Kicker makes two amplifier families that customers often compare: KMA marine amplifiers and KPX powersports amplifiers. Both are weather-resistant, but they're designed for different jobs. Here's how we explain the difference at Ocean Rock Audio, South Florida's Kicker marine boat speaker specialist.
Kicker KMA: built for boats
KMA amps are purpose-built marine amplifiers. - Conformal-coated circuit boards - REAL MARINE ABYC/NMMA-compliant power connections - 316L stainless hardware - Variable crossovers and KickEQ bass boost
Models we stock: - KMA360.4: 90W x 4 @ 2Ω, 65W x 4 @ 4Ω, or 180W x 2 bridged. Runs four speakers, or two plus a sub. - KMA600.4: a higher-power 4-channel option. - KMA600.6: six channels for multi-zone boats.
Browse 4-channel marine amps or 6+ channel marine amps.
Kicker KPX: built for tight spaces
The KPX300.4 is designed for motorcycles, UTVs and other space-compromised installs. - 75W x 4 @ 2Ω, 45W x 4 @ 4Ω, or 150W x 2 bridged - About 3-5/16" wide by 8-1/2" long, so it fits under a fairing - Selectable high-pass crossovers at 60/80/100/120 Hz - Low current draw for small charging systems
Side-by-side
| KMA360.4 | KPX300.4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Built for | Boats | Motorcycles, UTVs |
| Power @ 2Ω | 90W x 4 | 75W x 4 |
| Bridged | 180W x 2 | 150W x 2 |
| Size | 12-7/16" long | 8-1/2" long |
| Bass boost | KickEQ variable | N/A |
Which should you choose?
- Boat with room for an amp: KMA. The marine connections and bass control are worth it. Pair it with KM speakers and a KMF12 sub.
- Harley fairing or saddlebags: KPX. It fits where a KMA can't. Pair it with Kicker Harley kits like the 52HDBX1469 bag kit.
- UTV or golf cart: KPX for size, or a KMA if you have a dry mounting spot and want more control.
- Wake boat towers: KMA, because large towers need the headroom. See sizing KMFC tower speakers.
Wiring
Use a proper kit such as the KMPK4 4-gauge marine amp kit and fuse it close to the battery.
FAQ
Can I use a KPX on a boat? It's weather-resistant, but KMA amps are the purpose-built marine choice, with marine-compliant connections.
Can a KMA run a subwoofer? Yes. Bridge two channels on a KMA360.4 for a sub such as the KMF12.
Which uses less current? The KPX is designed for low draw on powersports charging systems.
Ocean Rock Audio is an authorized Kicker dealer listed on kicker.com, so your gear carries Kicker's full manufacturer warranty.