Kicker KS Speaker Series: Harmonizing Power, Performance, and Detail
Dive deep with us into the realm of Kicker speakers, specifically the highly-praised KS series. Kicker, an esteemed player in the car audio industry, is renowned for its uncompromising commitment to superior sound.
The KS series encapsulates this very commitment, offering high-performance speakers that merge power and subtlety, thereby catering to both avid music lovers and discerning audiophiles alike.
Famed for its relentless pursuit of sound excellence, the Kicker KS series holds an esteemed place within the brand’s diverse range. Whether you’re a casual listener yearning to elevate your car’s audio system, or an audiophile on the hunt for unparalleled sonic detail, the KS series offers an impressive suite of features that could make it your ideal choice.
In this review, we’ll dissect the KS series, and delve into its design aesthetics, scrutinize its performance, and evaluate its overall value. So, whether you’re already an admirer of Kicker or contemplating a venture into their universe of premium audio, get ready for an in-depth journey into the heart of the Kicker KS Speakers series.
Kicker Car Speakers KS Series: A Deep Dive Into Performance, Realism, and Reliability
The Kicker KS series of speakers stands as a testament to Kicker’s commitment to sound quality and reliability. These speakers are crafted with performance in mind, ensuring a listening experience that is both moving and realistic. Whether it’s the smooth, accurate vocals or the deep, rich bass, the KS series is designed to transform the way you experience music.
Offered in a variety of sizes, from 2.75″ to 6×9″ speakers, coaxial to components, the Kicker KS range caters to a broad spectrum of audio needs. Each speaker is designed to perform at concert-like volumes while maintaining the subtlety and smoothness that even the most discerning ear can appreciate.
At the heart of the KS series are the high-performance woofers. Employing internally dampened polypropylene cones and robust rubber surrounds, these woofers ensure exceptional mid-range detail and resounding bass. Notably, all KS series woofers feature an ultra-slim mounting depth for convenient fitting in most factory speaker locations.
>>Take a look at our Kicker KS Speakers Review<<
The KS series shines when it comes to power handling, featuring a heavy-duty motor structure complemented by Extended Voice Coil (EVC) technology. This design results in remarkable bass that strikes a perfect balance between power and clarity.
Silk-dome tweeters add another layer of refinement to the KS series, providing a smooth, clean sound across high frequencies. The large silk dome, polypropylene woofer, and tough rubber surrounds in the KS coaxials ensure a smooth response that’s compatible with nearly every vehicle.
The component speakers in the KS series include tweeter level control, allowing users to customise their sound experience to their preferences. This flexibility makes the speakers adaptable to a wide range of musical genres and acoustic environments.
Moreover, all sizes of KSS Component speakers can convert to a coaxial configuration, with the tweeters mountable to the woofers’ phase plug, increasing design options. KS silk dome tweeters also feature a neodymium power plant and in-line 12dB crossovers, offering excellent sonic control.
Now time for the review…
Kicker KS Coaxial Speakers
Kicker KSC6904 KS Series 6×9″ Coaxial Speakers
The Kicker KSC6904 KS Series 6×9″ Coaxial Speakers offer exceptional audio performance for car audio enthusiasts. Designed as a 2-way speaker system, these units consist of 6×9 inch polypropylene woofers and 1-inch silk dome tweeters that work in harmony to produce a clear, well-balanced sound.
With a rated impedance of 4ohm and recommended power between 15 to 150 watts RMS, these speakers perform optimally under a range of power inputs. They boast a high sensitivity of 92 dB, ensuring loud and efficient sound reproduction. With a frequency response of 30-21k Hz, they cover a wide range of audio frequencies, delivering both deep bass and crisp high frequencies.
The KSC690’s less than 3-inch mounting depth and mere 3 millimeters of tweeter protrusion make them suitable for almost every vehicle on the road. Their slim design and easy fitting make them an excellent upgrade from factory speakers.
All in all, the Kicker KSC6904 KS Series 6×9″ Coaxial Speakers deliver a powerful and clear audio experience while maintaining Kicker’s signature reliability and durability.
