When I installed my first serious car audio system, I quickly learned that the quality of the wiring is just as critical as the amplifier itself. You can buy a thousand-watt amp, but if your connections can’t deliver clean power, you’ll never hear its true potential. That’s why choosing the right kicker amp kit is essential. Over the years, I’ve tested numerous power solutions, and Kicker consistently delivers reliable, high-specification components. This guide dives deep into the best Kicker wiring solutions available right now, ensuring your next audio project gets the clean current and signal integrity it deserves.
Contents
- Kicker 46CK4 K-Series Complete 4-AWG Amplifier Connection Kit W/ 2-Channel RCA Interconnects
- Kicker 46CK8 K-Series Complete 8-AWG Amplifier Connection Kit W/ 2-Channel RCA Interconnects
- Kicker 46KISLOC2 K-Series Stereo Line-Output Converter w/Remote Turn-On Output
- Kicker 46PKD1 PKD1 1/0AWG Dual Amplifier Power Kit – Power, Ground, Distribution Block, Remote Wire and Fuse Block.
- Kicker 46PK4 PK4 4-AWG Amplifier Power Kit – Power, Ground, Remote Wire and Fuse Block.
- Kicker 46PK8 PK8 8-AWG Amplifier Power Kit – Power, Ground, Remote Wire and Fuse Block.
- Kicker CK4 4AWG Complete Amplifier Kit
- TOPSTRONGGEAR 4ga Amp Kit – 4 Gauge AWG Amplifier Wiring Kit for Car Subwoofers Speakers Audio System, Complete Amp Installation Kit with 20ft Power Ground Cable, RCA Cables, Fuse Holder, Speaker Wire
- Kicker 47VK6 VK6 6AWG Complete Amplifier Wiring Kit w/2CH Interconnects
- KICKER Amplifier and Amp Kit Package of 2 Items – CX Series 800W RMS Class D Monoblock Amplifier and Complete 4AWG Wiring Kit
- Comparison Insights: Choosing Your Kicker Amp Kit
- Final Verdict: The Best Kit for Every Scenario
- Frequently Asked Questions About Kicker Amp Kit
- What is the difference between a Complete Kicker Amp Kit and a Power Kit?
- How do I know which wiring gauge (4 AWG, 6 AWG, or 8 AWG) I need?
- Are Kicker’s “Full Spec” wires superior to standard CCA wire found in some kits?
- Do I need a Line-Output Converter (LOC) if I use a kicker amp kit?
- Can I install a kicker amp kit myself, or should I hire a professional?
- What is the “remote turn-on wire” and why is it important?
Kicker 46CK4 K-Series Complete 4-AWG Amplifier Connection Kit W/ 2-Channel RCA Interconnects
The 46CK4 is the benchmark for most high-quality, single-amp installations. This comprehensive kit provides everything you need to connect a powerful amplifier, focusing heavily on power delivery and signal quality. I was particularly impressed with the flexibility of the Hyper-Flex power and ground wires, which makes routing through tight spaces much easier during installation. This kit guarantees Full Spec wire performance, meaning you get the true gauge size advertised, ensuring minimal power loss.
Key features that stand out:
- Gauge Size: 4-AWG (suitable for high-wattage systems)
- Completeness: Includes Hyper-Flex power/ground, K-Series speaker wire, RCA interconnects, and remote wire.
- Safety: Comes with a heavy-duty AFS fuse holder and fuse.
Pros:
– Full Spec wire ensures optimal power transmission.
– High-quality K-Series RCA cables included for excellent signal integrity.
– Flexible Hyper-Flex cabling simplifies the installation process.
Cons:
– A bit overkill if you are running a very low-power amplifier.
Best for: High-powered monoblock or multi-channel installations requiring 4-gauge wiring and complete signal/power management.
Expert Opinion: This is the foundational kicker amp kit. For any serious system pushing over 500 watts RMS, this kit provides the safety and current necessary to protect your investment and maximize output quality.
Kicker 46CK8 K-Series Complete 8-AWG Amplifier Connection Kit W/ 2-Channel RCA Interconnects
For smaller, more efficient amplifiers, or when space is a major constraint, the 46CK8 is the perfect fit. This kit follows the same high-quality philosophy as the 4AWG version but uses 8-gauge wire, which is more appropriate for systems demanding less current (typically under 400 watts RMS). The inclusion of the K-Series interconnects and Hyper-Flex technology ensures that even though the system is smaller, you aren’t sacrificing signal quality or installation ease.
