DX500.1 - Car stereo KICKER - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL DX500.1 KICKER

Specifications common to all models:

Height, in. (mm) 2-1/4" (57)
Width, in. (mm) 8-5/16" (211)
Frequency Response ± 1dB	20Hz–200Hz
Signal-to-noise Ratio	>95dB, A-weighted, re: rated power
Input Sensitivity	Low Level: 125mV–5VHigh Level: 250mV–10V
Remote Bass	Yes (not included) Yes Yes

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. Make sure there are no items behind the area where the screws will be driven. Choose a location that allows at least 4" (10cm) of open ventilation for the amplifier. 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 an electrical short. Then, connect the ground wire to the amplifier. Make the ground wire short, 24" (60cm) or less, and connect it to a paint-and-corrosion-free, solid, metal area of the vehicle's chassis. Adding an additional ground wire of this same gauge (or larger) between the battery's negative post and the vehicle chassis is recommended.

The DX amplifier has dual input sensitivity differential RCA inputs which will receive either high 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 end panel of the amplifier using the KICKER ZISL as shown (make sure you set the DX amplifier's input level switch to "HI"). Alternatively, the signal can be delivered to the amplifier using the low-level RCA outputs on the source unit. Set the input level switch on the end panel of the amplifier to "LO". Either input method will provide a low-level output signal at the RCA output, which effectively passes the audio signal to another amplifier or component. Keep the audio signal cable away from factory wiring harnesses and other power wiring. If you need to cross this wiring, cross it at a 90 degree angle.

source unit high-level speaker outputs + - core conductor to amplifier OR KICKER ZISL to amplifier source unit high-level speaker outputs

Install a fuse within 18" (45cm) of the battery and in-line with the power cable connected to your amplifier. If you ever need to remove the amplifier from the vehicle after it has been installed, the ground wire should be the last wire disconnected from the amplifier--just the opposite as when you installed it.

Model External Fuse (sold separate

Power/Ground Wire KICKER Wiring Kit

DX250.1 1 x 40 Ampere 8 Gauge PK8, ZCK84

DX500.1 1 x 80 Ampere 4 Gauge PK4, CK44, ZCK44

DX1000.1 1 x 100 Ampere 4 Gauge PK4, CK44, ZCK44

MONO OPERATION

minimum impedance of 2 ohms

woofer remote turn-on (see page 5) GND RPM +12V 15A 15A SF AXES DX250.1 ≤24" (60cm) ≤18" (45cm) bare-metal chassis ground external fuse +12V battery

OPERATION

All models except the DX250.1

signal in

AUTO TURN ON +12V DC AUDIO OFFSET INPUT LEVEL LO HI GAIN 0 1 BASS BOOST 13 12 1 L R INPUT L OUTPUT SUBSONIC X-OVER 30 LO-PASS X-OVER 20000 REMOTE BASS DX signal out

Automatic Turn-On Selection: The DX series offers three different automatic turn-on modes that can be selected on the end panel; +12V, DC Offset, and Audio. Using either the DC Offset or Audio mode causes the REM terminal to have +12V out for turning on additional amplifiers.

• Remote Turn-On: Set the switch to +12V to use the remote turn-on lead from your source unit. Run 18 gauge wire from the Remote Turn-On Lead on your source unit to the terminal labeled REM between the amplifier's positive and negative power terminals. This is the preferred automatic turn-on method.
• DC Offset Turn-On: If Remote Turn-On is not an option, the next best setting is DC Offset. The DC Offset mode detects a 6V DC offset from the HI-Level speaker outputs when the source unit has been turned on.
• Signal Sense Tum-On: The Audio setting is the final alternative for Automatic turn-on. This is a Signal Sense turn-on method that detects the incoming audio signal from your source unit and automatically turns on the amp. This turn-on method will not work properly if the input gain control is not set appropriately.

