I checked the remote wire, that seemed to be fine. Checked the fuse running from the positive terminal, looked fine...now the instruments and gauge lights do not come on. Haven't checked fuses, but wondering if this can be related? Also, what could cause the amp to die randomly?

 

phil phil phil.. i will say no more.
go check your fuses.

 

I just did, they all seem fine

 

looks fine wont cut it.. test voltage at the terminals at the amp.. tell me what you get. Illl give you your next step.

 

That requires a new multimeter, but hey.. it can't hurt to have. However, im about to just buy a whole new set of fuses and replace all of them! This frustrates me!

 

check your ground as well. Thats why i say you need a multimeter before you just need fuses.
also if your voltage checks out fine, try a small jumper wire from the batt terminal to the remote terminal on the amp.. if it turns on, then the RTO is your issue..and its common.

i bet you ran it straight out of the deck to the amp right? No relay etc?
That can do it easily. and its free to check.