Hertz CP 5.1K Cento Power 5-Channel 1030W Class D Car Amplifier

A Hi-Res Audio certified 5-channel Class D car amplifier delivering 1030W total power from a compact aluminium diecast chassis, the Hertz CP 5.1K features Advanced D-Class (ADC) technology with over 85% efficiency, Ready to Plug Molex connectivity, Universal Speaker Simulator (USS) input compatibility, and a comprehensive onboard control set including adjustable crossovers, bass boost, and subsonic filter.

Product Overview

The Hertz CP 5.1K is a 5-channel (3-channel bridgeable) car amplifier from the Cento Power series, rated at 1030W total power across its output configurations. Built on Hertz's Advanced D-Class (ADC) technology, the CP 5.1K achieves over 85% efficiency within a compact aluminium diecast chassis, making it suited to installations in space-constrained modern vehicles or factory amplifier locations. Hi-Res Audio certification provides a frequency response of 10Hz to 41kHz on front and rear channels, ensuring full dynamic range reproduction from high-resolution audio files.

The amplifier accepts both Pre-In and Speaker-In inputs, with Pre-In sensitivity adjustable from 0.32 to 8VRMS and Speaker-In sensitivity from 1.6 to 40VRMS. The built-in Universal Speaker Simulator (USS) allows correct connection to head units with speaker load detection functions common in modern OEM and aftermarket head units. Automatic Remote Turn-On/Off activates from OEM radio speaker outputs via the ART function. Ready to Plug Molex connections and provided plug-and-play cables simplify installation. Full-range pre-outs are available with both input types. The HRC 02 remote control (sold separately) allows subwoofer level adjustment from within the cabin. The CP 5.1K is compatible with power supply voltages from 9 to 18VDC, making it suitable for electric vehicle applications. Mounting options include screw surface mounting, tape surface mounting, and recessed mounting.

Output power at 1% THD covers five configurations: 80W x 4 + 330W x 1 at 5Ch/4 ohms; 130W x 4 + 510W x 1 at 5Ch/2 ohms; 260W x 2 + 510W x 1 at 3Ch/2 ohms and 4 ohms; and 260W x 2 + 320W x 1 at 2Ch/4 ohms. Minimum load impedance is 2 ohms at 5-channel and 4+4+2 ohms at 3-channel configuration.

Features & Benefits

Hi-Res Audio Certified - 10Hz to 41kHz Frequency Response: The CP 5.1K holds Hi-Res Audio certification with a measured frequency response of 10Hz to 41kHz on the front and rear channels, capturing the full dynamic range of high-resolution audio files and delivering audio detail beyond the 20kHz upper limit of standard audio equipment.

Advanced D-Class (ADC) Technology - Over 85% Efficiency: Hertz's ADC output stage delivers over 85% power conversion efficiency, reducing heat generation and current draw while maintaining exceptional sound clarity. This enables the compact chassis form factor and makes the CP 5.1K suitable for installation in tight modern vehicle spaces.

1030W Total Power - Fully Bridgeable 5-Channel to 3-Channel: The CP 5.1K delivers up to 1030W total output across its output configurations, with the amplifier fully bridgeable from 5-channel to 3-channel operation for system flexibility. The subwoofer channel delivers up to 510W RMS at 2 ohms.

Universal Speaker Simulator (USS) - SB Head Unit Compatibility: The integrated USS technology allows the CP 5.1K to correctly connect to modern head units with speaker load detection functions that monitor for a low-impedance load to enable audio outputs, ensuring compatibility across a wide range of OEM and aftermarket head unit architectures.

Ready to Plug Molex Connections: Durable long-term Molex connectors and provided plug-and-play cables simplify and accelerate installation, reducing wiring complexity and connection time.

Pre-In and Speaker-In Inputs with Adjustable Sensitivity: Both Pre-In (0.32-8VRMS) and Speaker-In (1.6-40VRMS) inputs are provided with adjustable sensitivity, allowing the CP 5.1K to integrate with virtually any source unit signal level. Balanced input circuitry on both input types provides advanced noise rejection.

