CES 2009: Kicker Shows Slim Comp VT Subwoofers

By Staff -- TWICE, January 9, 2009

LAS VEGAS — Kicker is showing its new Comp VT 6.5- and 8-inch subwoofers at CES in the North Hall, booths 3702M and 4018.

The descendants of last year's 10- and 12-inch CompVTs, these subwoofers are said to inherit the same technology running through the CVT family. The products feature a ventless, solid-pole design, allowing them to be mounted directly against the rear wall of a sealed or vented enclosure, permitting the woofers to perform in depths less than 4.5 inches. Spring-loaded binding posts are also mounted differently than standard subwoofers to minimize size. And, one can subtract enclosure wall depth from the equation as well with a substitution steel "clearance" adapter plate.

According to the company, the 8-inch CVT8 handles 200 watts RMS (400w peak) and the 6.5-inch CVT65 handles 150 watts RMS (300w peak). Each woofer's injection-molded cone is said to be shaped to provide maximum excursion from a slender basket, and a specialized four-layer voice coil provides the CVT the capabilities to work with large amounts of power, but in a slimmer package.

Kicker subwoofers feature perimeter venting, high-temp coil wire, a Uniplate backplate and pole, double-stitching, and logo trim ring around the steel basket's outer edges. Other notable features include the cone's modified spoke design, its 360-degree back bracing and ribbed Santoprene surround.

The CVT8 and CVT65 carry suggested retail prices of $149.95 and $129.95, respectively. Shipment information will be available at the booth.