STILLWATER, OK (05.02.23) – KICKER Marine Audio’s KMXL Horn Loaded Coaxial Speakers have been selected by the editors of Boating Industry Magazine as one of its “2023 Top Products Awards.” The annual awards, for 10 years, have selected 50 Top Products that represent “the marine industry’s newest and most innovative products and services to recently hit the market.” All the winners are featured in the May issue of Boating Industry, a respected information source for marine industry decision makers. The magazine cites that the “…list of products differentiated themselves from the group for their impact on the industry, innovations and how they advance the product category…”
“This award from a key industry trade publication is especially important to us as it follows KICKER Marine Audio’s KMXL speakers also being chosen by Bonnier publications this year as one of its “Best Elex” winners,” said Jeremy Bale, Brand Manager. “We are so happy that the marine industry and consumers are seeing the quality of KICKER products through the eyes of respected experts,” he added.
The KMXL Coaxial Speakers expand on the technology previously introduced in KICKER Marine Audio’s KMFC and KMTC HLCD Horn Loaded Tower Systems. KICKER’s horn-loaded technology provides the most sonically accurate reproduction of sound, due to the geometry of the horn. A constantly changing cross-section from the horn’s driver to its flare eliminates problematic standing waves and resonances; this occurs in other horn-loaded speakers that have “straight section with flare” horn designs.
KICKER Marine Audio actually compressed this technological design for the coaxial speaker market so that all boats and boaters, not just those with tower systems and cone enclosures can enjoy the same clear, crisp and bass-laden sound that KICKER is known for delivering. The KMXL speakers come in 3 sizes: KMXL65 (6.5”) KMXL8 (8”) and the KMXL69 (6×9”). Each has been tested to run all day at Recommended Amplifier Power (RMS) from 15-250 watts, so play it loud and proud with KICKER Marine Audio!
As with all KICKER Marine Audio coaxial speakers, the KMXL speaker grills are notched for moisture draining, are salt fog and UV tested and certified to withstand the harsh marine environment and come in both charcoal and white to match the boat interior. Speaker hardware is rustproof 316L stainless steel for years of durability and neodymium magnet in the motor assembly are lightweight, yet powerful.
KICKER Marine Audio’s design ethic, “Real Marine” aims to raise the standard of all marine audio as the company’s goal is to provide dependability, durability and the best customer service in the industry.
STILLWATER, OK (04.18.23) – KICKER Marine Audio brings premium sound to two large powerboating events on Lake Havasu, Arizona–Desert Storm April 19-23 and Super Cat Fest West, April 26-29. The two events take place on back-to-back weekends of boating action to bring performance boat enthusiasts to Lake Havasu City, a boating Mecca for the country’s West Coast.
KICKER Marine Audio again joins the new owners of Desert Storm for this 25th Anniversary event. KICKER is especially visible as presenting sponsor for the annual Street Party on Thursday, April 20. Jim Russell, an event producer for 30 years, co-owned the event with its founder, Jim Nichols, Sr., who several years ago, sold it to his daughter-in-law and son, Christina and Jim Nichols, Jr. After several years under their operation, Russell and Lake Havasu realtor and community leader Steve Tichnor wanted to ensure that the event stayed in Havasu, so they invested in buying it back.
Says Russell, “Thanks to the wonderful long-term sponsorship of KICKER Marine Audio, joining with new title sponsor, Anderson Powersports, we were able to acquire the event and make minor changes, making sure it stays in Lake Havasu. We are boating enthusiasts and this event has a place in the hearts of everyone in Havasu—it deserves to stay here and grow!”
KICKER Marine Audio has traditionally brought its XRV (Xtreme Recreational Vehicle), a travel edition of its famous headquarters’ “Wall of Boom” to Havasu’s Main Street for the “Eye of the Storm” Street Party. KICKER’s Real Marine sound equipment will also be seen on many of the millions of dollars of state-of-the art performance boats that will be displayed from 1-9 PM, including boats like the DCB owned by Rod Voegele of California-based Gatorwraps, also located in Lake Havasu, and the Rinker Flotilla owned by Jeff Cuvelier of Elite Audio of Havasu. Both boaters and businessmen are big KICKER Marine Audio fans as Gatorwraps adds the visuals to many KICKER-equipped customer boats, while Cuvelier has installed KMA products for years.
“Jeff provides an excellent example of what KICKER can bring to the party,” says Jeremy Bale, KICKER Marine Audio brand manager, “His own Rinker boat and his customers can attest to the top-sound quality of KICKER and its excellent performance in the marine environment. We are pleased to add our continued support to this anniversary event.”
Eliminator’s new Speedster with KICKER Marine Audio and Jeff Cuvelier’s Rinker loaded with KICKER gear!
