Kicker 51HS8 Hideaway Powered Subwoofer vs Kicker 51HS12 Hideaway Powered Subwoofer

Both are Kicker Hideaway all-in-one powered subs in sealed aluminum enclosures, so the real choice is output versus footprint. The HS12's 12-inch driver and 230W amp move noticeably more air and dig harder at low volume, and its wider input range (up to 40V) suits newer cars with start/stop systems. The HS8 fits under a seat at 3-1/8 inches tall and 9.4 lbs, and owners consistently call its bass surprising for the size. Buy the HS8 when space is the constraint; step up to the HS12 when you want real sub-bass and can spare the room.

• Choose the Kicker HS8 if you need bass that tucks under a seat or behind a truck bench, with a shallow 3-1/8-inch profile and light 9.4-lb body.
• Choose the Kicker HS12 if you want the deepest, loudest bass of the two and have room for a 3-1/2-inch-tall, 17-1/8-inch-deep box.