Kicker KS Series 6×9″ Coaxial Speakers Specs:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Speaker Design | 2-Way |
| Woofer Size [in, mm] | 6 x 9, 160 x 230 |
| Tweeter Size [in, mm] | 1, 25 |
| Rated Impedance | 4ohm |
| Recommended Power [Watts RMS] | 15-150 |
| Sensitivity [1W, 1m] | 92 |
| Frequency Response [Hz] | 30-21k |
| Mounting Hole Diameter [in, mm] | 5-11/16 x 8-7/16, 144 x 215 |
| Top Mount Depth [in, mm] | 3-3/16, 81 |
| Bottom Mount Depth [in, mm] | 3-11/16, 93 |
| Tweeter Protrusion [in, mm] | 1/16, 1 |
| Grilles | Yes |
| Tweeter Magnet Material | Neodymium |
| Tweeter Dome Material | Silk |
| Woofer Cone Material | Polypropylene |
| Woofer Surround Material | Rubber |
Kicker KSC6804 KS Series 6×8″ Coaxial Speakers
The Kicker KSC6804 KS Series 6×8″ Coaxial Speakers bring concert-like volume to your vehicle while maintaining a level of smoothness and subtlety that will satisfy even the most discerning audiophiles. High-performance woofers, featuring internally dampened polypropylene cones and robust rubber surrounds, provide outstanding mid-range detail and deep bass.
Rated with an impedance of 4ohm and recommended power between 15 to 75 watts RMS, these speakers are optimized to perform efficiently across a range of power inputs. And with a sensitivity of 90 dB and a frequency response of 45-21k Hz, you can be sure of a wide spectrum of clear audio frequencies.
With less than a 2.5-inch mounting depth and no tweeter protrusion, the KSC680 speakers easily fit in most vehicles, including those with 5 x 7-inch speaker holes. Silk-dome tweeters offer smooth high-frequency sounds, while the slim design easily fits behind factory grilles, making them an excellent choice for those seeking to upgrade their in-car audio experience.
In short, the Kicker KSC6804 KS Series 6×8″ Coaxial Speakers offer a harmonious blend of power, performance, and smoothness that stands out in the crowd.
Kicker KSC6804 KS Series 6×8″ Coaxial Speakers Specifications:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Speaker Design | 2-Way |
| Woofer Size [in, mm] | 6 x 8, 160 x 200 |
| Tweeter Size [in, mm] | ¾, 20 |
| Rated Impedance | 4ohm |
| Recommended Power [Watts RMS] | 15-75 |
| Sensitivity [1W, 1m] | 90 |
| Frequency Response [Hz] | 45-21k |
| Mounting Hole Diameter [in, mm] | 5 x 7-3/16, 127 x 182 |
| Top Mount Depth [in, mm] | 2-1/4, 58 |
| Bottom Mount Depth [in, mm] | 2-5/8, 67 |
| Tweeter Protrusion [in, mm] | 1/16, 2 |
| Grilles | No |
| Tweeter Magnet Material | Neodymium |
| Tweeter Dome Material | Silk |
| Woofer Cone Material | Polypropylene |
| Woofer Surround Material | Rubber |
Kicker KSC6504 KS Series 6.5-inch Coaxial Speakers
The Kicker KSC6504 KS Series 6.5″ Coaxial Speakers manage to successfully encapsulate Kicker’s commitment to delivering audio that reverberates with the crisp, loud resonance of a high-performance car stereo system, yet retains a refined balance of clarity and subtlety.
The 6.5″ speakers, with their high-performance woofers utilizing internally dampened polypropylene cones and tough rubber surrounds, stand out for their exceptional mid-range detail and powerful bass.
Despite their compact size, with less than a 2-inch mounting depth and a mere one millimeter of tweeter protrusion, these speakers can seamlessly fit into nearly any vehicle. They function optimally with a power range of 15 to 100 watts, proving their compatibility with a wide array of audio systems.
Silk-dome tweeters ensure a smooth sound reproduction, while the included grilles and thin-mount design that easily fits behind factory grilles make these speakers a versatile option for any car audio enthusiast.
In comparison to bigger speakers in the the KSC6504 6.5″ smaller size does not compromise on power or sound quality, making them an outstanding choice within the range.
