KMA Series Amplifiers Owner’s Manual

: June 3, 2024
: KMA

KMA Series Amplifiers Owner’s Manual

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 (10CM) OPEN VENTILATION. SUBWOOFERS SHOULD BE MOUNTED WITH AT LEAST 1 INCH (2.5CM) CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE FRONT OF THE SPEAKER AND ANY SURFACE.

PERFORMANCE

Model:	KMA150.2	KMA360.4	KMA600.4	KMA600.6

RMS Power
@ 14.4V, 4Ω stereo, ≤ 1% THD+N| 40 x 2| 65 x 4| 75 x 4| 50 x 6
@ 14.4V, 2Ω stereo, ≤ 1% THD+N| 75 x 2| 90 x 4| 150x 4| 100 x 6
@ 14.4V, 4Ω bridged mono, ≤ 1% THD+N| 150 x 1| 180 x 2| 300 x 2| 200 x 3
Length [in, cm]| 8-1/16, 20.4| 12-7/16, 31.5| 12-7/16, 31.5| 13-15/16, 35.3
Height [in, cm| 2-5/16, 5.9| 2-5/16, 5.9| 2-5/16, 5.9| 2-5/16, 5.9
Width [in, cm]| 6-11/16, 17| 6-11/16, 17| 6-11/16, 17| 6-11/16, 17

Specifi cations common to all models:

Frequency Response ± 1dB	10Hz-20kHz
Signal-to-noise Ratio [dB]	>95dB, A-weighted, re: rated power
1W Signal-to-noise Ratio [dB]	75dB
Input Sensitivity	Low: 125mV-5V, High: 250mV-10V
Electronic Crossover	150.2, 360.4, & 600.4: Off, Variable HP & LP 50–200Hz,

12dB/octave slope 600.6: Amps 1 & 2 – Variable HP 0–200Hz, 12dB/octave slope; Amp 3 – Off, Variable HP & LP 50–200Hz. 12dB/octave slope Subsonic fi lter fi xed @ 25Hz in LP mode
KickEQ™ Bass Boos| 0–6dB @ 40Hz (600.6 AMP 3 only)

INSTALLATION

Mounting: Choose a dry, structurally sound location to mount your KICKER amplifi er. 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 amplifi er. Drill four holes using a 7/64” (3mm) bit and use the supplied #8 screws to mount the amplifi er.

Wiring: The KMA amplifi er’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 amplifi er using the KICKER KISL as shown (see page 3). Alternatively, the signal can be delivered to the amplifi er using the low- level RCA outputs on the source unit. 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.

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

Model| External Fuse (sold separately)| Power/Ground Wire| KICKER Wiring Kit
---|---|---|---
KMA150.2| 1 x 40 Ampere| 8 Gauge| KMPK8, PK8, CK8
KMA360.4| 1 x 60 Ampere| 8 Gauge| KMPK8, PK8, CK8
KMA600.4| 1 x 80 Ampere| 4 Gauge| KMPK4, PK4, CK4
KMA600.6| 1 x 80 Ampere| 4 Gauge| KMPK4, PK4, CK4

POWER WIRING

STEREO OPERATION

minimum impedance of 2 ohm

(KMA600.6 shown)

STEREO-AND-MONO-SIMULTANEOUSLY OPERATION

minimum impedance of 4 ohms bridged (mono) and 2 ohm per channel stereo

BRIDGED OPERATION (STEREO & MONO)

minimum impedance of 4 ohms

For multiple amplifi er installations where distribution blocks are used, each amplifi er should have its proper-rated fuse, or breaker, installed between the amplifi er 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 amplifi er’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 using the KICKER marine line of power distribution accessories. These are fully marine compliant with ignition protected fuses and meet all USCG standards. Pair a KMFMF master fuse holder for your main power with a KMFDB3 and KMDB3 fused power and ground distribution blocks for the ultimate in protection for your boat! 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.

OPERATION

Automatic Turn-On Selection: The KMA series offers two different automatic turn-on modes that can be selected on the end panel; +12V and DC Offset.

Remote Turn-On: Run 18 gauge wire from the Remote Turn-On Lead on your source unit to the blue REM wire on KEY amplifi er’s wiring harness. This is the preferred automatic turn-on method.
If 12V remote turn-on is not available, DC Offset turn-on can be used if speaker-level (high-level) audio inputs are being used. The DC offset mode detects a 6V DC offset on the speaker wires when the source unit has been turned on.

