KICKER KX Series Mono Amplifiers
Owner's Manual
Models:
KX400.1 | KX800.1 | KX1200.1 | KX1600.1 | KX2400.1
Authorized KICKER Dealer:
[Dealer Name]
Purchase Date:
[Date]
Model Number:
[Model Number]
Serial Number:
[Serial Number]
PERFORMANCE
| Model | KX400.1 | KX800.1 | KX1200.1 | KX1600.1 | KX2400.1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RMS Power @ 14.4V, 4Ω mono, ≤ 1% THD+N | 200W x 1 | 400W x 1 | 600W x 1 | 800W x 1 | 1200W x 1 |
| RMS Power @ 14.4V, 2Ω mono, ≤ 1% THD+N | 400W x 1 | 800W x 1 | 1200W x 1 | 1600W x 1 | 2400W x 1 |
| Length [in / cm] | 8 [20.4] | 9 9/16 [24.4] | 9 9/16 [24.4] | 11 3/16 [28.4] | 15 1/2 [39.4] |
Specifications common to all models:
- Height: 2 1/8 in [5.5 cm]
- Width: 8 5/16 in [21 cm]
- Frequency Response ± 1dB: 10Hz-160Hz
- Signal-to-noise Ratio: >95dB, A-weighted, re: rated power
- Input Sensitivity: Low Level: 125mV-5V, High Level: 250mV-10V
- Electronic Crossover: Variable Lo-pass 40Hz-160Hz, 24dB/octave
- Bass Boost: Parametric 20-80Hz; Variable Q: 1 to 5; Variable Boost, 0-18dB
- Subsonic Filter: Variable 10-80Hz, 24dB/octave
- Remote Bass: Yes [included]
Pro Tip: To get the best performance from your new KICKER Amplifier and extend the warranty by 1 year, use genuine KICKER accessories and wiring.
INSTALLATION
Mounting:
Choose a structurally sound location to mount your KICKER amplifier. Ensure there are no items behind the area where screws will be driven. Select a location allowing at least 4 inches (10 cm) of open ventilation. If possible, mount the amplifier in the climate-controlled passenger compartment. Drill four holes using a 7/64" (3mm) bit and use the supplied #8 screws to mount the amplifier.
Wiring:
Disconnect the vehicle's battery to avoid electrical shorts. Connect the ground wire to the amplifier. Keep the ground wire short (24"/60cm or less) and connect it to a clean, solid metal area of the vehicle's chassis. Adding an additional ground wire of the same gauge (or larger) between the battery's negative post and the vehicle chassis is recommended.
The KX amplifier features dual input sensitivity differential RCA inputs that accept either high-level or low-level signals from your car stereo's source unit. A high-level signal can be run from the source unit's speaker outputs to the stereo RCA input on the amplifier's end panel using the KICKER ZISL (ensure the amplifier's input level switch is set to "HI"). Alternatively, the signal can be delivered using the low-level RCA outputs from the source unit (set the input level switch to "LO"). Either input method provides a low-level output signal at the RCA output, passing the audio signal to another amplifier or component. Keep the audio signal cable away from factory wiring harnesses and other power wiring. If crossing wires is necessary, do so at a 90-degree angle.
Diagram: A diagram shows a source unit with high-level speaker outputs connected via a core conductor and shield to an amplifier's RCA inputs. An alternative shows a KICKER ZISL adapter connecting the high-level speaker outputs to the amplifier's RCA inputs.
Install a fuse within 18" (45cm) of the battery and in-line with the power cable connected to your amplifier. When removing the amplifier, disconnect the ground wire last.
| Model | External Fuse (sold separately) | Power/Ground Wire | KICKER Wiring Kit |
|---|---|---|---|
| KX400.1 | 1 x 60 Ampere | 4 Gauge | PK4, CK44, ZCK44 |
| KX800.1 | 1 x 100 Ampere | 4 Gauge | PK4, CK44, ZCK44 |
| KX1200.1 | 1 x 150 Ampere | 1/0 Gauge | PKD1, PWB050 |
| KX1600.1 | 1 x 150 Ampere | 1/0 Gauge | PKD1, PWB050 |
| KX2400.1 | 1 x 200 Ampere | 1/0 Gauge | PKD1, PWB050 |
MONO OPERATION
Minimum impedance of 2 ohms.
Diagram: A diagram illustrates mono operation wiring. It shows a woofer connected to the amplifier's speaker output terminals (+ and -). The amplifier is connected to a 12V battery via an external fuse and a remote turn-on wire. Ground connections are shown for both the amplifier and the battery to the vehicle chassis.
