KICKER KXMA900.5 Marine Multichannel Amplifier Owner’s Manual

: June 5, 2024
: KICKER

KICKER KXMA900.5 Marine Multichannel Amplifier

IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNING

PROLONGED CONTINUOUS OPERATION OF AN AMPLIFIER, SPEAKER, OR SUBWOOFER IN A DISTORTED, CLIPPED, OR OVER-POWERED MANNER CAN CAUSE YOUR AUDIO SYSTEM TO OVERHEAT, POSSIBLY CATCHING FIRE AND RESULTING IN SERIOUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPONENTS AND/OR VEHICLE. AMPLIFIERS REQUIRE UP TO 4 INCHES (10 CM) OF OPEN VENTILATION. SUBWOOFERS SHOULD BE MOUNTED WITH AT LEAST 1 INCH (2.5CM) CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE FRONT OF THE SPEAKER AND ANY SURFACE.

PERFORMANCE

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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. Drill four holes using a 7/64” (3mm) bit and use the supplied #8 screws to mount the ampliﬁer.

Wiring: The KXMA ampliﬁer’s RCA inputs 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 KISL as shown. Alternatively, the signal can be delivered to the ampliﬁer using the low-level RCA outputs on the source unit. Keep the audio signal cable away from factory wiring harnesses and another power wiring. If you need to cross this wiring, cross it at a 90-degree angle.

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Install a fuse within 7” (18cm) of the battery and in line with the power cable connected to your ampliﬁer.

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POWER WIRING

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For multiple ampliﬁer installations where distribution blocks are used, each ampliﬁer should have its proper-rated fuse, or breaker, installed between the ampliﬁer and the distribution block within seven inches of the block, or on the distribution block if it provides for fusing. The primary power wire should also be fused between the battery and distribution block, within seven inches of the battery’s B+ terminal, with a fuse or breaker rated at least to the sum of the individual ampliﬁer’s fuse values, but not to exceed 1.5-times the sum of the individual fuse values (not to exceed the ampacity of the thermal insulation of the wiring as shown in U.S.C.G. CFR33 183.425, Table 5). KICKER recommends our ignition-protected Marine Rated Battery Fuses (MRBF) for these applications. See the diagram below.
NOTE: Seven inches is the standard distance under U.S. Coast Guard CFR33 for placement of fuses or breakers as required by law for new boat manufacturing. We recommend trying to adhere to this standard in a consumer installation. Failure to do so does not mean you are breaking the law, but it does put the safety of your boat and passengers at risk in the event of a power wire short circuit.

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FOUR CHANNEL OPERATION with SUBWOOFER

the minimum impedance of 2 ohms per channel (AMP1, AMP2) and 1 ohm for SUB channels)

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BRIDGED OPERATION

the minimum impedance of 4 ohms bridged.

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*KICKER will now provide a three-year warranty with all KXMA-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. KICKER KXMA 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 KXMA ampliﬁer performance.
A superior-quality KICKER installation Kit is guaranteed to extend the life of KXMA 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”-a stock products or factory-refurbished products. This offer is for a limited time, so see your local Authorized KICKER Dealer soon for details. THE U.S.A. Only

OPERATION

Mini-USB for internal use only; do NOT remove or tamper. KICKER is not responsible for any damage to equipment resulting from connections made to this port.

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Automatic Turn-On Selection: The KXMA 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 3V DC offset from the HI-Level speaker outputs when the source unit has been turned on.
Signal Sense Turn-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.

