Kicker key vs Alpine power pack

i did the kicker speaker upgrade and am pleased, but the power output on the head unit seems to be lacking. Is the DSP on the key really worth the extra money over the Alpine? It seems like that is the only difference between them.

 

The key is definitely worth the money.

The auto-EQ is nearly essential if keeping the factory radio.
Time alignment is nice as well to create a good sound stage.

While I still like the power pack for certain installs, it seems to be less clean power than the key.

 

Is the kicker key 45 W per channel RMS? The only thing the website and manual state is 45 per channel. All other kicker amps that I've looked are very clear about the ratings being RMS. I just emailed Kicker support and will report if I hear an answer.

 

Yes, 45 rms

 

Here’s a pull from the manual

 

I am considering an upgrade from my alpine powerpack to a key for the DSP and time alignment functions you mention. I had the powerpack from an earlier install and it’s been great, would anyone chime in that’s had both and sway me one way or the other if I should upgrade what I have? I don’t really want to go dedicated 4 channel amp and I already have a sub and mono amp, so strictly a swap from power pack to key180.4.

Thanks in advance!

 

I've installed dozens of both, and I won't promise it will be worth the price to upgrade if you already have the alpine.
The features of the Key are nice, but I'm not sure they're worth $170.
For people with no amp, its worth it. But since you already have an amp, you already have the biggest feature (more power)

 

Thanks for your response, I value your opinion and experience.

 

I'm glad I stumbled on this thread, I think one of these may be great for my situation. I have a 2013 CR-Z, 2015 CR-V and hopefully soon a 2nd gen Tacoma. All of which are going to need some basic stereo improvements. The Kicker Key + new speakers may be a good option for all 3 of my vehicles.

 

I have used an alpine power pack before but i much prefer a channel amp. So much easier to adjust and more for the money. JMO

 

My Jl xd500/3 just took a crap, I had it powering a sub and front speakers in my truck. I had a spare JX500 I used to power the sub, but now I need a new amp for the front speakers which are now powered off the head unit. I was also looking at the kicker key to power my JL c2 650 components. I am thinking about doing an active setup since it has the DSP. Has anyone else tried the bi amp mode for components?

 

looking to get new door speakers think i’m going to get these rockford fosgate’s i have a 2015 entune radio and was looking at amping them.
anyone able to guide me in the right direction on an amp been reading about these power packs. and also i have no clue how to install to a factory radio. anyone able to help?

 

Go check out this thread...

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/kickercs-upgrade-with-kicker-key-amp-install-assistance.568985/

 

Nice price on those speakers!