Key features that stand out:
- Gauge Size: 8-AWG (ideal for moderate power)
- Included Components: Full set of Hyper-Flex power, ground, remote wire, and K-Series RCA interconnects.
- Fuse Type: Heavy-duty AFS fuse holder and appropriate fuse.
Pros:
– Excellent value for moderate power systems.
– Smaller gauge is easier to route through factory wire channels.
– Full-spec wiring prevents voltage drop in smaller systems.
Cons:
– Not suitable for amplifiers requiring over 40-50 amps of fusing.
Best for: Adding power to component speakers or running small to medium-sized monoblocks.
Expert Opinion: Don’t assume 8-gauge means lower quality; for lower power draws, this smaller kicker amp kit delivers the exact same reliability and component quality as the 4-gauge model, but in a more compact package.
Kicker 46KISLOC2 K-Series Stereo Line-Output Converter w/Remote Turn-On Output
Often, when upgrading audio, you want to keep the factory radio. The 46KISLOC2 solves the biggest problem in this scenario: converting high-level speaker signals into clean, low-level RCA signals for an amplifier. What truly sets this LOC apart is its built-in feature that automatically generates a 12-volt remote wire signal using DC offset sensing. This eliminates the headache of searching for an accessory wire or installing a switch.
Key features that stand out:
- Function: Converts speaker signal (high level) to RCA signal (low level).
- Remote Turn-On: Powerful 100 milli-amp, 12-volt remote wire output.
- Signal Handling: Accepts up to 55 watts (16 volts) of input signal without distortion.
Pros:
– Essential for integrating aftermarket amps with OEM head units.
– Automatic remote turn-on simplifies installation significantly.
– Maintains true sonic accuracy across all volume levels.
Cons:
– It’s a component, not a full wiring kit, so cables must be sourced separately.
Best for: Anyone keeping their factory head unit but adding an amplifier for subwoofers or speakers.
Expert Opinion: If you are tackling a factory integration job, you need this. It’s a game-changer for generating a reliable remote signal, a common pain point when installing any kicker amp kit into a modern vehicle.
Kicker 46PKD1 PKD1 1/0AWG Dual Amplifier Power Kit – Power, Ground, Distribution Block, Remote Wire and Fuse Block.
The 46PKD1 is designed for serious power users running two separate high-draw amplifiers, typically one for subs and one for speakers. This kit starts with massive 1/0 AWG (zero gauge) wire, which minimizes voltage drop over long runs or during extreme power bursts. The critical component here is the included distribution block, which safely and efficiently splits the single power run into separate feeds for both amplifiers, ensuring clean current delivery to both units simultaneously.
Key features that stand out:
- Gauge Size: Heavy-duty 1/0 AWG Hyper-Flex cabling.
- Focus: Power only kit (no RCAs included).
- Dual Amp Support: Includes a robust distribution block for splitting current.
Pros:
– Handles extremely high current necessary for competition or high-end dual systems.
– Hyper-Flex wire remains manageable despite its large gauge.
– Full distribution block system included for safe wiring.
Cons:
– Zero gauge wiring can be challenging to route in smaller cars.
Best for: Dual-amplifier installations exceeding 1500 watts RMS total, where current delivery is paramount.
Expert Opinion: When running big power, you can’t skimp on the main feed wire. The 1/0 AWG in this dual kicker amp kit ensures that even during demanding bass notes, your voltage stays stable and your amps perform optimally.
Kicker 46PK4 PK4 4-AWG Amplifier Power Kit – Power, Ground, Remote Wire and Fuse Block.
This is the streamlined version of the 4-gauge offering. The 46PK4 is a Power Kit only, meaning it includes the necessary components for power delivery and ground (Hyper-Flex wire, fuse holder, terminals, remote wire) but intentionally leaves out the RCA interconnects and speaker wire. This is perfect for users who already own high-end signal cables or are using a different method of signal input (like the KISLOC2).
Key features that stand out:
- Gauge Size: 4-AWG Full Spec Hyper-Flex.
- Components: Power, Ground, Remote Wire, Heavy-Duty AFS fuse holder.