Fader Switch: Depress the fader switch if you are running two sets of inputs (front and rear for example) to the ampliﬁer. Leave the fader switch OFF if you want to drive all channels from a single stereo input.
Sub Input: If there is no dedicated output on your source unit for a subwoofer, use the SUB INPUT switch to set your subwoofer input to either SUB INPUT or AMP INPUT 2.
Input Gain Control with Gain Matching: The input gain control is not a volume control. It matches the output of the source unit to the input level of the ampliﬁer and features Gain Matching to prevent clipping the input. For a quick setup, turn the source unit up to about 3/4 volume (if the source unit goes to 30, turn it to 25). KICKER recommends using the test tones at www.kicker.com/support/ to reach the most accurate and best-performing settings. Next, slowly turn (clockwise) the gain on the ampliﬁer up until you see the Gain LED light up or hear audible distortion, then turn it down a little. If the GAIN knob’s backlight comes on, the input is still clipping. For full instructions on Gain Matching, please see the next page.
Crossover Switches with Frequency Multiplier: Use the XOVER switches on the end panel of the ampliﬁer to set the internal crossovers of AMPS 1 & 2 to OFF, HI-PASS, LOW-PASS, or BAND-PASS (AMP 2 only). When the switch is set to OFF, a full bandwidth signal will be ampliﬁ ed. Set the switch to HP if you want the ampliﬁer’s internal crossover to serve as a high-pass ﬁlter. Set the switch to LP if you want the ampliﬁer’s internal crossover to serve as a low- pass ﬁlter. Set the switch to BP when a speciﬁ c frequency range is required. Never change the crossover switches with the audio system on! Set the 1X/10X frequency multiplier switch to the setting that is appropriate for your application. A setting of 10X will set the range of the AMP 1 crossover to 100–5,000Hz, and the LO-PASS crossover of AMP 2 to 400–5,000Hz.
Adjustable Subsonic Filter: The variable subsonic ﬁlter will provide a cut-off point for lower frequencies (10–80Hz) that could potentially damage your speakers from over-excursion, along with wasting your ampliﬁer’s power. The setting for this control should be set relative to your speaker’s low- frequency capability. The setting for this control should be set relative to your speaker’s low-frequency capability and is recommended for ported enclosures.
KickEQ Bass Boost Control: The variable bass boost control on the side of the ampliﬁer is designed to give you increased output, 0–6dB, at the selected frequency. 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-KMBLC: With the KMBLC remote bass level control, you have the ability to control the output level of the ampliﬁer remotely. To surface- mount, the KMBLC remote bass level control, simply screw the remote to the chosen location, then run the cable from the controller to the “Remote Bass” jack on the ampliﬁer panel. Do NOT connect/disconnect while the ampliﬁer is on. See page 8 for installation.

GAIN MATCHING

In any audio system, the goal is to reach maximum input and output levels without distortion or clipping. The engineers at KICKER have taken the guesswork, and hassle, out of matching the output voltage of your source unit to the ampliﬁer with the Gain Matching feature. To begin, you’ll need to download the KICKER test tones from www.kicker.com/test- tones. The following ﬁles are available in MP3 and WAV formats:

1kHz @ 0dBFS, 50Hz @ 0dBFS, 1kHz @ -10dBFS, 50Hz @ -10dBFS, 1kHz @ -5dBFS, 50Hz @ -5dBFS

These test tones are sine waves meant to provide a consistent signal for the KXMA ampliﬁer to reference. The different recording levels are designed to give you the perfect gain match for your application.

0dBFS: Designed for audiophile applications to give you distortion-free audio output with the most dynamic range.
5dBFS: Designed for normal/daily applications, there will be less dynamic range but higher potential audio output levels. With this set up you can get some occasional clipping from the ampliﬁer.
10dBFS: Designed only for Subwoofer applications, there will be less dynamic range but higher potential audio output levels. With this set up you can get some clipping from the ampliﬁer.

Afterward, use the following procedure to accurately Gain Match your ampliﬁer(s):

Disconnect the speakers from the KXMA ampliﬁer.
Set all EQ and crossover settings to ﬂ at on your source unit.
Play the downloadable ﬁ le from KICKER.com
Turn the source unit up to 3/4 volume.
Increase the gain of the ampliﬁer until the Gain LED turns on.
Decrease the gain of the ampliﬁer until the Gain LED turns off.

All level matching circuitry in the KXMA ampliﬁers is at the beginning of the signal chain. If you are going to use features like bass boost, SHOCwave or EQ settings, it may be necessary to readjust the gain to a lower setting to compensate for increased output at those frequencies. Once the amp and source unit are gain matched, you will want to make certain you are not overdriving your speakers. Use the following procedure:

Set the source until volume to 0.
Reconnect the speakers to the KXMA ampliﬁer.
Slowly increase the volume level of the source unit as you listen for audible distortion.
If you can hear clipping, decrease the gain of the ampliﬁer until it is gone.

