1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the KICKER 51HS10 Hideaway Under-Seat Powered Subwoofer. This compact and powerful subwoofer is designed to deliver deep, accurate bass to enhance your vehicle's audio system. This manual provides essential information for proper installation, operation, and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your device.
Image 1.1: Angled view of the KICKER 51HS10 Hideaway Under-Seat Powered Subwoofer.
2. Safety Information
Please read and understand all instructions before operating this product. Failure to follow these guidelines may result in injury or damage to the product or vehicle.
- Professional Installation Recommended: For best results and to avoid damage, professional installation by an authorized KICKER dealer is recommended.
- Disconnect Battery: Always disconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal before performing any wiring connections.
- Secure Mounting: Ensure the subwoofer is securely mounted to prevent it from becoming a projectile in the event of a sudden stop or collision.
- Avoid Obstruction: Do not mount the subwoofer in a location that obstructs vehicle controls, airbags, or other safety features.
- Proper Fusing: Use the correct fuse ratings as specified in the wiring instructions to protect against electrical shorts and overloads.
- Volume Levels: Prolonged exposure to excessive sound pressure levels can cause permanent hearing damage. Operate your audio system responsibly.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package before beginning installation:
- KICKER 51HS10 Powered Subwoofer
- Remote Bass Control
- Wiring Harness (Power, Ground, Remote, High-Level Input)
- Mounting Hardware (brackets, screws)
- Owner's Manual
Image 3.1: Contents included with the KICKER 51HS10 Hideaway Subwoofer, showing the unit, wiring harness, remote, and manual.
4. Features
The KICKER 51HS10 Hideaway Subwoofer offers a range of features designed for superior performance and easy integration:
- Compact Design: Slim profile for convenient under-seat installation.
- Powerful Output: 10-inch subwoofer with 180W RMS power.
- Durable Construction: Features a robust all-aluminum frame.
- FIT+ Technology: Fail-safe Integration Technology PLUS ensures compatibility with almost any vehicle, including those with start/stop systems, handling input signals from 0.25 to 40 volts without needing additional converters.
- Adjustable Crossover: Low-pass crossover allows precise frequency tuning.
- Bass Boost: +6dB bass boost for enhanced low-frequency impact.
- Phase Switch: Selectable 0 or 180-degree phase to optimize sound alignment.
- Auto Turn-On: Two options available: DC-offset or signal sensing for effortless integration.
- Flexible Inputs: High-level (speaker) and low-level (RCA) inputs for compatibility with factory or aftermarket head units.
- Remote Bass Control: Included remote for independent bass level adjustment.
5. Installation (Setup)
Proper installation is crucial for the performance and safety of your KICKER 51HS10 subwoofer. Follow these steps carefully.
5.1 Mounting Location
Choose a secure, dry location for mounting the subwoofer. The compact design is ideal for installation under most car seats. Ensure there is adequate ventilation around the unit and that it does not interfere with any vehicle mechanisms or passenger comfort.
5.2 Wiring Connections
Before making any connections, disconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal.
- Power Connection: Connect the included 17-foot power input harness directly to the vehicle's positive battery terminal. Ensure an appropriate fuse (typically 15A, as indicated on the unit) is installed close to the battery.
- Ground Connection: Connect the ground wire from the harness to a clean, solid metal point on the vehicle's chassis. Ensure good electrical contact by scraping away any paint or rust.
- Remote Turn-On:
- Remote Wire: If your head unit has a dedicated remote turn-on output, connect the remote wire from the harness to it.
- Auto Turn-On (DC-Offset): For head units without a remote output, the subwoofer can detect a DC offset on the speaker-level inputs to turn on. Set the 'AUTO TURN ON' switch to 'DC'.
- Auto Turn-On (Signal Sensing): Alternatively, the subwoofer can turn on by detecting an audio signal on the input. Set the 'AUTO TURN ON' switch to '+12V' and ensure the 'INPUT LEVEL' switch is set correctly (HI for speaker level, LO for RCA).