Kicker KSC6504 KS Series 6.5″ Coaxial Speakers Specifications:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Speaker Design | 2-Way |
| Woofer Size [in, mm] | 6-1/2, 160 |
| Tweeter Size [in, mm] | ¾, 20 |
| Rated Impedance | 4ohm |
| Recommended Power [Watts RMS] | 15-100 |
| Sensitivity [1W, 1m] | 90 |
| Frequency Response [Hz] | 43-21k |
| Mounting Hole Diameter [in, mm] | 4-13/16, 123 |
| Top Mount Depth [in, mm] | 1-13/16, 46 |
| Bottom Mount Depth [in, mm] | 2-3/16, 54 |
| Tweeter Protrusion [in, mm] | 5/16, 8 |
| Grilles | Yes |
| Tweeter Magnet Material | Neodymium |
| Tweeter Dome Material | Silk |
| Woofer Cone Material | Polypropylene |
| Woofer Surround Material | Rubber |
Kicker KSC69304 KS 6×9″ 3-Way Triaxial Speakers
The Kicker KSC69304 KS 6×9″ 3-Way Speakers offer an optimal blend of high volume capability and exquisite auditory finesse. Their high-performance woofers, crafted with internally dampened polypropylene cones and durable rubber surrounds, deliver mid-range detail and a powerful bass that make your car’s audio system reverberate with crystal-clear sound.
The speaker’s slim design with a less than 3-inch mounting depth and minimal tweeter protrusion offers a versatile fit for almost all vehicles. KSC69304 speakers are designed to work best with 15 to 150 watts of recommended power, making them robust and resilient.
The speaker’s key features include high power handling, silk-dome tweeters for a smooth sound texture, and polypropylene woofers encased in tough rubber surrounds. Their slim profile design easily tucks away behind factory grilles, providing a clean look. The package also includes grilles for further protection and aesthetics.
What sets the Kicker KSC69304 apart is the quality of its tweeters. The silk-dome tweeters produce an incredibly crisp, clean sound, enhancing the high-frequency notes for a well-rounded audio experience. Their precise performance delivers the richness and clarity of the music, thus providing an immersive and enjoyable in-car listening experience.
Kicker KSC69304 KS 6×9″ 3-Way Speakers Specifications:
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speaker Design | 3-Way |
| Woofer [in, mm] | 6 x 9, 160 x 230 |
| Midrange [in, mm] | 1, 25 |
| Tweeter [in, mm] | 3/4, 20 |
| Rated Impedance | 4ohm |
| Recommended Amplifier Power [Watts RMS] | 15-150 |
| Sensitivity [1W, 1m] | 92 |
| Frequency Response [Hz] | 30-21k |
| Mounting Hole Diameter [in, mm] | 5-11/16 x 8-7/16, 144 x 215 |
| Top Mount Depth [in, mm] | 3-1/8, 80 |
| Bottom Mount Depth [in,mm] | 3-5/8, 92 |
| Tweeter Protrusion [in,mm] | 3/16, 5 |
| Grilles | Yes |
| Tweeter Magnet Material | Neodymium |
| Tweeter Dome Material | Silk |
| Woofer Cone Material | Polypropylene |
| Woofer Surround Material | Rubber |
Kicker KS Component Speakers
Kicker KSS6904 KS Series 6X9″ Component Speakers
The Kicker KSS6904 KS Series 6X9″ Component Speaker System truly stands out among Kicker’s offerings, delivering precision-engineered sound that ensures a robust and immersive listening experience.
A high-performance woofer equipped with internally dampened polypropylene cones and sturdy rubber surrounds ensures outstanding midrange detail and a pounding bass. The ultra-slim mounting depth allows the system to fit comfortably into most factory speaker locations.
Offering unmatched flexibility, the KS-Series Component Systems feature powerful magnets and EVC™ (Extended Voice Coil) technology, contributing to deep, smooth bass.
The system offers the flexibility to function as a component system with separate tweeters or a high-end coaxial system. The system is engineered for excellent off-axis performance and provides a range of system design options.
