Kicker CompRT 10 inch Shallow-Mount Subwoofer
Ultra-thin design delivers full-size sound without sacrificing space
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Product Information
Overview
Kicker CompRT 10" Shallow-Mount Subwoofer
CompRT Series | 50 Years of Livin' Loud Legacy
400W RMS • 3-7/16" Mounting Depth • Dual 4-Ohm
American-Designed Performance at $199.99
Introducing Kicker: 50 Years of American Audio Innovation from Stillwater, Oklahoma
When you select a Kicker subwoofer, you're choosing a brand that literally invented the mobile-stereo enclosure market—a company born in 1973 from founder Steve Irby's simple problem: he couldn't hear his keyboards over the drums in his rock band. From those humble beginnings in a narrow one-car garage in Stillwater, Oklahoma, Kicker (officially Stillwater Designs) has grown into one of the largest and best-known manufacturers of aftermarket subwoofers, speakers, and amplifiers worldwide. For five decades, Kicker has remained headquartered in Stillwater under Steve Irby's leadership, maintaining the "Livin' Loud" philosophy that defines everything bearing the iconic Kicker logo.
The Kicker CompRT 10" subwoofer represents this half-century legacy applied specifically to shallow-mount applications where installation space constrains conventional subwoofer designs. With 400 watts RMS power handling compressed into just 3-7/16 inches of mounting depth, the CompRT delivers what Kicker calls "full-size sound without sacrificing space"—a promise backed by proprietary SoloKon technology, Forced-Air Cooling engineering, and all-weather construction that makes this subwoofer equally at home under truck seats, in marine applications, or mounted in UTVs tackling desert trails. This is American-designed performance at accessible $199.99 pricing—Kicker's core philosophy of delivering serious bass capability without premium pricing barriers that limit accessibility.
Why Kicker Commands Mainstream Performance Leadership
Kicker occupies a unique position in car audio: universally recognized brand identity combining serious performance capability with pricing that makes quality bass accessible to enthusiasts at all budget levels. Walk into any car audio retailer worldwide and you'll find Kicker—the brand professional installers stock because customers specifically request it, enthusiasts trust because it consistently delivers on performance promises, and beginners choose because Kicker represents proven reliability without intimidating premium pricing or boutique exclusivity.
This mainstream leadership stems from Kicker's engineering philosophy: develop technologies that deliver measurable performance advantages, then manufacture at volumes allowing aggressive pricing that maximizes market accessibility. Where boutique manufacturers might develop innovative technology available only in $400-600 subwoofers, Kicker engineers solutions delivering 80-90% of that performance at $199.99 pricing—the CompRT exemplifies this approach. You gain proprietary SoloKon shallow-mount technology, Forced-Air Cooling thermal management, and all-weather construction at less than half the price premium competitors charge for similar shallow-mount specifications.
The CompRT's $199.99 pricing creates compelling value propositions for diverse installation scenarios. Budget-conscious enthusiasts gain access to genuine 400-watt RMS shallow-mount performance without the $300-500+ pricing premium competitors command. Multiple-subwoofer installations become financially practical—two CompRT 10" subwoofers delivering combined 800 watts RMS cost less than single premium shallow-mount alternatives, providing output advantages that premium pricing cannot justify. Marine and powersports applications where environmental exposure risks equipment damage benefit from Kicker's all-weather construction at pricing that makes equipment replacement affordable if damage occurs despite protective design.
The CompRT addresses the fundamental shallow-mount challenge: achieving satisfying bass output from mounting depths under 4 inches while maintaining reliability during sustained high-power operation. Kicker's SoloKon technology—a proprietary framework combining unique motor geometry with signature red double-stitched Santoprene surround bonding—delivers what Kicker describes as bass that "sounds fat but keeps it thin." The Forced-Air Cooling system actively pulls air across voice coils, enabling 400-watt RMS continuous power handling with 20% cooler operation compared to previous CompRT generations. This thermal management proves critical for shallow-mount designs where reduced motor depth inherently limits heat dissipation capability—the CompRT maintains performance during extended maximum-output operation where competitors suffer thermal compression degrading bass quality as voice coils overheat.
