KICKER Hideaway 10" Powered Under-Seat Subwoofer or KICKER Dual CompC 12" Subwoofers? Which KICKER Model to Buy
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You are deciding between the kicker hideaway 10 powered under seat subwoofer vs dual compc 12. Both deliver deep bass for your vehicle. The main difference lies in integration. The Hideaway 10 is an all-in-one powered unit designed to fit under a seat. The Dual CompC 12 is a passive dual-woofer enclosure requiring an external amplifier. Your choice depends on whether you want a compact plug-and-play solution or a high-power custom install.
Key differences
| Aspect | Kicker Hideaway 10" Powered Under-Seat Subwoofer | KICKER Dual CompC 12" Subwoofers |
|---|---|---|
| Amplifier Type | Built-in 180-watt amplifier | Passive (requires external amp) |
| Woofer Size | Single 10-inch driver | Dual 12-inch drivers |
| Impedance | Not listed | 2-Ohm |
| Enclosure Type | Compact under-seat housing | Vented MDF enclosure |
| Dimensions | 3.12 inches high | 32.3 inches high |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Kicker Hideaway 10" Powered Under-Seat Subwoofer if
- You need a subwoofer that fits under a seat with minimal height.
- You want a complete system with a built-in amplifier and remote control.
- You prefer a lightweight unit that is easy to install.
Choose KICKER Dual CompC 12" Subwoofers if
- You require high power handling for louder bass output.
- You have space for a tall, heavy vented enclosure.
- You already own a compatible amplifier for passive speakers.
Verdict: Choose the Hideaway 10 if space is tight and you want a simple, self-contained installation. Select the Dual CompC 12 if you have room for a larger box and need maximum bass output from a passive system.
Hideaway 10 vs Dual CompC 12
woofer size
The Kicker Hideaway 10 uses a single 10-inch driver to generate bass. The Kicker Dual CompC 12 features two 12-inch woofers in its enclosure. Larger cones generally move more air, which can translate to deeper low-frequency extension. The Dual CompC 12 has a clear advantage in physical driver size and total cone area due to its dual 12-inch configuration versus the single 10-inch unit. If you prioritize raw driver dimensions for potential bass output, the Dual CompC 12 is the stronger choice based on these specifications alone.
amplifier type
The Hideaway 10 is a powered subwoofer with an integrated 180-watt amplifier. This means it includes its own power supply and amplification circuitry inside the compact enclosure. The Dual CompC 12 is a passive subwoofer system that requires an external amplifier. It specifies a recommended 600W RMS amplifier power handling, but does not include the amp itself. You must supply your own amplification for the Dual CompC 12. The Hideaway 10 offers a complete, self-contained solution, while the Dual CompC 12 offers higher potential power handling if you already have a suitable amp.
size
Physical dimensions dictate where you can install these subs in your vehicle. The Hideaway 10 is ultra-compact, measuring 12.1 inches in length, 9.87 inches in width, and just 3.12 inches in height. It weighs only 14 pounds. The Dual CompC 12 is much larger, standing 32.3 inches tall with a footprint of 16.7 inches by 18 inches. It weighs 75.2 pounds. The Hideaway 10 is designed specifically for under-seat installation due to its low profile. The Dual CompC 12 requires significant space, likely in a trunk or cargo area.
enclosure type
The Hideaway 10 comes in a compact, custom-shaped enclosure designed to hide under a seat. The Dual CompC 12 is housed in a vented enclosure made from heavy MDF and covered in thick black carpet. This type of box is designed for durability and acoustic performance in open spaces. The vented design helps with tuning and air circulation. The Hideaway 10 prioritizes stealth and space-saving. The Dual CompC 12 prioritizes robust construction and acoustic tuning for larger areas. Your available space will determine which enclosure type is practical for your vehicle.
impedance
Impedance affects how your amplifier interacts with the subwoofer. The Kicker Dual CompC 12 has a 2-Ohm impedance rating. This low impedance allows it to draw more power from an amplifier, potentially increasing output if the amp is stable at 2-Ohms. The Hideaway 10 is a powered unit, so its internal amplifier is matched to its specific driver and enclosure. It does not expose an external impedance rating for you to match. The Dual CompC 12 gives you control over amplifier selection based on its 2-Ohm requirement.
Choose the right sub for your needs
You need compact, plug-and-play under-seat bass
The Kicker Hideaway 10 is an all-in-one powered unit. It stands just 3.12 inches high and weighs 14 pounds. Its 180-watt amplifier is built-in, so you do not need an external amp. The quick-connect molex plug makes installation simple. This model fits under most seats without eating up trunk space. It is ideal for tight vehicles.
You want maximum bass output and depth
The Dual CompC 12 features two 12-inch woofers in a vented enclosure. It handles 600 watts RMS, which is much higher than the Hideaway. The 2-ohm impedance and 31Hz tuning frequency allow for deeper low-frequency extension. The heavy MDF construction and forced air cooling keep the system stable. You get significantly more power and air movement.
You prefer easy installation with minimal wiring
This subwoofer includes a remote bass control and a quick-connect harness. You avoid complex wiring runs to a separate amplifier. The aluminum frame and compact size make it easy to mount in tight spots. The integrated 180-watt amp simplifies the setup. You get a complete solution that installs quickly without needing additional components or extensive electrical work.