Jake Fraleigh of Eliminator Boats is also planning to bring a new Ferrari Red 27 Speedster with twin Mercury 400 engines loaded with KICKER sound equipment to the event. Fraleigh calls the open-bow boat “a perfect example of the company’s dedication to lifestyle, functionality and performance—both with speed and sound.”
The event is moving this year to Havasu State Park where the white sandy beaches of “Windsor 4” will serve as VIP headquarters. On Friday, April 21, the Parade of Power will travel from Thompson Bay to the Bridgewater Channel, passing under the London Bridge. Then, a Poker Run where Russell says “the waters will boil” with over 100 participants, led by the area’s First Responders and a KICKER Boat, will round out the day and end with a party for all participants.
On Saturday, April 22, the Sugrue’s Shoot Out event will run from 9 AM- 4 PM from the Site Six Launch Ramp. The ¾-mile closed course Shoot Out is being organized by Russ Wallach of RPM Racing Enterprises and promises to be an exciting event with the best fan viewing from the park’s surrounding bluffs. The King and Queen of the Desert top speed title awards will be presented at the party that evening with record breaking speeds expected.
Preceding the performance events on Wednesday, April 19 is the annual Kruisin’ for a Kause as volunteer powerboaters with big engines and big hearts take area residents with special needs on boat rides, culminating in a BBQ lunch with karaoke entertainment at Lake Havasu State Park.
The next weekend, Super Cat Fest West takes the annual Lake of the Ozarks event to Lake Havasu, thanks to event producer Alvin Heathman, joined by sponsor River Dave of River Dave’s Place. This boaters’ event boasts Title Sponsors KICKER Marine Audio, Eliminator Boats, Franko’s DLA-M44, Gatorwraps and Dixxon Flannel, the latter which will show its Dixxon Eliminator 28’ Fundeck, and new Eliminator 27’ Speedster. Other sponsors include Elite Sound; Ilmor Marine who will unveil a new power package; Horizon Motorsports, a local boat dealer sponsoring the Saturday night party; Hamilton Marine Finance; Detail Specialties; and Barrett Custom Marine. Private sponsors will also bring notable boats, like DCB and Mauricio & Angie Vivanco with their DLA-M44 DCB, Kenny Gonzales and his well-known 48 MTI, “Wave Adios” and many other high-performance cats.
Heathman says they are looking to get the town “more involved” as the event draws boats from across the country to explore Lake Havasu, which he sees as a similar boat culture to Lake of the Ozarks, “just with different scenery and smaller—but more concentrated. Lake Havasu is amazing in its own way—there is always something performance going on here—it’s a giant playground and I think it is the perfect setting,” he adds.
Since Heathman found logistics a bit more challenging in Havasu, he engaged a new development, Havasu Riviera Marina, to host the event. The marina has a new dock, boat ramp, well over 100 boat slips and can accommodate the many visiting boats and trailers for a three-day street party with food trucks, vendors and entertainment. “It will be like an offshore racers’ village,” says Heathman. He also plans a two-day fun run on land or water where people can explore on their own, visiting local businesses and bringing back receipts to turn in for poker hands. “It will be more casual—come and go as you please,” he says. The Friday and Saturday night parties include the popular Boom Bandits Entertainment group, along with awards, hot rods and boats—including the KICKER-outfitted “Boom Toon.”
The Saturday fun run and evening party will feature an auction for $5,000 in KICKER Marine Audio sound equipment for Super Cat Fest for Kids. The event benefits the “forgotten kids” of Lake Havasu and will give money directly to local schools for lunch programs that some underprivileged kids’ families cannot afford.
STILLWATER, OK (04.05.23) – KICKER Marine Audio brings premium sound to two large powerboating events on Lake Havasu, Arizona–Desert Storm April 19-23 and Super Cat Fest West, April 26-29. The two events take place on back-to-back weekends of boating action to bring performance boat enthusiasts to Lake Havasu City, a boating Mecca for the country’s West Coast.
KICKER Marine Audio again joins the new owners of Desert Storm for this 25th Anniversary event. KICKER is especially visible as presenting sponsor for the annual Street Party on Thursday, April 20. Jim Russell, an event producer for 30 years, co-owned the event with its founder, Jim Nichols, Sr., who several years ago, sold it to his daughter-in-law and son, Christina and Jim Nichols, Jr. After several years under their operation, Russell and Lake Havasu realtor and community leader Steve Tichnor wanted to ensure that the event stayed in Havasu, so they invested in buying it back.
Says Russell, “Thanks to the wonderful long-term sponsorship of KICKER Marine Audio, joining with new title sponsor, Anderson Powersports, we were able to acquire the event and make minor changes, making sure it stays in Lake Havasu. We are boating enthusiasts and this event has a place in the hearts of everyone in Havasu—it deserves to stay here and grow!”
