Best Kicker Amp with Pros, Cons & Recommendations

 

Welcome to the Best Kicker Amp Award Show!

After spending the last 12 days living like a monk in my garage by installing amps, running wires, soldering, fine-tuning, and gain adjusting meanwhile skipping on my favorite TV shows (which were cold-heartedly spoiled by my wife, we will get even missy…) I’m ready to reveal which are the very best Kicker amplifiers on the market today.

Look:

Finding the perfect Kicker amp comes down to two things your current system and your budget. As soon as you know these, it will be very easy to find the perfect amp.

You see, I’ve been in the car audio world for more than 20 years, and I loved every moment of it. I will share with you my experiences so you won’t waste time on too much research. Plus, by reading the reviews below, I’m sure you will find the right one from below.

I’m ranking the top 3 Kicker amps on looks, ease of installation, sound quality, power, and value for the money.

Frankly, picking any amp from the list below is a guaranteed winner. These are all great amps and will do an amazing job.

Let me see those amps already!

[lwptoc]

 

#1 Kicker 46CXA6605 Car Audio – Best Kicker Amplifier Overall

We have a WINNER!

This is the best Kicker amplifier you can go with if you want a one size fits all solution. It has 5 channels which make it perfect to power up to 4 speakers and a subwoofer.

The unit comes certified, so you are getting a bit more power than advertised. I love these types of freebies. Getting more juice than I’ve paid for is fine in my book.

Besides having 5 channels, it’s a Class A/B and Class D amplifier. Here’s what you need to know about this amp.

Power Specs:

• 65 watts RMS x 4 + 150 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms
• 90 watts RMS x 4 + 300 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms
• 180 watts RMS x 2 bridged at 4 ohms + 300 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms

This amplifier delivers some clean power and makes the speakers sing and the subwoofer pound. Since it’s a small unit, you have multiple mounting options. There are no regrets with this amp.

Here’s why it’s a must-buy:

Perfect Single Amp Solution: Space is precious in the vehicle, so this is the perfect choice if you want to put it under the seat and be done with it.

Fits the Bill Perfectly: This will easily handle 4 speakers and an amplifier. The sound is perfectly clean without distortions

Quality Parts: Finally, an amplifier that’s not made in China. Thanks to this, you’re getting quality components made in Thailand

Here are a few drawbacks:

I feel that 4 ohms is on the weak side when it comes to power. It’s better to run it on 2 ohms to get the most out of it.

This amplifier will run hot mainly because it’s a Class A/B. From my tests, it didn’t affect anything; it was rocking perfectly with no issues whatsoever.

Let’s face it all amps have flaws, and this is the case with Kicker; however, these are not something major that can turn into deal-breakers. It’s small and fits anywhere, and it’s packed with value.

Now the last time I’ve checked, there were still some units left. I’m not making any guarantees, so you need to move if you want to power your system with this 5-channel amplifier. Get it now.

If you want something cheaper, then check out #2 on my list.

 

Pros:

Best single amp solution from Kicker

Perfect for powering 4 speakers and a subwoofer

It’s not made in China, higher quality because it’s made in Thailand

Cons:

It’s running weak on 4 ohms

It goes hot

 

#2 Kicker 46CXA3604T – Best Value Kicker Amplifier

Boy, oh boy, Kicker has done it now. For the price, you’re getting some serious power under the hood. Best of all, this amplifier is highly underrated, meaning you will be getting a lot more power than you’ve paid for.

If you want to stand out from the crowd, this will help you turn heads. For a mono amp, this does a great job delivering that crystal clear sound, plus there are more than enough adjustability options. Here’s what you need to know about this monoblock Kicker amp.

Power Specs:

• 1600 Watts Peak Power
• 600 Watts RMS at 2 omhs
• 800 Watts RMS at 8 ohms

After installing it, you will immediately notice a huge difference in sound. I’m not just talking about clarity but loudness as well. Since it’s a Class D amp, you know it’s small and packs a punch. It delivers the right amount of power to really move those speakers.

Here are some hidden perks that you might not know. For example, it’s compatible with stop-start vehicles. The power ratings are actually the minimum, and you’re getting a lot more. There’s a lot more for you to discover.