Complete Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Kicker 48CWRT104 (CompRT 10" Shallow-Mount Subwoofer, Dual 4-Ohm) |
| Nominal Diameter | 10 inches (25cm) |
| RMS Power Handling | 400 Watts (continuous, per ANSI/CTA-2031-A) |
| Peak Power Handling | 800 Watts (maximum) |
| Voice Coil Configuration | Dual 4-Ohm (parallel = 2Ω, series = 8Ω) |
| Mounting Depth | 3-7/16 inches (8.8cm) |
| Mounting Diameter (Cutout) | 9-1/8 inches (23.1cm) |
| Sensitivity | 84.8 dB @ 1W/1m (some sources specify 87.2 dB) |
| Frequency Response | 25 - 500 Hz |
| Free Air Resonance (Fs) | 32.3 Hz |
| Electrical Q (Qes) | 0.6635 |
| Linear Excursion (Xmax) | 13.35mm (one-way) |
| Minimum Sealed Enclosure | 0.4 cubic feet (11.3 liters) |
| Maximum Sealed Enclosure | 1.25 cubic feet (35.4 liters) |
| Recommended Sealed Range | 0.4 - 1.25 cu.ft. (exceptionally wide flexibility) |
| Minimum Vented Enclosure | 1.25 cubic feet (35.4 liters) |
| Maximum Vented Enclosure | 1.75 cubic feet (49.6 liters) |
| Cone Material | UV-resistant polypropylene (injection-molded) |
| Surround Material | Santoprene rubber with signature red double stitching |
| Spider Material | Progressive design optimized for shallow-mount geometry |
| Basket Type | Full-coverage sealed steel basket (motor protection) |
| Motor Technology | SoloKon proprietary shallow-mount design |
| Cooling System | Forced-Air Cooling (20% cooler operation vs. previous generation) |
| All-Weather Construction | UV-resistant materials, marine/powersports compatible |
| Terminal Type | Push terminals (accept up to 12AWG wire) |
| Condition | NEW - Current production, full manufacturer warranty |
| Warranty | Full Kicker manufacturer warranty through authorized dealer |
| Country of Origin | Designed in Stillwater, Oklahoma USA |
| Price | $199.99 |
⚠️ Voice Coil Configuration Options
The Kicker CompRT 10" is available in multiple voice coil configurations:
- 48CWRT104 (Dual 4-Ohm): This model—parallel wiring = 2Ω, series wiring = 8Ω
- 48CWRT102 (Dual 2-Ohm): Alternative model—parallel wiring = 1Ω, series wiring = 4Ω
- 48CWRT101 (Single 1-Ohm): Single voice coil option for specific applications
Audio Intensity stocks the 48CWRT104 (Dual 4-Ohm) configuration, which provides the most versatile wiring flexibility for modern amplifier applications. The Dual 4-Ohm configuration allows 2-ohm parallel wiring (high amplifier power output) or 8-ohm series wiring (conservative operation, lower current draw). If your application specifically requires Dual 2-Ohm or Single 1-Ohm configurations, contact Audio Intensity to inquire about alternative model availability.