KICKER Marine Audio has traditionally brought its XRV (Xtreme Recreational Vehicle), a travel edition of its famous headquarters’ “Wall of Boom” to Havasu’s Main Street for the “Eye of the Storm” Street Party. KICKER’s Real Marine sound equipment will also be seen on many of the millions of dollars of state-of-the art performance boats that will be displayed from 1-9 PM, including boats like the DCB owned by Rod Voegele of California-based Gatorwraps, also located in Lake Havasu, and the Rinker Flotilla owned by Jeff Cuvelier of Elite Audio of Havasu. Both boaters and businessmen are big KICKER Marine Audio fans as Gatorwraps adds the visuals to many KICKER-equipped customer boats, while Cuvelier has installed KMA products for years.
“Jeff provides an excellent example of what KICKER can bring to the party,” says Jeremy Bale, KICKER Marine Audio brand manager, “His own Rinker boat and his customers can attest to the top-sound quality of KICKER and its excellent performance in the marine environment. We are pleased to add our continued support to this anniversary event.”
Eliminator’s new Speedster with KICKER Marine Audio and Jeff Cuvelier’s Rinker loaded with KICKER gear!
Jake Fraleigh of Eliminator Boats is also planning to bring a new Ferrari Red 27 Speedster with twin Mercury 400 engines loaded with KICKER sound equipment to the event. Fraleigh calls the open-bow boat “a perfect example of the company’s dedication to lifestyle, functionality and performance—both with speed and sound.”
The event is moving this year to Havasu State Park where the white sandy beaches of “Windsor 4” will serve as VIP headquarters. On Friday, April 21, the Parade of Power will travel from Thompson Bay to the Bridgewater Channel, passing under the London Bridge. Then, a Poker Run where Russell says “the waters will boil” with over 100 participants, led by the area’s First Responders and a KICKER Boat, will round out the day and end with a party for all participants.
On Saturday, April 22, the Sugrue’s Shoot Out event will run from 9 AM- 4 PM from the Site Six Launch Ramp. The ¾-mile closed course Shoot Out is being organized by Russ Wallach of RPM Racing Enterprises and promises to be an exciting event with the best fan viewing from the park’s surrounding bluffs. The King and Queen of the Desert top speed title awards will be presented at the party that evening with record breaking speeds expected.
Preceding the performance events on Wednesday, April 19 is the annual Kruisin’ for a Kause as volunteer powerboaters with big engines and big hearts take area residents with special needs on boat rides, culminating in a BBQ lunch with karaoke entertainment at Lake Havasu State Park.
The next weekend, Super Cat Fest West takes the annual Lake of the Ozarks event to Lake Havasu, thanks to event producer Alvin Heathman, joined by sponsor River Dave of River Dave’s Place. This boaters’ event boasts Title Sponsors KICKER Marine Audio, Eliminator Boats, Franko’s DLA-M44, Gatorwraps and Dixxon Flannel, the latter which will show its Dixxon Eliminator 28’ Fundeck, and new Eliminator 27’ Speedster. Other sponsors include Elite Sound; Ilmor Marine who will unveil a new power package; Horizon Motorsports, a local boat dealer sponsoring the Saturday night party; Hamilton Marine Finance; Detail Specialties; and Barrett Custom Marine. Private sponsors will also bring notable boats, like DCB and Mauricio & Angie Vivanco with their DLA-M44 DCB, Kenny Gonzales and his well-known 48 MTI, “Wave Adios” and many other high-performance cats.
Heathman says they are looking to get the town “more involved” as the event draws boats from across the country to explore Lake Havasu, which he sees as a similar boat culture to Lake of the Ozarks, “just with different scenery and smaller—but more concentrated. Lake Havasu is amazing in its own way—there is always something performance going on here—it’s a giant playground and I think it is the perfect setting,” he adds.
Since Heathman found logistics a bit more challenging in Havasu, he engaged a new development, Havasu Riviera Marina, to host the event. The marina has a new dock, boat ramp, well over 100 boat slips and can accommodate the many visiting boats and trailers for a three-day street party with food trucks, vendors and entertainment. “It will be like an offshore racers’ village,” says Heathman. He also plans a two-day fun run on land or water where people can explore on their own, visiting local businesses and bringing back receipts to turn in for poker hands. “It will be more casual—come and go as you please,” he says. The Friday and Saturday night parties include the popular Boom Bandits Entertainment group, along with awards, hot rods and boats—including the KICKER-outfitted “Boom Toon.”
The Saturday fun run and evening party will feature an auction for $5,000 in KICKER Marine Audio sound equipment for Super Cat Fest for Kids. The event benefits the “forgotten kids” of Lake Havasu and will give money directly to local schools for lunch programs that some underprivileged kids’ families cannot afford.
