios need a direct current of between 9.5 and 15.5 VDC. However, the standard voltage is between 12 VDC and 13.8 VDC.

It’s the required voltage that determines the right amps for CB. The state of operation, i.e. transmitting or receiving a signal, also contributes to the CB amps.

How do I increase the range on my CB radio?

The best way to increase the range of your CB radio is to use an approved CB antenna. The right antenna is correctly tuned to cover the appropriate frequency range and has an impedance of 50 ohms. You can also use feed cables that are compatible with the antenna. Lastly, always remember to keep away from obvious obstructions.

How far does CB radio reach?

By standards, a CB radio can reach up to 20 miles away. But ideally, the range is between 3 miles to 20 miles. The 20 miles range can be covered by two base stations.

So, to get the most range, ensure the CB radio is properly installed and operates on an approved CB antenna.

How far will a 4 watt CB transmit?

Standard CB radios have a limited range coverage of between 3 miles to 20 miles. This is determined by the terrain and other obstructions between two radio users.

Usually, CBS transmit over long distances (20 miles) when there are no obstructions along the way. But only covers a short-range (3 miles) with multiple obstructions like heavily built-up areas.

What is the maximum wattage for a CB radio?

According to FCC regulations, a standard AM CB radio should operate at an output power of 4 watts. However, for CB radios with single-sideband mode, the maximum wattage is set at 12 watts.

Final Words

The best CB amplifier plays this critical role: boosting the performance and enhancing range coverage of citizen band radios. However, it is not just any amplifier that you should go for, but only what the FCC has certified.

This comprehensive review and buying guide should be your clear path to finding a CB amplifier that’s compatible with your CB radio and offers maximum value for your money. It doesn’t get any better than this, but you need to take action now. 

  • October 8, 2021
Paul Dudley
 

Paul is the owner and founder of WhollyOutdoor.com . His passion for ham radios and fishing lead him to create this site. He loves playing with his radios and doing many other outdoor activities