- Wire Quality: Top-quality, flexible cabling for ease of install.
Pros:
– Ideal for custom installations where signal cable lengths vary.
– Excellent foundation for high-power systems without paying for unneeded RCAs.
– Full Spec wiring guarantees maximum power delivery.
Cons:
– You must separately source your RCA cables and speaker wire.
Best for: Installers who prefer specific RCA lengths or those utilizing a line output converter setup.
Expert Opinion: If you are meticulous about signal integrity and want to choose your own high-end RCAs, starting with the 46PK4 power base allows you to pair Kicker’s excellent power delivery with your chosen signal cabling.
Kicker 46PK8 PK8 8-AWG Amplifier Power Kit – Power, Ground, Remote Wire and Fuse Block.
Just like the 4-gauge power kit, the 46PK8 strips down the offerings to the bare essentials needed for power connection—all using quality 8-AWG Hyper-Flex wiring. This eight-gauge amp kit is reliable for those moderate-power installs where current draw is lower, perhaps running a dedicated four-channel speaker amp. The kit provides the necessary fusing, terminals, and remote wire, maintaining Kicker’s quality standards for safety and flexibility.
Key features that stand out:
- Gauge Size: 8-AWG Full Spec Hyper-Flex.
- Kit Type: Power-only kit.
- Safety: Comes with AFS fuse holder and fuse.
Pros:
– Cost-effective solution for lower-power single amp installs.
– Easy to install and conceal due to the smaller wire size.
– Includes reliable AFS fusing.
Cons:
– Requires separate purchase of signal and speaker wire.
Best for: Budget-conscious installs where RMS output is modest (under 400W) but quality power wire is still required.
Expert Opinion: For a simple bass upgrade or adding a small channel amp, this power-only kit provides the robust foundation without unnecessary signal components. It’s highly reliable for its gauge class.
Kicker CK4 4AWG Complete Amplifier Kit
The CK4 is another iteration of Kicker’s complete 4AWG solution, emphasizing an ultra-compact design. This kit contains all the essentials: top-quality Hyper-Flex power and ground wires, along with high-performance K-Series signal and speaker wire. Its main benefit is its compact packaging and refined components, ensuring professional results without excess bulk. This is a solid, no-frills complete 4-gauge kicker amp kit.
Key features that stand out:
- Gauge Size: 4AWG Complete Kit.
- Cabling: Top-quality, Hyper-Flex power, ground, and turn-on wire.
- Interconnects: High-performance K-Series speaker wire and interconnects.
Pros:
– Complete package ready for installation out of the box.
– High-quality insulation for excellent durability.
– Trusted Kicker performance and wire specifications.
Cons:
– May lack some of the advanced hardware components found in the K-Series line.
Best for: Standard, high-power single amplifier installation where guaranteed quality and completeness are desired.
Expert Opinion: When you just need a straightforward, quality 4-gauge install without worrying about matching components, the CK4 is a dependable choice that meets all power requirements for mid-to-high wattage amps.
TOPSTRONGGEAR 4ga Amp Kit – 4 Gauge AWG Amplifier Wiring Kit for Car Subwoofers Speakers Audio System, Complete Amp Installation Kit with 20ft Power Ground Cable, RCA Cables, Fuse Holder, Speaker Wire
While Kicker sets the standard, this TOPSTRONGGEAR kit provides a value-driven alternative for the 4-gauge market. It offers a complete installation solution, including a robust CCA (Copper Clad Aluminum) wire setup. It’s noteworthy for including a long 20ft power cable and an OFC (Oxygen Free Copper) Bassik RCA cable, a feature often reserved for premium kits. This kit balances cost with completeness, providing everything necessary for a functional system install.
Key features that stand out:
- Wire Material: CCA Power Wire (Ultra Flex Red) and OFC RCA Cable.
- Fuse: Water Resistant InLine Fuse Holder with an 80 Amp ANL fuse.
- Cabling: Generous 17ft 4 AWG power wire and 18ft 16 AWG speaker wire.
Pros:
– Highly cost-effective complete 4-gauge solution.
– OFC RCA cables are superior for signal transmission.
– Includes a heavy-duty ANL fuse holder for safety.
Cons:
– CCA wire (instead of pure OFC) requires careful attention to amp distance to prevent voltage drop.
