Kicker Double Oven ZX460 User Manual

ZX460  
4–CHANNEL POWER AMPLIFIER  
Based on the same design philosophy as the original KICKER Amplifier,  
the ZX460 four–channel amplifier from Stillwater Designs expands and  
improves the standards for car audio amplifier performance. Features that  
defined the way an amplifier should be built, attention to detail, flexibility,  
and pure clean power have been retained and some important new  
performance/reliability features have been added.  
FEATURES & CONTROLS  
The design goals for the ZX-series four-channel amplifier were simple yet crucial: build  
the ultimate amplifiers available for the brutal environment of a vehicle.  
A new heatsink design provides maximum heat dissipation when air flow isn’t ideal. In  
addition to the existing forms of protection already in effect (thermal, overvoltage, and  
reverse polarity), a new short circuit protection circuit will allow the amplifier to operate  
into a variety of loads including 1 Ohm stereo and 2 Ohm mono.  
Gold plated custom tooled speaker and power connectors maximize power transfer and  
damping. To improve the thermal stability, sound quality, and output power we have  
upgraded the power supply switching MOSFETs.  
Surface mount devices are used extensively throughout the design to increase reliability.  
Features carried over from the last generation of amplifiers include:  
ZRX Crossover Module included.  
Active Signal Processing Modules are less expensive than outboard signal processors and  
eliminate the possibility for electrical noises to enter the system.  
RCA output jacks provide a simple method for daisy chaining multiple amplifiers, espe-  
cially when the plug-in modules are used.  
Optical isolation between the signal and power grounds has proven very effective to  
keep automotive electrical noises from entering the signal path.  
For the best sound quality possible we have eliminated coupling capacitors from the sig-  
nal path through the use of a DC servo circuit.  
Silent turn on/off circuitry eliminates pops to protect your speakers and makes your  
system ready for competition.  
Multiple amplifiers can be daisy chained without signal degradation because the input  
impedance is 22,000 Ohms.  
Stillwater Designs recommends that the amplifier be installed at an authorized dealer.  
The length of your KICKER amplifier’s warranty is three times as long when installed by an  
authorized KICKER dealer.  
 
(Mounting Instructions, continued)  
Use KICKER End Caps and KICKER Sink Links  
to cover exposed end panels and hiding wiring  
in multiple amplifier installations.  
SUPPLIED END CAPS SNAP INTO PLACE OVER AMP END PANELS  
OPTIONAL SINK LINK COVERS TWO AMPLIFIER END PANELS  
3
 
WIRING INSTRUCTIONS  
All power and speaker connectors will accept up to 8 gauge wire. It is very important  
that the screws in the amplifiers’ terminal strips are very tight. An allen wrench is included  
for this purpose. Always make the ground connection first when installing this amplifier  
and disconnect ground last when removing it from the system.  
Connect the ground wire, which is 24 inches or less, to a structural chassis member. Be  
sure the connection is to bare metal and securely screwed or bolted. (It is not recommend-  
ed to run the ground wire to the battery.) Run a positive wire of the size shown below  
directly to the positive terminal of the battery and use a fuse of appropriate size within 18  
inches of the battery.  
This fuse protects the wire run from the battery.  
Please refer to this wire gauge selection chart for minimal loss at full rated power under  
test conditions:  
Model Up to 4 ft 4 to 7 ft  
ZX460  
7 to10 ft  
6
10 to 13 ft 13 to 16 ft 16 to 22 ft  
8
8
4
4
4
When running the signal wires keep them away from all power wires in the vehicle to avoid  
noise. If a signal wire needs to cross power wires, try to make the junction at 90 degrees.  
This will have the least chance of picking up noise.  
Note: in the case where the recommended wire size is larger than the amplifier’s connec-  
tor, it may be necessary to use a power distribution block or inline connector to adapt  
down to the size your amp will accept. Also remember that the current draw and the wire  
requirements will be less if the amplifier is used at 4 Ohm stereo.  
Inline fuse used at the battery: ZX460 = 60A  
IMPORTANT INFORMATION  
PLEASE READ BEFORE INSTALLING AMPLIFIER  
Your new KICKER power amplifier is equipped with a ZRX Active Electronic Crossover  
Module installed in the Module Docking Port.  
You may configure the ZRX to function as a low pass filter (12dB/octave at 80Hz) or  
high pass filter (12dB/octave at 100Hz) by setting the switch on the ZRX as shown is the  
illustration. The ZRX may also be set to bypass, in which case your amplifier will function in  
a full-range mode. The ZRX affects only the amplifier in which it is installed. The amplifier’s  
output RCA jacks carry a full-range signal regardless of the settings on the ZRX.  
4
 