Input Level: The RCA inputs on KICKER KMA amplifi ers are capable of receiving either Hi or Low-level signals from your source unit. If you are using a Hi-Level signal, simply press in the Input Level switch on the amplifi er. Refer to the wiring section of this manual for additional instructions.
Crossover Control: The variable crossover on the side of the amplifi er allows you to adjust the crossover frequency of AMP3 (KMA600.6 only) to OFF, hi-pass, or lo-pass from 50–200Hz, and the hipass crossover frequency of AMP1 & AMP2 from OFF-200Hz. OFF will pass a full-range signal, HI will cut
off frequencies below a threshold, and LO will cut off frequencies above a threshold.
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 amplifi er. 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 amplifi er 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 amplifi er is designed to give you increased output, 0–6dB, at 40Hz. The setting for this control is subjective. If you turn it up, you must readjust the input gain control to avoid clipping the amplifi er.

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 are Power (PWR) & Protection (PRT) LEDs on the side panel of your Kicker KMA series amplifi er. Depending on the state of the amplifi er and the vehicle’s charging system, the LEDs will glow either green or red.
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: n+12 volt power terminal (should read ❶+12V to +16V) ❷Remote turn- on terminal (should read +12V to +16V) ❸Check for reversed power and ground connections ❹Ground terminal, for proper conductivity

Green LED on, no output? Check the following: ❶RCA connections ❷Test speaker outputs with a “known” good speaker. ❸Substitute source unit with a “known” good source unit. ❸Check for a signal in the RCA cable feeding the amplifi er with the VOM meter set to measure “AC” voltage.

Red LED fl ickering with loud music? The red LED indicates low battery voltage. Check all the connections in your boat’s charging system. It may be necessary to replace or charge your battery or replace your alternator.

Red LED on, no output? ❶Amplifi 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 airfl ow around the amplifi er. ❷Amplifi er shuts down only while your boat is running = voltage protection circuitry is engaged. Voltage to the amplifi er is not within the 10–16 volt operating range. Have the boat’s charging and electrical system inspected. ❸Amplifi er will only play at low volume levels = short circuit protection is engaged. Check for speaker wires shorted to each other. Check for damaged speakers or speaker(s) operating below the minimum recommended impedance.

No or low output? ❶Check the balance control on source unit ❷Check the RCA (or speaker input) and speaker output connections. ❸Check for reversed polarity at the speaker(s)

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

Ground Noise? KICKER amplifi ers 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.

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

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 support@kicker.com or call Technical Services 405-624-8583 for unanswered or specifi c questions.

KICKER will now provide a three-year warranty with all KXASeries
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 KMA amplifi er success is currently at an unheard-of rate, making the extended warranty program even more benefi cial to you.

Using poor-quality, under-spec wiring kits will impede KMA amplifi er performance.

A superior-quality KICKER installation Kit is guaranteed to extend the life of KMA amplifi ers.

The new extended warranty applies only to KICKER amplifi ers 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 amplifi ers and accessories. One warranty extension per amplifi er is allowed regardless of the number of amplifi er 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.

*U.S.A. Only | EE.UU. solamente | Nur USA | Les USA Seulement

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 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 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 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 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 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-ofpurchase 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 product
Speakers damaged due to amplifi er 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 one week turnaround for all electronics (amplifi ers, 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 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 fi gures 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.

KMA MULTICHANNEL AMPLIFIER

KMA150.2

Thank you and congratulations on your purchase of the KICKER KMA Multichannel Amplifier! The KMA-series have been engineered to handle the punishing conditions of outdoor and marine audio applications, with UV-treated aluminum chassis, conformal coated PCBs, thick gasketing to seal and protect sensitive electronics, and terminals that meet rigorous ABYC/NMMA standards. Combined with KICKER’s audiophile-grade components 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!

Scan here for owner’s manual

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!

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!

Wiring

(KMA600.6 shown)

See owner’s manual for information on how to use amplifier features such as gain, crossover, bass boost and more!

Model| External Fuse (sold separately)| Power/ Ground Wire| KICKER Wiring Kit
---|---|---|---
KMA150.2| 1 x 40 Ampere| 8 Gauge| KMPK8, PK8, CK8
KMA360.4| 1 x 60 Ampere| 8 Gauge| KMPK8, PK8, CK8
KMA600.4| 1 x 80 Ampere| 4 Gauge| KMPK4, PK4, CK
KMA600.6| 1 x 80 Ampere| 4 Gauge| KMPK4, PK4, CK4