Decided on the GM Kicker sub

[myrez]

I've read what I can find on the forums and interwebz. Sounds like plenty of bass for a Bose system that has none. I was going to install, but for 100 bucks labor, GM will warranty it. My question is this. I've used bass control knobs in the past. What I don't understand is the true difference in audio quality between knob and not. I'm no audiophile but if I can get away without the knob, I'm going to try it. Also, I can add it myself later if I deem it necessary. Thoughts?

 

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[myrez]

Slow down with all the info guys. Give me some time to digest it all.

 

[Wakinvol]

Slow down with all the info guys. Give me some time to digest it all.

I’m considering getting one too. Just straight wire in and use the sound setting in the radio. I’ve heard folks are happy with it.

Shopchevyparts.com has them for $829 and then 20% off. Haven’t seen them cheaper

 

[myrez]

I’m considering getting one too. Just straight wire in and use the sound setting in the radio. I’ve heard folks are happy with it.

Shopchevyparts.com has them for $829 and then 20% off. Haven’t seen them cheaper

$77 for the cheapest shipping option but it looks like they're not charging any tax.

 

[okievision]

Had mine installed at my dealer awhile back also. I can confidently tell you not to worry about the external bass adjustment knob...it doesn't come with one and there's no jack to plug one in. Unless you find a used one somewhere, those models are no longer made.
All adjustments will come from the simple equalizer in your audio menu. It improved my system 100%

 

[myrez]

Had mine installed at my dealer awhile back also. I can confidently tell you not to worry about the external bass adjustment knob...it doesn't come with one and there's no jack to plug one in. Unless you find a used one somewhere, those models are no longer made.
All adjustments will come from the simple equalizer in your audio menu. It improved my system 100%

I'm hoping it's enough but any improvement will be welcome.

 

[nabatron]

I’m also looking to do the kicker sub upgrade on my 2500. The Bose system is very underwhelming. I need a little bit more thump and loudness.

 

[myrez]

Kicker was installed today. Somewhat underwhelming to be honest. The music really has to have deep bass for this to feel sufficient.

 

[Leo581]

Kicker was installed today. Somewhat underwhelming to be honest. The music really has to have deep bass for this to feel sufficient.

Unfortunately this seems to be the consensus with most reviews I read.

 

[myrez]

Unfortunately this seems to be the consensus with most reviews I read.

I'm going to contact Kicker and see what they say. Some guys say the new system doesn't have the remote bass knob jack and others say it's hidden behind some sort of a cover. I'll look tomorrow.

 

[myrez]

Unfortunately this seems to be the consensus with most reviews I read.

If you watch some of the youtube videos, they get a much better response from their subs. Hoping there is an adjustment to be made.

 

[okievision]

If you watch some of the youtube videos, they get a much better response from their subs. Hoping there is an adjustment to be made.

what eq settings are you using for bass, mid and treble?

 

[myrez]

what eq settings are you using for bass, mid and treble?

I'm still messing around with it but I've had the bass anywhere from 3/4 to max, mid hovering between 3/8 and 1/2 and treble a touch past mid. I'm no audiophile but I'm trying to make the most of it. Going to call Kicker and see what they say as well. There is zero chance of this sub shaking any mirrors or glass in my truck. Not that I'm looking for that.

 

[myrez]

It was a senior tech that installed but he did admit it was his first time with this sub. Wondering if there's adjustments to be made on the amp.

 

[okievision]

It was a senior tech that installed but he did admit it was his first time with this sub. Wondering if there's adjustments to be made on the amp.

A call to Kicker will verify there's no adjustment you can make as is, except through the radio equalizer adjustment.
The first days of messing with mine, I was close to returning to the dealer and have them remove it for refund. I can't explain cause I have no idea if there's a "break in" for these things but the bass is much better now than when first installed.
My bass is at 3/4 and treble lines up there also. Mid is a little over the half mark.
I also don't know if the music source has any effect. I only listen to SiriusXM channels in the truck.