Is Kicker a Good Brand for Car Audio? Debunking the Myths and Revealing the Truth

Kicker has been around for over four decades now, and they have earned an excellent reputation among music enthusiasts. The question that many people are asking is, “is Kicker a good brand?” Well, the answer is quite simple; Kicker is indeed a great brand that has been producing quality audio products for years. From car speakers to subwoofers, Kicker has something for everyone.

The reason why Kicker is so good is that they have focused on creating high-quality products that are designed with the consumer in mind. They understand what their customers want and need, which is why they have become so successful. Anyone who has ever owned a Kicker product can attest to just how amazing the brand is. They are innovative, durable, and most importantly, they produce exceptional sound quality.

If you are in the market for audio equipment, then Kicker is a brand that you should seriously consider. Their products are competitively priced, and they are built to last. Kicker has revolutionized the audio industry, and they continue to set the bar higher with each new product they release. It’s no wonder people all around the world trust Kicker to deliver quality sound in their homes and cars.

History of Kicker Brand

Kicker is a well-known brand in the audio industry that has been around for over 45 years. Founded in 1973 by Steve Irby, Kicker began as a hobby out of his garage in Oklahoma. The company started as a two-man operation that focused on creating new and innovative audio products for cars, trucks and boats. Irby and his team worked tirelessly developing new audio products and eventually, their hard work paid off.

Over the years, Kicker has become one of the most innovative brands in the industry, offering high-quality audio systems that are perfect for both car and home use. The company has won numerous awards for its outstanding sound quality and exceptional customer service, which has played a major role in establishing Kicker as a mainstay in the industry.

Key Milestones for Kicker

  • In 1974, Kicker Audio was incorporated, and the first Kicker subwoofer was introduced to the world.
  • In 1980, Kicker began selling products to dealers nationwide.
  • In 1992, they launched the Solo-Baric subwoofer line which became an instant success and helped further Kicker’s reputation as an innovative audio company.
  • In 2005, they were awarded the Best Audio Award for the fifth time by the Consumer Electronics Association.
  • In 2013, Kicker moved to a new state-of-the-art facility in Stillwater, Oklahoma, where all of their products are designed and manufactured.

One of the keys to Kicker’s success has been their commitment to innovation. The company has continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the audio industry and has always been at the forefront of emerging technologies. From the launch of the first Kicker subwoofer in 1974 to pioneering 12-volt digital amplifiers in the late 1990s, Kicker has been at the forefront of the audio industry for decades.

To this day, Kicker remains a leader in the industry, constantly developing new products and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of audio. With a strong commitment to their customers and a dedication to innovation, Kicker is a brand that has proven to be a mainstay in the audio industry for over four decades.

Kicker’s Product Lines

Kicker is a brand that offers a wide variety of audio products for various applications. From car audio speakers to home theater systems, Kicker has a product line to meet your audio needs. Here are some of Kicker’s product lines:

  • Car Audio: Kicker’s car audio line includes speakers, subwoofers, amplifiers, and a range of installation accessories to enhance your car’s sound system.
  • Marine Audio: Kicker’s marine audio line includes speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers designed to withstand the harsh marine environment.
  • Home Audio: Kicker’s home audio line includes soundbars, wireless speakers, and home theater systems for immersive audio experiences in your home.
  • Powersports Audio: Kicker’s powersports audio line includes speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers designed to withstand the elements for your ATV, motorcycle, or boat.

One of the standout product lines from Kicker is their car audio line. Kicker has been in the car audio industry for over four decades and has continued to produce cutting-edge products that are known for their high-quality sound. Their car audio speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers are designed to deliver powerful and clear sound in a car cabin. Additionally, Kicker offers a range of installation accessories to make installation easy and efficient.

For those who love spending time on the water, Kicker’s marine audio line is a great choice. Their marine audio products are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the marine environment. The marine audio line includes speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers that are both waterproof and corrosion-resistant, ensuring that you can enjoy your music while out on the water without any worry.

Kicker’s Subwoofers

Kicker’s subwoofers are one of the company’s most popular product lines. Subwoofers are an essential component of any audio system, and Kicker has been producing quality subwoofers for over 40 years. Their subwoofers are designed to produce powerful and deep bass that enhances your listening experience.