(continued)  
ZXR  
+
+
Setting the ZRX  
Bypass Mode - Amplifier reproduces the full frequency range  
Low Pass Mode - Amplifier frequencies 80Hz and lower  
High Pass Mode - Amplifier frequencies 100Hz and higher  
IMPORTANT OPERATION NOTES  
An Active Signal Processing Module must be installed in the Module Docking Port in  
order for the amplifier to operate. Never power up the amplifier without a module  
installed. Never remove or insert a module with the amplifier powered up. Failure to follow  
these precautions can result in damge to your speaker(s) and/or amplifier(s) which may  
not be covered under warranty.  
Typical Installations  
Daisy Chaining Two Amplifiers  
with ZRX Modules  
Adding a KICKER Amplifier and Subwoofer  
to your Factory Stereo  
SOURCE  
America’s Music Machines  
Factory Source  
(Speaker Level Out)  
HIGH  
+
+
Line Out  
Converter  
+
+
Midrange  
America’s Music Machines  
America’s Music Machines  
LOW  
LOW  
+
+
+
+
+
Subwoofer  
To Additional Amps  
(Optional)  
Subwoofer  
ZRX Specifications  
Crossover Slope 12dB/octave  
Crossover Points 80Hz low pass  
100Hz high pass  
5
 
SPECIAL FEATURES  
To understand all the different system possibilities, think of the KICKER ZX460 as two  
separate amplifiers in one chassis: Amp 1 and Amp 2, each having two channels.  
• When only two RCA cables are plugged into the Amp 1 inputs, the ZX460  
automatically distributes the left channel to Amp 1 left and Amp 2 left. The right input  
goes to Amp 1 right and Amp 2 right.  
• Plugging in a second set of RCAs automatically switches the ZX460 to discreet four  
channel operation.  
• Amp 2 has an electronic 24dB/octave highpass crossover built in. This crossover is  
the same circuitry used in the SWX & MRX KICKER Modules and uses the same frequency  
programming chips. The crossover can be bypassed or engaged via a two position slide  
switch on the amplifier’s main circuit board. Access to the switch and the frequency  
programming chip is through the plastic plug in the bottom plate of your ZX460.  
ACCESSING THE CROSSOVERS UNDERNEATH THE ZX460  
MODULE  
RCA  
1. BUILT IN CROSSOVER FREQUENCY  
HIGH  
PROGRAMMING CHIP  
1.  
2.  
BYPASS  
2. BUILT IN CROSSOVER  
BYPASS/ENGAGE SWITCH  
The frequency programming chip can be removed and replaced  
with an IC extraction tool, or by removing the bottom cover  
of the ZX460 and using needle nose pliers.  
6
 