STILLWATER, OK (03.14.23) – Experts from Stillwater, Oklahoma based performance marine audio systems manufacturer KICKER joined their European distributor Celsus UK for a series of engaging product training sessions in France, Italy & Germany ahead of what is anticipated to be a busy boating season.
Aaron Malin, Global Training Manager, and David Glasgow, International Sales Manager for KICKER accompanied by Mike Keenan, European Sales Manager for Celsus UK embarked on a journey that would see them travel by plane, train and automobile to key partners in Europe.
First stop was Saint Herblain, to meet with KENT MARINE our distributor for France. Attendance in person and via video link allowed Aaron to deepen their knowledge of products, application and technical principals in the marine audio segment. Recent product introduction KM604W value line and the eagerly anticipated KMXL high-out speakers were discussed and warmly received.
Camogli in Italy is where the dynamic trio headed next to host a session at INDEMAR’S national agent meeting, an event hosted at a beautiful hotel and well attended by the distributor’s staff, agents and customers. A live technical training where onlookers were shown best practice for amplifier set-up followed a video message from Kicker founder Mr Steve Irby. The following morning before onward travel Aaron, Mike and David toured Indemar’s headquarters and met many of their team.
The last and final stop on the week’s tour was Bremen to visit the headquarters of BUKH-BREMEN German distributor for the fast growing marine audio brand. Bukh-Bremen had launched with KICKER as recently as BOOT Dusseldorf this year and the room was full of staff eager to learn as much as they could about what sets Kicker apart for both installers and boat owners alike.
Commenting on the roadshow Mike Keenan, European Sales Manager for Celsus UK said;
“An extremely positive week, I have to thank Aaron and David for being great company and delivering such good content for our shared partners. Working with a brand like Kicker is a great experience. The attendance in these sessions was amazing, I must applaud our distributors for that and thank them for their hospitality”
David Glasgow, Kicker International Sales Manager adds:
“Looking back on the European marine training tour we just finished, all I can say is “Wow.”
After visiting with Kent Marine in France, Indemar in Italy and our new distributor Bukh-Bremen GmbH in Germany, I was blown away by the friendliness of the people, their facilities, and the overall knowledge they already demonstrate regarding KICKER Marine products. All three convey true professionalism in the marine marketplace, and I am super-excited to help and watch their business grow. A huge “thank you” goes out to all three companies for their hospitality, willingness to advise the KICKER group and their assistance in getting local dealers and installers to attend the training. Thank you all and a job well done.”
KICKER Marine is designed to deliver an exceptional entertainment experience season after season. Engineering excellence, rigorous testing and high-quality components combine to provide the best value premium performance marine audio on the market. The KICKER Marine range of source units, speakers, amplifiers, subwoofers and accessories has gained a powerful reputation for quality performance and value since their introduction to the European market in 2018.
STILLWATER, OK (01.12.23) – Kicker Marine Audio introduces a new series of marine loudspeakers designed for use in the most demanding marine audio installations where ultimate power and performance are required. The new KMXL horn-loaded coaxial loudspeakers incorporate several unique features that set them apart from traditional marine speakers, while building upon KICKER’s Real Marine design ethics and standards.
The KMXL series builds upon the success of KICKER Marine Audio’s KMTC and KMFC horn-loaded tower speakers, widely recognized in the marine industry as the new standard in HLCD tower speaker design. The KMXL series brings much of this same technology to smaller 6.5-inch, 6×9, and 8-inch loudspeakers that can be installed in traditional coaxial speaker mounting locations.
A proprietary high-frequency horn design gives the KMXL series sonic performance provides incredibly smooth and easy listening, even at extremely high volumes. This proprietary geometry in the KMXL horn prevents acoustic resonances and standing waves, providing fatigue-free, long-term enjoyment. Super-efficient, lightweight midrange cone assemblies and advanced built-in crossover networks round out the KMXL designs for unrivaled sound performance.
The KMXL speakers UV treated grilles come in both charcoal and white and like All KICKER Marine Audio products, the KICKER KMXL series’ cones, baskets and grills, are UV and salt fog tested and certified to withstand the marine environment. Speaker hardware is forged from rustproof 316L stainless steel for years of enjoyable use. Neodymium magnets in the motor assembly provide tremendous power, while being extremely light weight.
The KMXL speakers, like most of the KICKER Marine Audio speaker lines, incorporate RGB LED lighting. Add up to 20 colors and 19 lighting modes by adding the small and lightweight KMLC lighting remote ($49.99).
The KMXL speakers come in 3 sizes: KMXL65 (6.5”) KMXL8 (8”) and the KMXL69 (6×9”) and can handle between 300 watts (KMXL65 and KMXL69) and 500 watts (KMXL8).
When upgrading a boat’s sound system—or installing a new one—look to the KICKER Marine Audio brand for dependability, durability and the best customer service in the industry. For more information visit http://www.kicker.com/marine-audio.