This is why it’s top of my list:

• Rock Concert in the Car: To get this concert feeling, all you have to do is turn up the volume
• Highly Underrated: The wattage stated on the sales page is the minimum one. You will be getting a lot more from it
• Head Turner: You’ll be in the center of attention with this amplifier. It’s loud and delivers excellent sound, so people will always be checking out your ride

A few drawbacks to consider:

Well, somebody messed up with the measurements. There’s no way to fit an 8 gauge wire into the power hole. I’ve used every trick in the book and didn’t manage to fit it, even with converters.

This is a big amp, and no way around that. With 13”, it makes a big footprint. This will limit the mounting option possibilities.

All in all, this is a very good amp that gives plenty of bang for your buck. Yes, it has a few minor flaws and shows me an amplifier that doesn’t. Again you’re getting a lot of value for your investment.

It’s official there are only a handful of units in stock. Hopefully, they will get a fresh supply soon. However, if you move fast, then you might just snag the last one.

Pros:

It’s compatible with stop-start auto vehicles

A real head-turner, people want to know what’s making the clean sound

Your daily commute turns into a concert hall

Cons:

The power holes don’t fit 8 gauge wires

13” big limits the installation options

 

#3 Kicker 46CXA8001 – Best Affordable Kicker Amplifier

Warning! Don’t even think about getting this amp if you have cheap subwoofers. You need something that can handle the massive punishment that this amp is delivering.

After installing, you will feel and hear that there’s a night and day difference, and all thanks to this little amp.

This Kicker amp is perfect to power a single subwoofer since it’s a monoblock and Class D. Here’s what else you need to know about this amplifier.

Power Specs:

• 65 watts RMS x 4 at 4 ohms (90 watts RMS x 4 at 2 ohms)
• 180 watts RMS x 2 bridged at 4 ohms (4-ohm stable when bridged)

Finally, you will be able to enjoy the most beautiful music ever. When the bass hits, you will feel it. Now, if you have more than one sub, you can easily power it as well because there’s so much power to share.

Here’s why it’s a must-buy:

• Not Your Average Amp: Oh boy, oh boy, this amplifier really delivers. I mean, it’s good to power one subwoofer, but it’s so powerful that it can handle two 10” or even two 12” subs as well
• Vehicle Shaker: The bass is phenomenal, thanks to this amplifier. It’s tight and deep, plus it hit harder than ever before. I just love that bass
• People won’t believe your setup: It happened to me a few times while testing when people didn’t believe me that there’s only a 10” in the back; they had to check it for themselves

Here are a few drawbacks:

There were some reports that this amplifier shuts down because of heat. Well, if that’s the case, you need to make sure that it has at least 6” of breathing room so you won’t have issues.

I really hate this practice that you need to buy the bass remote separately. I would be eternally grateful if they would just offer it as a bonus.

All in all, if you’re looking for the best kicker monoblock amp, you have just found your winner. It’s true that it has a few flaws, and so do all other amps. However, you will forget all about it when you feel that bass hitting.

Since this is such a popular amplifier, they are flying off the shelves, and there are some issues with the resupply. If you move fast, you might get lucky and grab the last one; for this, you need to move now.

Pros:

Tight and Deep bass that hits harder than you can imagine

Over-deliver since you can power two 10” or two 12” subwoofers

Sounds amazing, excellent quality in a compact package

Cons:

If it overheats, it will shut down

The bass knob has to be purchased separately

 

Buying guide for finding the perfect Kicker Amp

Even most established brands like Kicker have some flawed products and you can rest assured that the ones listed above are not lemons or duds. These are the real deal ready to make your system sing.

Besides picking from the list above you need to match your amplifier to your system. For this you need to take a look at two crucial numbers. And this is what I will reveal below.

Amplifier power output

This is one of the most important numbers you need to keep in mind. This number has to match with your system’s power output (or need). Yet not all numbers are equal.
Typically there are two power outputs listed on the amplifier’s sales page. One would be the maximum power which is just eye candy because this number is inflated just to show off. On the other hand note down the RMS power rating and check what does your system has the RMS rating again. If the amp’s RMS is in the 70-100% range, then you’re good. Be very careful not to underpower your system because that could break it.