SYSTEM DIAGRAMS  
FOUR CHANNEL USING FOUR INPUTS  
FOUR CHANNEL USING TWO INPUTS  
NOTE: When only two RCA's are plugged  
in then all four channels automatically  
derive their signal from those two inputs.  
NOTE: When four RCA's are plugged  
in then the amplifier works with  
four discreet channels.  
Full Range Speakers  
(1Minimum)  
Full Range Speakers  
(1Minimum)  
+
LEFT FRONT  
SPEAKER  
RIGHT FRONT  
SPEAKER  
+
LEFT FRONT  
SPEAKER  
RIGHT FRONT  
SPEAKER  
FRONT  
REAR  
+
+
SOURCE  
SOURCE  
AMP  
2
OUTPUT  
2R 2R  
-
AMP  
2
OUTPUT  
2R 2R  
-
2L  
+
2L  
-
+
2L  
+
2L  
-
+
RIGHT  
1L  
AMP  
+
1L  
-
1R  
+
1R  
-
ZRX  
AMP  
GAIN GAIN  
1
AMP  
2
RIGHT  
LEFT  
1L  
AMP  
+
1L  
-
1R  
+
1R  
-
ZRX  
AMP  
GAIN GAIN  
1
AMP  
2
1
OUTPUT  
BY-PASS  
MODULE  
1
OUTPUT  
LEFT  
BY-PASS  
MODULE  
AMP  
1
AMP  
2
OUTPUT  
AMP  
1
AMP  
2
INPUT INPUT  
OUTPUT  
INPUT INPUT  
INTERNAL  
*
INTERNAL  
*
CROSSOVER  
BYPASSED  
CROSSOVER  
BYPASSED  
+
+
LEFT REAR  
SPEAKER  
RIGHT REAR  
SPEAKER  
LEFT REAR  
SPEAKER  
RIGHT REAR  
SPEAKER  
+
+
Full Range Speakers  
(1Minimum)  
Full Range Speakers  
(1Minimum)  
BRIDGED TWO CHANNEL OPERATION STEREO  
CAUTION: Up to 180W available to each channel's speaker load. The L+R inputs  
for each channel will have the same information.  
Example: Amp 1 L+R input get "Left" signal, Amp 2 L+R input get "Right" signal.  
Full Range Speakers  
(2Minimum)  
"Y" Cables  
+
RIGHT  
LEFT  
+
SOURCE  
RIGHT  
LEFT  
RIGHT  
LEFT  
-
-
-
-
1L+ 1L 1R+ 1R 2L+  
2R+ 2R  
AMP2L  
2
OUTPUT  
ZRX  
AMP  
GAIN GAIN  
1
AMP  
2
AMP  
1
OUTPUT  
BY-PASS  
MODULE  
AMP  
1
AMP  
2
OUTPUT  
INPUT INPUT  
INTERNAL  
*
CROSSOVER  
BYPASSED  
BI AMP USING ZRX MODULE  
Mid/High Range Speakers  
(1Minimum)  
+
LEFT FRONT  
SPEAKER  
RIGHT FRONT  
SPEAKER  
+
SOURCE  
AMP  
2
OUTPUT  
-
2L 2R 2R  
-
2L  
+
+
RIGHT  
LEFT  
-
-
1R  
1L  
AMP  
+
1L  
1R  
+
ZRX  
LOWPASS  
MODULE  
AMP  
GAIN GAIN  
1
AMP  
2
1
OUTPUT  
AMP  
1
AMP  
2
OUTPUT  
INPUT INPUT  
INTERNAL  
*
CROSSOVER  
HIGHPASS  
+
KICKER Subwoofer  
(2Minimum)  
7
 
BI AMP USING EXTERNAL SUB AMP AND ZRX MODULES  
Full Range Speakers  
(1Minimum)  
+
LEFT FRONT  
SPEAKER  
RIGHT FRONT  
SPEAKER  
FRONT  
REAR  
+
SOURCE  
AMP  
2
OUTPUT  
-
2L+ 2L 2R+ 2R  
-
OUTPUT  
RIGHT  
-
-
1L+ 1L 1R+ 1R  
ZRX  
AMP  
GAIN GAIN  
1
AMP  
2
AMP  
1
OUTPUT  
HIGHPASS  
MODULE  
LEFT  
AMP  
1
AMP  
2
INPUT INPUT  
+
RIGHT REAR  
SPEAKER  
LEFT REAR  
SPEAKER  
+
Full Range Speakers  
(1Minimum)  
AMP  
2
OUTPUT  
-
2L+ 2L 2R+ 2R  
-
RIGHT  
LEFT  
ZRX  
GAIN  
LOWPASS  
MODULE  
OUTPUT INPUT  
+
KICKER Subwoofer  
(2Minimum)  
SETTING GAIN CONTROLS  
Each channel pair on the ZX460 is equipped with a variable gain control. The gain control  
is provided for level matching purposes; it does not give the amplifier any more power by  
turning it up – its purpose is to adjust the sensitivity of the amplifier in relation to the  
output level provided by the source.  
Start with the amp gain set to minimum by turning the control counter-clockwise.  
Turn the source level up until distortion is barely audible – this will be at about 75-80%  
of full volume. Raise the amplifier gain until distortion is just audible. The gain is now set  
correctly. Check the level with CD/tape and tuner to make sure the adjustment is correct  
for all sources.  
8
 
