Kicker Subwoofers Review: Powerful Bass on a Budget
If you’re craving that deep, chest-thumping bass in your car without emptying your wallet, Kicker subwoofers might just be your sweet spot. For decades, Kicker has been a go-to brand for car audio enthusiasts looking for quality and performance at a reasonable price. But with so many models and options available, how do you choose the right Kicker subwoofer for your needs? This review dives deep into what makes Kicker subs stand out, exploring their various series, technologies, and ideal applications to help you make an informed decision.
Why Choose Kicker Subwoofers?
Before we dive into specific models, let’s address the elephant in the room: why Kicker? The answer boils down to a few key factors: Value for Money: Kicker strikes a great balance between price and performance. You get a significant bass boost without needing to spend a fortune. Reputation: Kicker has built a solid reputation over the years for producing reliable and durable subwoofers. They're known for handling power well and delivering consistent sound. Variety: Kicker offers a wide range of subwoofers to suit different vehicles, listening preferences, and budget constraints. Whether you need a small, shallow-mount sub for a tight space or a high-powered competition-grade monster, Kicker likely has a model for you. Ease of Installation: Many Kicker subwoofers are designed with ease of installation in mind, making them a popular choice for DIYers.
Kicker Subwoofer Series Overview: Finding Your Perfect Match
Kicker offers several distinct subwoofer series, each designed for specific applications and performance levels. Understanding these series is crucial to finding the right match for your vehicle and your ears.
Kicker Comp Series: Entry-Level Excellence
The Kicker Comp series is the gateway to the Kicker subwoofer world. These subs offer a fantastic starting point for those looking to add some low-end punch to their car audio system without breaking the bank.
Key Features: Polypropylene cone, ribbed surround, high-temp voice coil. Ideal For: Budget-conscious buyers, adding bass to a factory system, casual listening. Pros: Affordable, durable, easy to install. Cons: Not as powerful or refined as higher-end models. Example:Kicker Comp C10 (10-inch)
Kicker Comp VR Series: Stepping Up the Performance
The Comp VR series represents a step up in performance and power handling compared to the Comp series. These subwoofers are designed for those who want a more substantial bass experience.
Key Features: Dual voice coils, stiffer cone, improved heat dissipation. Ideal For: Enthusiasts looking for a significant bass upgrade, moderate power amplifiers. Pros: More power handling, deeper bass response, better overall sound quality than the Comp series. Cons: More expensive than the Comp series, requires a more powerful amplifier. Example:Kicker Comp VR 12 (12-inch)
Kicker Comp C Series: The Sweet Spot
The Kicker Comp C Series provides a balance of performance, reliability, and price. It serves as a step up in quality from the entry-level Comp Series.
Key Features: More durable cone materials, enhanced voice coil cooling. Ideal For: Budget-conscious buyers who want more bass response than the Comp Series can offer. Pros: Great Value, good power handling, enhanced performance compared to the Comp series. Cons: Not as powerful or refined as higher-end models like the Comp VR or L7 series. Example:Kicker Comp C 10 (10-inch)
Kicker L7 Series (Solenic): The Square Subwoofer Legend
The L7 series, also known as the Solobaric, is Kicker's flagship line of square subwoofers. The unique square design allows for a larger cone area compared to a round subwoofer of the same size, resulting in greater air displacement and, ultimately, louder and deeper bass.
Key Features: Square cone, massive motor structure, advanced heat management. Ideal For: Serious bass enthusiasts, competition-level systems, those who want maximum SPL (Sound Pressure Level). Pros: Extremely loud and powerful, unique design, impressive bass response. Cons: Expensive, requires a powerful amplifier, can be difficult to install due to its size. Example:Kicker L7 12 (12-inch)
Kicker Shallow Mount Subwoofers: Bass Where You Thought You Couldn't
For those with limited space, Kicker offers a range of shallow-mount subwoofers designed to fit in tight spaces like under seats or behind truck seats. These subs sacrifice some depth for convenience without completely compromising performance.
Key Features: Low profile design, optimized motor structure, efficient cone design. Ideal For: Trucks, small cars, vehicles with limited space, those who want a stealthy installation. Pros: Fits in tight spaces, decent bass response for its size, easier to install in some vehicles. Cons: Not as powerful as full-size subwoofers, may require a custom enclosure. Example:Kicker Comp RT (available in various sizes)
Key Technologies in Kicker Subwoofers
Beyond the different series, Kicker incorporates several key technologies into their subwoofers to enhance performance and reliability.
Heat Management: Kicker subwoofers use various strategies to dissipate heat generated by the voice coil, including vented pole pieces, forced-air cooling, and high-temperature adhesives. This is crucial for preventing damage and ensuring long-term performance, especially at higher power levels. Cone Materials: Kicker uses a variety of cone materials, including polypropylene, Kevlar, and carbon fiber, depending on the series and performance goals. Each material offers different characteristics in terms of stiffness, weight, and damping. Surround Design: The surround is the flexible material that connects the cone to the basket. Kicker uses ribbed surrounds to improve cone control and reduce distortion. Voice Coil Configuration: Kicker offers both single and dual voice coil (DVC) subwoofers. DVC subwoofers provide more wiring flexibility, allowing you to optimize the impedance of your system for maximum amplifier output.