Input Level: The RCA inputs on KICKER DX amplifiers are capable of receiving either Hi or Low-level signals from your source unit. If the only output available from your source unit is a Hi-Level signal, simply press in the Input Level switch on the amplifier. Refer to the wiring section of this manual for additional instructions.

Crossover Control: The variable crossover on the side of the amplifier allows you to adjust the lo-pass crossover frequency from 50–200Hz, and the hi-pass crossover from 10-30Hz (DX250.1 is fixed at 80Hz and 25Hz). The settings for these controls are subjective; 80Hz is a good place to start for the lo-pass crossover, 20Hz for the hi-pass.

Input Gain Control: The input gain control is not a volume control. It matches the output of the source unit to the input level of the amplifier. Turn the source unit up to about 3/4 volume (if the source unit goes to 30, turn it to 25). Next, slowly turn (clockwise) the gain on the amplifier up until you can hear audible distortion, then turn it down a little.

Bass Boost Control: The variable bass boost control on the side of the amplifier is designed to give you increased output, 0–12dB, at 40Hz (For the DX250.1, use the Bass Boost switch to toggle between 0 or +9dB). The setting for this control is subjective. If you turn it up, you must readjust the input gain control to avoid clipping the amplifier.

Remote Bass-ZXRC (Not included with the DX250.1): With the ZXRC remote bass level control, you have the ability to control the output level of the amplifi er remotely. To mount the ZXRC remote bass level control, simply screw the metal bracket to the chosen location, then slide the housing onto the bracket until it snaps into place. Run the cable from the controller to the "Remote Bass" jack on the amplifi er chassis. See page 5.

ZXRC REMOTE BASS INSTALLATION

1. mount the metal bracket 2. slide the housing until it snaps into the metal bracket BASS LEVEL back view

4-conductor phone cable

TROUBLESHOOTING

If your amplifi er does not appear to be working, check the obvious things fi rst such as blown fuses, poor or incorrect wiring connections, incorrect setting of crossover switch and gain controls, etc. There is a Power Protection LED on the side power panel of your Kicker DX series amplifi er. Depending on the state of the amplifi er and the vehicle's charging system, the LED will glow either Red or Green. When the green LED is lit this indicates the amplifi er is turned on and no trouble exists.

Green LED off, no output? With a Volt Ohm Meter (VOM) check the following: ①+12 volt power terminal (should read +12V to +16V) ② Remote turn-on terminal (should read +12V to +16V) ③ Check for reversed power and ground connections ④ Ground terminal, for proper conductivity.

Green LED on, no output? Check the following: ① RCA connections ② Test speaker outputs with a "known" good speaker. ③ Substitute source unit with a "known" good source unit. ④ Check for a signal in the RCA cable feeding the amplifier or with the VOM meter set to measure "AC" voltage.

Protection LED flashing with loud music? The red LED indicates low battery voltage. Check all the connections in your vehicle's charging system. It may be necessary to replace or charge your vehicle's battery or replace your vehicle's alternator.

Protection LED on, no output? ① Amplifi er is very hot = thermal protection is engaged. Test for proper impedance at the speaker terminals with a VOM meter (see the diagrams in this manual for minimum recommended impedance and multiple speaker wiring suggestions). Also check for adequate airflow around the amplifier. ② Amplifi er shuts down only while vehicle is running = voltage protection circuitry is engaged. Voltage to the amplifier is not within the 10–16 volt operating range. Have the vehicle's charging and electrical system inspected. ③ Amplifi er will only play at low volume levels = short circuit protection is engaged. Check for speaker wires shorted to each other or to the vehicle chassis. Check for damaged speakers or speaker(s) operating below the minimum recommended impedance.

No or low output? ① Check the balance control on source unit ② Check the RCA (or speaker input) and speaker output connections.

Alternator noise-whining sound with engine's RPM? ① Check for damaged RCA (or speaker input) cable ② Check the routing of RCA (or speaker input) cable ③ Check the source unit for proper grounding ④ Check the gain settings and turn them down if they are set too high.

Reduced bass response? Reverse a speaker connection from positive to negative on the stereo/subwoofer channel(s); if the bass improves, the speaker was out of phase.

