Kicker Audio Upgrade 
SoundGate “PowerStage” kit installed on Project Big Red; subwoofer system designed to boost performance of factory pickup stereo systems
By Bruce W. Smith/Photo: Tom Jackson
It’s called the Kicker SoundGate.
It’s a new subwoofer system designed specifically to improve the performance of the OE audio systems in full-size pickups.
The cool factor for those who like to listen to their tunes is Kicker “tunes” the plug-and-play system differently depending on the make, model and year of the truck.
SoundGate offers two upgrade kits: the PowerStage and the SubStage.
Each kit provides an upgrade solution for prosumers who seek high-end sound created specifically for their vehicle, but installed quickly with little modification.
SubStage Upgrade ($700) includes a loaded subwoofer enclosure, 200-watt integrated amplifier, wiring kit and mounting brackets.
The enclosure contains a 10-inch subwoofer for significant bass response.
The PowerStage Upgrade ($1,250) includes the SubStage Upgrade, plus multi-channel DSP amplifier for factory speakers, wiring kit and mounting brackets.
In the case of a Crew Cab GMC pickup like our 2009 Sierra 3500HD, Kicker’s Crew Cab PowerStage kit, which is enclosed in a molded unit, resides under the passenger’s side rear seat.
The enclosure is molded to fit the floor for a perfect fit and sound reproduction.
Special features:
- No cutting, mounting directly to factory locations
- Cosmetically, original factory look
- Computer-optimized, 32-bit digital signal processing tuned specifically for your vehicle
- Minimum impact on your vehicle’s charging system
- 2-year warranty (parts and labor) when installed by an Authorized KICKER Dealer
We had the Kicker audio experts at West Coast Customs (205-345-0236) in Tuscaloosa, AL, install our kit. It took them less than an hour.
The improvement in the OE stereo is greatly improved. The bass, of course, if dramatic, and the mid- and high-range tones far more prevalent.
Crank up the stereo now and the does and windows rattle. The Kicker upgrade will do just fine on those long, boring road trips.