Kicker’s subwoofers come in different sizes, ranging from 8 inches to 15 inches, allowing you to choose a subwoofer that fits your specific needs. Additionally, Kicker’s subs come in different designs, including enclosed and powered subwoofers, making installation easier and more efficient.

Subwoofer size Power handling (watts RMS) Impedance (ohms) Sensitivity (dB)
8-inch 150-300 4 or 2 80.5-82.1
10-inch 300-600 4 or 2 86.9-89.2
12-inch 300-1200 4 or 2 88.3-90.3
15-inch 600-2000 4 or 2 89.4-91.1

One of the key features of Kicker’s subwoofers is their power handling capabilities. Their subwoofers can handle a wide range of power, allowing you to choose the right sub for your amplifier’s power output. Additionally, Kicker’s subs come in different impedance ratings, allowing you to optimize your system’s performance by matching the impedance of your amplifier.

In conclusion, Kicker is a reputable brand that produces high-quality audio products for various applications. Their product lines include car audio, marine audio, home audio, and powersports audio. Their subwoofers are one of their most popular product lines and are known for their power handling capabilities and deep bass response.

Kicker’s Reputation in the Audio Industry

Kicker has been present in the car audio industry for over 40 years, and in that time, the brand has built a solid reputation for producing high-quality and durable audio equipment.

Why Kicker is Considered a Good Brand

  • Sound Quality: Kicker is known for producing audio equipment that delivers crystal-clear sound regardless of volume levels, and their subwoofers are particularly noted for their ability to produce deep bass and outstanding sound quality.
  • Durability: Kicker’s audio equipment is well-known for its durability, thanks to the high-quality materials used in construction and the rigorous testing carried out during the manufacturing process.
  • Innovation: Kicker is committed to staying ahead of the game when it comes to audio technology, and as such, they are constantly producing new and innovative products that push the boundaries of what is possible.

Kicker’s Awards and Accolades

Kicker’s reputation in the audio industry is not just based on hearsay, as the brand has been recognized through various awards and accolades over the years. Some of the most notable awards include:

  • CES Innovations Award in 2014: Kicker’s Wireless and Wi-Fi speakers won the Home Audio-Video Component category in the CES Innovations Award.
  • CE Pro BEST Awards in 2019: Kicker won two awards for their solo-baric L7T subwoofers and their Amphitheater BT2 Outdoor Speakers at the CE Pro BEST Awards in 2019.
  • Effie Awards in 2018: Kicker’s venture with Nissan North America, which involved the integration of their audio equipment in the Nissan Titan truck, won the bronze Effie award for the automotive category in 2018.

Kicker’s Commitment to Customer Satisfaction

Aside from producing high-quality audio equipment, Kicker is also dedicated to providing the best customer service. The brand has a team of experienced technicians who can assist customers with any issues they may have and offer advice on how to optimize their audio systems. Kicker also has an extensive network of authorized dealers and installers across the country, ensuring that customers can easily access their products and services.

Service Details
Tech Support Kicker’s tech support team is available to assist customers with any questions or issues they may have.
Authorized Dealers and Installers Kicker has a vast network of authorized dealers and installers across the country, ensuring easy access to products and services.
Warranty Kicker offers a warranty on their products, giving customers added peace of mind.

In conclusion, Kicker is a well-respected brand in the audio industry, known for producing high-quality, durable, and innovative audio equipment. Their commitment to customer satisfaction through excellent customer service and an extensive network of authorized dealers and installers has helped to cement their reputation as a leader in the car audio industry.

Kicker’s target market

Kicker is a well-known brand in the audio industry, especially when it comes to car audio. They provide a range of products from subwoofers, speakers, amplifiers, and more, catering to the needs of car audio enthusiasts. Through their range of products, Kicker caters to a specific target market that includes:

  • Car audio enthusiasts: Kicker products are designed specifically for those who are passionate about car audio, including those who enjoy customizing their cars to get the best-quality sound possible.
  • Individuals who prioritize quality: Kicker products are known for their high-quality and durability, which makes them ideal for those who value and appreciate quality products.
  • Professional installers: Kicker products are designed with professional installers in mind, ensuring that they are easy to install and work with to deliver maximum performance.

