Kicker Impulse IX254 User Manual

Congratulations! You have just purchased one of the latest in a long line of
exceptional car audio power amplifiers from Stillwater Designs. Your KICKER
Impulse was designed and engineered by the same team which created
many other international award winning KICKER components like the ZR, ZX,
and XS-Series amps. It contains a number of cutting-edge features to give
you outstanding performance
Thanks for buying KICKER. Enjoy.
KICKER IMPULSE AMPLIFIER FEATURES
A set of RCA output jacks on your KICKER Impulse four-channel amplifier allows you to
build multiple amplifier systems without using RCA splitter cords to distribute the signal.
Now it is simply a matter of bringing one set of RCA cables into the first amplifier, then
using the output RCA jacks as a feed to the next amplifier. A rear channel input switch
allows four-channel output operation from either one or two inputs.
Amplifiers are stable at 2 Ohms stereo and as low as 4 Ohms in mono.
Input connections are included for high and low level signals for use with radios that
have either RCA or speaker level outputs.
An electronic crossover is built in for convenience and allows you to select high pass for
satellite speakers, low pass for subwoofers, or bypass for full range operation. In full range
configuration the KICKER Impulse amplifiers will operate stereo and mono and at the same
time.
Auto-resetting short circuit and overthermal protection circuits are incorporated to pro-
tect the amplifier from failure due to extreme conditions.
State of the art circuit including MOSFET power supply and glass epoxy circuit boards
are used to ensure many years of trouble free operation.
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IX254, IX404, IX704
Four-Channel Power Amplifier

Kicker Impulse IX254 Specifications

General

Channels	2
Minimum Impedance Bridged	4 Ohms
Minimum Impedance Unbridged	2 Ohms
Bass Boost	0-12 dB
Crossover	Variable
RMS Power at 4 Ohms	25 Watts x 2
Frequency Response	20-20000 Hz
Low-Pass Crossover Frequency	50Hz-200Hz
High-Pass Crossover Frequency	50Hz-200Hz
Power Output (RMS)	25W x 2 (4 Ohms)

Summary

KICKER Impulse Amplifier Features

Wiring Instructions

Input Signal Source

Discusses preferred input methods via RCA or speaker level signals.

Power and Grounding Connections

Covers proper power/ground wiring, fuse, wire gauge, and ground point connection.

Mounting the IMPULSE Amplifier

Mounting Location and Airflow

Guides on selecting location, securing, and optimizing cooling via heatsink orientation.

Chassis Isolation and Noise Reduction

Details using isolators for chassis isolation and preventing engine noise.

Connecting Input Options

RCA Input Configurations

Explains connecting one or two pairs of RCA cables for 4-channel output.

High Level Input Configurations

Details using single or dual stereo pairs of speaker-level inputs.

Basic System Configurations

Stereo Four Channel Setup

Wiring diagram for a full-range stereo system with four speakers.

Bi-Amp Hookup with Crossovers

Diagram for connecting satellite speakers and a subwoofer using internal crossovers.

Advanced System Configurations

Bi-Amp with Mixed Amplifier Types

System diagrams for bi-amping using a 4-channel and 2-channel amp, or two 4-channel amps.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

LED Indicators and No Output

Interpreting LED lights and diagnosing no audio output issues.

Channel and Protection Circuit Faults

Resolving single channel problems and addressing thermal/short circuit protection.

Addressing Audio Noise Interference

Identifying and fixing engine-speed related whining noise in the audio system.

Adjustments and Tuning Controls

Setting Gain and KICKEQ Controls

Guides on matching amplifier sensitivity and tuning bass/treble frequencies.

Crossover Setting Safety Warning

Important safety warning about changing crossover settings while the amplifier is on.

Technical Specifications

Power, Dimensions, and Response

Details power ratings, physical size, frequency response, sensitivity, and crossover features.

Electronics Limited Warranty

Warranty Terms and Service Procedure

Covers warranty duration, service process, exclusions, and international policies.