For those sticking with the stock alternators...
I have the Gen1 LSV8 and I'm running (2 amps) @ roughly 1000-watts. No 2nd Battery and No High-capacity Capacitors.
But I am running a slightly Beefer battery and running 0-AWG to a 250amp circuit breaker and 4-AWG wires all properly
blocked, distributed, fused, and grounded. And just as long as you never, ever turn your high-end stereo on without the
engine running... you should be fine.
Lastly, when replacing a bad, faulty alternator through your local shops (ie... Firestone, Sears, Goodyear, etc...); Although
that shop may replace the alternator with one of their own and "guarantee's" a lifetime warranty "no questions asked" you
may want to get the manager's name, date, and his signature. And make sure that they are aware of the aftermarket stereo
system prior to guarantee-ing your purchase.
I went through a 2-hour long debate with my local Firestone before they would honor the guarantee and replace the Alternator
(they installed just 6 months earlier). Then stipulated "in writing afterward" they would no longer guarantee vehicles with any
aftermarket stereo installations through Firestone.
Sears and my (gold series Die-hard) almost gave me the same story ...telling me there is "too many" wires at the trunk and they
were worried of getting electrocuted or damaging my system. Then the idiot 21yrs. tech said, he would not perform any diagnosis
because he wouldn't be able to verify to why the battery was not capable of holding +12volts, and couldn't replace an undiagnosed
battery. I called him an idiot !! I told him to perform a electrolyte check at each of 6 cells and if any showed a reading of less then
+2.1 volts (or +1.1 volts per each 12 cells) then the idiot tech has two choices: Attempt and recharge the dead battery cell or just
replace the damn battery !! It's not a rocket ship !! It's a 12 volt battery, either it does or doesn't hold a charge !!! JEEEZZUZZZ !!
Where do they find these people ???