Choosing the Right Kicker Subwoofer: A Buying Guide
Selecting the perfect Kicker subwoofer for your needs involves considering several factors. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you make the right choice:
1.Determine Your Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a subwoofer? This will immediately narrow down your options.
2.Assess Your Space: Where will the subwoofer be installed? Measure the available space to determine the maximum size subwoofer and enclosure you can accommodate. Consider shallow mount options if space is limited.
3.Consider Your Amplifier: Choose a subwoofer that is compatible with your amplifier's power output and impedance. Matching the subwoofer's power handling to the amplifier's output is crucial for optimal performance and preventing damage.
4.Think About Your Listening Preferences: What kind of music do you listen to? Do you prefer deep, rumbling bass or tight, punchy bass? This will influence the type of subwoofer you choose. For example, larger subwoofers in ported enclosures generally produce deeper bass, while smaller subwoofers in sealed enclosures tend to be more accurate and responsive.
5.Choose an Enclosure Type: The enclosure type significantly affects the subwoofer's sound. Sealed enclosures offer accurate and controlled bass, while ported enclosures provide louder and deeper bass. Bandpass enclosures offer a combination of both.
6.Read Reviews and Compare Models: Before making a final decision, read reviews from other users and compare different models to see which one best meets your needs.
Installation Tips for Kicker Subwoofers
Proper installation is crucial for getting the most out of your Kicker subwoofer. Here are some essential tips: Use Quality Wiring: Use high-quality speaker wire and power cables to ensure optimal signal transfer. Securely Mount the Subwoofer: Make sure the subwoofer is securely mounted in the enclosure to prevent vibrations and rattles. Properly Tune Your Amplifier: Use a multimeter and oscilloscope (if available) to properly set the gain and crossover settings on your amplifier. This will prevent distortion and protect your subwoofer from damage. Consider Sound Deadening: Applying sound deadening material to your vehicle can help reduce unwanted vibrations and improve the overall sound quality of your system. (Related: [Sound Deadening Guide]) Follow the Manufacturer's Instructions:Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific installation guidelines and recommendations.
Troubleshooting Common Kicker Subwoofer Problems
Even with proper installation, you might encounter some issues with your Kicker subwoofer. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them: Distorted Sound: This can be caused by clipping (overdriving the amplifier), a damaged subwoofer, or incorrect amplifier settings. Check your amplifier settings, inspect the subwoofer for damage, and try reducing the gain on your amplifier. Weak Bass: This can be caused by insufficient power, incorrect wiring, or a poorly designed enclosure. Make sure your amplifier is providing enough power, check your wiring connections, and ensure your enclosure is properly sealed and sized for the subwoofer. Rattling or Vibrations:This can be caused by loose connections, vibrations from the enclosure, or objects rattling in the vehicle. Check all connections, tighten any loose screws, and apply sound deadening material to problem areas.
Kicker Subwoofer Comparison Table
| Feature | Kicker Comp | Kicker Comp VR | Kicker L7 (Solenic) | Kicker Comp RT (Shallow) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ------------------- | --------------- | --------------- | -------------------- | -------------------------- |
| Price | Affordable | Mid-Range | High-End | Mid-Range |
| Power Handling | Low | Moderate | High | Moderate |
| Bass Response | Good | Better | Excellent | Decent |
| Cone Material | Polypropylene | Polypropylene | Kevlar | Polypropylene |
| Voice Coil | Single | Dual | Dual | Dual |
| Enclosure Type | Sealed/Ported | Sealed/Ported | Sealed/Ported | Sealed |
| Space Requirement | Moderate | Moderate | Large | Small |
| Ideal For | Budget Buyers | Enthusiasts | Competition | Limited Space |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What size Kicker subwoofer is right for me?
A: The ideal size depends on your space, power, and desired bass level. A 10-inch subwoofer is a good starting point for most vehicles, while a 12-inch or larger subwoofer is better for those who want maximum bass.
Q: Do I need a special amplifier for a Kicker subwoofer?
A: Yes, you'll need an amplifier that can provide the necessary power to drive the subwoofer. Choose an amplifier with a power output that matches the subwoofer's RMS power rating.
Q: What is the difference between a sealed and ported enclosure?
A: A sealed enclosure provides accurate and controlled bass, while a ported enclosure provides louder and deeper bass. The choice depends on your listening preferences.
Q: Can I install a Kicker subwoofer myself?
A: Yes, you can install a Kicker subwoofer yourself if you have basic car audio knowledge and the necessary tools. However, professional installation is recommended for complex systems or if you're not comfortable working with electrical wiring.
Q: How do I prevent my Kicker subwoofer from blowing?
A: Avoid overdriving your amplifier, ensure your subwoofer is properly matched to your amplifier's power output, and avoid playing distorted music.
Conclusion
Kicker subwoofers offer a compelling combination of performance, value, and reliability. Whether you're a budget-conscious buyer looking to add some low-end to your factory system or a serious bass enthusiast craving competition-level performance, Kicker has a subwoofer to meet your needs. By understanding the different Kicker subwoofer series, key technologies, and installation tips, you can choose the right subwoofer and build a car audio system that delivers the powerful bass you crave. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult with a professional if you're unsure about any aspect of the installation process. Now go out there and add some serious thump to your ride!