1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the KICKER CompVR 43CVR124 12-inch Car Subwoofer. This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your new subwoofer. Please read it thoroughly before installation and keep it for future reference.
The KICKER CompVR 43CVR124 is a high-performance 12-inch dual voice coil (DVC) subwoofer designed for car audio systems. It features an injection-molded polypropylene cone and is capable of handling 50-400 Watts RMS (200 Watts per coil) with an 800 Watts peak power handling. Its robust design ensures powerful and clear bass reproduction.
Figure 1: Front view of the KICKER CompVR 43CVR124 12-inch Subwoofer. This image displays the subwoofer's cone and surround, highlighting its robust construction and KICKER branding.
2. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and longevity of your subwoofer. It is highly recommended that installation be performed by a qualified professional car audio installer.
2.1 Mounting Considerations
Ensure the mounting location provides adequate space for the subwoofer's dimensions and allows for proper air circulation. The subwoofer requires a secure enclosure for optimal sound performance. Refer to the specifications section for detailed dimensions.
Figure 2: Side view of the KICKER CompVR 43CVR124 12-inch Subwoofer. This view illustrates the subwoofer's mounting depth and basket design, essential for enclosure planning.
2.2 Wiring Dual Voice Coil (DVC) Subwoofers
The KICKER CompVR 43CVR124 features a Dual Voice Coil (DVC) design with a 4 Ohm impedance per coil. This allows for flexible wiring configurations to match your amplifier's impedance requirements. Always ensure your amplifier is stable at the chosen impedance.
Figure 3: Rear view of the KICKER CompVR 43CVR124 12-inch Subwoofer, showing the dual voice coil terminals. Proper connection to these terminals is critical for correct operation and impedance matching.
Common wiring configurations for a 4 Ohm DVC subwoofer:
- Parallel Wiring (2 Ohm Load): Connect the positive terminals of both voice coils together, and the negative terminals of both voice coils together. Connect the amplifier's positive output to the combined positive terminals, and the amplifier's negative output to the combined negative terminals. This results in a 2 Ohm load.
- Series Wiring (8 Ohm Load): Connect the positive terminal of one voice coil to the negative terminal of the other voice coil. Connect the amplifier's positive output to the remaining positive terminal, and the amplifier's negative output to the remaining negative terminal. This results in an 8 Ohm load.
Always verify the final impedance with a multimeter before connecting to your amplifier.
3. Operating Instructions
3.1 Power Handling
The CompVR 43CVR124 is rated for 50-400 Watts RMS (Root Mean Square) power handling, with a peak power handling of 800 Watts. Ensure your amplifier's output matches these specifications to prevent damage to the subwoofer.
3.2 Amplifier Settings
- Gain Setting: Set the amplifier gain according to the amplifier manufacturer's instructions, typically by matching it to the head unit's output voltage. Avoid setting the gain too high, as this can lead to clipping and damage.
- Low-Pass Filter (LPF): Set the LPF on your amplifier or head unit to filter out high frequencies, typically between 80 Hz and 120 Hz. Subwoofers are designed to reproduce low frequencies only.
- Subsonic Filter (HPF): If your amplifier has a subsonic filter (also known as a high-pass filter for subwoofers), set it slightly below your enclosure's tuning frequency to protect the subwoofer from over-excursion at very low frequencies.
- Bass Boost: Use bass boost sparingly, if at all. Excessive bass boost can cause distortion and damage.
3.3 Break-in Period
Allow a break-in period of approximately 10-20 hours of normal listening before operating the subwoofer at high volumes. This allows the suspension components to loosen up and achieve optimal performance.
4. Maintenance
The KICKER CompVR 43CVR124 is designed for durability. Regular maintenance is minimal but important for long-term performance.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the cone and surround. Avoid using harsh chemicals or excessive moisture.
- Inspection: Periodically inspect the subwoofer for any signs of damage to the cone, surround, or terminals. Ensure all wiring connections remain secure.
- Environmental Factors: Protect the subwoofer from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and excessive moisture.
5. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your subwoofer, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Sound |
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| Distorted Sound |
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| Weak Bass |
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If problems persist, contact KICKER customer support or a qualified car audio technician.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | 43CVR124 |
| Speaker Type | Subwoofer |
| Speaker Size | 12 Inches |
| Power Handling (RMS) | 50-400 Watts (200 Watts per coil) |
| Peak Power Handling | 800 Watts |
| Impedance | 4 Ohm DVC (Dual Voice Coil) |
| Sensitivity | 86.9 dB |
| Frequency Response | 500 Hz (Note: Subwoofers typically operate at much lower frequencies; this may represent an upper limit or a specific measurement point.) |
| Cone Material | Injection-molded Polypropylene |
| Product Dimensions (D x W x H) | 4.92"D x 4.92"W x 11.42"H (Note: These dimensions may refer to packaging or a specific component rather than the full subwoofer diameter/depth.) |
| Item Weight | 14.45 pounds (6.57 Kilograms) |
| Mounting Type | Car Mount |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
7. Warranty and Support
7.1 Warranty Information
The KICKER CompVR 43CVR124 Subwoofer comes with a Limited Warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official KICKER website for detailed terms and conditions regarding coverage, duration, and claims procedures.
7.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty inquiries, please contact KICKER customer support. You can find contact information on the official KICKER website (www.kicker.com).