OPERATION
Diagram: A front view of the KX1200.1 amplifier shows various controls and inputs: PRT, GAIN, LO-PASS X-OVER, SUBSONIC, KICK EQ+ BOOST, and REMOTE BASS.
Automatic Turn-On Selection:
The KX series offers three automatic turn-on modes: +12V, DC Offset, and Audio. Using DC Offset or Audio mode provides +12V at the REM terminal for turning on additional amplifiers.
- Remote Turn-On: Set the switch to +12V and use the remote turn-on lead from your source unit. Run 18-gauge wire from the source unit's Remote Turn-On Lead to the REM terminal on the amplifier. This is the preferred method.
- DC Offset Turn-On: If Remote Turn-On is not an option, use DC Offset. This mode detects a 6V DC offset from the HI-Level speaker outputs when the source unit is powered on.
- Signal Sense Turn-On: The Audio setting detects the incoming audio signal from your source unit and automatically turns the amp on. This method may not work correctly if the input gain control is not set appropriately.
Input Level:
KICKER KX amplifiers accept Hi or Low-level signals via RCA inputs. If your source unit only has Hi-Level output, press the Input Level switch on the amplifier. Refer to the wiring section for more details.
Input Gain Control:
The input gain control is not a volume control. It matches the source unit's output to the amplifier's input level. Set the source unit volume to about 3/4 (e.g., 25 out of 30). Slowly turn the amplifier's gain clockwise until audible distortion is heard, then turn it down slightly.
Adjustable Subsonic Filter:
This variable filter provides a cut-off point for low frequencies (10-80Hz) that could damage speakers from over-excursion and waste amplifier power. Set it according to your speaker's low-frequency capability.
Crossover Control:
The variable crossover is always active, allowing adjustment of the LO-PASS crossover frequency from 40-160Hz. 80Hz is a good starting point.
KICK EQ+ Bass Boost Control:
This variable bass boost control provides increased output (0-18dB) at a selected frequency. A higher BANDWIDTH (Q) setting results in a sharper cut-off above and below the center frequency. Readjust the input gain control if you increase the bass boost to avoid clipping the amplifier.
Remote Bass-KXRC:
The optional KXRC remote bass level control allows you to control the amplifier's output level remotely. To surface-mount the KXRC, screw it into place and run the cable to the "Remote Bass" jack on the amplifier panel. Do NOT connect/disconnect while the amplifier is on. See page 6 for installation.
Note: The Mini-USB port is for internal use only. KICKER is not responsible for any damage resulting from connections made to this port.
KXRC REMOTE BASS INSTALLATION
Surface-mount the KXRC remote using the supplied screws.
Diagram: Shows the KXRC remote and the back of an amplifier with connection points.
TROUBLESHOOTING
If your amplifier is not working, check for blown fuses, poor wiring connections, incorrect settings for crossover and gain controls, etc. The KICKER KX amplifier has a Protection (PRT) LED on the side panel. The LED will glow red or be off depending on the amplifier's status and the vehicle's charging system.
- Red (PRT) LED flickering with loud music? Indicates low battery voltage. Check vehicle charging system connections. You may need to charge or replace your vehicle's battery or alternator.
- Red (PRT) LED on, no output?
- Amplifier is very hot = Thermal protection engaged. Test speaker terminal impedance with a VOM meter (refer to manual diagrams for minimum impedance and wiring suggestions). Ensure adequate airflow.
- Amplifier shuts down only when vehicle is running = Voltage protection engaged. Voltage is outside the 10-16 volt operating range. Have the vehicle's charging and electrical system inspected.
- Amplifier plays only at low volume levels = Short circuit protection engaged. Check speaker wires for shorts to each other or to the vehicle chassis. Check for damaged speakers or speakers operating below minimum recommended impedance.
- No or low output? Check the source unit's balance control. Check RCA (or speaker input) and speaker output connections.
- Alternator whine sound with engine RPM? Check for damaged RCA (or speaker input) cable. Check RCA (or speaker input) cable routing. Check source unit grounding. Check and lower gain settings if they are too high.
- Reduced bass response? Reverse one speaker connection from positive to negative on stereo/subwoofer channels. If bass improves, the speaker was out of phase.
- Ground noise? KICKER amplifiers are compatible with all manufacturers' head units. Some head units may require additional grounding to prevent noise. Running a ground wire from the head unit's RCA outputs to the chassis usually resolves this.