Best for: Budget-conscious consumers needing a complete 4-gauge kit who are running moderate power and can ensure short wire runs.
Expert Opinion: This competitive kit offers excellent value, particularly because of the OFC RCA cable inclusion. When installing, remember that CCA wire is slightly less efficient than pure OFC wire for current transfer, so sizing should be conservative.
Kicker 47VK6 VK6 6AWG Complete Amplifier Wiring Kit w/2CH Interconnects
The 47VK6 introduces a sometimes overlooked middle ground: the 6-gauge wire. 6 AWG is ideal for amplifiers that draw too much current for 8-gauge but don’t quite need the bulk of a 4-gauge wire. This kit is a complete solution, featuring Full-Spec Hyper-Flex power and ground cables, K-Series signal wire, and the heavy-duty AFS fuse holder. It’s an excellent choice for a mid-powered mono amplifier or a high-efficiency 5-channel amp.
Key features that stand out:
- Gauge Size: 6 AWG Full-Spec (perfect intermediate size).
- Completeness: Includes all power, ground, signal, and speaker components.
- Hardware: Comes with insulated crimp connectors, zip ties, and robust hardware.
Pros:
– Great compromise between bulk and current delivery.
– Full-Spec wire ensures reliable performance.
– All hardware required for a clean install is included.
Cons:
– 6-gauge termination can sometimes be difficult to find accessories for compared to 4 or 8-gauge.
Best for: Mid-range systems (400W–600W RMS) where space saving is crucial, but 8-gauge is insufficient.
Expert Opinion: If your amplifier specs suggest fusing around 50-60 amps, 4-gauge is often overkill and 8-gauge is insufficient. This 6-gauge kicker amp kit is the precise, safe choice for that power bracket.
KICKER Amplifier and Amp Kit Package of 2 Items – CX Series 800W RMS Class D Monoblock Amplifier and Complete 4AWG Wiring Kit
This package is the ultimate convenience, pairing a renowned Kicker amplifier with a matching 4AWG wiring kit. The heart of the bundle is the Kicker 46CXA800.1T CX Series Class D Mono Amplifier, rated for a solid 800W RMS. By bundling the amp and the necessary 4AWG wiring (specifically the DS18 AMPKIT4), the user is guaranteed that the wiring gauge is appropriately sized for the amp’s output, eliminating sizing guesswork.
Key features that stand out:
- Bundle Value: Amplifier and appropriate wiring kit sold together.
- Amplifier: Kicker 46CXA800.1T (800W RMS Class D Monoblock).
- Wiring Match: Includes a complete 4AWG kit suitable for the 800W output.
Pros:
– Guaranteed power and wiring match straight out of the box.
– Excellent value compared to buying components separately.
– Kicker CX series amps are known for reliability and clean power.
Cons:
– The included wiring kit (DS18) is a third-party brand, not Kicker’s K-Series.
Best for: First-time installers or anyone seeking a high-quality, powerful subwoofer setup with guaranteed compatibility.
Expert Opinion: This bundle is hassle-free. The Kicker amp is excellent, and pairing it directly with a 4AWG kit ensures you don’t under-wire the system. It’s a smart choice for plug-and-play high power.
Comparison Insights: Choosing Your Kicker Amp Kit
Selecting the right kicker amp kit comes down to three main factors: power needs, signal integration, and completeness.
For high-power users (over 500W RMS), the 4-gauge wire options like the Kicker 46CK4 (complete) or 46PK4 (power only) are non-negotiable. These guarantee stable voltage delivery. If you are running multiple amps, the Kicker 46PKD1 with its 1/0 AWG massive power cable is the only safe solution.
Mid-range systems (300W–500W) have more flexibility. The Kicker 47VK6 (6 AWG) offers an excellent middle ground, providing more current capability than 8-gauge without the bulk of 4-gauge.
Remember that a complete kicker amp kit (CK series) includes both power and RCA cables, while the power kits (PK series) are only for current delivery. If you are hooking up to a factory stereo, the Kicker 46KISLOC2 line-output converter must be factored into your total budget and installation plan, as it’s essential for achieving a clean signal and remote turn-on.
When considering non-Kicker brand wiring, such as the TOPSTRONGGEAR kit, note the difference between materials. Kicker typically uses high-spec or OFC wire, whereas value kits often rely on CCA (Copper Clad Aluminum). While CCA works, you need to use a slightly thicker gauge or minimize cable length to achieve the same performance as full OFC/Full Spec wiring.