STILLWATER, OK (10.11.22) – KICKER Marine Audio is heading to Lake Havasu City, AZ to join its local dealers and fans for the Anderson Toyota Lake Havasu Classic Outboard Championships October 14-17, which features two days of high-horsepower racing excitement in three classes: Formula 1, Tri Hull and Formula Lite division. The race is sanctioned by the American Powerboat Association (APBA) and draws international powerboat racing stars.
KICKER Marine Audio is the presenting sponsor for the October 14 Friday Night Pit Party Meet & Greet from 4-8 pm at the Nautical Beachfront Resort. Fans get to mingle with the drivers and crews in the cold pit area to learn more about the racers and their equipment. Great music will be broadcast through the KICKER Marine Audio system while fans enjoy a vintage boat display, food, beverages and vendors. This special event is free and open to the public.
The Classic Outboard Championships have become a Lake Havasu tradition, drawing competitors from every corner of the globe for high stakes cash and prizes. Racing action begins on Saturday October 15 with testing and qualifying races in all three divisions, followed by the Championship Grand Finale on Sunday, October 16. The races start at 11 AM MST and will live stream on the F1 Powerboat Championship Facebook and YouTube channels. Race headquarters at the Nautical Beachfront Resort, 1000 McCulloch Boulevard N, overlooking Thompson Bay offers FREE front and center racecourse viewing on the beach front. The exclusive Mercury Racing Rooster Tail VIP Experience on the resort’s lakeside terrace offers another exclusive tier of fan excitement.
KICKER Marine Audio will also co-sponsor the Formula 1 Race Ride Experience, an opportunity for select, lucky fans who enter the Facebook or Instagram contest to get the thrill of riding in a specially built 2-seat Formula 1 boat that is used as the series pace boat for the races. The company is also a sponsor of the Kids on the Colorado River Program – Racing Edition Educational Pod that will take place at Thunderbolt Middle School on Monday, October 17, before the Championship awards dinner.
KICKER Marine Audio, and its local dealers (Wired 4 Sound and Ron’s In Your Ear Audio), and vendors have long been active in Lake Havasu through the performance boating Annual Desert Storm Poker Run and rally. The Classic Outboard Championships event, promoted by the Formula 1 Powerboat Championship Series, gives KICKER Marine Audio and music fans the opportunity to mix high-octane sound with high-speed racing action.
Dan Murphy of MurfCo. Inc. KICKER Marine Audio’s long-time Manufacturers Rep Group that coordinates distributor and dealer representation in the southwest region, is teaming up with Lake Havasu’s custom installers Wired 4 Sound and Elite Audio’s Jeff Cuvelier at the event. Murphy and partner Frank Zepeda’s “Boom Toon,” a “vintage” 30-foot Starlight 1986 riverboat that was transformed into a runabout double decker party barge complete with a slide and party poles, will be at the docks. The Boom Toon will join Jeff’s Rinker Flotilla Deckboat, both featuring top-of-the-line KICKER Marine Audio speakers, subwoofers, amps and more, emphasizing the company’s tagline, “Livin’ Loud!“ Murphy will be joined at the booth by Liam Carney and Lorin Morrell and available for questions. MurfCo and local dealers have long-time KICKER audio affiliations including friendships with KICKER founder Steve Irby, who was a pioneer in the 12-Volt, mobile audio world.
“KICKER Marine Audio enjoys bringing our high-performance sound to those who love high-performance boating,” said Jeremy Bale, KICKER brand manager. “Many racers, their fans and powerboaters already know KICKER from its decades as a mobile audio leader and probably use our components in their tow vehicles, ATVs and motorcycles. We have long-time dealers, distributors and installers in the Lake Havasu area so the races are a great opportunity for us to see old friends and make new ones.”
All KICKER Marine Audio’s can enclosures are tough, UV-treated and come in black and white to complement a boat’s color scheme, complete with LED lights and accessories. Horn-Loaded Tower Systems, speakers, subwoofers, amps and media centers are only part of the line, so when you are ready to “KICK” up your sound system, rely on KICKER Marine Audio to deliver the finest quality acoustics and marine-grade components. www.kicker.com/marine-audio.
For Additional Information on the Lake Havasu Classic Outboard Championships visit www.f1powerboatchampionship.com or the f1powerboat championship Facebook page. Online VIP Tickets, RV Spots – seeboldsports.com/shop
STILLWATER, OK (02.22.22) – KICKER Marine Audio has announced the renewal of its sponsorship agreement with Professional Angler Scott Martin. Martin earned his spot to fish the Bassmaster Elite tournament circuit beginning in 2021. He also qualified to fish the 2022 Bassmaster Classic in March, based on his success in his first year fishing the Elites. The 2022 season launches in February with an aggressive schedule through August, including stops in Florida, Tennessee, New York, South Carolina, Texas, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
“Scott is on the water over 300 days, competing in tournaments, filming, editing and delivering high-quality freshwater and saltwater TV shows and videos year-round, differentiating him from other fishing pros and TV hosts,” said KICKER’s Brand Manager, Jeremy Bale. “We are very pleased to partner with the #1 influencer in fishing and appreciate the opportunity to enjoy great messaging and product integration through this powerful association.”
