FOUR CHANNEL CAR AMPLIFIER WITH AUTOMATIC ACOUSTIC CORRECTION
KICKER released the KEY180.4 Smart Car Amplifier with 180 watts of power, Auto-EQ and compatibility with start/stop vehicles. The extremely compact 4×45-watt DSP car amplifier combo automatically improves the sound quality of any vehicle with the push of a button.
Using a powerful internal computer and calibration microphone, the KEY180.4 offers up dramatic improvements in realism and soundstage without the need for an external processor or RTA (real-time analyzer). Users mount the amp behind the radio or under a seat (with its compact size of two inches wide by eight inches long), then press the selector switch on the in-line microphone (placed on the headrest near where the listener’s ears would be).
What would take hours for a professional to achieve happens in a matter of seconds, all automatically with the press of a single button. The button press sets the KEY’s test tones and proprietary algorithms in motion. The system detects speaker sizing, applies a 24dB crossover and 40 channels of equalization, applies time alignment and customizes the gain levels of each channel independently. The true potential of the vehicle’s sound system is revealed in a matter of seconds, delivering dramatic improvements in realism and soundstage without the need for expensive external processors or personal tuning time.
KEY technology uses FIT2™ (Fail-Safe Integration Technology) and starts/stop compatibility to work with nearly any vehicle on the road today. Once installed, the amp can be activated via a remote 12v signal or DC offset. Additionally, the amplifier’s minuscule footprint allows for easy installation in a myriad of locations, from behind the radio, to under a seat, or even behind the glove box.
KEY technology also employs a unique method of controlling heat and virtually eliminating the need for a protection mode. Faced with thermal overloads, traditional amplifiers force the listener to experience volume “pumping,” even a possible shutdown or the fuse simply blows. KICKER engineers created a dynamic system that engages an inaudible limiter/compressor applied only to the peaks of the music for as little as milliseconds at a time. The temporary drop in power results in the amplifier cooling and cancellation of the compressor. The music then returns to its full dynamic range without a moment’s inconvenience or interruption.
Specifications: Multi-Channel Model (at 14.4V)
- Frequency Response (Hz): 20-20k
- Signal to Noise Ratio: 90dB, a-weighted, re-rated power
- Input Sensitivity: 125mV-10V
- Crossover: Selectable Off/60/80/120Hz @ 24dB/Octave
- Bi-Amp Capability: Yes (Defeatable)
- Auto Time Delay: Yes (Defeatable)
- Auto EQ: Yes (Defeatable)
- Auto Turn-On: 12v or DC Offset
- Start/Stop Compatibility: Yes
- Power (watts/ch) 4 Ohm Stereo: 45 x 4
- Height (in, cm): 1-11/16, 4.3
- Length (in, cm): 7-3/8, 18.7
- Width (in, cm): 2-3/4, 7
Source: ecoustics.com