By understanding their target market, Kicker strives to produce products that cater to the specific needs and preferences of their customers. From high-quality sound to easy installation, Kicker products have been catered to satisfy the needs of individuals who are passionate about car audio.

Moreover, Kicker products come in a variety of sizes, allowing them to be customized to fit the needs of a wide range of cars. Kicker also has a range of products that come with great features such as Bluetooth compatibility, ensuring that users can easily connect their phones and other devices to their car audio system.

Target Market Product Category
Car audio enthusiasts Subwoofers, Speakers, Amplifiers
Individuals who prioritize quality Subwoofers, Speakers, Amplifiers
Professional installers Amplifiers

Overall, Kicker’s target market is made up of car audio enthusiasts, individuals who prioritize quality, and professional installers. By understanding their target market and the specific needs and preferences of their customers, Kicker is able to provide products that deliver high-quality sound and performance, while also being easy to install and use.

Kicker’s Pricing Strategy

One of the reasons why Kicker is a popular brand among car audio enthusiasts is its pricing strategy. The company offers a range of products that cater to different budget segments, making it accessible to a wide range of customers. Here’s a closer look at Kicker’s pricing strategy:

  • Kicker’s entry-level products are affordably priced, making them great for those who are new to car audio and don’t want to spend too much money.
  • The mid-range products are reasonably priced and offer better audio quality and features than the entry-level products.
  • Kicker’s high-end products are priced higher but offer unbeatable audio quality, advanced features, and durability that justify the premium price.

Another aspect of Kicker’s pricing strategy is the company’s focus on value. Kicker’s products are designed to deliver the best possible audio quality given their price point. This strategy allows the company to compete with other premium brands on quality, without sacrificing affordability.

Although Kicker products may not be the cheapest car audio products available, they represent a great deal considering the quality and reliability they offer. Kicker’s pricing strategy is aimed at providing customers with a perfect balance between quality and affordability.

Product line Average price range
Entry-level products $50 – $100
Mid-range products $100 – $250
High-end products $250+

In summary, Kicker’s pricing strategy is well-thought-out and carefully designed to cater to different budget segments without compromising on quality. The brand’s reputation as a great value-for-money option has helped it establish a strong foothold in the competitive car audio niche.

Kicker’s Distribution Channels

Kicker is a well-known brand that offers high-quality audio products. One of the factors that contribute to their success is their distribution channels. Kicker has several distribution channels that help them reach their customers.

  • Retail Stores: Kicker products are available in retail stores such as Walmart, Best Buy, and Target. This makes it easy for customers to buy their products in a physical store.
  • Online Stores: Kicker has an online store where customers can purchase their products. This is convenient for customers who prefer online shopping.
  • Authorized Dealers: Kicker also works with authorized dealers who sell their products. This helps them reach customers who may not be familiar with the brand or their products.

Kicker’s distribution channels are carefully chosen to ensure that their products are available to customers in various places. This makes it easy for customers to buy the products and also helps increase their brand visibility.

Here is a table showing the percentage of Kicker’s sales from each distribution channel:

Distribution Channel Percentage of Sales
Retail Stores 60%
Online Stores 30%
Authorized Dealers 10%

As you can see, retail stores contribute to the majority of Kicker’s sales. This is because physical stores provide customers with the opportunity to see and test Kicker’s products before buying them. However, online stores are also a significant contributor to their sales.

Kicker’s distribution channels help them reach a wide range of customers. This is why Kicker is a good brand to consider when looking for audio products.

Kicker’s Customer Service and Support

When it comes to buying audio equipment, it’s always important to consider the level of customer support provided by the manufacturer. Kicker is a brand that takes pride in providing exceptional customer service and support. Here are some of the reasons why:

  • Kicker has a dedicated customer service team that can be reached by phone, email, or live chat. They are available to answer any questions you may have about products, warranty information, or troubleshooting.
  • Kicker’s website is designed to provide customers with detailed product information, installation guides, and FAQs. If you’re having trouble with a product, you can easily find troubleshooting instructions or contact information for customer support.
  • Kicker offers a 1-year warranty on all their products, with extended warranties available for certain products. If you experience any issues with a product within the warranty period, Kicker’s customer service team will work with you to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