Scott Martin’s 42 Freeman, Vice Versa is always ready to fish!
“This is my life,” added Martin, “I’ve been on the water as a young angler on Lake Okeechobee in the 1970s when my dad began his TV show, ‘Fishing with Roland Martin’. This is what I know best, and I’m so pleased to have the caliber of partner in KICKER Marine Audio along for the ride.”
When Roland Martin and his wife Mary Ann bought a small fishing shack marina on Lake Okeechobee in Clewiston, Florida, it was the beginning of Scott’s journey. The Roland Martin Resort, Tiki Bar and guided fishing services grew as did the younger Martin’s career. He followed in his father’s footsteps becoming a professional angler, respected TV personality and a social media influencer in his own right.
The Scott Martin Challenge, began airing in 2005, featuring Martin in challenging adventures with top anglers as well as his family in a multi-faceted, reality-style TV show that brings his 15 million viewers into the experience. The show airs for 52-weeks on a variety of networks and cable channels including Discovery Channel, ESPN2, Sportsman Channel, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network and ATT&T Sports Net SW. Martin’s winning personality is matched only by his fishing prowess, and tremendous success on both the FLW Tour and now, the Bassmaster Elite Tournament trail.
As a hard-core music fan, Martin was introduced to KICKER Marine Audio going back to his high school days, and since then, he cranks up the tunes to fill the time when the fish aren’t biting–or when he out on the boat with friends and family. His KICKER recessed speakers, subwoofers, amps and head unit provide all the entertainment he needs on the water or at the dock
“There is no shortage of KICKER speakers on this boat,” chuckled Martin, who enjoys his 42’ Freeman catamaran for offshore fishing, island hopping and for fishing charters. Named “Vice Versa,’ the boat reflects his love of both fresh and saltwater fishing; his Skeeter Bass Boat is top pick for tournament competition.
STILLWATER, OK (02.16.22) – KICKER Marine Audio, a leading designer and producer of top-quality marine audio, is pleased to support the new partnership recently announced between the United Marine Manufacturer’s Association, Inc. and KICKER’s long-time electronics representative, CPS Distributors. CPS has sold KICKER Marine Audio to OEM boat builders since KICKER started its marine division nearly 20 years ago.
Brandon Lang, VP of CPS Distributors, Phil White, KICKER Director of Marine Audio Systems and Sandy Moore, KICKER Events and Promotions Coordinator at a previous Miami International Boat Show.
“We look forward to working closely with CPS as they help serve UMMA’s membership of independent boat builders with their marine electronic needs,” said Phil White, KICKER’s Director of Marine Audio Systems. “We are confident KICKER Marine Audio can offer these boat manufacturers the quality and durability they require and hope to expand our OEM profile within the organization,” he adds.
“UMMA is pleased to partner with CPS Sales & Manufacturing (dba CPS Distributing) to provide audio options for our members,” says Jodi Sanders, UMMA Director of Operations. “We feel the KICKER and CPS brands are the perfect addition to our supplier base. We are excited to see what the future holds for audio and are excited to develop our new relationship,” she added.
The UMMA is an organization of independent boat-builders, which, while operating autonomously, have joined together to enhance their collective competitiveness and to address important industry issues which affect their survival and continued prosperity.
LAKE HAVASU, AZ (10.21.2021) – KICKER Marine Audio again joined its local dealers and fans in Lake Havasu City, AZ, for the NGK Spark Plugs Formula 1 Powerboat Series that ran October 15-17. The event featured high-horsepower racing excitement in 3 classes over 2 days with international powerboat racing stars.
Formula 1 boats race on Lake Havasu as press and crowd members watch the action.
The Friday Night Beach Party from at the London Bridge Beach was sponsored by KICKER Marine Audio. Fans got to mingle with the drivers and crews to learn more about them and their racing equipment. Amid great music–broadcast through the KICKER Marine Audio system–a vintage boat display, kids’ activity zone, museum exhibits, food, Beer Garden, vendors, and a Reunion Social for past racers, families and racers crew members all enjoyed the festivities. This special event will be free and open to the public.
The lake views at night are spectacular.
Lorin Morrell, Maddog_Media, was on site and coordinated the event with Dan Murphy whose Murfco is the long time KICKER rep firm in the area and Boom Toon partner. “No doubt about it. KICKER Marine definitely ‘Went Overboard and was Livin’Loud during the weekend…all the while making a huge impression with the local boating community. I was on site all 3 days and the KICKER Marine presence was everywhere,” Morrell related.
