Kenwood KAC-M1814

Features
Connections

Features

Overview: The Kenwood KAC-M1814 4-channel amplifier is effectively two full range 2-channel amps built into one chassis, labeled A (front) and B (rear). Each section of the amp is bridgeable, so it can be wired as 4-channel, 3-channel, or 2-channel. The amp features a conformal coating on the circuit board to protect it from moisture. This allows you to use the amp for marine applications or on All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs).

CTA-2006 Compliant: CTA-2006 is a system of testing and measurement for mobile audio amplifiers. This voluntary standard advocates a uniform method for measuring an amplifier's RMS power output and signal-to-noise ratio. The criteria for measuring amplifier power uses a DC input voltage of 14.4 volts and the RMS power output is measured over a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz (for full range amplifiers), with 1% or less Total Harmonic Distortion plus noise (THD+N). Signal-to-Noise ratio is measured in weighted absolute decibels (dBA) at a reference of 1 watt into 4 ohms. CTA-2006 standards allow consumers to compare car amplifiers and receivers under the same conditions (apples to apples).

CTA-2006 Specifications:

• Power Output: 45 watts RMS x 4 into 4Ω
• Signal to Noise Ratio: 82 dBA (measured at 1 watt into 4Ω)

Other Specifications:

• Power Output:
  • 2Ω: 45 watts RMS x 4 (14.4 volts, ≤1.0% THD, measured at 1 kHz)
  • Bridged: 90 watts RMS x 2 (14.4 volts, ≤1.0% THD, measured at 1 kHz into 4Ω)
• Signal to Noise Ratio: 98 dB (at rated power output)

Crossover: The front and rear sections of the amplifier have independent crossover controls. Each can be set to high-pass, low-pass, or off (full range). The crossover points are continuously variable from 50 to 200 Hz; the slope is 12dB/octave.

Protection Circuitry: The amplifier features protection circuitry for thermal overload, DC output, and short circuits. The amp stops operating when it goes into protection mode. (There are no LED indicators.)

Signal Sensing Turn-on: When the amplifier is connected using speaker level inputs, from a factory or aftermarket head unit, the amplifier's signal sensing turn-on feature will turn the amp on when a signal is detected on the input. This eliminates the need to connect a turn-on lead to the amp's Power Control wire.

Connections

Wiring: The amp is equipped with a 22-pin DC connector. The included 5' DC harness, which plugs into the connector, has wires for +12V battery power, ground, power control (turn-on lead), and four speakers.

Power/Ground: The power and ground are 16-gauge wires. The power wire can be connected to the car's fuse box or directly to the battery. The amp is protected by a 15-amp ATM mini blade fuse. If wiring directly to the battery, install an in-line fuse (15-amp minimum) no more than 18" from the battery terminal. The ground wire should be attached to a chassis ground close to the amplifier.

Power Control: The blue/white Power Control wire should be connected to the head unit's remote turn-on lead when an aftermarket unit is used. This wire does not need to be connected if you're using speaker level inputs. The signal sensing turn-on feature will turn on the amplifier when a speaker level input signal is detected.

Line Level Inputs: The amplifier is equipped with two pair of RCA inputs. Two 38" stereo RCA patch cables are included. If using a factory head unit, or a unit without preamp outputs, the RCA inputs will also accept a speaker level signal. Adding a speaker level to RCA adapter is recommended (sold separately) when using speaker level inputs.

• Note: If bridging the amp, 2 RCA Y-adapters will be required (sold separately).

Speaker Outputs: The included DC harness has eight wires for connecting four speakers to the amp.