KMBLC REMOTE BASS INSTALLATION

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TROUBLESHOOTING

If your ampliﬁer does not appear to be working, check the obvious things ﬁrst such as blown fuses, poor or incorrect wiring connections, incorrect setting of crossover switch and gain controls, etc. There is a Protection (PRT) LED on the side panel of your Kicker KXMA series ampliﬁer. Depending on the state of the ampliﬁer and the vehicle’s charging system, the LED will either glow red or be off.
Red (PRT) LED ﬂickering with loud music?
The red (PRT) 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.
Red (PRT) LED on, no output?

Ampliﬁer 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 airﬂ ow around the ampliﬁer.
Ampliﬁer shuts down only while the vehicle is running = voltage protection circuitry is engaged. The voltage to the ampliﬁer is not within the 10–16 volt operating range. Have the vehicle’s charging and electrical system inspected.
Ampliﬁer 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?

Check the balance control on the source unit
Check the RCA (or speaker input) and speaker output connections.

Alternator noise-whining sound with engine’s RPM?

Check for damaged RCA (or speaker input) cable
Check the routing of the RCA (or speaker input) cable
Check the source unit for proper grounding
Check the gain settings and turn them down if they are set too high.

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.
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 [email protected] or call Technical Services 405-624-8583 for unanswered or speciﬁc questions.

ELECTRONICS LIMITED WARRANTY

When purchased from an Authorized KICKER Dealer, KICKER warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use for a period of TWO (2) YEARS from date of original purchase with the receipt. If this product is identiﬁ ed as “Refurbished” or “B Goods”, the warranty is limited to a period of THREE (3) MONTHS from
the date of original purchase. 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. 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 speciﬁ c legal rights; however, you may have other rights that vary from state to state.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU NEED A 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 conﬁ rm that a dealer is authorized by asking to see a currently 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 405-624-8510 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 freight collected 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 a 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:

Damage due to improper installation
Subsequent damage to other components
Damage caused by exposure to moisture, 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
Any cost or expense related to the removal or reinstallation of the product
Speakers damaged due to ampliﬁer clipping or distortion
Items previously repaired or modiﬁ ed by any unauthorized repair facility
Return shipping on non-defective items
Products with tampered or missing barcode labels
Products with tampered or missing serial numbers
Products returned without a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number
Products purchased from an UNAUTHORIZED dealer
Freight Damage
The cost of shipping product to KICKER
Service performed by anyone other than KICKER

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?
KICKER strives to maintain a goal of a one-week turnaround for all electronics (ampliﬁers, crossovers, equalizers, etc.) returns. Delays may be incurred if a 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 405-624-8510. Contact your International KICKER dealer or distributor concerning speciﬁ c procedures for your country’s warranty policies.
Note: All speciﬁ cations and performance figures are subject to change. Please visit www.KICKER.com for the most current information.

INTERNATIONAL WARRANTY

Contact your International KICKER dealer or distributor concerning speciﬁ c 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.

Our 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 for compensation for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage. You are also entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced if the goods fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure.

KXMA900.5 AMPLIFIER

Thank you and congratulations on your purchase of the KICKER KXMA Ampliﬁer! The KXMA-series have been engineered to handle the punishing conditions of outdoor and marine audio applications, with UV-treated aluminum chassis, conformal coated PCBs, a thick gasket to seal and protect sensitive electronics, and terminals that meet rigorous ABYC/NMMA standards. Combined with KICKER’s audiophile-grade components, DSP features, and signature power, your party on the water or the patio will be as memorable as the music. Incorporate the whole family of KICKER Marine products to maximize your aquatic audio experience!

IMPORTANT: KICKER recommends a professional installation performed by licensed providers. You are solely responsible for safely mounting and wiring your products. Remember to cap unused wires and avoid electrical shorts!

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Mounting

Choose a dry, 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. Drill four holes using a 7/64” (3mm) bit and use the supplied #8 screws to mount the ampliﬁer. Don’t drill through the bottom of the boat!