Competitive Comparison: CompRT 10" Value Positioning
The shallow-mount 10-inch category features competitors across diverse price points and performance levels. The Kicker CompRT 10" occupies mainstream performance leadership through accessible pricing combined with technologies delivering measurable advantages over budget alternatives while approaching premium competitor capabilities at fraction of their cost.
| Model | Power (RMS) | Mounting Depth | Sealed Enclosure | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kicker CompRT 10" | 400W | 3-7/16" | 0.4-1.25 cu.ft. | $199.99 |
| JL Audio 10TW3-D4 | 400W | 3.25" | 0.5-0.75 cu.ft. | $519.00 MSRP |
| Arc Audio A10-D2 | 250W | 3.77" | 0.4-0.9 cu.ft. | $298.00 |
| Rockford Fosgate P3SD4-10 | 400W | 3.54" | 0.40-0.75 cu.ft. | $229.00 |
| Alpine SWS-10D4 | 300W | 3.62" | 0.50-1.25 cu.ft. | $209.00 |
| Pioneer TS-SW2502S4 | 300W | 3.35" | 0.30-0.65 cu.ft. | $149.00 |
Why Choose Kicker CompRT 10" Over Competitors
Best Value in Shallow-Mount 10" Category: At $199.99, the CompRT delivers 400W RMS power handling matching JL Audio's premium 10TW3 ($519 MSRP) while costing 62% less. The CompRT matches Rockford Fosgate P3SD4 power specifications while costing $30 less ($199.99 vs. $229). Only budget-tier Pioneer TS-SW2502S4 undercuts CompRT pricing ($149), but sacrifices 100W RMS power handling (300W vs. 400W) and lacks Kicker's proprietary technologies.
Widest Enclosure Volume Flexibility: The CompRT's 0.4-1.25 cubic foot sealed range provides the widest flexibility among premium competitors—JL Audio 10TW3 recommends 0.5-0.75 cu.ft. (narrow range), Arc Audio A10 specifies 0.4-0.9 cu.ft., Rockford Fosgate P3SD4 recommends 0.40-0.75 cu.ft. This flexibility proves valuable for installations where available space dictates enclosure dimensions rather than acoustic optimization preferences—the CompRT maintains acceptable performance across exceptionally wide volume range.
All-Weather Construction for Diverse Applications: Kicker's UV-resistant polypropylene cone and Santoprene surround withstand environmental exposure that would degrade competitors lacking all-weather specifications. Marine applications (boats, personal watercraft), powersports installations (UTVs, side-by-sides, motorcycles), and outdoor recreational vehicles benefit from CompRT's weatherproof design at pricing making equipment replacement affordable if damage occurs despite protective construction.
Forced-Air Cooling for Sustained High-Output: The CompRT's proprietary cooling system actively manages thermal loads during extended maximum-power operation, delivering 20% cooler operation versus previous CompRT generations. This thermal advantage proves critical for installations where sustained high-volume listening (tailgating, outdoor events, extended road trips) stresses shallow-mount thermal management more than brief listening sessions.
When Premium Alternatives Make Sense
JL Audio 10TW3-D4 ($519 MSRP): Choose JL Audio when legendary sound quality reputation, patented Thin-Line technology, and 50-year premium engineering heritage justify 160% price premium ($519 vs. $199.99). JL Audio's computer-optimized Dynamic Motor Analysis and manufacturing precision in Miramar, Florida deliver measurable sound quality advantages—tighter transient control, lower distortion, superior long-term reliability. Professional installers and audiophiles prioritizing absolute sound quality over value choose JL Audio despite premium pricing.
Arc Audio A10-D2 ($298): Choose Arc Audio when military-inspired American engineering, premium materials (Totoku copper voice coil from Japan, Nomex spider/former), and tactical performance philosophy align with personal values. Arc Audio commands mid-range premium ($298 vs. $199.99 = 49% price increase) through engineering quality and brand heritage—you sacrifice CompRT's value advantage but gain materials quality and engineering sophistication approaching JL Audio at lower cost.
Pioneer TS-SW2502S4 ($149): Choose Pioneer when absolute minimum budget constrains you to sub-$150 pricing and you're willing to sacrifice 100W RMS power handling (300W vs. 400W), proprietary cooling technology, and all-weather construction for maximum cost savings. The $50 price difference ($149 vs. $199.99) represents 25% savings but compromises performance capabilities significantly—consider CompRT's modest $50 premium worthwhile investment for 33% more power handling and superior technology package.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the CompRT worth $199.99 compared to $149 budget alternatives?
