354XI - Car radio KICKER - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	4-Channel Car Amplifier
RMS Power @ 4Ω (All Channels Driven)	35W x 4
RMS Power @ 2Ω (All Channels Driven)	50W x 4
RMS Power Bridged Mono @ 4Ω	100W x 2
Dynamic Power @ 4Ω (14.4V)	50W x 4
Dynamic Power @ 2Ω (14.4V)	70W x 4
Dynamic Power Bridged Mono @ 4Ω (14.4V)	140W x 2
Frequency Response	20Hz - 20kHz ±0.5dB
Input Sensitivity (Low Level)	150mV - 3.0V
Input Sensitivity (High Level)	1V - 10V
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	>90dB (A-weighted, re: rated power)
Electronic Crossover	18dB/octave, selectable High Pass, Low Pass, or All Pass at 70Hz or 110Hz
Bass Boost (KICKEQ™)	Variable to +18dB centered @ 40Hz
Treble Boost (KICKEQ™)	Variable to +12dB centered @ 12kHz
Protection Circuits	Auto-resetting short circuit and over-thermal
Power Supply Type	MOSFET
Recommended Fuse	30A in-line
Recommended Power Wire	10 gauge (8 gauge for runs >10 feet)
Warranty	3 years (installed by authorized dealer) or 1 year

Frequently Asked Questions - 354XI KICKER

How do I set the gain on the 354XI amplifier?

Start with the gain control turned fully counterclockwise (minimum). Turn the source unit volume up until distortion is barely audible, then turn it down slightly (typically 85-95% of max volume). Raise the amplifier gain clockwise until distortion is just audible. This sets the gain correctly for the source.Never set gain based on maximum power output.

Can I use high-level (speaker) inputs if my radio doesn't have RCA outputs?

Yes, the 354XI accepts high-level input signals. Connect the speaker wires from your radio to the high-level input harness. The amp automatically detects the input type. Ensure the ground and remote connections are properly made.

How do I configure the crossover for a subwoofer and satellites?

Use the internal crossover switches. For a bi-amp system, set the front channels to High Pass (70 or 110 Hz) for satellite speakers, and the rear channels to Low Pass (70 or 110 Hz) for the subwoofer. For full-range operation, set both to All Pass. Never change crossover settings while the amp is powered on.

What is the minimum impedance for bridging the 354XI?

When bridged mono, the amplifier can operate as low as 4 Ohms. Avoid going below 4 Ohms in bridged mode to prevent overheating or damage. In stereo mode, it is stable down to 2 Ohms per channel.

Why is the red power LED off?

Check the +12V power terminal, ground terminal, and remote turn-on lead with a voltmeter. Ensure the remote wire (usually blue from the head unit) provides 12V when the system is on. Also verify the inline fuse near the battery is intact.

The yellow protection LED is on and there is no output. What should I do?

This indicates a protection condition. If the amp is very hot, thermal protection is engaged. Check for proper speaker impedance and ensure adequate air circulation. If output resumes after turning off/on, short circuit protection is active. Check speaker wires for shorts between positive/negative and ground.

How do I wire the amplifier for a 4-channel stereo system?

Connect each speaker to its corresponding channel with a minimum of 2 Ohms per channel. Set internal crossovers to All Pass. Use RCA cables from the source unit to the amp's input. Ensure ground is connected to clean chassis metal and the remote wire is connected.

What is the recommended wire gauge for power and ground?

For the 354XI, use 10 AWG wire for runs up to 10 feet. For longer runs or when running at 2 Ohms stereo or bridged 4 Ohms, upgrade to 8 AWG. Use a power distribution block near the amp if needed.

How do I eliminate alternator whine?

Ensure the ground wire for the source unit is as short as possible and connected to bare chassis metal. Route RCA cables away from power wires. Check the condition of RCA cables and connections. If using high-level inputs, ensure proper ground.

What is the KICKEQ™ bass and treble boost for?

The KICKEQ™ controls allow you to tailor the sound to your taste. The bass boost (up to +18dB at 40Hz) adds low-end punch, while the treble boost (up to +12dB at 12kHz) adds clarity. Start with both controls fully counterclockwise and adjust clockwise as desired. Do not adjust while driving.

USER MANUAL 354XI KICKER

Designed as the perfect compliment to the highly popular KICKER® IMPULSE line of moderately-priced speakers, IMPULSE Amplifiers allow you to build a high performance car audio system on a budget.

The myriad of features on the IMPULSE Amplifiers make it possible for you to use any source unit to control a single amp or bi-amp system with or without rear fill.

Features and Controls

Your IMPULSE four-channel amplifier is 2 Ohm stable in stereo mode and will operate as low as 4 Ohms in bridged mono. For connection to the source you have the option of high level input for use with radios that don't have RCA outputs.