OPTIONAL ACTIVE SIGNAL PROCESSING MODULES  
All KICKER amplifiers have a Module Docking Port, which allows the use of any KICKER  
Module. These modules greatly increase your amplifier’s versatility, and cost very little  
when compared to “stand alone” units with the same functions.  
Active Crossover Modules:  
These 2-way modules allow you to use separate amplifiers for your subwoofers, midbass  
drivers, midranges, or tweeters. By doing this, especially on the subwoofer, a clean and  
undistorted sound is available at much higher listening levels.  
Each module offers a range of selectable crossover frequencies and 24dB/octave filtering.  
• SWX – 60Hz, 80Hz, or 100Hz subwoofer/midbass or midrange crossover.  
• MRX – 175Hz, 250Hz, or 350Hz midbass/midrange crossover.  
• TWX – 3500Hz or 4500Hz midrange/tweeter crossover.  
Specialty Modules:  
• EEM (Electronic Enclosure Module) – When used with KICKER Freeair™ woofers,  
this module simulates the response of KICKER Competition™ woofers in  
a sealed enclosure.  
• EQM (Equalization Module) – Frequency Enhancement and extension module  
that equalizes frequencies in the low bass region as well as the upper  
treble regions.  
• CRM (Center/Rear Fill Module) – This module allows one amplifier to drive a  
center channel and rear speakers independently at the same time.  
• RGX (Remote Gain Module) – An ideal amplifier enhancement module that pro  
vides a remote gain control function.  
• PBM (Parametric Bass Module) is designed to meet the demand for a  
remote-controllable bass EQ to enhance your bass listening pleasure and  
to allow you to adjust the bass boost and center frequency from the comfort  
of the driver’s seat.  
• KEQ (KICKEQ) – adds adjustable Bass Boost (up to +18dB at 40Hz) and Treble  
Boost (up to +12dB at 18kHz).  
• MMDP (Multi-Module docking Port) – Allows the use of two KICKER Active Signal  
Processing Modules in a single amplifier.  
See your Authorized KICKER Dealer for more high performance Active Signal Processing  
Modules - the secret behind the amazing flexibility of KICKER amplifiers.  
9
 
TROUBLE SHOOTING  
Note: It is normal for the yellow trouble LED to blink when the amplifier is turned on or off.  
This is a function of the protection circuit looking for trouble.  
Red LED power indicator off, yellow trouble indicator off.  
With a Volt Ohm Meter (VOM):  
• Check +12 Volt terminal  
• Check Ground terminal  
• Check for +12 Volts at remote turn-on terminal  
Red LED power indicator on, yellow trouble indicator off:  
• Make sure there is a module in place and the settings are correct  
• Check RCA and speaker connections  
Test speaker outputs with a known good speaker  
• Substitute a known good signal source  
Yellow trouble LED on, red power indicator off:  
1. Amp is very hot - Thermal protection is engaged. Verify that speaker  
load impedance is not below specified minimums. Check area  
around amplifier for objects which may restrict air flow and proper  
cooling. If this continues to be a problem, take vehicle to an  
authorized Kicker dealer for evaluation.  
2. Amp is not too hot - Overcurrent protection is engaged, red power LED  
blinks every two seconds. This indicates that there is a short in the  
speaker wiring. Locate short using a VOM by checking between  
speaker positive and negative. If the amplifier is used in stereo, try  
disconnecting one channel at a time to help isolate which channel is shorted.  
3. Amp is not too hot - Voltage to amp is not within the 9-16 volt operating  
range. If the vehicle’s charging system goes over 16 volts, the amp  
will shut off. If the voltage gets too low, the amp will not operate.  
Using a VOM identify the voltage problem and rectify.  
Alternator noise (whistling sound that follows the engine RPM).  
• Make sure that the amp case is not grounded.  
• Make sure that the source has a good ground.  
• Check routing of the RCA cable. Try substituting another RCA  
cable routed in a different location in the vehicle.  
• Check gain setting to make sure that it is not too high.  
Stereo image is unfocused and bass is reduced.  
Check system phasing by turning the balance control from the left to  
the right. If the bass is more prominent when turned to either side,  
check speaker wiring for proper positive and negative connections.  
Reverse connections on one channel if necessary.  
CAUTION: When jump starting the vehicle, be sure that connections made with jumper  
cables are correct. If improper connections are made, it can result in blown amplifier fuses  
as well as failure in other systems in the vehicle.  
More questions? See your Authorized KICKER Dealer or contact KICKER directly at  
(405) 624-8585 or the support section on www.kicker.com.  
10  
 