Ground Noise? KICKER amplifiers are engineered to be fully compatible with all manufacturers' head units. Some head units may require additional grounding to prevent noise from entering the audio signal. If you are experiencing this problem with your head unit, in most cases running a ground wire from the RCA outputs on the head unit to the chassis will remedy this issue.

Please Note: Modern high performance speakers have a lower DC Resistance than what used to be available. The KICKER Coaxial and Component speakers are rated at four ohms (some DC Resistances may be as low as 3 ohms) and work with any amplifier designed to operate at a four ohm load. If you want to use two KICKER Coaxial or Component speakers on a single channel of your amplifier, wire the speakers in series. This will improve the sound quality, lower the total harmonic distortion and lessen the thermal load at the amplifier. This may prevent an amplifier from shutting down due to over-current protection circuitry.

CAUTION: When jump starting the vehicle, be sure that connections made with jumper cables are correct. Improper connections can result in blown amplifier fuses as well as the failure of other critical systems in the vehicle.

If you have more questions about the installation or operation of your new KICKER product, see the Authorized KICKER Dealer where you made your purchase. For more advice on installation, click on the SUPPORT tab on the KICKER homepage, www.kicker.com. Choose the TECHNICAL SUPPORT tab, choose the subject you are interested in, and then download or view the corresponding information. Please E-mail [e-mail] or call Technical Services [phone] for unanswered or specific questions.

DX250.1

140 x 1 @ 4 ohms, 14.4VDC, 1% THD, CEA-2006 (Watts) Signal to Noise Ratio -75dB CEA-2006 (ref: 1W, A-weighted)

DX500.1

275 x 1 @ 4 ohms, 14.4VDC, 1% THD, CEA-2006 (Watts) Signal to Noise Ratio -75dB CEA-2006 (ref: 1W, A-weighted)

DX1000.1

550 x 1 @ 4 ohm, 14.4VDC, 1% THD, CEA-2006 (Watts) Signal to Noise Ratio -75dB CEA-2006 (ref: 1W, A-weighted)

Black and white icon of a device with sun symbol (no text or symbols)

KICKER will now provide a three-year warranty with all DX-Series Amplifi er purchases paired with a qualifying KICKER Installation Kit\*.

This extends the standard warranty by an additional year. Amplifi er and Kit must be purchased from an Authorized KICKER Dealer.

KICKER DX amplifier success is currently at an unheard-of rate, making the extended warranty program even more beneficial to you.

Using poor-quality, under-spec wiring kits will impede DX amplifier performance.

A superior-quality KICKER installation Kit is guaranteed to extend the life of DX amplifiers.

The new 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 also only applies to the original purchaser of KICKER amplifiers and accessories. One warranty extension per amplifier is allowed regardless of the number of amplifier installation kits purchased. This program does not apply to "B"-stock product or factory-refurbished product.

This offer is for a limited time, so see your local Authorized KICKER Dealer soon for details.

BASS LEVEL

Black and white illustration of a device with sun symbol overlay (no text or symbols)

Amplifier Power Standard CEA-2006 Compliant

DX250.1

140 x 1 @ 4 ohmios, 14.4VCC, 1% THD, CEA-2006 (W)

275 x 1 @ 4 ohmios, 14.4VCC, 1% THD, CEA-2006 (W)

550 x 1 @ 4 ohmios, 14.4VCC, 1% THD, CEA-2006 (W)

DX250.1 1 x 40 Ampere 8 GA PK8, ZCK84

DX500.1 1 x 80 Ampere 4 GA PK4, CK44, ZCK44

DX1000.1 1 x 100 Ampere 4 GA PK4, CK44, ZCK44

MONO-BETRIEB

Black and white illustration of a device with diagonal lines and sunburst background (no text or symbols)

Amplifier Power Standard CEA CEA-2006 Compliant

DX250.1

140 x 1 @ 4 ohms, 14,4V GS, 1% Klinfaktor, CEA-2006 (Watts)