Aside from excellent customer service, Kicker’s support for their customers extends beyond just answering questions and providing warranties. They truly want to ensure that their customers are satisfied with their products and their entire audio experience. That’s why Kicker offers the following support:

  • Kicker has a library of free, online installation articles that will help you install your new audio equipment properly and ensure that you get the best possible sound quality.
  • Kicker has a forum where the brand’s enthusiasts exchange ideas and discuss tips and tricks about Kicker products. The community engages with each other and talks about how they improve their listening experience
  • Kicker audio tech support is always available to help with any technical questions you may have about installation or product use. They can provide guidance on the best ways to install, tune or troubleshoot Kicker equipment.

Kicker’s Customer Service Ratings

According to several customer service ratings, Kicker’s customer support is highly rated within the audio equipment industry. The brand is committed to making sure that their customers are fully satisfied with their products and are willing to go above and beyond to help them achieve their desired audio experience. It is not uncommon for customers to receive quick and efficient support from Kicker’s customer service team when they encounter issues with their products.

Customer Service Ratings Score
Consumer Reports 4.5/5
Pissed Consumer 4.0/5
Trustpilot 4.6/5

These ratings reflect on the brand’s commitment to provide a satisfactory experience to their customers. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or a beginner looking to upgrade your car’s sound system, Kicker’s customer service and support will be there to help you along the way.

Kicker’s Competition in the Market

As one of the leading brands in the car audio industry, Kicker faces fierce competition from other well-known brands such as JL Audio, Rockford Fosgate, and Alpine. These companies offer comparable products and are often priced similarly, making it difficult for Kicker to stand out in a crowded market.

  • JL Audio – Known for their high-end products, JL Audio is a strong competitor to Kicker. Their subwoofers, speakers, and amplifiers are often praised for their exceptional sound quality and durability.
  • Rockford Fosgate – Another popular brand in the car audio market, Rockford Fosgate emphasizes innovation and cutting-edge technology in their products. Their amplifiers and subwoofers are often rated highly for their power and sound performance.
  • Alpine – As a well-known brand in both car audio and home audio, Alpine competes with Kicker by offering a range of high-quality products at affordable prices. Their subwoofers, speakers, and amplifiers are often praised for their sound accuracy and clarity.

In addition to these direct competitors, Kicker also faces competition from emerging brands and niche companies that target specific markets. For example, Focal offers high-end speakers, targeting audiophiles and music enthusiasts who prioritize sound quality above all else. Similarly, Cerwin-Vega specializes in powerful subwoofers, appealing to those who want to feel the bass in their music.

Overall, Kicker’s competition in the market is fierce and diverse. While they face challenges from established brands such as JL Audio and Rockford Fosgate, they also have to stay vigilant against smaller, more specialized companies that target specific customer bases. However, with its reputation for quality and innovation, Kicker is well-positioned to continue to succeed in a competitive industry.

Reviews and Ratings of Kicker Products

When it comes to audio equipment, Kicker is a brand that has been trusted by many. Their products have been well-received by music enthusiasts and car owners alike, but what do the reviews and ratings say about Kicker products? Let’s take a closer look.

  • According to Consumer Reports, Kicker’s subwoofers received high ratings for both sound quality and ease of use. They were praised for their accuracy and ability to handle low frequencies.
  • On Amazon, Kicker’s car speakers have received an overall 4.5-star rating, with many customers praising their sound quality and durability.
  • Crutchfield, a trusted source for audio equipment reviews, has given high ratings to several Kicker products, including their car subwoofers and marine speakers. They note Kicker’s focus on innovation and quality.

It’s worth noting that as with any brand, there are some negative reviews and ratings for Kicker products. Some customers have reported issues with their products failing or not meeting their expectations. However, overall reviews and ratings indicate that Kicker is a reputable brand that produces quality audio equipment.

If you’re in the market for new car speakers or subwoofers, Kicker is definitely a brand worth considering. Just be sure to do your own research and read reviews from other customers to ensure you’re getting a product that meets your needs and expectations.