An electronic crossover is built in for convenience and allows you to select high pass for satellite speakers, low pass for subwoofers, or bypass for full range operation. In full range configuration the Impulse amps will operate stereo and mono at the same time.

Separate KICKEQ™ bass and treble controls give you the ability to boost low and high frequencies to tailor the music to your taste.

Auto-resetting short circuit and overthermal protection circuits are incorporated to protect the amplifier from failure due to extreme conditions.

State of the art circuitry including a MOSFET power supply and glass epoxy circuit boards are used to ensure many years of trouble free operation.

Wiring Instructions

The preferred method of bringing input signal in to the amplifier is with RCA cables from a quality tape or CD player. A high level (speaker) input signal may also be used if your factory deck or aftermarket source does not have low-level RCA jacks.

Some of the system possibilities are shown in the System Diagrams section of this manual.

When working with power connections always hook up the ground wire first and disconnect the ground wire last. Never make any wiring changes with the amplifier powered up.

The in-line fuse on the positive battery connection is to protect the wire in the event of a short circuit. Install a fuse of at least as high of a value as the amplifier requires within 18 inches of the battery connection. An in-line fuse valued at 30A with 10 gauge wire are recommended for the 354xi, a 60A fuse with 8 gauge wire for the 654xi. Note: if the wire run is much longer than 10 feet and the amplifier is being used either in 2 Ohm stereo or bridged to 4 Ohms, it is recommended to use 8 gauge wire for the 354xi and 4 gauge wire for the 654xi. This may require a power distribution block near the amp to adapt the wire size back down to the recommended gauge to make connection at the amp easier.

Any time that a power wire goes through a metal panel such as the firewall, or if there is any chance of abrasion, it is necessary to use a grommet or other suitable form of protection to avoid shorts.

The ground wire should be as short as possible and attached to the body of the vehicle. The ground point must be clean and free from paint and corrosion.

To reduce the chance of noise entering the system it is recommended that the RCA cables be run through the vehicle separate from any power wires.

Mounting the IMPULSE Amplifier

After determining an appropriate mounting location which provides good air circulation and access to the end panel controls, use the supplied screws and washers to firmly mount the amplifier. The amplifier chassis may be used as a template for the screw locations. Check to make sure that the mounting screws will not damage any components on the back side of the chosen panel.

If a vertical mounting surface is chosen, it is recommended that the heatsink fins run vertically as shown at right.

Basic Systems for the IMPULSE Four-Channel Amplifier

Stereo Four Channel Internal Crossovers Off

FULL RANGE SPEAKERS 2Ω MIN/CHANNEL

Bi-Amp Hookup using Internal Crossovers

FRONT CROSSOVER SET TO HIGH PASS, 70 or 110 Hz REAR CROSSOVER SET TO LOW PASS, 70 or 110 Hz

BI-AMP SYSTEM WITH FOUR-CHANNEL AND TWO-CHANNEL AMPS

BI-AMP SYSTEM WITH TWO FOUR-CHANNEL AMPS

Adjustments and Controls

Setting Gain Control

The gain control is provided for level matching purposes. The control does not give the amplifier any more power by turning it up. Its purpose is to adjust the sensitivity of the amplifier in relation to the output level provided by the source.

Start with the amp gain set to minimum by turning the control counterclockwise. Turn the source level up until distortion is barely audible. Then turn it down slightly. This will typically be at about 85% to 95% of full volume. Raise the amplifier gain until distortion is just audible. The gain is now set correctly. Check the level with cd/tape and tuner to make sure the adjustment is correct for all sources.

Setting KICKEQ™ Controls

The Bass and Treble controls on your Impulse Amplifier are provided to help tune your system for ideal sound quality. After the system is installed and the vehicle is put back together, do a listening test with music that is typical of the type you normally listen to.

Initially set the tone controls on the source unit to flat and turn the KICKEQ™ controls fully counter-clockwise. Depending on your personal taste and the speakers used in the system, you may want to increase the high or low frequencies by turning the KICKEQ™ controls clockwise. Remember that once the vehicle is in motion there will be an apparent loss of bass due to the masking effect of road noise. Do not attempt to make adjustments while the vehicle is in motion. It is safer to pull off the road to make changes.

Never change the crossover settings while the amplifier is on. A loud pop will result which could destroy speakers or cause hearing loss.