Black and white illustration of a device with diagonal lines and sun symbol (no text or labels)

Amplifier Power Standard CEA-2006 Compliant

DX250.1

140 x 1 @ 4 ohms, 14.4V C.C., 1% de Distorsion Harmonique Totale, CEA-2006 (W) Rapport Signal sur Bruit -75dB CEA-2006 (ref: 1W, pondéré A)

DX500.1

275 x 1 @ 4 ohms, 14.4V C.C., 1% de Distorsion Harmonique Totale, CEA-2006 (W) Rapport Signal sur Bruit -75dB CEA-2006 (ref: 1W, pondéré A)

DX1000.1

550 x 1 @ 4 ohms, 14.4V C.C., 1% de Distorsion Harmonique Totale, CEA-2006 (W) Rapport Signal sur Bruit -75dB CEA-2006 (ref: 1W, pondéré A)

ELECTRONICS LIMITED WARRANTY

KICKER warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use for a period of THREE (3) MONTHS from date of original purchase with receipt. When purchased from an Authorized KICKER Dealer it is warranted for TWO (2) YEARS from date of original purchase with receipt. In all cases you must have the original receipt. Should service be necessary under this warranty for any reason due to manufacturing defect or malfunction during the warranty period, KICKER will repair or replace (at its discretion) the defective merchandise with equivalent merchandise at no charge. Warranty replacements may have cosmetic scratches and blemishes. Discontinued products may be replaced with more current equivalent products. 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 should be returned to your local Authorized Stillwater Designs (KICKER) Dealer for warranty service. Assistance in locating an Authorized Dealer can be found at www.kicker.com or by contacting Stillwater Designs directly. 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 return defective merchandise directly to Stillwater Designs (KICKER), call the KICKER Customer Service Department at [phone] for a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Package only the defective items in a package that will prevent shipping damage, and return to:

Stillwater Designs, 3100 North Husband St, Stillwater, OK 74075

The RMA number must be clearly marked on the outside of the package. Please return only defective components. The return of functioning items increases your return freight charges. Non-defective items will be returned freightcollect to you. For example, if a subwoofer is defective, only return the defective subwoofer, not the entire enclosure. Include a copy of the original receipt with the purchase date clearly visible, and a "proof-of-purchase" statement listing the Customer's name, Dealer's name and invoice number, and product purchased. Warranty expiration on items without proof-of-purchase will be determined from the type of sale and manufacturing date code. Freight must be prepaid; items sent freight-collect, or COD, will be refused.

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:

o Damage due to improper installation
o Subsequent damage to other components
o Damage caused by exposure to moisture, excessive heat, chemical cleaners, and/or UV radiation
o Damage through negligence, misuse, accident or abuse. Repeated returns for the same damage may be considered abuse
o Any cost or expense related to the removal or reinstallation of product
o Speakers damaged due to amplifier clipping or distortion
o Items previously repaired or modified by any unauthorized repair facility
o Return shipping on non-defective items
o Products with tampered or missing barcode labels
o Products returned without a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number
o Freight Damage
o The cost of shipping product to KICKER
o Service performed by anyone other than KICKER

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?

KICKER strives to maintain a goal of one week turnaround for all electronics (amplifiers, crossovers, equalizers, etc.) returns. Delays may be incurred if lack of replacement inventory or parts is encountered. Failure to follow these steps may void your warranty. Any questions can be directed to the KICKER Customer Service Department at [phone]. Contact your International KICKER dealer or distributor concerning specific procedures for your country's warranty policies.

Note: All specifications and performance figures are subject to change. Please visit www.kicker.com for the most current information.

11DX.1HI-I-20101103

INTERNATIONAL WARRANTY

Contact your International KICKER dealer or distributor concerning specific procedures for your country's warranty policies.

WARNING: KICKER products 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 the sound level is too loud and may permanently damage your hearing. Please use common sense when controlling volume.

©2010 Stillwater Designs