18 inch kicker subwoofer

Types of 18-inch kicker subwoofers

Car subwoofers are loudspeakers designed to reproduce low-pitched audio frequencies, also known as bass sounds. Kicker is a popular car audio brand known for its high-quality and powerful sound. The 18-inch kicker subwoofer is one of the biggest subwoofer sizes available and is preferred by bass heads and serious audiophiles. The size of the kicker subwoofer allows it to produce deep and powerful bass sounds that can fill large spaces. Below are the different types of 18-inch kicker subwoofers:

• Kicker L7 Subwoofer

  The L7 series features an iconic square subwoofer design. The 18-inch L7 subwoofers have a dual voice coil configuration and are ideal for kick panel and door installations. The Kicker L7 subwoofers are recommended for experienced users looking for a powerful and precise bass response. Some of the L7 subwoofer models include L7 18 and L7R 18. The L7 18 subwoofer has an RMS power handling of 2000 watts and a peak power handling of 4000 watts. The Kicker L7R 18 subwoofer has an RMS power handling of 1200 watts and a peak power handling of 2400 watts. The L7 series is known for its loud and clear sound quality.

• Kicker CVR Subwoofer

  The CVR series is known for its high performance at an affordable price. The CVR 18-inch kicker subwoofer features a dual voice coil design and a polypropylene cone. Some of the CVR subwoofer models include CVR 18 and CVR 18 V. The Kicker CVR 18 subwoofer has an RMS power handling of 1200 watts and a peak power handling of 2400 watts. The CVR 18 V subwoofer has an RMS power handling of 600 watts and a peak power handling of 1200 watts. The CVR series is known for its deep and powerful bass response.

• Kicker CompR Subwoofer

  The CompR series is designed for deep bass and high sound pressure levels. The CompR series features a poly injection cone and a heavy-duty steel basket. The Kicker CompR 18 subwoofer has an RMS power handling of 1200 watts and a peak power handling of 2400 watts. The CompR series is known for its versatility and can handle a wide range of music genres.

• Kicker VSS100 Subwoofer

  The Kicker VSS100 is a powered subwoofer. The VSS100 features a built-in amplifier that powers the subwoofer. The RMS power handling of the VSS100 subwoofer is 600 watts, while the peak power handling is 1200 watts. The VSS100 subwoofer is designed for easy installation into most vehicles. The VSS100 is known for its compact design and delivers powerful bass in a small package.

The choice of an 18-inch kicker subwoofer depends on the specific needs and preferences of the users. Kicker subs are compatible with a wide range of music genres, but they are mostly preferred by hip-hop and R&B fans.

Specifications and Maintenance of 18 Inch Kicker Subwoofer

• Power Ratings

  Subwoofer RMS (Root Mean Square) Power: The continuous power handling capability of the subwoofer is 600 watts, allowing it to handle sustained audio signals without distortion or damage. Peak Power: The subwoofer can handle short bursts of high energy up to 1200 watts, providing extra headroom for transient peaks in the music.

  Size and Dimensions

  Subwoofer Size: The subwoofer has an 18-inch (457 mm) diameter cone, which allows it to move a large volume of air for deep bass reproduction. Mounting Depth: The subwoofer requires a depth of 15 inches (381 mm) for installation in an enclosure or vehicle. Cutout Diameter: The subwoofer's cutout diameter is 20 inches (508 mm), which must be considered when building a custom enclosure.

  Voice Coils and Impedance

  Voice Coil Configuration: The subwoofer features dual voice coils, each with a 2-ohm impedance. This allows for flexible wiring options to match the amplifier's impedance stability. Voice Coil Cooling: The subwoofer is designed with a vented voice coil cooling system, which helps dissipate heat for increased power handling and reliability.

  Materials and Components

  Cone Material: The subwoofer's cone is made of durable polypropylene, which provides a good balance of stiffness and light weight for accurate bass reproduction. Surround Material: The surround is constructed from a high-excursion rubber material, allowing for large cone movement and low distortion at high output levels. Frame Material: The subwoofer's frame is made of cast aluminum, providing strength and rigidity while minimizing weight.

  Frequency Response

  Frequency Range: The subwoofer is designed to reproduce frequencies from 18 Hz (deep bass) to 35 Hz (upper bass) for a powerful and impactful low-frequency experience.

Maintenance of 18-inch kicker subwoofer

• Regular Inspection

  Check the subwoofer for any visible damage, such as tears in the cone or rubber surround, dents in the cone, or loose connections. Inspect the amplifier and wiring for any signs of wear or damage.

  Cleaning

  Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris from the subwoofer, amplifier, and surrounding area. Avoid using liquids or abrasive cleaners that could damage the subwoofer's materials. Carefully vacuum or use compressed air to remove any accumulated dust or debris from the subwoofer's vented areas.

  Check the Enclosure

  Ensure that the subwoofer enclosure is sealed properly, with no air leaks that could affect bass performance. Verify that the enclosure's internal volume and port tuning specifications are within recommended limits for optimal bass response.

  Inspect the Suspension Components

  Check the rubber surround and spider (the component that suspends the voice coils) for any signs of wear or damage. Gently push the cone up and down to ensure smooth linear motion without rubbing or binding.