Automatic Remote Turn-On/Off (ART): The ART function enables automatic remote turn-on and turn-off activated by OEM radio speaker outputs at 1.5VDC, eliminating the need for a dedicated remote turn-on wire when installing with OEM source units.

Comprehensive Onboard Control Set: Accessible top panel controls include adjustable input levels, front channel high-pass filter (Full or 50-5000Hz at 12dB/Oct), rear channel low-pass filter (Full or 50-5000Hz at 12dB/Oct), sub channel low-pass filter (50-500Hz at 24dB/Oct), bass boost (0-9dB at 50Hz), and subsonic high-pass filter (25Hz at 24dB/Oct), providing complete system tuning without external processors.

Sub Remote Volume Control: The sub channel supports remote volume control adjustment from -20 to +6dB via the HRC 02 remote control (sold separately), enabling convenient subwoofer level adjustments from within the cabin after installation.

Full-Range Pre-Outs (Front Channel): Full-range pre-outs are provided on the front channel for connection of additional amplification stages when required.

Electric Vehicle Compatible: The CP 5.1K operates across a power supply range of 9 to 18VDC, making it suitable for installation in electric and hybrid vehicles alongside conventional 12V automotive systems.

Compact Aluminium Diecast Chassis with LED Status Indicator: The compact aluminium diecast housing provides structural rigidity and thermal management, with a solid machined terminal block, removable top panel shielding the control panel during use, and an LED status indicator for operational monitoring.

Flexible Mounting Options: The CP 5.1K supports screw surface mounting, tape surface mounting, and recessed mounting configurations for installation flexibility across different vehicle and enclosure setups.

Technical Specs

Compatible With

The CP 5.1K is compatible with virtually any car audio source unit via its Pre-In and Speaker-In inputs with adjustable sensitivity. The USS technology ensures correct operation with head units featuring speaker load detection, including modern OEM and aftermarket SB head units. The ART function enables automatic remote turn-on from OEM radio speaker outputs. The HRC 02 remote control (sold separately) is compatible with the CP 5.1K for in-cabin subwoofer level adjustment. Operating voltage range of 9-18VDC provides compatibility with conventional 12V automotive, 24V, and electric vehicle power systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Advanced D-Class (ADC) technology and how does it benefit the CP 5.1K?

Advanced D-Class (ADC) is Hertz's implementation of Class D amplification technology optimised for car audio applications. It achieves over 85% power conversion efficiency, meaning less energy is wasted as heat compared to traditional Class AB designs. This allows the CP 5.1K to deliver 1030W total power from a compact aluminium diecast chassis that fits in modern vehicle installations where space is increasingly limited.

What is the Universal Speaker Simulator (USS) and when is it needed?

The USS (Universal Speaker Simulator) is a built-in circuit that presents a low-impedance load to head units with speaker load detection functions. Some modern OEM and aftermarket head units monitor the speaker outputs for a low-impedance load and disable audio output if no load is detected, as would be the case when connecting to a high-impedance pre-in input. The USS simulates the expected speaker load, allowing the head unit to enable its audio outputs correctly and ensuring compatibility without additional external components.

Can the CP 5.1K be used as a 3-channel amplifier?

Yes. The CP 5.1K is fully bridgeable from 5-channel to 3-channel operation. In 3-channel mode the minimum load impedance is 4+4+2 ohms, delivering 260W x 2 on the main channels and 510W x 1 on the subwoofer channel.

Does the CP 5.1K work in electric vehicles?

Yes. The CP 5.1K operates across a power supply range of 9 to 18VDC, which covers the operating voltage ranges of conventional 12V automotive, hybrid, and electric vehicle systems.

What is the HRC 02 and is it included?

The HRC 02 is Hertz's optional remote control accessory that allows the subwoofer level on the CP 5.1K to be adjusted from -20 to +6dB from within the vehicle cabin after installation. The HRC 02 is not included with the CP 5.1K and must be purchased separately.