The KSS6904 manages to deliver crisp, sound volume while maintaining the smooth and subtle sound quality that will please even the most discerning ear. With a power handling of 15 to 125 watts, the system offers high power handling, silk-dome tweeters for smooth sound, polypropylene woofers, tough rubber surrounds, and includes grilles.
Kicker KSS6904 KS Series 6X9″ Component Speakers Specs:
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Woofer [in, mm] | 6-½, 160 |
| Tweeter [in,mm] | 1, 25 |
| Dome Material | Silk |
| Rated Impedance | 4ohm |
| Rec. Power [Watts RMS] | 15-125 |
| Sensitivity [1W, 1m] | 90 |
| Frequency Response [Hz] | 35-21k |
| Woofer Mounting Hole Diameter [in, mm] | 4-13/16 , 123 |
| Woofer Bottom Mount Depth [in, mm] | 1-13/16 , 46 |
| Flush Mount Tweeter Hole Diameter [in,mm] | 1-¾, 45 |
| Flush Mount Tweeter Depth [in,mm] | 11/16 , 17 |
| High Pass [dB], at Frequency [Hz] | 12, 4,000 |
| Low Pass [dB], at Frequency [Hz] | none |
| High Frequency Output Attenuation [dB] | 0, 4.5, 9 |
Kicker KSS6504 KS Series 6.5″ Component Speaker System
Introducing the Kicker KSS6504 KS Series 6.5″ Component Speaker System – a state-of-the-art audio solution delivering unmatched sound quality in your vehicle. The system encompasses the smooth yet powerful performance associated with Kicker’s offerings, presenting an immersive auditory experience like no other.
The system’s high-performance woofers, designed with internally dampened polypropylene cones and resilient rubber surrounds, render exceptional midrange detail and a powerful bass response. The ultra-slim mounting depth caters to easy installation in most factory speaker locations.
Flexibility is at the heart of the KSS6504. It can function as a component system with individual tweeters or a high-quality coaxial system. This flexibility, combined with powerful magnets and EVC™ (Extended Voice Coil) technology, makes for deep, smooth bass and a range of design possibilities.
The KSS6504’s ability to deliver both high volume and refined sound quality caters to all listeners. With a recommended power range of 15 to 125 watts, this system is capable of handling powerful sound dynamics while ensuring the smoothness of silk-dome tweeters and durability of polypropylene woofers.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Woofer [in, mm] | 6-½, 160 |
| Tweeter [in,mm] | 1, 25 |
| Dome Material | Silk |
| Rated Impedance | 4ohm |
| Rec. Power [Watts RMS] | 15-125 |
| Sensitivity [1W, 1m] | 90 |
| Frequency Response [Hz] | 35-21k |
| Woofer Mounting Hole Diameter [in, mm] | 4-13/16 , 123 |
| Woofer Bottom Mount Depth [in, mm] | 1-13/16 , 46 |
| Flush Mount Tweeter Hole Diameter [in,mm] | 1-¾, 45 |
| Flush Mount Tweeter Depth [in,mm] | 11/16 , 17 |
| High Pass [dB], at Frequency [Hz] | 12, 4,000 |
| Low Pass [dB], at Frequency [Hz] | none |
| High Frequency Output Attenuation [dB] | 0, 4.5, 9 |
Buyer’s Guide
Buying car speakers can be a daunting task, especially with so many brands and options available. If you are considering Kicker KS Series Speakers for your car, this buyer’s guide is designed to assist you with your purchase.
Sound Quality: The first thing to consider is the sound quality. Kicker KS Series speakers are renowned for their high-quality sound reproduction, delivering concert-level volume while maintaining a smooth and subtle tonality. Silk-dome tweeters provide smooth high-frequency production, while polypropylene woofers and durable rubber surrounds offer excellent mid-range and bass details.
Power Handling: Consider the recommended power range for the speakers. For instance, Kicker KSC6504 works best with 15 to 100 watts, while Kicker KSC69304 handles 15 to 150 watts. Choose according to your car’s amplifier or head unit’s output power.
Size: Check the speaker size. Kicker KS series offers various sizes, from 6.5″ coaxials to 6×9″ 3-Way speakers. Ensure the speaker size you choose will fit in your car’s current speaker mounts.