- Input Signal:
- High-Level Input: If using a factory head unit or one without RCA outputs, connect the vehicle's speaker wires directly to the high-level inputs on the wiring harness.
- Low-Level Input: If your head unit has RCA outputs, connect RCA cables from the head unit to the low-level inputs on the harness.
Image 5.1: Top view of the KICKER 51HS10 showing the control panel with input connections and adjustment knobs.
5.3 Remote Bass Control
Mount the remote bass control in an easily accessible location within the vehicle. Connect it to the designated port on the subwoofer using the provided cable.
6. Operation
Once installed, adjust the settings on your KICKER 51HS10 for optimal sound performance.
Image 6.1: Front view of the KICKER 51HS10 control panel, highlighting the adjustment knobs.
- Gain Control: This knob adjusts the input sensitivity of the subwoofer. Start with the gain at its minimum setting. Play a familiar track and slowly increase the gain until the bass blends well with the rest of your audio system without distortion.
- Low-Pass Crossover (X-OVER FREQ): This control sets the upper frequency limit for the subwoofer. Frequencies above this setting will not be reproduced by the subwoofer. A common starting point is 80-100 Hz. Adjust to blend smoothly with your main speakers.
- Bass Boost: The BASS BOOST knob provides an adjustable boost at a specific low frequency (typically around 40 Hz). Use sparingly to add emphasis to the bass, avoiding excessive boost which can lead to distortion.
- Phase Switch (PHASE): This switch allows you to change the phase of the subwoofer's output by 0 or 180 degrees. Listen to your system from the listening position and switch between 0 and 180 degrees. Choose the setting that provides the most impactful and cohesive bass response.
- Remote Bass Control: Use the wired remote to conveniently adjust the bass level from your listening position, independent of your head unit's volume.
7. Maintenance
Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your KICKER 51HS10 subwoofer.
- Cleaning: Keep the unit clean and free from dust and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Connection Checks: Periodically inspect all wiring connections (power, ground, input) to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion. Loose connections can lead to poor performance or damage.
- Environmental Protection: Avoid exposing the subwoofer to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight for prolonged periods, or excessive moisture.
8. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your KICKER 51HS10, refer to the following troubleshooting guide:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Power / No Indicator Light | Blown fuse; Loose power/ground connection; No remote turn-on signal. | Check and replace fuse (if necessary); Verify all power and ground connections are secure; Ensure remote turn-on wire is connected or auto turn-on is correctly set. |
| No Sound Output | No input signal; Gain set too low; Crossover set too high; Phase incorrect. | Check input signal connections (RCA/speaker level); Increase gain gradually; Adjust low-pass crossover to a suitable frequency; Toggle phase switch. |
| Distorted Sound | Gain set too high; Input signal too strong; Improper crossover setting; Bass boost too high. | Reduce gain; Check head unit output level; Adjust low-pass crossover; Reduce bass boost. |
| Subwoofer Overheating | Inadequate ventilation; Prolonged high volume; Incorrect impedance. | Ensure clear airflow around the unit; Reduce listening volume; Verify correct wiring and impedance (if applicable). |
9. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | 51HS10 |
| Mounting Type | Under seat |
| Material | Aluminum, Plastic |
| Speaker Type | Subwoofer |
| Special Feature | All-aluminum frame |
| Subwoofer Diameter | 10 Inches |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 14" x 9-7/8" x 3-1/8" |
| Item Weight | 11.4 lbs (5.17 kg) |
| Impedance | 4 Ohms |
| Speaker Maximum Output Power | 180 Watts RMS |
| Frequency Response | 25-120 Hz |
| Connectivity Technology | RCA, High-Level Input |
| Audio Output Mode | Mono |
10. Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information, product registration, and technical support, please visit the official KICKER website or contact KICKER customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
KICKER Official Website: www.kicker.com