dual battery / sound system

[98outback]

I have read a lot of threads here and on other boards and still cant decide which way to hook up my dual batteries. I was able to get 2 new optima d34m blue tops for next to nothing. I would like to run my amps off of one battery and leave everything else hooked up to the other battery. I really dont want to have to deal with a switch but I can if someone could explain the best way to use it. How has everyone here hooked up their dual batteries and amps? Did anyone use an isolator?

[Razzman]

I've always used an isolator for all my boats, i don't like having to rely on memory to switch the batts. Currently i'm using the Blue Seas ACR system (http://bluesea.com/category/2/productline/overview/329) which i think is superior as far as protection goes. No messing with it at all.

[kaneboats]

You've probably seen the dual battery thread on the MC site. I ran across it once and saved the link in case I ever need it because it was pretty darn good. For everyone's benefit, it's here:

http://www.tmcowners.com/teamtalk/showthread.php?t=3557&highlight=dual+battery

[mustangairchair]

you could use a constant duty solinoid or a icolater both work good the cost is a little more for a icolater. that way you don't need a battery switch. i run both icolater and a battery switch.

[Razzman]

Hence the reason i know use the Blue Seas ACR (Automatic Charging Relay), it has Off/On/Combine posistions only switch and the ACR which has none of the pitfalls of an isolator (voltage drop, low voltage combining, burnout).

[Reese350]

I second the Blue Seas automatic sensing/switching relay. It rocks.