Specifications

RMS Power(watts/channel) @ 12.5V	4Ω stereo, 0.085% THD, all channels driven	2Ω stereo,0.2% THD, all channels driven	4Ω bridged mono, 0.2% THD
354xi	35 x 4	50 x 4	100 x 2
654xi	65 x 4	95 x 4	190 x 2
Dynamic Power(watts/channel) @ 14.4V	4Ω stereo, 0..085% THD, all channels driven	2Ω stereo, 0.2% THD, all channels driven	4Ω bridged mono, 0.2% THD
354xi	50 x 4	70 x 4	140 x 2
654xi	90 x 4	130 x 4	260 x 2
Frequency ResponseInput Sensitivity	20Hz-20kHz ±0.5dBHigh level 1V-10VLow level 150mV-3.0V
Signal-to-Noise RatioActive Electronic Crossover	>90dB, a-weighted, re: rated power18dB/octave, selectable @ 70Hz or 110 Hz; selectable high pass, low pass, all passVariable to +18dB, centered @ 40Hz
KICKEQTM Bass Boost	Variable to +12dB, centered @ 12kHz
KICKEQTM Treble Boost

Troubleshooting

Red power indicator off, no output:

• With Volt Ohm Meter (VOM) check:
1. +12V power terminal
2. Ground terminal
3. Remote turn-on lead

Red power indicator on, no output:

• Check RCA and connections
  • Test speaker outputs with known good speaker
• Check function of source unit
• With VOM in AC volts position check RCA for signal

No output from one channel:

• Check RCA and speaker connections for that channel
• Swap RCA connections from left to right
• Swap speaker connections between channels

Yellow LED protection indicator is lit and there is no output:

Case 1: Amp is very hot

- Thermal protection is engaged. Check for proper impedance at speaker terminals. Also check location of amplifier to ensure proper air flow around heatsink.

Case 2: Output resumes momentarily when system is turned off and back on.

- Short circuit protection is engaged. With VOM check for short between speaker positive and negative, and between speaker terminals and ground.

Alternator noise (a whining that varies with engine RPM)

• Make sure that the ground for the source is as short as possible and connected to bare chassis metal. The stock radio ground may not be sufficient.
• Check RCA cable routing and condition. Keep RCA cables away from all power wires.

Amplifier Limited Warranty

Stillwater Designs warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use for a period of three (3) years from date of original purchase when installed by an Authorized KICKER Dealer or one (1) year from date of original purchase if not installed by an Authorized KICKER Dealer. If this product is labeled "B Stock", it is warranted for one (1) year from date of purchase, regardless of place of installation. Should service be necessary under this warranty for any reason due to manufacturing defect or malfunction during the warranty period, Stillwater Designs will replace or repair (at its discretion) the defective merchandise at no charge.

This warranty is valid only for the original purchaser and is not extended to owners of the product subsequent to the original purchaser. Any applicable implied warranties are limited in duration to a period of the express warranty as provided herein beginning with the date of the original purchase at retail, and no warranties, whether express or implied, shall apply to this product thereafter. Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranties, therefore these exclusions may not apply to you.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights; however you may have other rights that vary from state to state.

What To Do If You Need Warranty or Service

Defective merchandise must be returned to your local Authorized Stillwater Designs (Kicker/Impulse) Dealer for warranty. Assistance in locating an Authorized Dealer can be obtained by writing or calling Stillwater Designs direct. You can confirm that a dealer is authorized by asking to see a current authorized dealer window decal.

If it becomes necessary for you to send defective merchandise, package all defective items in the original container or in a package that will prevent shipping damage, and return to

Stillwater Designs, 5021 North Perkins Road, Stillwater, OK 74075

Return only defective components. Non-defective items received will be returned freight collect.

Include a dated proof-of-purchase from an Authorized Dealer. Warranty expiration on items returned without proof-of-purchase will be determined from the manufacturing date code. Coverage may be invalidated if this date is greater than one (1) year previous to the date item is sent in. Freight must be prepaid; items received freight collect will be refused.

Failure to follow these steps may void your warranty. Any questions can be directed to the Warranty Department at [phone].

What Is Not Covered?

This warranty is valid only if the product is used for the purpose for which it was designed. It does not cover:

• Products purchased from an unauthorized dealer.
  • Damage due to improper installation
• Damage caused by exposure to water, excessive heat, chemical cleaners, and/or UV radiation.
• Damage through negligence, misuse, accident or abuse. Repeated returns for the same damage may be considered abuse.
• Freight damage.
  • The cost of shipping product to Stillwater Designs Service.
• Items previously repaired or modified by any unauthorized repair facility.
• Items returned from unauthorized individuals or dealers.
• Return shipping on non-defective items.
• Products with tampered or missing barcode labels.

How Long Will It Take?

Stillwater Designs maintains a goal of 24-hour service for all returns. Delays may be incurred if lack of replacement inventory or parts is encountered.

International Warranty

Contact Your international Stillwater Designs dealer or distributor concerning specific procedures for your country's warranty policies.

WARNING:

KICKER components are capable of producing sound levels that can permanently damage your hearing. Turning up a system to a level that has audible distortion is more damaging to your ears than listening to an undistorted system at the same volume level. The threshold of pain is always an indicator that that sound level is too loud and may permanently damage your hearing. Please use common sense when controlling volume!