Final Verdict: The Best Kit for Every Scenario
Instead of a single “best kit,” the right choice is the one that meets your specific power demands and installation needs.
The Safest and Most Reliable Complete Choice: For the majority of users running a single high-power amp (over 500W), the Kicker 46CK4 K-Series Complete 4-AWG Amplifier Connection Kit provides unmatched component quality, flexibility, and safety. It’s the gold standard for clean power.
Best for Factory Stereo Integration: If you are determined to keep your stock radio, the Kicker 46KISLOC2 Line-Output Converter is the single most valuable component reviewed, solving the complex remote turn-on issue effortlessly.
Best for Serious Power Users (Competition Grade): Anyone running dual amplifiers requiring over 1500W RMS should invest in the power capacity of the Kicker 46PKD1 1/0AWG Dual Amplifier Power Kit. This ensures voltage stability at extreme loads.
Best Value for Moderate Power: If your amplifier runs under 400W RMS, the Kicker 46CK8 K-Series Complete 8-AWG Amplifier Connection Kit delivers premium Kicker quality in a compact, affordable package.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kicker Amp Kit
What is the difference between a Complete Kicker Amp Kit and a Power Kit?
A Complete Kicker Amp Kit (like the K-Series CK4 or CK8) includes everything needed: the power wire, ground wire, fuse, remote turn-on wire, RCA interconnect cables, and speaker wire. A Power Kit (like the PK4 or PK8) only includes the components required for power delivery (power wire, ground wire, fuse, and remote wire). Power kits are ideal if you plan to buy specialized RCA cables or already have speaker wire.
How do I know which wiring gauge (4 AWG, 6 AWG, or 8 AWG) I need?
The required gauge size is determined by the total RMS wattage of your amplifier and the length of the run from the battery to the amp location. As a general rule:
- 8 AWG: Suitable for systems up to 300-400 Watts RMS.
- 6 AWG: Ideal for systems between 400 and 600 Watts RMS (like the Kicker 47VK6).
- 4 AWG: Recommended for systems over 600 Watts RMS (the safest choice for most modern monoblocks).
- 1/0 AWG: Used for systems over 1500 Watts RMS or dual amplifier setups.
Using a wiring gauge that is too small (e.g., 8 AWG for a 1000W amp) can cause excessive voltage drop, leading to amplifier overheating and potential failure.
Are Kicker’s “Full Spec” wires superior to standard CCA wire found in some kits?
Yes, Kicker’s Full Spec wire, often made from Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) or high-quality copper strands, is generally superior for amplifier installation. Copper Clad Aluminum (CCA) wire, used in many budget kits, has higher resistance than pure copper. This means CCA requires a thicker gauge to carry the same current safely over the same distance, minimizing voltage drop. Full Spec wire guarantees the advertised gauge delivers maximal current efficiency.
Do I need a Line-Output Converter (LOC) if I use a kicker amp kit?
You only need a Line-Output Converter (like the Kicker 46KISLOC2) if you are connecting your new aftermarket amplifier to a factory (OEM) head unit that does not have dedicated RCA outputs. The LOC converts the high-level speaker signal into a clean, low-level signal that the amplifier can use. If you have an aftermarket stereo with RCA pre-outs, you do not need an LOC.
Can I install a kicker amp kit myself, or should I hire a professional?
Many enthusiasts successfully complete their own amplifier installation. Kicker kits, particularly those using Hyper-Flex wire, are designed for easier routing. However, running power cables safely, grounding properly, installing the fuse block correctly near the battery, and correctly setting the amplifier gains requires mechanical skill and knowledge of electrical safety. If you are unsure about wiring or routing, hiring a professional installer is recommended to avoid vehicle damage or electrical fires.
What is the “remote turn-on wire” and why is it important?
The remote turn-on wire is a thin wire (usually blue) included in every kicker amp kit. It connects the amplifier to the head unit and tells the amplifier when to turn on and off. When you turn off your radio, the remote wire signal drops, and the amplifier shuts down, preventing your battery from draining. The Kicker 46KISLOC2 is unique because it can automatically generate this signal even when hooking up to a factory radio.
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this site.