The CompRT delivers 400W RMS vs. budget alternatives' typical 300W RMS (33% more power handling), proprietary Forced-Air Cooling running 20% cooler than previous generations, SoloKon shallow-mount technology delivering "full-size sound from thin profile," all-weather UV-resistant construction, and signature Kicker reliability. The $50 premium ($199.99 vs. $149 budget options) represents modest 25% cost increase providing substantial performance and technology advantages—worthwhile investment for installations demanding reliable 400W performance.
How does CompRT compare to JL Audio 10TW3 costing 160% more?
Both deliver 400W RMS power handling and similar shallow mounting depths (CompRT 3-7/16" vs. TW3 3.25"). JL Audio commands $519 MSRP vs. CompRT's $199.99 through patented Thin-Line technology, computer-optimized DMA engineering, 50-year premium reputation, and Florida manufacturing precision delivering measurable sound quality advantages. CompRT provides 80-85% of JL Audio performance at 38% of the cost—exceptional value for mainstream installations. Choose JL Audio when legendary sound quality justifies premium pricing; choose CompRT for practical performance maximizing value per dollar.
Will the CompRT fit under my truck's rear seat?
Measure actual clearance from floor to seat bottom with seats rearward—you need 4.0-4.5" total clearance for enclosure accommodating CompRT's 3-7/16" mounting depth plus enclosure material thickness. Most crew cab trucks and full-size SUVs provide 4.0-4.5" clearances (compatible with careful enclosure design). Additionally, CompRT's wide 0.4-1.25 cu.ft. sealed range accommodates diverse available footprints—most under-seat areas achieve 0.5-1.0 cu.ft. volumes providing optimal CompRT performance.
Is 400 watts RMS enough power for satisfying bass?
Yes—400W RMS delivers strong bass output for vast majority of listening scenarios in typical vehicle cabins. Under-seat placement near listener positions provides acoustic advantages maximizing output efficiency. You'll achieve excellent bass for music listening and substantial impact for movie soundtracks. Only extreme SPL competition applications or exceptionally large vehicle cabins (full-size vans, commercial vehicles) require higher power levels. CompRT's 400W RMS represents genuine continuous power handling delivering performance competitors claiming inflated specifications cannot match.
What's the best enclosure size for the CompRT?
Kicker recommends 0.4-1.25 cu.ft. sealed range—exceptionally wide flexibility accommodating diverse installation constraints. Start with available space: measure maximum enclosure dimensions your installation allows, calculate resulting volume. If calculated volume falls within 0.4-1.25 cu.ft., build to that maximum available volume. If you have flexibility: target 0.6-0.9 cu.ft. for versatile bass response balancing upper-bass punch with deep-bass extension suitable for all music genres. Smaller volumes (0.4-0.5 cu.ft.) emphasize tight punch; larger volumes (1.0-1.25 cu.ft.) maximize deep-bass extension.
Can I use the CompRT in marine/outdoor applications?
Yes—CompRT features all-weather construction specifically designed for marine, powersports, and outdoor recreational applications. UV-resistant polypropylene cone and Santoprene surround withstand sun exposure, humidity, temperature extremes, and environmental conditions that would degrade non-weatherproof alternatives. Full-coverage sealed steel basket protects motor assembly from moisture and debris. CompRT proves equally reliable in boats, UTVs, motorcycles, and off-road vehicles as traditional automotive installations. The $199.99 pricing makes equipment replacement affordable if damage occurs despite protective design—practical advantage for applications where environmental exposure risks equipment damage.
Should I wire the CompRT at 2-ohm or 8-ohm?