  Re-Calibration

  Periodically re-calibrate the amplifier settings, including gain, low-pass filter, and bass boost, to ensure optimal performance and prevent distortion or damage to the subwoofer.

  Check the Vehicle's Electrical System

  Ensure that the vehicle's electrical system, including the battery and charging system, is in good condition to support the power demands of the subwoofer and amplifier.

How to Choose 18-inch Kicker Subwoofer

A bass speaker, frequently known as a subwoofer, is a sort of speaker that is made to reproduce low-frequency sounds, producing deep bass sounds. It is an essential component of a car's audio system since it provides depth and power to the music, enhancing the overall listening experience. For some people, having a subwoofer in their car is a must-have item, especially if they enjoy listening to music with a lot of bass.

Choosing the right kicker subwoofer for a specific need might be difficult given the wide variety of models available on the market. Before making a purchase, consider the following.

• Size: Subwoofers are available in a variety of sizes, from 8 to 18 inches. The size of the subwoofer has a significant impact on the car's available space. Larger subwoofers typically produce deeper bass, but they may not fit in smaller automobiles. It's critical to select a size that fits within the constraints of the vehicle.
• Power Handling: Look for a subwoofer with sufficient power handling capabilities to meet the requirements. A subwoofer that can handle more power will produce louder bass without distortion. A subwoofer with lower power handling is a preferable choice for casual listeners who enjoy bass but aren't particularly obsessed about it.
• Voice Coils: Subwoofers with dual voice coils provide more wiring options and greater flexibility than those with single voice coils. They can be connected to amplifiers in parallel or series, allowing for more customization of the sound system. For most applications, dual voice coils are recommended since they provide more power and better sound quality.
• Sensitivity: Sensitivity measures how effectively a subwoofer converts power into sound. A subwoofer with higher sensitivity generates more bass at the same power level than one with lower sensitivity. Higher sensitivity is preferable if one wants a loud bass without cranking up the amplifier's power.
• Enclosure: Subwoofers can be installed in either sealed or ported enclosures. Sealed enclosures create tight, accurate bass, while ported enclosures produce louder bass at lower frequencies. Consider the kind of enclosure that would provide the desired bass sound before purchasing a kicker subwoofer.

How to DIY and replace 18-inch kicker subwoofers

Replacing an 18-inch Kicker subwoofer can be a straightforward process, whether it's in a car audio system, home theater, or any other audio setup. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Tools and materials needed:

• New 18-inch Kicker subwoofer
• Phillips or flathead screwdriver (depending on the screws used)
• Socket wrench (if bolts are used)
• Wire cutters/strippers (if necessary)
• Electrical tape or heat shrink tubing (for wire insulation)
• Torx or hex screwdriver (if applicable to the screws/bolts)
• Gloves (optional, for handling the subwoofer)
• Safety glasses (optional, for protecting eyes)

Instructions:

• 1. Turn off the audio system: Ensure the audio system is powered off to prevent any damage to the components or oneself while working on the subwoofer.
• 2. Remove the grille (if applicable): If the subwoofer has a protective grille, remove it carefully by unscrewing or unclipping it, depending on how it's attached.
• 3. Unscrew or unbolt the old subwoofer: Depending on the installation, the subwoofer may be held in place with screws or bolts. Use a Phillips or socket wrench to remove them and carefully lift the subwoofer out of its enclosure or mounting location.
• 4. Disconnect the wiring: Take note of how the wiring is connected to the old subwoofer (or take a photo for reference). Disconnect the wires from the old subwoofer, and if necessary, use wire cutters/strippers to remove them.
• 5. Prepare the new subwoofer: If the new 18-inch Kicker subwoofer comes with a different wiring configuration, adapt the wires accordingly to match the old setup. Use electrical tape or heat shrink tubing to insulate any exposed wire ends.
• 6. Mount the new subwoofer: Carefully place the new subwoofer into the enclosure or mounting location. Secure it with screws or bolts, ensuring a tight fit to prevent air leaks.
• 7. Reconnect the wiring: Connect the wires to the new subwoofer, following the same configuration as the old one. Make sure the positive and negative terminals are correctly matched to avoid phase issues.
• 8. Replace the grille (if applicable): Once the new subwoofer is installed and wired, reattach the protective grille if it was removed earlier.
• 9. Turn on the audio system: Power on the audio system and test the new subwoofer to ensure it is working correctly.

Q&A

Q1: Do 18-inch subwoofers sound better than smaller subs?

A1: An 18-inch kicker subwoofer can produce deeper bass than smaller subs. However, the ideal subwoofer size depends on the intended use and listener preferences.

Q2: How do I break in a subwoofer?

A2: To break in a subwoofer, play low to moderate volume levels and avoid high bass levels for the first 20 hours of use. Gradually increase the volume and bass levels after the initial period.

Q3: Can I use a kicker 18-inch subwoofer in a sealed enclosure?

A3: Yes, an 18-inch kicker subwoofer can be used in a sealed enclosure. Sealed boxes provide tight and accurate bass but may require more power from the amplifier.