STILLWATER, USA – One year ago KICKER® engineers set the audio world on alert with its first auto-tuning, smart amp that literally repairs inferior factory or aftermarket audio. This year KICKER introduced compact KEY™ amplifiers that improve both full-range and bass sound. The KEY200.4 Smart 4-Channel Amp/Processor and the KEY500.1 Smart Mono Amp/Bass Revealer use AI-driven DSP (digital signal processing) to dramatically improve audio, and they are now shipping to Authorized KICKER Dealers nationwide, available for purchase online and in-store.
Built to improve the performance of door speakers and tweeters, the start/stop-compatible KEY200.4 four-channel amplifier comes with a microphone and integrated push-button remote. The remote is designed to start the automatic tuning and calibration process once amplifier installation is complete.
A simple press of the selector (attached to the microphone) sets the KEY’s test tones and proprietary algorithms in motion. The system detects each speakers’ size, 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 full-range system is revealed in a matter of seconds, delivering dramatic improvements in realism and soundstage without the need for expensive external processors or professional tuning.
The KEY500.1 is a 500-watt subwoofer amplifier, built in the same compact footprint as its four-channel cousin but focusing on a single bass channel. Using KICKER’s supplied test tones downloadable from the company website, the KEY sub amp automatically analyzes the audio being fed directly into the amplifier. Once analyzed, the KEY500.1 automatically repairs peaks in that signal while revealing the low bass that is typically missing in mediocre systems. In a matter of moments, it reveals a clean, even bass response at all volume levels. The KEY500.1 comes with 24dB sub-sonic and low-pass crossovers, bass boost and gain controls, and matches perfectly with any KICKER subwoofer or loaded sub enclosure that’s 12 inches or smaller.
Both the KEY200.4 and KEY500.1 represent a completely revolutionary approach to achieving greatly improved sound quality in an affordable package that installs nearly anywhere, and works with even the most modern factory or aftermarket audio systems. KICKER’s exclusive FIT2™ (Fail-safe Integration Technology) allows KEY amps to work with nearly any radio.
KICKER Performance Audio products, a division of Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc.®, are available for the mobile and home audio aftermarket at authorized retailers worldwide, and also as Original Equipment for boat and automobile manufacturers. Consumers seeking more information on KICKER or Livin’ Loud® may call the Consumer Information Line at 1-800-256-5425 or visit the brand website at www.kicker.com. Consumers can follow KICKER socially at Facebook.com/kickeraudio, Twitter.com/kickeraudio, Instagram.com/kickeraudio, or Pinterest.com/kickeraudio, and use the hashtags #kickeraudio and #livinloud.
KICKER KEY Smart Amplifier Specifications
Models (at 14.4V) KEY200.4 4-Ch. KEY500.1 Mono
Power (watts/ch), 4 Ohm Stereo 50 x 4 N/A
Power (watts/ch), 4 Ohm Mono N/A 150 x 1
Power (watts/ch), 2 Ohm Mono N/A 300 x 1
Power (watts/ch), 1 Ohm Mono N/A 500 x 1
Frequency Response (Hz) 20-20k 10-160
Input Sensitivity Hi-level 250mV-10V Lo-level 125mV-5V, Hi-level 1V-40V
S-to-N Ratio (dB, a-weighted, re: rated power) >90 >90
Bi-Amp Capability Yes (defeatable) N/A
Auto-Time Delay Yes (defeatable) N/A
Auto-EQ Yes (defeatable) N/A
Auto Turn-On 12v or DC offset DC offset
Height (in, cm) 1-11/16, 4.3 1-11/16, 4.3
Length (in, cm) 7-3/8, 18.7 8-1/8, 20.7
Width (in, cm) 2-3/4, 7 4-1/8, 9.2
Active Crossover (KEY200.4) 24dB/octave, selective AP or HP at 60, 80, or 120Hz
Active Crossover (KEY500.1) 24dB/octave, variable LP 40-160Hz
Subsonic Filter (KEY500.1) 24dB/octave, variable HP 10-40Hz