Number of Amplifier channels

There are so many channels that it’s hard to keep track of. Actually I will mention 3 of them which are the most popular ones on the market.

Singe channel or mono amplifier: typically these are used to power subwoofers they deliver a lot of power and in most cases are Class D which makes them the most efficient ones.

Four-channel amplifiers: these amps are ideal for sound quality and accessing the mids and highs. These are usually Class AB and deliver the best SQ with the cost of creating a lot of heat.

Five Channel amplifiers: these amps are very similar ones to the 4 channel ones the only difference is that the last channel is a dedicated subwoofer channel that delivers more power. This is the perfect solution if you want just one amp in your car.

Amplifier Impedance

This sounds so sophisticated so let me break it down to you it’s the ohm value. This is the second most important number to look at. You have to match your system’s ohm value to the amp and you’re set.

This is my short buyer’s guide to getting the perfect kicker amp for you system. Put it to good use.

 

Conclusions on the Best Kicker Amp Awards

We have reached the end of this award ceremony. I hope you had a blast reading through these Kicker reviews because I had so much fun testing them out. Also you have probably found the right amp you’ve been looking for.

Now it’s your turn to take action. As you have heard and seen there are only a few units left in stock. These are very popular amplifiers so now you know why. If you move fast you might just get lucky and snag the last one before they run out.

As you have seen I’ve done my best to offer multiple solutions when it comes to Kicker Amps. I’ve matched it with the most popular systems also I’ve picked an amp for each budget type. Put it to good use.

Suppose you happen to have tips or questions feel free to reach out to me. The best way is by email and I will do my best to reply.

Roger and Out

 

What’s the biggest kicker amp?

The Kicker KX 2400-watt mono amplifieris the biggest kicker amp on the market. It delivers a staggering 2,400 Watts RMS at 2 ohms. This amp can move any beast of a subwoofer you can find.

What amplifier is best for subwoofers?

The best amplifier for subwoofers is on this list below:

• Kicker 46CXA8001 – The Best Car Amplifier for Subwoofers

• Taramp’s Smart 3 – Best Affordable Car Amp for Subwoofers

• Alpine S-A60M S-Series – Best Value Amp for Subwoofers

• Rockford Fosgate R500X1D

• Rockville 4000 Watt

• MTX Audio TNP212D2

• Alpine MRV-M500

If you want to find out more about these amps like pros & cons plus recommendations check out my post about best amps for subwoofers and best amps for bass.

What is the most efficient amplifier?

Class D amplifiers are the most efficient ones among all the classes. The Class D efficiency reaches 95% which means there’s little or no heat produce so you don’t need active cooling.

 

Frequently Asked Question (FAQ):

What kind of features do these car amplifiers have?

These car amplifiers are coming with the following features:

• Kicker 46CXA6605 Car Audio 5 Channel Amp; variable bass boost; optimized circuit layout audio system; subsonic filter;  frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz
  
• Kicker 46CXA8001 Car Audio Class D Amp Mono 1600W Peak Sub Amplifier; variable bass boost; subsonic filter; frequency response: 25-200 Hz
  
• Kicker 46CXA3604T 360 Watt RMS 4 Channel 50-200 Hz Vehicle Car Audio Class A/B Amplifier with Variable High and Low Pass Filters; variable bass boost; subsonic filter; Frequency response: 10-20,000 Hz
  

How important is the frequency response for these car amps?

Frequency response is a good number to look at. There are low frequency response amps that are dedicated for subs and there are full range for a whole audio system. Other amps are all boasting about frequency response.

What does the variable bass boost do for the audio system?

The variable bass boost allows you to fine tune the subwoofer. If you nail it just right it might make the subwoofer punch harder thanks to the bass boost.

What does the subsonic filter do for the audio system?

The subsonic filter is also another fine tuning equipment for the audio system. The subsonic filter can eliminate unwanted noise.

Last Updated on November 7, 2023 by Brian Beasley