Can’t find the best amp for Kicker L7 12″ or 15″ subs? We will help you to find a good model for your car.
The Kicker L7 was the first square-shaped sub in the speaker market that guaranteed better SPL and power handling than traditional subwoofers. This heavy-duty, powerful sub from Kicker will work wonders for your vehicle’s audio system filling the space with booming bass.
To make the most of Kicker L7 for enabling your car audio to pump out balanced bass, midrange, and treble, you should pair it with a high-quality amp.
All Kicker L7 models, including the bigger ones (12” and 15”), are 2ῼ/4ῼ dual voice coil subs that work best with a premium class-D monoblock amp. A monoblock amp featuring just one channel is ideal for driving a high-powered sub like the L7, enabling it to perform optimally. Additionally, ensure to choose an amp that comes in a ported enclosure to enjoy the full blast and promote air circulation.
Without further ado, let’s look at our list of the best amplifiers for Kicker L7 available on the market at the moment.
Best Amps for Kicker L7 (12″ and 15″ Amps Comparison)
| Image | Model | RMS 4/2/1Ω | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rockford Fosgate R2-1200X1 (Top Pick Overall) | 400-800-1200 | Check Price |
 | Hifonics ZG-3200.1D Zeus Gamma (Best on a Budget) | 800-1600-3200 | Check Price |
 | Rockford Fosgate Punch P1000X1BD (Close Runner-Up) | 300-500-1000 | Check Price |
 | Kicker 46CXA1200.1 (Best from Kicker) | 600-1200-1200 | Check Price |
Rockford Fosgate R2-1200X1 Amplifier (Editor’s Choice)
Grouped under the Prime R2 Series of amps, the Rockford Fosgate R2-1200X1 serves as the cornerstone for your car audio. The R2-1200X1 Amp comes equipped with more than adequate power for driving beefy speakers and subs such as the Kicker L7. Since the R2-1200X1 amp was introduced, it has undergone a breathtaking improvement and integrated with advanced and practical features.
Designed with meticulous care, the R2-1200X1 as a class-D 1200W amp guarantees high-level performance while operating at 1ῼ, 2ῼ, or 4ῼ. The R2 performs super efficiently thanks to its class-D architecture that aids in relieving stress off of your vehicle’s electrical setup. On the other hand, this amp is reinforced with C.L.E.A.N circuitry and P.O.W.E.R supply that facilitate adjustment of gain settings and generation of greater power with voltage increase.
Additionally, an incorporated PUNCH Equalizer (EQ) comes in handy to help make corrections for acoustic insufficiencies while reproducing up to 3 times the bass. Remote level control, together with an adjustable infrasonic filter, lets you tweak the bass when pairing with a sub. Rockford Fosgate developed the Prime Series amps keeping the preferences of car audio enthusiasts in mind looking for a performance-oriented but budget-friendly amp.
In the world of amps, Rockford Fosgate amplifiers are reputed universally for being ‘underdogs’ yet exceed all specs, performing well beyond their expectations. In addition, Rockford’s proprietary C.L.E.A.N (Calibrated Level Eliminates Audible Noise) circuitry includes input and output clip indicators that aid in making the source (sub) compatible with the amp. To say last but not least, the Rockford Fosgate R2-1200X1 is a top-quality amp that is also pocket-friendly.
Features
- Class-D monoblock amp
- RMS power rating: 4ῼ (400W, 1-channel), 2ῼ (800W, 1-channel), 1ῼ (1200W, 1-channel)
- Balanced differential inputs with RCA pass-through output
- Frequency response: 20Hz-250Hz
- Fully adjustable 12dB/octave high- and low-pass Butterworth Crossovers
- Overload and short-circuit protection
Pros
- Cast aluminum heat sink shields amp from overheating issues
- Defeat switch for turning on the amp automatically
- Equipped with Class-D technology, this amp consumes minimal power from your vehicle’s electrical system
- Sophisticated P.O.W.E.R supply delivers more power than the rated spec
Cons
- High level of distortion with THD + N up to 10% generating noise at higher volume levels
Hifonics ZG-3200.1D Zeus Gamma Amplifier (Best on a Budget)
If you’re looking to upgrade your vehicle’s stereo/audio system, then you don’t need to look farther than the Hifonics amplifier. The ZG-3200.1D Zeus Gamma Amp by Hifonics is a 2400W Max Class-D Mono Amplifier engineered scrupulously to deliver high-octane power to your speakers and subs with incredible efficiency.