2-ohm parallel wiring maximizes amplifier output—most mono subwoofer amplifiers deliver high power at 2-ohm loads (many models rated 400-600W RMS @ 2Ω). This wiring configuration utilizes full CompRT 400W RMS power handling capability. 8-ohm series wiring reduces amplifier output (most amplifiers produce 30-40% of 2-ohm power at 8Ω loads) but provides conservative operation for long-term reliability, reduces electrical system stress, and suits specific amplifier configurations. Choose 2-ohm for maximum output; choose 8-ohm when conservative operation or specific amplifier requirements dictate higher impedance loading.
What amplifier power rating works best with CompRT?
Target 400-500W RMS @ 2 ohms (when wiring CompRT at 2-ohm parallel configuration). Amplifiers rated 300-400W RMS provide conservative power delivery with margin for transient peaks. Amplifiers rated 450-500W RMS deliver full CompRT capability with modest headroom for musical transients. Kicker manufactures matched amplifiers specifically designed to complement CompRT subwoofers—consider Kicker CX or KX Series monoblock amplifiers for guaranteed compatibility and system synergies. Quality mainstream alternatives (Rockford Fosgate, Alpine, Pioneer, etc.) deliver excellent results at 400-500W RMS @ 2Ω specifications.
Can I wire multiple CompRT subwoofers together?
Yes—wire each CompRT at 8-ohm series configuration, then parallel both subwoofers for 4-ohm final system impedance. This requires amplifier rated 800W RMS @ 4 ohms (400W RMS per subwoofer). Alternatively, use separate amplifiers for each subwoofer providing independent power control. Dual CompRT installations provide substantial output capability—combined 800W RMS from two 10" subwoofers at total cost under $400 ($199.99 × 2) delivers output rivaling single premium alternatives costing similar money while providing installation flexibility and redundancy advantages.
How does Forced-Air Cooling work?
Kicker's proprietary Forced-Air Cooling system uses motor structure geometry to actively pull air across voice coils during cone motion. As the cone moves inward/outward, the motor assembly creates air pressure differentials that force air circulation around voice coils—this active airflow transfers heat away from voice coils more effectively than passive convection cooling traditional subwoofers rely upon. Result: 20% cooler operation versus previous CompRT generations, enabling sustained 400W RMS continuous power handling without thermal compression degrading bass quality as voice coils overheat. This thermal advantage proves critical for extended high-output listening where shallow-mount designs typically suffer thermal limitations.
What warranty coverage does CompRT include?
Full Kicker manufacturer warranty when purchased through authorized dealers like Audio Intensity. Warranty covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship—specific terms available from Kicker or Audio Intensity customer service. CompRT ships NEW current production with complete warranty coverage, original packaging, and authorized dealer support. Kicker's 50-year reputation for standing behind products provides confidence in warranty service—professional installers consistently report positive warranty experiences with Kicker compared to some competitors offering warranty terms but challenging claim processes.
Why does Kicker offer so many CompRT voice coil options?
Kicker manufactures CompRT in Dual 4-Ohm (48CWRT104), Dual 2-Ohm (48CWRT102), and Single 1-Ohm (48CWRT101) configurations providing maximum system design flexibility. Different amplifier models optimize at different impedance loads—offering multiple voice coil options ensures customers can match CompRT to their specific amplifier's optimal impedance rather than compromising system performance through mismatched impedances. Audio Intensity stocks Dual 4-Ohm (48CWRT104) as most versatile configuration providing 2-ohm or 8-ohm final wiring flexibility suitable for vast majority of modern amplifier applications.
Ready to Experience 50 Years of Kicker's Livin' Loud Legacy?
The Kicker CompRT 10" subwoofer represents American audio innovation compressed into 3-7/16 inches of shallow-mount engineering—400 watts RMS of proprietary SoloKon technology delivering full-size bass performance from ultra-thin profile at $199.99 pricing that makes serious shallow-mount capability accessible without premium pricing barriers. With Forced-Air Cooling running 20% cooler than previous generations, all-weather construction surviving marine and powersports environmental exposure, and exceptionally wide 0.4-1.25 cubic foot sealed range accommodating diverse installation constraints, the CompRT delivers Stillwater, Oklahoma-designed performance proving you don't need premium pricing to achieve satisfying bass output.
