Kicker 46CXARC Bass Knob: How to Wire It to Your Amp
By Car Audio and Tint | Car Toys | Washington, Texas, Colorado ... | Published: 2026-10-31
Category: How-to Guides
Wire the Kicker 46CXARC remote bass knob to a compatible Kicker amp in five steps. Learn the correct jack, cable routing, and common mistakes to avoid.
Quick answer
Plug the Kicker 46CXARC's cable into the REMOTE BASS jack on a compatible Kicker amplifier, route the 19.75-foot cable to your dash, and mount the knob where you can reach it while driving. No power or ground wiring is needed.
Check compatibility before you start
The 46CXARC works with Kicker KEY500.1 and Hideaway amplifiers, plus any CX, DX, or PX Kicker amplifier that has a REMOTE BASS jack on its end panel. If your amp lacks that jack, the knob has no port to plug into and cannot control bass level. Check the end panel of your amplifier before buying or installing.
Plan the cable route around heat and moving parts
The supplied cable is 19.75 feet long, which is enough for most vehicles when routed along the factory sill plates or under the center console. Keep the cable away from exhaust components, sharp metal edges, and seat tracks that slide. A route that crosses a seat rail can pinch or cut the cable over time.
Mount the knob where you can adjust it safely
Choose a dash or console location that you can reach without leaning forward or looking away from the road. The knob is a remote level control, not a primary volume control, so it should be easy to find by feel. Avoid mounting it where it blocks a vent, airbag, or factory control.
Step-by-step installation
- Locate the REMOTE BASS jack: Find the jack on the end panel of your Kicker amplifier. It is typically labeled REMOTE BASS or REMOTE. If you cannot find it, check your amp model against the compatibility list before proceeding. Snap a photo of the end panel so you can confirm the jack type without crawling back under the dash.
- Disconnect the amplifier: Turn off the stereo and disconnect the amplifier's main power fuse or remove the negative battery terminal before plugging in the cable. This prevents accidental short circuits while you work near the amp.
- Plug the cable into the amp: Insert the connector firmly into the REMOTE BASS jack until it seats. Do not force it; the plug is keyed and should slide in smoothly. A loose connection can cause intermittent bass level changes.
- Route the cable to the cabin: Feed the cable through an existing grommet or factory wire channel. Avoid drilling new holes unless necessary, and use zip ties to secure the cable every 12 to 18 inches. Keep it away from moving seat parts and hot exhaust surfaces. Leave a small service loop near the amp so you can remove it later without cutting ties.
- Mount the knob: Hold the knob in your intended location and check that it does not interfere with driving controls or airbags. Use the supplied mounting hardware or double-sided tape if included. Clean the surface with isopropyl alcohol before applying tape. Test reach with your seatbelt on before you commit to the mounting location.
- Reconnect power and test: Reconnect the battery or fuse, turn on the stereo, and play a familiar track with strong bass. Rotate the knob from minimum to maximum and confirm the bass level changes smoothly. If it does not, check that the plug is fully seated at the amp. Set the knob to a moderate level before you start driving so you do not surprise yourself with full bass.
Product facts
- Kicker 46CXARC Bass Control Knob: The CXARC is a remote bass controller compatible with KEY500.1 and Hideaway, and any CX, DX or PX KICKER amplifier equipped with a REMOTE BASS jack on its end. Confirm your amplifier has that jack before installing; without it, the knob cannot connect.
Kicker 46CXARC Bass Control Knob - Kicker 46CXARC Bass Control Knob: Cable length is 19.75 feet. That length supports most dash-to-trunk routes, but measure your planned path to avoid a short run.