The Hifonics car audio amplifier with peak power ratings of 3200W, 1600W, and 800W for a single channel at 1ῼ, 2ῼ, and 4ῼ respectively performs beyond your expectations. This specific single channel monoblock amplifier takes full advantage of ultra-superior MOSFET output device technology and old-school signature Hifonics aluminum assembly for delivering high-decibel sound with nominal THD (total harmonic distortion). At the same time, the high-quality aluminum heat sink goes a long way in expediting heat dispersion and efficient cooling.
This Hifonics vehicle sub-features nickel-plated impact- and high-temperature resistant connectors with hex screw terminals for facilitating safe connectivity. The forged connection terminals are appropriately profiled for easily accessing all the speaker, ground, and power connections. In addition, the ‘Bass EQ’ control boosts up power output at 45Hz for additional and more focused bass.
The high pass filter restricts the output below the chosen frequency for safeguarding hi- and midrange speakers from damage and enabling the trouble-free transition from the sub. Alternatively, the low pass filter control curbs output beyond the preferred frequency level for switching to hi-frequency speakers quite effortlessly. Finally, the ‘crossover mode’ switch helps preset the crossover type that will come into play.
The switch for ‘input mode’ automatically merges the right and left channel signals while in mono mode for boosting bass performance. Make sure to keep this switch in ‘mono’ and only in the ‘mono’ position when you’re connecting the amp with subwoofers.
Features
- Class-D monoblock 3200W car audio amp
- Low noise preamp circuit
- RMS power rating: 1ῼ (3200W, 1-channel), 2ῼ (1600W, 1-channel), 4ῼ (800W, 1-channel)
- High-level RCA inputs
- Operation mode: Mono only
- Onboard electronic crossover
- Included bass remote
- LED system protection circuitry diagnostics
Pros
- Nickel-plated, impact and high temperature resistant with hex screw terminals makes the amp erosion-resistant and facilitates safe connection
- Superior aluminum heat sink for better heat dissipation
- PWM MOSFET power supply for consistent power via the PC board with negligible heat generation
- Wired bass remote control for correcting bass frequencies from the control
- Daisy chain multiple amp for doing away with extra signal cables at the source
Cons
- Many customers have complained of receiving counterfeit sets that didn’t have a crossover switch.
Rockford Fosgate Punch P1000X1BD Amplifier (Close Runner-Up)
The Rockford Fosgate Punch P1000X1BD Amplifier uses its class-BD geometrics for pumping out 1000W RMS guaranteeing full-on bass for your buck. Furthermore, thanks to its highly steadfast and focused low-frequency response, the Punch P1000X1BD amp works immaculately with subs or mid-bass tweeters. Hence you can comfortably pair this amp with a couple of 4ῼ Kicker L7 or a quartet of 2ῼ L7s owing to the Punch’s 1ῼ load (impedance) capability.
The Punch P1000X’s1ultra-efficient class-BD architecture enables the amp to generate greater bass more effectively than conventional amps. Rockford’s customized heat sink design efficiently uses high aluminum mass for accelerating heat dissipation, thereby keeping the circuitry cool even under demanding situations. In addition, the stealthy matt finished top mount control panel safeguards the crucial controls and imparts a lustrous look.
This amp exploits Rockford’s patented C.L.E.A.N setup mode for ensuring that your car audio’s output will be powerful and clean. The PLC2 remote level control (optional) also works as a clip indicator to see if the sound is undergoing distortion. The Punch’s integrated computer keeps track of the output current, which guarantees that fluctuating sub impedance or even a short-circuit will not impair anything.
An LFP (low-pass filter) comes in handy for enabling your sub to steer clear of high-frequency sound waves. On the other hand, an infrasonic filter allows you to restrain elusive bass. The Punch bass booster helps reinstate a proportion of the escaping bass into your music whenever you want to.
Features
- Class-BD 1000W full chassis mono amp designed exclusively for subs
- RMS power output: 4ῼ (300W x 1), 2ῼ (500W x 1), 1ῼ (1000W x 1)
- Solid build quality that makes Rockford Fosgate amps highly sought-after
- 1-year warranty (if bought from an authorized Rockford Fosgate dealer or vendor)
- RCA inputs accept and process both hi- and low-level signals without a signal converter
Pros
- Reinforced with C.L.E.A.N technology for clean and full-bodied audio output
- Over current and short circuit protected
- Generating up to 1000W RMS, the Punch provides plenty of sparkling and flavorful power for rhythm numbers.
Cons
- Many customers have reported receiving the Punch with a total RMS power much more than specified.
