STILLWATER, USA – KICKER® is proud to announce the revolutionary KEY180.4 Smart Amplifier with 180 watts of power, Auto-EQ and compatibility with start/stop vehicles. This new mobile-audio technology will be unveiled during CES 2018 and will be available at Authorized KICKER Dealers in-store and online by first-quarter 2018. The KEY180.4 will also be available for purchase at www.kicker.com.

The KEY180.4 represents a completely revolutionary approach to achieving greatly improved sound quality and imaging in an affordable, all-in-one package that installs nearly anywhere, and works with even the most modern factory or aftermarket audio systems. KICKER always suggests that consumers seek a demonstration of the KEY180.4 from an authorized KICKER dealer as time allows, to experience the dramatic improvement of any mobile-audio system.

The extremely compact KEY180.4 automatically improves the sound quality of any vehicle with the push of a button.  KEY technology breathes new life and realism into any audio system, factory or aftermarket, with this brilliant amplifier and acoustic processor in one.  The four-channel amplifier comes with a microphone and integrated push-button remote. The remote is designed to start the calibration process once microphone placement near ear level is complete.

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 start/stop compatibility to work with nearly any vehicle on the road today. Once installed, the amp can be activated via remote 12v signal or DC offset. Additionally, the amplifier’s miniscule 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 a 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 a cancellation of the compressor. Music then returns to its full dynamic range without a moment’s inconvenience or interruption.

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 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. Follow KICKER socially at Facebook.com/kickeraudio, Twitter.com/kickeraudio, Instagram.com/kickeraudio, or Pinterest.com/kickeraudio.

KICKER KEY180.4 Smart Amplifier Specifications

Multi-Channel Model (at 14.4V)    KEY180.4                    

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

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