Sensitivity: Speaker sensitivity measures how well a speaker converts power into sound. Higher sensitivity speakers require less power to produce the same volume of sound as lower sensitivity speakers. KS Series speakers generally have a high sensitivity, making them a good match for low-powered systems.
Mounting Depth: The speakers in the KS series have a slim design and a minimal mounting depth. This allows them to fit into most factory speaker locations, making installation relatively straightforward.
Frequency Response: Consider the frequency response of the speakers. A broader frequency response range means the speaker can produce more sound variations. For instance, Kicker KSC6504 has a frequency response of 43-21k Hz, while the Kicker KSC69304 offers a slightly wider range at 30-21k Hz.
Component vs Coaxial: Decide whether you want a component or coaxial system. Component systems, like the Kicker KSS6504, have separate tweeters for more precise sound imaging, while coaxial systems combine the woofer and tweeter into one unit, like the Kicker KSC6504, offering a simpler setup.
Budget: Lastly, consider your budget. The Kicker KS series offers a range of prices to suit various budgets without compromising sound quality.
Remember, the best speakers for you are those that meet your individual needs and preferences. Considering these points will help you make an informed decision and enhance your in-car audio experience.
Kicker KS Speakers – Conclusion
The Kicker KS Series Speakers stand as an impressive selection in the car audio market, offering high-quality, durable components that provide a superior sound experience. They are well-engineered to deliver powerful, crisp audio while maintaining smooth subtlety, resulting in an impressive sound reproduction that can bring out the best in any genre of music.
These speakers distinguish themselves with their high power handling capability, broad frequency response, and their adaptable design, fitting into most factory speaker locations. Whether you’re after the simplicity of a coaxial system or the precision of a component setup, the KS series offers a solution that can cater to your specific needs.
Kicker KS Speakers FAQs
Is Kicker CS or KS better?
Both CS and KS series from Kicker have their advantages. The KS series is generally considered superior due to its high-quality materials and enhanced sound quality. However, the CS series is a more budget-friendly option that still offers decent performance.
Do Kicker KS have good bass?
Yes, Kicker KS speakers are known for their strong and clear bass. Their high-performance woofers use internally dampened polypropylene cones and robust rubber surrounds to create excellent mid-range detail and decent bass. That said, no speakers beat a subwoofer for bass.
Are Kicker speakers worth it?
Kicker speakers are generally considered a good investment for those wanting to upgrade their car’s audio system. They offer high-quality construction, excellent sound performance, and a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Is Kicker better than Pioneer?
Both Kicker and Pioneer are reputable brands in the car audio industry, each with their strengths. Kicker is known for its high-performance audio products with potent bass, while Pioneer is recognized for its wide range of innovative, tech-friendly products. The choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Are component speakers better than coaxial?
Component speakers tend to offer superior sound quality due to their separate tweeters and woofers, which can be positioned for optimal sound staging. However, they’re typically more expensive and complex to install than coaxial speakers. Coaxial speakers, on the other hand, offer a simpler, more affordable solution with excellent sound quality.
What is the strongest Kicker amp?
The Kicker KX2400.1 is among the most powerful amps from Kicker, offering a whopping 2400 watts of power.
Who manufactures Kicker speakers?
Kicker speakers are manufactured by Stillwater Designs, an American audio company based in Stillwater, Oklahoma.
Are Kicker speakers made in China?
While Kicker is an American company and designs its products in Stillawater, Oklahoma, many of its products, including some speakers, are manufactured in China to keep costs competitive.
I am a passionate and skilled car audio enthusiast with 15 years of experience in the industry. My journey started when I replaced my first set of factory car speakers, sparking a deep love for high-quality sound. Since then, I have worked as a representative for renowned brands like Kenwood and Alpine.
With a background in both retail and distribution, I have developed a comprehensive understanding of the car audio market. Currently a certified (MECP) installer in the Mobile Electronics industry, my expertise lies in delivering top-notch audio installations. My knowledge, coupled with my genuine passion, makes me the go-to professional for all car audio needs.