Whether you're building under-seat installations in crew cab trucks, mounting behind seats in extended cab vehicles, integrating into boat sound systems, or upgrading UTV audio for trail adventures, the CompRT provides the shallow-mount solution combining proven Kicker reliability with technologies delivering measurable advantages over budget alternatives—all at pricing that makes multiple-subwoofer installations financially practical and equipment replacement affordable for high-risk outdoor applications.
Audio Intensity provides:
- NEW current production CompRT subwoofers with full Kicker manufacturer warranty—genuine Kicker products with complete warranty coverage
- Authorized Kicker dealer support ensuring authentic products and manufacturer backing
- Competitive $199.99 pricing delivering exceptional value in shallow-mount 10" category
- Free lifetime tech support for installation guidance and system design assistance
- 30-day price-drop protection ensuring you get best available pricing
- 30-day returns providing purchase confidence if fitment or performance concerns arise
- Complete Kicker product access—matched amplifiers, enclosures, and accessories available
Don't pay premium pricing for shallow-mount performance when Kicker's 50-year engineering legacy delivers 400-watt authority at mainstream pricing making quality bass accessible to all enthusiasts. The CompRT proves that American-designed innovation from Stillwater, Oklahoma can deliver serious bass capability without boutique exclusivity or premium pricing barriers. Order your Kicker CompRT 10" from Audio Intensity today and discover why millions of enthusiasts worldwide trust the Kicker brand for Livin' Loud performance that doesn't break the bank—3-7/16 inches of mounting depth, 400 watts RMS of proven reliability, $199.99 investment in 50 years of American audio innovation.
Contact Audio Intensity now to order your Kicker CompRT 10" and experience the shallow-mount bass performance that defines mainstream excellence.
Specifications
Specifications
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Owners Manual
Every Kicker CompRT 10 inch Shallow-Mount Subwoofer ships with a detailed factory owner’s manual that covers wiring, enclosure recommendations, specifications, and safe operating practices. This document is the official reference for setup and maintenance, ensuring you get the most performance and longevity out of your subwoofer.
We recommend reviewing the manual before installation to:
- Confirm the correct wiring configuration for your voice coil option (Dual 1Ω or Dual 2Ω).
- Review enclosure guidelines to match the driver’s performance potential.
- Understand safe power handling and gain-setting practices to protect your investment.
Keeping this manual handy ensures you have quick access to factory specifications and diagrams, making it easier to fine-tune your system or service the subwoofer when needed.
Performance & Tools
Compatible Enclosures
EBP Calculator
Choosing the right enclosure for your subwoofer isn’t guesswork — it’s science. The Efficiency Bandwidth Product (EBP) is a simple calculation that uses a driver’s Fs (resonance frequency) and Qes (electrical Q) to determine whether it performs best in sealed, ported, or both types of boxes.
- EBP under 50 → Works best in sealed enclosures for tighter, more controlled bass.
- EBP over 100 → Better suited for ported designs where efficiency and output are the priority.
- EBP between 50–100 → Flexible enough to perform well in either design, depending on system goals.
Use our interactive calculator below to compare subwoofers, see where each model falls, and make an informed decision on the best enclosure type for your setup.
Efficiency Bandwidth Product (EBP)
Fs (Hz): 32.3
Qes: .6635
Lower EBP → Sealed. Higher EBP → Ported.
Xmax (mm): 13.35
Mounting Depth (inches): 3.45
Customer Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the CompRT different from regular shallow-mount subwoofers?
Can this subwoofer handle outdoor and marine applications?
What's the best enclosure type for the CompRT 10"
How does the Forced-Air Cooling™ system work?
Can I wire multiple CompRT subwoofers together?
What amplifier power rating works best with this subwoofer?
Will this fit under my truck's rear seat?
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