CAUTION: When jump-starting a vehicle, ensure jumper cable connections are correct. Improper connections can blow amplifier fuses and damage other vehicle systems.
KICKER Warranty Information
KICKER will provide a three-year warranty with all KX-Series Amplifier purchases paired with a qualifying KICKER Installation Kit. This extends the standard warranty by an additional year. Amplifier and Kit must be purchased from an Authorized KICKER Dealer. Using poor-quality wiring kits will impede amplifier performance. A superior-quality KICKER installation Kit is guaranteed to extend the life of KX amplifiers.
The extended warranty applies only to KICKER amplifiers and accessories sold to consumers by Authorized KICKER Dealers in the United States of America or its possessions. It applies only to the original purchaser. One warranty extension per amplifier is allowed, regardless of the number of installation kits purchased. This program does not apply to "B"-stock or factory-refurbished products.
This offer is for a limited time. See your local Authorized KICKER Dealer for details.
*U.S.A. Only | EE.UU. solamente | Nur USA | Les USA Seulement
Technical Specifications (CEA-2006 Compliant)
| Model | Amplifier Power Standard |
|---|---|
| KX400.1 | 200 x 1 @ 4 ohms, 14.4VDC, 1% THD, CEA-2006B (Watts) Signal to Noise Ratio -75dB CEA-2006B (ref: 1W, A-weighted) |
| KX800.1 | 400 x 1 @ 4 ohms, 14.4VDC, 1% THD, CEA-2006B (Watts) Signal to Noise Ratio -75dB CEA-2006B (ref: 1W, A-weighted) |
| KX1200.1 | 600 x 1 @ 4 ohm, 14.4VDC, 1% THD, CEA-2006B (Watts) Signal to Noise Ratio -75dB CEA-2006B (ref: 1W, A-weighted) |
| KX1600.1 | 800 x 1 @ 4 ohms, 14.4VDC, 1% THD, CEA-2006B (Watts) Signal to Noise Ratio -75dB CEA-2006B (ref: 1W, A-weighted) |
| KX2400.1 | 1200 x 1 @ 4 ohm, 14.4VDC, 1% THD, CEA-2006B (Watts) Signal to Noise Ratio -75dB CEA-2006B (ref: 1W, A-weighted) |
Contact Information
For questions about installation or operation, contact your Authorized KICKER Dealer. For more advice on installation, visit www.kicker.com, navigate to the SUPPORT tab, then TECHNICAL SUPPORT. For unanswered questions, email support@kicker.com or call Technical Services at (405) 624-8583.
Electronics Limited Warranty
KICKER warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use for a period of TWO (2) YEARS from the date of original purchase with receipt. If the product is identified as “Refurbished” or “B Goods”, the warranty is limited to THREE (3) MONTHS. The original receipt is required. KICKER will repair or replace defective merchandise at its discretion. Warranty replacements may have cosmetic scratches and blemishes. Discontinued products may be replaced with current equivalent products. This warranty is valid only for the original purchaser and is not transferable. Implied warranties are limited to the duration of this express warranty. Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranties.
What to do if you need warranty or service: Return defective merchandise to your local Authorized KICKER Dealer. For direct returns, call KICKER Customer Service at (405) 624-8510 for a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Package only defective items. Include a copy of the original receipt and a “proof-of-purchase” statement. Freight must be prepaid.
What is not covered: Improper installation, subsequent damage to other components, damage from moisture, excessive heat, chemical cleaners, UV radiation, negligence, misuse, accident, abuse, removal/reinstallation costs, amplifier clipping/distortion damage to speakers, unauthorized repairs or modifications, tampered or missing barcode/serial labels, products returned without RMA, products purchased from unauthorized dealers, freight damage, shipping costs to KICKER, or service performed by anyone other than KICKER.
Turnaround Time: KICKER aims for a one-week turnaround for electronics returns. Delays may occur due to inventory shortages.
Visit www.kicker.com for the most current specifications and performance figures.
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INTERNATIONAL WARRANTY
Contact your International KICKER dealer or distributor for country-specific warranty procedures.
WARNING: KICKER products can produce sound levels that may cause permanent hearing damage. Listening to a system with audible distortion is more damaging than listening to an undistorted system at the same volume. Pain is an indicator that sound levels are too high and may cause permanent hearing damage. Use common sense when controlling volume.
Australian Consumer Law: Goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law. You are entitled to a replacement or refund for a major failure and compensation for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage. You are also entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced if they fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure.