The products compared
Kicker Hideaway 10" Powered Under-Seat Subwoofer
Best for: tight under-seat installations
- Woofer Size
- 10"
- Power Handling
- 180 W
- Enclosure Type
- Low-profile
- Connectivity
- Quick-Connect Molex plug and harness
- Application
- Cars
- Speaker Type
- Powered
View on Amazon: Kicker Hideaway 10" Powered Under-Seat Subwoofer Affiliate link
The Kicker Hideaway 10 is a compact, powered subwoofer designed for under-seat installation. It features a 10-inch driver and an integrated 180-watt amplifier. The unit measures just 3.12 inches high, fitting in tight spaces. It includes a remote bass control and uses a quick-connect harness. This model suits you if you need deep bass without taking up trunk space.
Pros
- 180-watt integrated amplifier
- 10-inch woofer size
- Ultra-compact 3.12-inch height
- Includes remote bass control
- Aluminum frame construction
Cons
- Limited to under-seat mounting only
- Single driver limits stereo imaging
- No external EQ settings listed
Good fit if
- You need a subwoofer that fits under a seat
- You want a powered unit with no external amp needed
- You prefer a compact footprint for small vehicles
Skip if
- You require dual 12-inch drivers for higher output
- You need a vented enclosure for extended bass
- You prefer passive speakers for external amplification
Verdict: Kicker Hideaway 10 Powered Subwoofer fits you if space is tight and you need a plug-and-play solution. It delivers solid bass in a small package, unlike the larger dual-comp setup.
KICKER Dual CompC 12" Subwoofers
Best for: high-output bass in fixed locations
- Woofer Size
- Dual 12"
- Power Handling
- 600W RMS
- Enclosure Type
- Vented
- Impedance
- 2-Ohm
- Dimensions
- 16.7 × 18 × 32.3 inches
- Weight
- 75.2 pounds
View on Amazon: KICKER Dual CompC 12" Subwoofers Affiliate link
This Kicker setup features two 12-inch subwoofers in a vented enclosure. It handles 600W RMS with a 2-Ohm impedance and tunes to 31Hz. The MDF box measures 18 x 16.7 x 32.3 inches and weighs 75.2 pounds. You get deep bass output driven by an external amplifier. This model suits those who want high-power, dedicated bass performance in a fixed location.
Pros
- Dual 12-inch woofers for high output
- 600W RMS power handling capacity
- Vented enclosure tuned to 31Hz
- Forced air cooling for thermal management
Cons
- Requires an external amplifier
- Heavy MDF enclosure at 75.2 pounds
- Large footprint limits placement options
Good fit if
- You need maximum bass output
- You have space for a large enclosure
- You already own a suitable amplifier
Skip if
- You need a compact under-seat unit
- You lack space for a 32-inch box
- You want a plug-and-play powered solution
Verdict: Kicker Dual CompC 12" Vented Subwoofer delivers serious bass through dual 12-inch drivers and high power handling. It fits buyers who prioritize raw output over space-saving convenience.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Kicker Hideaway 10" Powered Under-Seat Subwoofer | KICKER Dual CompC 12" Subwoofers |
|---|---|---|
| Woofer Size | 10" | Dual 12" |
| Power Handling | 180 W | 600W RMS |
| Enclosure Type | Low-profile | Vented |
| Impedance | not stated | 2-Ohm |
| Connectivity | Quick-Connect Molex plug and harness | not stated |
| Application | Cars | not stated |
| Speaker Type | Powered | not stated |
| Size | 10 Inch | not stated |
| Dimensions | 12.1 × 9.87 × 3.12 inches | 16.7 × 18 × 32.3 inches |
| Weight | 14 pounds | 75.2 pounds |
| Model | 46HS10 | 50DCWC122 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Kicker Hideaway 10 require an external amplifier?
No, it does not. This model is a powered subwoofer, meaning the amplifier is built directly into the enclosure. You get a complete, plug-and-play solution that fits under a seat. The Kicker Dual CompC 12 is a passive dual-woofer system, so it requires you to supply your own external amplifier and wiring for installation.
How much space does the Hideaway 10 take up?
It is designed for tight spots. The unit measures 12.1 inches in length, 9.87 inches in width, and only 3.12 inches in height. It weighs just 14 pounds. This low profile allows it to slide easily under most vehicle seats without obstructing legroom or requiring a dedicated enclosure space.
What is the total weight of the Dual CompC 12 setup?
The Dual CompC 12 package weighs 75.2 pounds. This is significantly heavier than the Hideaway 10, which weighs 14 pounds. The extra weight comes from the dual 12-inch drivers and the sturdy enclosure designed to handle high power output. You will need a secure mounting location for this unit.
Which subwoofer offers higher power handling?
The Kicker Dual CompC 12 is built for high-output bass. It features two 12-inch woofers and is designed to handle significant power from an external amplifier. The Hideaway 10 is a compact 10-inch unit with a built-in 180-watt amplifier, prioritizing convenience and fit over raw maximum power output.
Can I install the Dual CompC 12 under a seat?
It is unlikely to fit comfortably. The Dual CompC 12 enclosure is 16.7 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 32.3 inches high. These dimensions are too large for most under-seat areas. It is better suited for a fixed location in a trunk or cargo area where you can prioritize output over space-saving.
What impedance does the Dual CompC 12 use?
The Kicker Dual CompC 12 has a 2-ohm impedance. This specification is important for matching with your amplifier. You need an amplifier that can safely drive a 2-ohm load to get the best performance. The Hideaway 10 includes its own matched amplifier, so you do not need to worry about impedance matching.
Which model is better for a quick installation?
The Hideaway 10 is the better choice for quick installation. It is an all-in-one powered unit that you can place under a seat and connect with minimal wiring. The Dual CompC 12 requires an external amplifier, additional wiring, and a dedicated mounting space, making the installation process more complex and time-consuming.