Kenwood KAC-M5001 Compact Mono Marine Amplifier

The Kenwood KAC-M5001 is a compact mono Class D amplifier designed to add dedicated subwoofer power to cars, boats, and other outdoor audio systems. It supplies up to 300 watts RMS at 2 ohms or 200 watts RMS at 4 ohms for a single subwoofer channel. Its compact sealed format helps solve the challenge of adding bass where installation space and environmental exposure are concerns.

This amplifier is suited to listeners building a modest subwoofer system in a vehicle or marine application. Its mono design focuses its output on low-frequency reproduction, with a variable low-pass filter and selectable bass-boost frequency for system tuning. A wired level control is included so the subwoofer output can be adjusted from a convenient mounting location.

The KAC-M5001 uses Class D amplification for efficient subwoofer power in a small chassis. Kenwood specifies a 20 Hz to 200 Hz frequency response, a 20 Hz infrasonic filter, and a low-pass filter adjustable from 50 Hz to 200 Hz. Polymer multi-layer capacitors in the LC filter circuit and magnetic shielding around the output coils are designed to support clean bass performance with reduced radiated noise.

For harsh environments, the amplifier has IP67/IP66 waterproof and dustproof certification, along with ASTM B117 salt-spray testing for the main amplifier unit. Its sealed cast-aluminum chassis incorporates a thick die-cast frame and raised drain tunnel to help manage vibration and moisture. The included remote level control is also waterproof and UV resistant.

Installation options support both aftermarket and factory-style audio systems. RCA line input is provided for compatible receivers, while speaker-level input can accept an audio signal from systems without RCA outputs. Signal-sensing turn-on can activate the amplifier when it detects an incoming audio signal, making it a practical addition to an expanded Kenwood or third-party subwoofer system.

Key Features

• Mono Class D Output: Delivers 200 watts RMS at 4 ohms or 300 watts RMS at 2 ohms.
• IP67/IP66 Protection: Sealed construction supports use in wet, dusty, and outdoor environments.
• Variable Low-Pass Filter: Adjusts from 50 Hz to 200 Hz for subwoofer integration.
• Speaker-Level Input: Connects to audio systems that do not provide RCA outputs.
• Signal-Sensing Turn-On: Powers on when an incoming audio signal is detected.
• Wired Level Control: Provides accessible adjustment of subwoofer volume from the included remote.

Design & Installation

The KAC-M5001 uses a corrosion-resistant sealed cast-aluminum chassis with a thick die-cast frame, terminal cover, rubber fuse cover, and drain tunnel. Metal power studs are used to support high-current battery connections, while the main unit and DC cable are rated for waterproof and dustproof use. Its compact enclosure measures 7-13/16 inches wide, 1-15/16 inches high, and 4-1/8 inches deep.

Mount the amplifier securely in a location that accommodates its pigtail wiring and avoids sharp bends or pinched cables. Connect a compatible 2- to 8-ohm subwoofer load through the parallel speaker-output leads, then use either the RCA line input or speaker-level input according to the source unit. Set the low-pass filter, infrasonic filter, bass boost, and wired level control to blend the subwoofer with the rest of the audio system.