Kicker DXA 250.4 User Manual

DXA

AMPLIFIERS

Owner’s Manual

DXA250.4

Manual del Propietario | Español
AMPLIFICADOR DEL LA SERIE DXA.4

Benutzerhandbuch | Deutsch
MONOVERSTÄRKER DER DXA.4-SERIE

Manuel d’utilisation | Française
AMPLIFICATEUR DE SÉRIE DXA.4

2014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 12014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 1 8/2/2013 4:44:10 PM8/2/2013 4:44:10 PM

DXA.4-SERIES AMPLIFIER
OWNER’S MANUAL

MODEL: DXA250.4

Authorized KICKER Dealer:

Purchase Date:

Serial Number:

PERFORMANCE

Model: DXA250.4

RMS Power [Watts]
@ 14.4V, 4Ω stereo, ≤ 1% THD+N
@ 14.4V, 2Ω stereo, ≤ 1% THD+N
@ 14.4V, 4Ω mono, ≤ 1% THD+N

Length [in, cm]

Height [in, cm]

Width [in, cm]

Frequency Response [Hz]

Signal-to-Noise Ratio [dB]

Input Sensitivity

Selectable Electronic Crossover

KickEQ™ Bass Boost

30 x 4
60 x 4
125 x 2

12-7/16, 32

2-3/8, 6

7-3/16, 18

10–20k

>95, A-weighted, re: rated power

Low Level: 125mV–5V
High Level: 250mV–10V

HI, LO or OFF; Variable 50–200Hz @ 12dB/Octave

Variable 0–12dB @ 40Hz

Pro Tip: To get the best performance from your new KICKER Amplifi er and extend the warranty by 1 year, use
genuine KICKER accessories and wiring.

INSTALLATION

Mounting: Choose a 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. If possible, mount the amplifi er in the climate-controlled passenger compartment. Drill
four holes using a 7/64” (3mm) bit and use the supplied #8 screws to mount the amplifi er.

Wiring: Disconnect the vehicle’s battery to avoid an electrical short. Then, connect the ground wire to the
amplifi er. 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.

2

2014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 22014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 2 8/2/2013 4:44:13 PM8/2/2013 4:44:13 PM

The DXA amplifi er 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 amplifi er using the KICKER KISL as shown (make sure you set
the DXA amplifi er’s input level switch to “HI”). Alternatively, the signal can be delivered to the amplifi er using the
low-level RCA outputs on the source unit. Set the input level switch on the end panel of the amplifi er to “LO”.
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

+

–

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

Model External Fuse

(sold separately)

DXA250.4 1 x 60 Ampere 8 Gauge PK8, ZCK84

shield

to amplifi er

OR

Power/Ground Wire KICKER Wiring Kit

KICKER KISL (optional)

to amplifi er

from source unit high­level speaker outputs

POWER WIRING

≤18”

(45cm)

external fuse

≤24”

(60cm)

remote turn-on
(see page 6)

bare-metal
chassis ground

12V

battery

bare-metal
chassis ground

3

2014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 32014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 3 8/2/2013 4:44:13 PM8/2/2013 4:44:13 PM

FOUR CHANNEL OPERATION

minimum impedance of 2 ohms per channel

L

L

R

BRIDGED OPERATION (MONO)

minimum impedance of 4 ohms

R

4

2014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 42014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 4 8/2/2013 4:44:13 PM8/2/2013 4:44:13 PM

STEREO-AND-MONO-SIMULTANEOUSLY (SAMS) OPERATION

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

L

R

5

2014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 52014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 5 8/2/2013 4:44:13 PM8/2/2013 4:44:13 PM

OPERATION

signal input

Automatic Turn-On Selection: The DXA series offers two automatic turn-on modes; +12V and DC Offset.

• Remote Turn-On: Run 18 gauge wire from the Remote Turn-On Lead on your source unit to the terminal
labeled REM between the amplifi er’s positive and negative power terminals.

• DC Offset Turn-On: The DC Offset mode detects a 6V DC offset from the HI-Level speaker outputs when
the source unit has been turned on.

Input Level: The RCA inputs on KICKER DXA amplifi ers 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 amplifi er. Refer to the wiring section of this manual for additional instructions.

Crossover Switch: Use the XOVER switch on the end panel of the amplifi er to set the internal crossover to
OFF, HI or LO. When the switch is set to OFF, a full bandwidth signal will be amplifi ed. Set the switch to HI if
you want the amplifi er’s internal crossover to serve as a high-pass fi lter. Set the switch to LO if you want the
amplifi er’s internal crossover to serve as a low-pass fi lter. Never change the crossover “OFF/HI/LO” switch setting
with the audio system on!

Crossover Control: The variable crossover on the side of the DXA250.4 allows you to adjust the crossover
frequency from 50–200Hz. The setting for this control is subjective; 80Hz is a good place to start.

Fader Switch: Depress the fader switch if you are running two sets of inputs (front and rear for example) to the
amplifi er. Leave the fader switch OFF if you want to drive all channels from a single stereo input.

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 DXA250.4 amplifi er is designed to
give you increased output, 0–12dB, 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.

6

2014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 62014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 6 8/2/2013 4:44:14 PM8/2/2013 4:44:14 PM

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 DXA 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:
(should read +12V to +16V) Remote turn-on terminal (should read +12V to +16V) Check for reversed
power and ground connections Ground terminal, for proper conductivity.

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

Red LED fl ashing 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.