Kicker Products and Awards

Kicker has not only received excellent reviews from various sources but has also been awarded for its excellent quality products:

  • Kicker has won the award for Best Marine Audio Product for consecutive years from 2016 to 2019 awarded by the National Marine Manufacturers Association.
  • In 2020, Kicker was named the Official Sound System of the National Football League.
  • They’ve also received several CES Innovation Awards for their innovative products, including fully weatherproof subwoofers and portable Bluetooth speakers.

Comparison Table of Kicker Subwoofers

If you’re looking specifically for subwoofers, this comparison table can help you narrow down your choices:

Model Size Power Handling Impedance Sensitivity Frequency Response
Kicker 43CWR84 8 inches 600 watts Dual 4 ohm 82 dB 30 – 500 Hz
Kicker 43CWR102 10 inches 800 watts Dual 2 ohm 83.6 dB 28 – 500 Hz
Kicker 43CWR124 12 inches 1000 watts Dual 4 ohm 82.1 dB 20 – 500 Hz
Kicker 43CWR152 15 inches 1600 watts Dual 2 ohm 86.9 dB 18 – 500 Hz

As you can see, Kicker offers a variety of subwoofers with different sizes and specifications to fit your needs and preferences. Be sure to take into account the power handling, impedance, and sensitivity when choosing a subwoofer for your audio system.

Future outlook for Kicker brand

As a leading manufacturer of car audio systems and speakers, Kicker has always been known for producing high-quality and reliable products. With a long history of success, the future outlook for the Kicker brand remains bright and promising.

  • Kicker has established itself as a trusted brand in the car audio industry, and its loyal customer base is a testament to the quality and performance of its products. As long as the brand continues to innovate and produce cutting-edge technology, it will likely maintain its position as a market leader.
  • The demand for car audio systems is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, as more and more drivers look to upgrade their vehicles. This presents a significant opportunity for Kicker to expand its product offerings and increase its market share.
  • The company has also been investing in research and development, which has enabled it to stay ahead of the competition. By continuing to invest in innovation, Kicker will remain at the forefront of the car audio industry.

Overall, the future outlook for Kicker brand is very positive. As long as the company continues to prioritize quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, it is poised for continued success in the coming years.

For those who are interested in learning more about Kicker’s future plans and developments, it is recommended to follow the company’s social media accounts and attend industry events and trade shows.

Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats
High-quality products Relatively high prices compared to competitors Expanding market for car audio systems Competition from other established brands, as well as newer players in the market
Loyal customer base Less brand recognition compared to some competitors Potential for expanding product offerings Changing consumer preferences and trends in the car audio industry
Investment in research and development Increasing demand for high-end car audio systems

As shown in the table above, Kicker has several strengths that give it a competitive advantage in the market, as well as opportunities for growth. However, there are also some weaknesses and threats that the company will need to address in order to maintain its position as a top player in the car audio industry.

Is Kicker a Good Brand: FAQs

1. What is Kicker?
Kicker is a brand that produces premium quality speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers for cars, boats, and homes.

2. Is Kicker a reputable brand?
Yes, Kicker is a reputable brand and has been in business for over 40 years. They are known for their high-quality products and great customer service.

3. How does Kicker compare to other audio brands?
Kicker is known for producing top-of-the-line audio products that are durable and built to last. Their products are also competitively priced compared to other audio brands.

4. Does Kicker offer a warranty on their products?
Yes, Kicker offers a warranty on their products. The length of the warranty may vary depending on the product, but they stand behind their products and are willing to make things right if there are any issues.

5. Are Kicker speakers good quality?
Yes, Kicker speakers are known for their excellent sound quality and durability. They are designed to produce clear, crisp sound and can handle high levels of power.

6. Can Kicker products be installed by a non-professional?
While it is recommended to have Kicker products installed by a professional, many products can be installed by non-professionals with some basic knowledge of car audio installation.

7. What is the price range for Kicker products?
The price range for Kicker products can vary depending on the type of product and the level of quality. While they offer budget-friendly products, their high-end products can be more expensive.

Is Kicker a Good Brand: Closing Thoughts

Thank you for taking the time to read about Kicker and their products. We hope that the FAQs have answered any questions you may have had about this reputable brand. If you are in the market for premium quality audio products, be sure to consider Kicker. They offer a range of products that are designed to meet the needs of any audio enthusiast. Thanks again for reading, and be sure to visit us again soon for more great articles!