11  
 
ELECTRONICS LIMITED WARRANTY  
Stillwater Designs warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship  
under normal use for a period of three (3) years from date of original purchase when installed by  
an Authorized KICKER Dealer or one (1) year from date of original purchase if not installed by  
an Authorized KICKER Dealer. If this product is labeled “B Stock”, it is warranted for one (1) year  
from date of purchase, regardless of place of installation. Should service be necessary under this war-  
ranty for any reason due to manufacturing defect or malfunction during the warranty period,  
Stillwater Designs will replace or repair (at its discretion) the defective merchandise with equivalent  
merchandise at no charge. Warranty replacements on “B-Stock” merchandise may have cosmetic  
scratches and blemishes. Discontinued products may be replaced with equivalent products.  
This warranty is valid only for the original purchaser and is not extended to owners of the prod-  
uct subsequent to the original purchaser. Any applicable implied warranties are limited in duration to a  
period of the express warranty as provided herein beginning with the date of the original purchase at  
retail, and no warranties, whether express or implied, shall apply to this product thereafter. Some  
states do not allow limitations on implied warranties, therefore these exclusions may not apply to you.  
This warranty gives you specific legal rights; however you may have other rights that vary from  
state to state.  
WHAT TO DO IF YOU NEED WARRANTY OR SERVICE  
Defective merchandise must be returned to your local Authorized Stillwater Designs  
(Kicker/Impulse) Dealer for warranty. Assistance in locating an Authorized Dealer can be obtained by  
writing or calling Stillwater Designs direct. You can confirm that a dealer is authorized by asking to see  
a current authorized dealer window decal.  
If it becomes necessary for you to return defective merchandise, call the Kicker Customer Service  
Department at (405)624-8510 for a Return Authorization (RA) number. Package all defective items in  
the original container or in a package that will prevent shipping damage, and return to  
Stillwater Designs, 5021 North Perkins Road, Stillwater, OK 74075  
The RA number must be clearly marked on the outside of the package. Return only defective com-  
ponents. Non-defective items received will be returned freight collect.  
Include a dated proof-of-purchase from an Authorized Dealer. Warranty expiration on items  
returned without proof-of-purchase will be determined from the manufacturing date code. Coverage  
may be invalidated if this date is greater than one (1) year previous to the date item is sent in. Freight  
must be prepaid; items received freight collect will be refused.  
Failure to follow these steps may void your warranty. Any questions can be directed to the Kicker  
Customer Service Department at (405)624-8510.  
WHAT IS NOT COVERED?  
This warranty is valid only if the product is used for the purpose for which it was designed. It  
does not cover:  
• Products purchased from an unauthorized dealer.  
• Items previously repaired or modified by any  
unauthorized repair facility.  
• Damage due to improper installation  
• Damage caused by exposure to water, excessive  
heat, chemical cleaners, and/or UV radiation.  
• Damage through negligence, misuse, accident or  
abuse. Repeated returns for the same damage may  
be considered abuse.  
• Items returned from unauthorized individuals or  
dealers.  
• Return shipping on non-defective items.  
• Products with tampered or missing barcode labels.  
• Products returned without a Return Authorization  
(RA) number.  
• Freight damage.  
• The cost of shipping product to Stillwater Designs.  
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?  
Stillwater Designs maintains a goal of 24-hour service for all returns. Delays may be incurred if lack of  
replacement inventory or parts is encountered.  
INTERNATIONAL WARRANTY  
Contact your International Stillwater Designs dealer or distributor concerning specific procedures for your  
country’s warranty policies  
P.O. BOX 459 • STILLWATER, OKLAHOMA 74076 • 405 624-8510  
.KICKER components are capable of producing sound levels that can permanently damage  
your hearing! Turning up a system to a level that has audible distortion is more damaging  
to your ears than listening to an undistorted system at the same volume level. The  
threshold of pain is always an indicator that the sound level is too loud and may perma-  
WARNING:  
nently damage your hearing. Please use common sense when controlling volume!  
FEBRUARY 2000  
 

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