KICKER Marine Audio, and its local dealers (Wired 4 Sound and Ron’s In Your Ear Audio), and vendors have long been active in Lake Havasu through the performance boating Annual Desert Storm Poker Run and rally. This NGK Spark Plugs Formula 1 Powerboat event gave KICKER Marine Audio and music fans the opportunity to mix high-speed racing with high-octane sound.
Lorin Morrell (R) grabbed this selfie with Cap ‘N Frank Zepeda… Boom Toon partner.
Dan Murphy teamed up with Lake Havasu’s custom installer Wired 4 Sound’s Jeff Cuvelier at the event. Murphy and partner Frank Zepeda’s “Boom Toon,” a “vintage” 30-foot Starlight 1986 riverboat that was transformed into a runabout double decker party barge, complete with a slide and party poles, was back at the docks. The Boom Toon joined Jeff’s Rinker Flotilla Deck boat. Both were decked with top-of-the-line KICKER Marine Audio speakers, subwoofers, amps and more. Both boats emphasized the KICKER’s tag line of “Livin’ Loud!”
Ron Voegele, of Gatorwraps, installer of large-scale vessel and vehicle wraps said of Cuvelier’s boat, “Whenever he pulls into a cove, everyone else shuts off their stereos because his sounds like a live concert! We hear those comments all the time when KICKER sound systems are LIVIN’Loud—the sound is that clear!”
The Murfco and KICKER RZR’s were set up to show all KICKER was Livin’ Loud on land in Lake Havasu City.
MurfCo and local dealers have had long-time KICKER audio affiliations, including friendships with KICKER founder Steve Irby, who is a pioneer in the 12volt mobile audio world spanning over 4 decades.
“KICKER Marine Audio has found kindred spirits in the performance boating community,” stated Jeremy Bale, brand manager, “This group of racers and fans may have been introduced to KICKER through this event and some may certainly know the company from its decades as a mobile audio leader, no doubt used in their tow vehicles. Lake Havasu has been a good location for us with long-time dealers, distributors and installers and we have enjoyed getting together and engaging with our customers and friends at these events–and to make new friends. We’re happy to support the Seebold family in this race!”
The KICKER Boom Toon was ready to show all KICKER was Going Overboard and Livin’Loud at the Lake Havasu Race weekend.
Concluding, Morrell stated, “There was also a large KICKER tent display area on land where the Murfco and KICKER RZR’s were set up and Livin’Loud for PowerSports enthusiasts. For 3 days around Lake Havasu KICKER definitely had presence as announcers on the PA systems were talking KICKER and members of the press were on the top deck of the Boom Toon filming the racers. What an amazing 3 Days. KICKER definitely “Went Overboard and was Livin’Loud!”
All KICKER Marine Audio’s can enclosures are tough, UV-treated and come in black and white to complement a boat’s color scheme, complete with LED light complements. Horn-Loaded Tower Systems, speakers, subwoofers, amps and media centers are only part of the line. So when boaters want to “Kick” up their sound system, they rely on the brand that delivers the finest quality acoustics and marine-grade components… they are Livin’Loud with KICKER Marine Audio.
LAKE HAVASU, AZ (04.30.2021) – KICKER stretched West from Stillwater, OK to join dealers and fans with festivities at Desert Storm, running April 21-25, on Lake Havasu and Lake Havasu City.
The KICKER XRV rolled out of Stillwater, OK early Tuesday morning for the 1,100 mile trip west to Lake Havasu, AR.
The KICKER XRV rolled out of KICKER HQ on Tuesday morning, April 20th, for the 1100 mile trip to Lake Havasu. Jeremy Wynn, Events and Promotions Manager, was behind the wheel as the XRV hit the road for the first time in a year due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Tracy Focht, Western Regional Sales Manager, and David Glasgow were also in the big rig. Glasgow is involved in International Sales and has had his travels overseas restricted as well for nearly a year.
This is the 5th year with KICKER participating in Desert Storm. KICKER first started at Desert Storm with a 10×20 booth with River Dave and Wired 4 Sound. The last 3 years KICKER has been onsite as the Title Sponsor with a much, much larger presence at the downtown Street Festival and on the lake with the Poker Run and boat parades through the days and evening Friday and Saturday.
The vendor party Thursday evening got the activities in gear.
“We feel this grass roots event is the perfect event to work directly with both boat manufacturers, dealers and end consumers. This allows us and our dealers to learn more about what customers are actually looking for and where the the target market is headed. In the years since it evolved the KICKER Sales Team, along with Events and Promotions Manager Jeremy Wynn, continue to see growth at the Desert Storm event. Each year we work diligently to better our approach and showcase KICKER at the event” Focht stated.