Kicker 46CXA1200. 1 Amplifier (Best from Kicker)
The 46CXA1200.1 Amp from Kicker is presently resolutely stable at 1-ῼ, thereby offering you multiple wiring options for your car audio. Tethered to a class-D monoblock circuitry, the 46CXA1200.1 Amp offers you an additional bass boost of 6dB with an easy turn of the CXARC remote bass controller (optional).
Capable of accepting up to 400W of speaker-level input signal, this CX-Series amp doesn’t require a line-out converter for optimizing audio quality. The differential RCA line level signal inputs make for an incredibly low noise floor, reducing RF and EMI interferences. Go for a full-range amp to set up your car audio system, or choose full-scale outputs to reinforce your vehicle audio with other bass amps.
Last but not least, it is the amp from the same manufacturer who made the subs. In general, we believe it’s better to match subwoofers and amplifiers from the same manufacturer. In the case of L7 subs, we think the 46CXA1200.1 model is good enough to do the job.
Features
- 1200W RMS class-Dmono car audio/stereo amp
- RMS power rating: 4ῼ (600W x 1), 2ῼ (1200 x 1), 1ῼ (1200W x 1)
- CXARC remote bass controller (optional)
- Frequency response: 25-200Hz
- Active crossover
- Subsonic filter
Pros
- 24dB subsonic filter offers shielding from potentially damaging frequencies
- 3-second delayed turn-on/off delay for eliminating undesirable interference
- Compactly designed for trouble-free mounting/installation
Cons
- The 25Hz infrasonic filter (@24dB an octave) does not play the music that plunges below 25Hz
How to Match a Kicker L7 to an Amp?
To extract the maximum out of your Kicker L7 DVC sub, you’ve to see to it that you match the sub with the amp. Choosing the right amp for your subwoofer (or vice-versa) is very much like resolving a jigsaw puzzle. The sub’s impedance rated in ohms is deciphered or interpreted as ‘load’ by the amp at its output.
Depending on the impedance or load the amplifier construes from the sub, the receiver will lay out varying amounts of power or watt RMS.
RMS Rating of Your Amp
In straightforward terms matching up your L7 with an amp implies that the latter’s capabilities should correspond with the former’s specs. In other words, the amp can comfortably deal with the 4ῼ/2ῼ/1ῼ impedance load and 600W/750W/1200W RMS of the L7. Therefore, it would be best to match both the variables (impedance and RMS wattage) for your sub and amp.
If you’re wiring several subs in unison (either in series or parallel), make sure the subs have the same coil configuration and have identical impedance. If you’re looking to drive multiple single-coil and dual-coil subs, each has its characteristic impedance, and then each will need a separate amp.
For wiring together multiple subs (L7 DVC sub having impedance loads of 4/2/1 ohm), you’ll have to find out their cumulative RMS wattage. Then, simply multiply The MS rating of every sub with the total number of subs. The idea is to ensure that your chosen amp will put out RMS power equivalent to the combined RMS wattage of your systems.
In the next step, calculate the probable total impedance load(s) formed after wiring the subs together. Though the combinations of subs with their respective impedances will be exhaustive, we’ll focus on wiring 1DVC and 2 DVC L7 subs. Here are the possible combinations:-
- 1 DVC 2-ohms outputs 1-ohm or 4-ohms of impedance
- 1DVC 4-ohms outputs2-ohms or 8-ohms of impedance
- 2 DVC 2-ohms outputs 2 ohms or 8 ohms of impedance
Example:
For instance, you’ve two DVC 4ῼ Kicker L7 12” subs with an RMS rating of 600W each. Two RMS 600W subs will require a total 1200W RMS wattage output from the amp. You can create a 1-ohm, 4-o, hm, or 16-ohm impedance load by wiring up the two DVC 4-ῼ subs. Since a 16ῼ load is excessively high for practical purposes, you’ll be looking for an amplifier capable of putting out 1200W RMS into a 1ῼ or 4ῼ load:-
- Up to 600W RMS x single-channel at 1ῼ
- Up to 600W RMS x single-channel at 4ῼ
All the four amps reviewed above should comfortably match the 12’’ L7 (and the 15” as well). Keep in mind that regardless of the impedance load, any of the amps put out 600W RMS via a 1-ohm load generates identical volume as the 600W RMS through a 4-ohm load.
Conclusion: The Best Amplifier for L7 15″/12″ Is…
The Kicker L7 Series subwoofers are among the most popular and bestselling car audio subs you can choose. Matching them with a suitable amplifier will let you get the most from this high-quality equipment.
All four amps, two from Rockford Fosgate and one each from Hifonics and Kicker, should match the L7, whose RMS varies from 450W to 1000W based on the sub’s size. Our favorite is the Rockford Fosgate R2-1200X1 amplifier that ticks all the boxes.