Jensen KA-5 Multi-Channel Amplifier

Price Paid:  $0.00

Summary:
The Ka-series is supposedly Jensen's competition line however, these series never got advertised as much as the xa's. The ka5 is very affordable in the 5-channel range .The power is pretty clean, yet the sub output is a bit underpowered. I had two 10"'s running at 2 ohm (250 rms)which is adequately enough for their 180 rms rating at a QTC of 1.1. However there is not that much increase of power at 1 ohm (300rms, 125 @ 4 0hm). It's more efficient at 2. Both front and rear are bridgable at 4 ohms and the high fuse requirement (40 x2) lets you know the amp is capable of what it claims but, I doubt anyone will use it in that way. Power is suprisingly clean for a Jensen.It uses bipolar outputs which uses more power than mosfet outputs but, it sounds good enough not to worry about. The x-overs are very clean and precise though they don't sound like 18 db as it claims. Overall it is a good no-nonsense amp for the money for anyone looking to run an inexpensive one amp system. Just make sure to use speakers within it's power range to get the most out of it.

Strengths:
Bridging capabilities. Clean power and adequate x-overs. Fully variable bass boost @ 45hz. Sub input is switchable between front and rear input or an external mono signal. Good power and price! Paid $150 brand new!

Weaknesses:
Amp is monstrous (22"x11-1/2"x2-1/2"). High fuse rating (could use a bigger battery and/or cap). Not enough power increase @1 0hm. Rare! These amps are hard to find. No mosfet outputs; only mosfet power supply (that is why the high fuse requirement).No soft turn on/off circuit.

Similar Products Used:
Punch 150, Boss ava 600, Cadence cpa245.

Price Paid:  $299.00 from 9

Year / Model Reviewed:
 ka-5

Summary:
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Strengths:
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Weaknesses:
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Similar Products Used:
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Price Paid:  $220.00

Summary:
I cannot really compare this amplifier to any others. I haven't had that much experience with other amplifiers. All I know is that it is much better than the stock infinity amplifier that came with my durango. It put out a real clean sound, that stayed that way when I turned up the volume. No static, etc. The subwoofer channel was also pretty clean, but I felt it was underpowered. I had a 12 inch Infinity Kappa Perfect hooked up to it. I think this subwoofer just wanted more power to push it at low volume. But if I turned it up, it would definatley get loud and powerful.

Strengths:
Clean sound
Looks

Weaknesses:
Hard to adjust because crossover settings are recessed a bit
Pretty big in size. If your tight on space, look elsewhere

Similar Products Used:
None

Price Paid:  $200.00

Summary:
Features:

Power output @ 4 ohms: 50wRMS x 4, 100dB
High/Low Pass: 50-250Hz, 18db/octave slope
Bass Boost: +/- 12dB @ 45Hz
Fuse Rating: 2 x 40 amp
Dimensions: 2.4" x 11.3" x 19.7"


The new KA5 amplifier shows that Jensen can definitely make a quality, high end product. I have this amp installed in my 2001 Celica and it powers my front components, rear midrange drivers, and a single subwoofer with ease.

The build and sound quality are certainly comparable if not better than some of the other more respected brands out there. The KA5 delivers high end features at a low end price. It sends out (an underrated) 50 watts of clean pure power for my mids and highs and its Class D sub channel delivers clear controlled bass. Most amplifiers use only 12db/octave crossover slopes, whereas the KA5 uses 18db/octave slopes resulting in better transient response. The large extruded heatsink also keeps this amp cool, which helps it produce power more efficiently.

For an affordable top quality amplifier capable of powering your entire system, the Jensen KA5 is an excellent choice.

Strengths:
Clean power, 18dB/octave crossover slopes, 1 Ohm stable Class D sub channel, looks very nice, affordable price

Weaknesses:
surprisingly, none

Similar Products Used:
Rockford Fosgate 400a4, US Acoustics USX4065, Crunch Drive V-3004