Red LED on, no output? 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 airfl ow around the amplifi er. Amplifi er
shuts down only while vehicle is running = voltage protection circuitry is engaged. Voltage to the amplifi er is not
within the 10–16 volt operating range. Have the vehicle’s charging and electrical system inspected. 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? Check the balance control on 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 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.

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 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. 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.

+12 volt power terminal



CAUTION: When jump starting the vehicle, 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
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 specifi c questions.

7

2014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 72014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 7 8/2/2013 4:44:14 PM8/2/2013 4:44:14 PM

KICKER will now provide a three­year warranty with all DXA-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 DXA 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 DXA amplifi er performance.

A superior-quality KICKER installation Kit is guaranteed to extend the life of DXA
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

DXA250.4

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

8

2014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 82014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 8 8/2/2013 4:44:14 PM8/2/2013 4:44:14 PM

AMPLIFICADOR DE LA SERIE DXA.4
MANUAL DEL PROPIETARIO

MODELO: DXA250.4

Distribuidor autorizado de KICKER:

Fecha de compra:

Número de serie del amplifi cador:

RENDIMIENTO

Modelo: DXA250.4

Potencia RMS [Vatios]
@ 14.4V, 4Ω estéreofónico, ≤ 1% THD+N
@ 14.4V, 2Ω estéreofónico, ≤ 1% THD+N
@ 14.4V, 4Ω puente, ≤ 1% THD+N

Largo [in. mm] 12-7/16, 32

Altura [in. mm] 2-3/8, 6

Ancho [in. mm] 7-3/16, 18

Respuesta de frecuencias [Hz] 10–20k

Relación de señal a ruido [dB] >95, ponderado en A, ref: potencia nominal

Sensibilidad de entrada Baja Nivel: 125mV–5V

Separador de frecuencia electrónico HI, LO u OFF; 50–200Hz variable, 12dB/Octava

Refuerzo de Bajos 0–12dB @ 40Hz variable

30 x 4
60 x 4
125 x 2

Alto Nivel: 250mV–10V

Nota: Para obtener el mejor rendimiento de sus nuevos amplifi cadores KICKER, le recomendamos que use
accesorios y cableado KICKER auténticos.

INSTALLATION

Montaje: Escoja un lugar estructuralmente sólido para montar el amplifi cador KICKER. Asegúrese de que no
haya nada por detrás de dónde van a entrar los tornillos. Escoja un lugar en que queden por lo menos 4 plg.
(10 cm) de espacio abierto de ventilación alrededor del amplifi cador. Si es posible, monte el amplifi cador en el
compartimiento de pasajeros, con ambiente acondicionado. Haga cuatro agujeros con una broca de 7/64 de
plg. (3 mm) y monte el amplifi cador con los tornillos N° 8 que se suministran.

Cableado: Desconecte la batería del vehículo para evitar cortocircuitos. Luego, conecte un cable de conexión
a tierra al amplifi cador. El cable de conexión a tierra debe ser corto, de 24 plg. (60 cm) o menos, y debe
ir conectado a un punto sólido del chasis del vehículo en que no haya ni pintura ni corrosión. También se
recomienda instalar un cable de conexión a tierra adicional, de este mismo calibre (o de mayor calibre), entre la
terminal negativa de la batería y el chasis del auto.

9

2014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 92014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 9 8/2/2013 4:44:14 PM8/2/2013 4:44:14 PM

El amplifi cador DXA tiene entradas RCA diferenciales de doble sensibilidad de entrada que reciben señales de
alto nivel o bajo nivel de la unidad fuente del sistema estereofónico del automóvil. La señal se puede llevar al
amplifi cador desde las salidas de altavoz de alto nivel de la unidad fuente. Fije el selector de nivel de entrada
del panel de extremo del amplifi cador en la posición de alto (HI). Engarce y suelde conectores RCA al extremo
del cable de altavoz procedente de las salidas de altavoz de alto nivel de la unidad fuente y conéctelo a las
entradas RCA del panel de extremo del amplifi cador o simplifi car la instalación mediante un ZISL KICKER como
se muestra a continuación. Como alternativa, puede conectar producción de su unidad fuente a las entradas
RCA del amplifi cador DXA RCA. Fije el selector de nivel de entrada del panel de extremo del amplifi cador en la
posición de bajo (LO). Mantenga el cable de señal de audio alejado de los arneses de cableado de fábrica y
otros cables de alimentación. Si es necesario cruzar este cableado, crúcelo en un ángulo de 90°.

Cable de salida
de altavoz de
alto nivel

cable central

+

–

Conexión a tierra o blindaje

Instale un fusible a menos de 18 plg. (45 cm) de la batería y en línea con el cable de alimentación conectado al
amplifi cador. Si alguna vez necesita desmontar el amplifi cador, el cable de conexión a tierra debe ser el último
que se desconecte del amplifi cador. Exactamente lo contrario de lo que se hace cuando se instala.

Modelo Fusible Externo

DXA250.4 1 x 60 Ampere Calibre 8 PK8, ZCK84

(no incluido)

Hacia el amplifi cador

O

Cable de Alimentación
y Conexión a Tierra

KICKER KISL

Hacia el
amplifi cador

Cable de salida de
altavoz de alto nivel

Kit de cableado
KICKER

≤18”

(45cm)

fusible externo

≤24”

(60cm)

encendido a distancia
(página 13)

conexión

10

2014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 102014 DXA 4-Channel Amps Rev A.indd 10 8/2/2013 4:44:14 PM8/2/2013 4:44:14 PM

a tierra

12V

batería

conexión
a tierra