KICKER staff worked with their Southern Nevada/Arizona and SoCal Rep Firm Murfco at the event. Dealers Wired 4 Sound, Ron’s In Your Ear Audio and Premium Golf Carts showcased many of their jobs at the event.
There was plenty to see around the XRV.
Murfco’s Riley Murphy stated “Desert Storm was such a great event and we were all excited to get back outside and work with dealers and talk with consumers.” Devin Daniel, also with Murfco said “There was so much excitement during the Poker Run. Boats would pull up beside the Boom Toon to make sure they got their packet with cards. Everything on the water was exciting in spite of the wind.”
Wired 4 Sounds’ Jeff Cuvelier offered “We were right across the street from BJ’s Bar downtown.The number of people on the street was just amazing.To put the Wired 4 Sounds brand in front of people is an investment that will drive store traffic and business.”
The KICKER UTV brought the PowerSports category to Desert Storm.
Ron Burnett, Ron’s In Your Ear Audio, related “Being involved with KICKER and Desert Storm brings so much visibility to consumers for the products we sell. We always see a spike in business from Desert Storm.
KICKER’s Glasgow added “Participating in an event like Desert Storm is certainly something that will interest all of the international customers that I work with…they all like to know about Livin’Loud activities in the US.”
The strong partnership with Rod Voegele of Gatorwraps adds to the overall success of KICKER’s presence at Desert Storm.
The KICKER XRV was a magnet for members of the crowd at Desert Storm.
On the Poker Run, boats competed for the hefty purse. Some prominent boats, including a customized Trifecta Pontoon boat outfitted with top-of-the-line KICKER Marine Audio gear and an 11” Tower System were Livin’Loud on the water. This boat owned and equipped by Dan Murphy of MurfCo. Inc., KICKER Marine Audio’s Manufacturers Rep Group, emphasized the company’s tag line of “Livin’ Loud!”
The Trifecta is one of many boats the 38-year veteran KICKER representative has outfitted for this and many other events. Murphy, who has partnered with KICKER for so long because they are “the best” also partnered with Frank Zepeda on the “Boom Toon”. The “Boom Toon” is a “vintage” 30-foot Starlight 1986 riverboat that was along for the ride and the fun. The boat was transformed into a runabout double decker party barge, and is now a fan favorite, complete with a slide, party poles and a KICKING, KICKER Marine Audio system. The Desert Storm event was “sold out” with 237 boats participating in its 24th year.
This image from above shows the scope of KICKER’s presence at the event.
Also along for the ride at Desert Storm was another KICKER Marine Audio fan and partner, Rod Voegele of California-based, Gatorwraps. The company displayed its specialty large-scale vehicle and vessel wraps on its Kenworth W9 Show rig, and International CXT show truck, both heavily decked with KICKER audio components and broadcasting live and loud from the Street Party and throughout the event.
Also at the event Gatorwraps featured a 30’ Formula 302 SR-1, fully customized with 11 amps powering its over 25 speakers and subs. In addition, a Rinker Flotilla F-24 that has too many KICKER Marine Audio components to list. But ten 8” Horn Coaxial speakers with LED Speaker Rings (plus 2, 6.5” Horns) and 6 11’ Horn pods, plus the appropriate number and size of amps and support gear, gave some idea of the SOUND of this boat that is KICKER Marine Audio ‘Going Overboard’.
The KICKER Boom Toon was a star on the water at Desert Storm.
Said Voegele, “The clarity of KICKER Marine Audio is what sets it apart from other brands. I have a friend with a Rinker installed by Wired 4 Sound in Lake Havasu and when he pulls into a cove, everyone else shuts off their stereos because his sounds like a live concert! We get those comments all the time when we play our KICKER sound systems—the sound is that clear!”
Both MurfCo and Gatorwraps have had long-time KICKER audio affiliations including friendships with KICKER founder Steve Irby, who is known as a pioneer in the 12volt mobile audio world.
The downtown area was packed as enthusiast checked out boats parked along the way.
“KICKER Marine Audio finds kindred spirits in the performance boating community,” stated Jeremy Bale, brand manager, “This group of boaters enjoys being seen and heard and KICKER certainly has all the right top-grade marine equipment to help them achieve those goals! Lake Havasu has been a good location for us with long-time dealers, distributors and installers and we enjoy getting together with Rod (Voegele) and Dan (Murphy) at these events to engage with our customers. We’re happy to lend our support!”
Concluding, Focht offered, “From the first night kicking off the vendor party Wednesday night, to the hustle of the street party Thursday, to the Poker Run on Friday and the family atmosphere throughout the event Desert Storm at Lake Havasu is amazing. We have built friendships and created extended families with the people of Desert Storm. We look forward to learning more that we can do right for 2022 and remain the audio company of Desert Storm.”
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