Kicker audio has arrived in New Zealand, with Auckland-based Griffiths Equipment aiming to provide audiophiles around the country with a feast of quality sound components.

The Kicker brand began in the garage of one of its founders in Stillwater, Oklahoma, producing bespoke PA systems for local bands. It has grown into a major audio designer and manufacturer.

“Kicker got its name from inventing the kicker-style speakers that were built into the parcel shelf of cars, or rear of a pick-up truck back in 1980 – it was the first full frequency-range speaker box designed specifically for cars and trucks and they really kicked out the bass,” says Tim Paterson, national sales manager for Griffiths Equipment.

Kicker makes a wide range of amplifiers, speakers and headphones for vehicle and home use. The range includes a series of sub-woofers, amps, components and coaxial speakers in various sizes, as well as compact waterproof speakers designed for use with motorcycles or quad bikes.

One of the key pieces of technology to emerge from Kicker is the compact subwoofer and combined amplifier called the Hideaway. It combines a 150-watt amplifier with an 8-inch subwoofer to add thumping bass to any vehicle. It also has a remote bass control for fine tuning bass levels and is compact enough to fit under most seats.

Paterson says the Hideaway is a great example of how Kicker has thought about customer needs and designed products that solve issues, particularly with lack of space inside modern vehicles.

Also new is a range of Bluetooth speakers, including the Amphitheatre, a wireless, full-range audio system that streams music from Bluetooth-enabled devices and includes a signature 6-inch square subwoofer.

Kicker audio products are available at Kicker stockists throughout New Zealand. For a stockist near you, phone Griffiths Equipment on 09 525 4575

Photo: Kicker speakers and amplifiers from US car audio maker, Kicker, are now available in New Zealand.