The best Kicker amp for your subwoofers is the one that fits their final wired impedance and continuous power needs. Among these three mono Class-D models, start with the CXA400.1 for a smaller system, the CXA800.1 for the middle power range, and the CXA1200.1 when the installation calls for substantially more output.
These are feature-based recommendations from Kicker specifications and its owner’s manual. We have not bench-tested the amps or measured sound quality. Match the exact subwoofer configuration before choosing a model.
Compare the three Kicker subwoofer amps
The table lists nominal RMS output per channel at 14.4 volts and no more than 1% THD+N. Kicker qualifies the 1-ohm ratings by ±10%; actual vehicle conditions matter. All three are mono amps with a 1-ohm minimum load.
| Model | RMS at 4 ohms | RMS at 2 ohms | RMS at 1 ohm | Good fit when… |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kicker CXA400.1 | 150 W | 300 W | 400 W | You need up to 300 W at 2 ohms in this comparison |
| Kicker CXA800.1 | 300 W | 600 W | 800 W | Your system calls for about 600 W at 2 ohms |
| Kicker CXA1200.1 | 600 W | 1,200 W | 1,200 W | You need 1,200 W at 2 ohms and can support the installation |
1. Kicker CXA400.1: for a smaller subwoofer system
Choose the CXA400.1 when its 150-watt rating at 4 ohms or 300-watt rating at 2 ohms suits the subwoofer manufacturer’s recommendation. Its advertised 400-watt output is the 1-ohm figure, so a 4-ohm sub does not receive that rating simply because “400” appears in the name.
The chassis is 8⅛ inches long, and the variable low-pass filter covers 50–200 Hz. It is a sensible starting point when you want the lowest-output option here; leave the manual’s ventilation clearance around it even if the chassis fits under a seat.
Kicker 46CXA4001 Mono Subwoofer Amplifier
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2. Kicker CXA800.1: for a 600-watt, 2-ohm target
The CXA800.1 is our middle-range pick: 300 watts RMS at 4 ohms, 600 at 2 ohms and nominally 800 at 1 ohm. It has the same listed 8⅛-inch length as the smaller model, but that does not make their power wiring interchangeable.
Its low-pass filter and fixed 25 Hz subsonic filter help define the frequency range sent to the subwoofer. The optional CXARC dash control is sold separately. Check the enclosure maker’s requirements before assuming the fixed subsonic filter is suitable for a particular ported box.
3. Kicker CXA1200.1: for a higher-power installation
The CXA1200.1 is the choice here for a 1,200-watt RMS rating at 2 ohms; it is rated at 600 watts at 4 ohms. Its nominal 1-ohm rating is also 1,200 watts, with the stated tolerance. Do not lower the load just because you assume it will double the output.
The longer 12-inch chassis and larger electrical demand deserve planning before purchase. Have an installer confirm the subwoofer power handling, charging system and wiring. Check the Kicker CXA1200.1 specifications and verify exactly which installation accessories the offer includes.
Choose the amp around the subwoofer and vehicle
Start with the subwoofer’s voice-coil configuration and the final load of the complete wiring arrangement. Compare the amp’s RMS rating at that load with the subwoofer maker’s recommended amplifier range. Do not use a peak-watt headline as a matching rule, or connect these amps below 1 ohm.
Kicker’s manual specifies an external 40 A fuse and 8-gauge power/ground wire for the CXA400.1, 80 A and 4-gauge for the CXA800.1, and 100 A and 4-gauge for the CXA1200.1. These are model-specific starting requirements for an installer, not permission to reuse unknown existing cable.
Budget for installation as well as the amplifier. The owner’s manual requires disconnecting the vehicle battery before wiring, a power-cable fuse within 18 inches of the battery, and at least 4 inches of open ventilation. Let a qualified installer assess the vehicle and complete the work.
Gain matches the source signal to the amp; it is not an extra volume control. Incorrect gain can damage speakers, and Kicker warns that sustained clipped or overpowered operation can overheat components and create a fire risk. Stop if the system distorts or shows a fault, and have the installation checked.
Frequently asked questions
Is a bigger Kicker amp always better?
No. Choose the RMS output appropriate to the complete subwoofer load and the vehicle’s installation. A larger rating is useful only when the speakers and electrical system can support the intended setup.
Can I run these amps at 1 ohm?
Kicker documents 1-ohm operation for these CXA models, with ±10% tolerance on the nominal 1-ohm power ratings. Confirm the final wiring load; do not operate below the stated minimum.
Does the CXA800.1 make 800 watts at 4 ohms?
No. Its listed RMS output at 4 ohms is 300 watts; 800 watts is the nominal 1-ohm figure. Read the rating for the impedance you will actually use.
Is the remote bass knob included?
Kicker lists the CXARC remote bass control as a separately sold accessory for these amps. A seller’s bundle may differ, so check its exact contents instead of assuming a knob or wiring kit comes with the amplifier.
Will an amp work with my factory radio?
These models accept low-level inputs of 125 mV–5 V and high-level inputs of 1–40 V. Those ranges do not establish compatibility with every factory audio system. Have the installer check the source signal and required integration before buying.
