Features

Overview: The Kicker KEY500.1 mono amplifier features 1 x 150W power (@ 4Ω) in a compact chassis designed to be used with most factory or aftermarket radios. Built-in, AI-driven DSP processing lets you fine tune the system to your vehicle with a single button push, providing a more realistic soundstage.

Power: The KEY500.1 amplifier features Class-D amp topology, making it more compact and able to run cooler than other types of amplifiers. The KEY500.1 features a single output channel that can provide 500W @ 1Ω, 300W @ 2Ω, and 150W @ 4Ω.

KEY Auto Setup: The KEY500.1 features built-in, AI-driven, DSP that can dramatically improve the sound quality of your system.  Prior to running the Auto-Setup, you will need to have the Gain Match Tones and Sweep Tones ready to play from your headunit, either CD, MP3, AUX, Bluetooth, USB, etc. For best results, uncompressed audio is recommended, ensuring full amplitude across the frequency spectrum. Gain Match and Sweep tones are available from Kicker and can be found here. The Gain Match setup process lets you properly match the Input Level (Gain) setting to get the fullest sound without distortion. After the Gain Match is set, the KEY algorithm can be run using the Sweep Tones. This process fine-tunes the audio using the KEY500.1's internal DSP. When the Auto-Setup is complete, you can use the KEY button on the amp to A/B the processed sound against the original audio.

• Notes:
  • Gain Match and Sweep test-tones are NOT included and can be downloaded here.
  • Factory noise-canceling and active noise enhancement must be disabled before running the Auto-Setup.

Power Management: The KEY500.1 amplifier is fully compatible with newer vehicles using start-stop systems. It also features FIT2 (Fail-Safe Integration Technology), making it compatible with nearly every factory and aftermarket radio.

Controls & Indicators: The KEY500.1 includes the following controls and indicators:

• KEY: This button is used to initiate both the Gain Match and Key Sweep Tones, as well as for A/B sound comparing.
• DC Offset: When set to On, the amp can detect a 3V DC offset on the speaker-level input wires, powering it on/off. When set for DC Offset, the REM input terminal now becomes a REM output for activating any additional amplifiers in the system.
• Hi Pass: A High-Pass filter dial lets you set the frequency of the built-in subsonic filter, with a range of 10-40Hz.
• Lo Pass: A Low-Pass filter dial lets you set the cutoff frequency, with a range of 40-160Hz.
• Bass Boost: Provides a 0-6dB boost at 40Hz.
• Input Level: Changes the input signal sensitivity range depending on the input type.
  • Low Level: 125mV - 5V
  • High Level: 1V - 40V
• Gain: Adjusts the input signal level.
• Gain Match: This LED indicator is used in conjunction with the Gain Match and KEY Algorithm adjustments, providing feedback via the number of flashes.
• Remote Bass: A 3.5mm socket can be used with the optional CXARC wired remote (sold separately).
• PWR LED: Lights green when the amplifier is activated.
• PRT LED: Lights red if the amp goes into protect mode. Activation can be caused by a shorted speaker wire, low input voltage, or over heating.

Wiring:

• Input: A 4-pin Molex harness is used for the input signal with dual female RCAs for use with low-level input signals. If using speaker-level outputs from the radio, the RCAs get cut off and bare-wire connections are made.
• Output: Dual set-screw terminals provide the mono speaker output, accommodating up to 12 AWG wire.
• Power/Ground: Set-screw terminals can accommodate up to 8 AWG wire (recommended) for both power and ground.
  • Note: No fuse is included with the amplifier. A 60A fuse (sold separately) is recommended for the battery connection.
• REM: Set-screw terminal can accommodate an 18 AWG remote turn-on wire. When the amp is set for DC Offset, this terminal becomes a +12V remote output for activating additional amps.