Kicker calls the KPB1 and KPB2 "PowerBars," and the name fits: both are fully self-contained soundbars with the amplifier built in, no head unit required, IP66-rated, controlled by Bluetooth, AUX, or a wireless remote. The 20-inch KPB1 runs four 3-inch midranges and two titanium tweeters at 150 watts for $599.99. The 34-inch KPB2 doubles the midrange count to eight, keeps the same two tweeters, and doubles power to 300 watts for $799.99.
The feature worth pausing on is Broadcast Mode: enable it, and multiple PowerBars nearby link wirelessly to play the same audio at the same time, on a boat, at a campsite, wherever more than one unit is within range.
Key Takeaways
- Both are fully self-contained: no separate amp or head unit needed, just power, ground, and a Bluetooth or AUX source.
- The KPB2 doubles the midrange driver count (8 vs. 4) and power (300W vs. 150W) over the KPB1, for a $200 higher price.
- Broadcast Mode wirelessly links multiple PowerBars to play synchronized audio across separate units.
- Both include a steering-wheel-mounted wireless remote and four DSP-controlled EQ presets accessible via oversized buttons.
- Mounting brackets fit 1.5", 1.75", or 2" round tubing out of the box; square-tube mounting needs the separately-sold KPBSQ bracket.
What Broadcast Mode Actually Does
Most Bluetooth speakers play independently of each other, even if you own several. Broadcast Mode specifically lets multiple PowerBars sync wirelessly so they all play the same source together, useful for a boat with a PowerBar at the helm and another at the stern, or a group riding UTVs together who each mounted one. This isn't just "also has Bluetooth," it's a specific multi-unit feature neither the PowerCan speaker nor the 51KBTR receiver, both covered separately, offers.
Check the KPB1 → | Check the KPB2 →
Feature Walkthrough
Driver Count and Power
KPB1: four 3-inch midranges, two 1-inch titanium tweeters, 150W total. KPB2: eight 3-inch midranges, the same two tweeters, 300W total. The tweeter count doesn't change between sizes; the added midranges and power are what drives the size and price difference.
Control Options
Bluetooth, a full-range AUX input, and a steering-wheel-mounted wireless remote all control either unit. Four DSP EQ presets are accessible via oversized buttons built into the unit itself.
Mounting
Included brackets fit 1.5", 1.75", or 2" round tubing directly. Square tubing (0.75", 1", or 1.25") requires the separately-sold KPBSQ bracket.
Expansion
A 3.5mm line-out connection lets you add a separate amplifier for more output beyond what the built-in amp provides, useful if the PowerBar alone doesn't cover a larger boat or vehicle.
Who Each Size Is For
Choose the KPB1 for a smaller boat, UTV, or golf cart where a compact footprint matters and 150W covers your needs. Choose the KPB2 for a larger vehicle or boat, or simply louder output at the same install location, given the doubled driver count and power.
Honest Cons
Square-tube mounting isn't included. Budget for the separate KPBSQ bracket if your mounting point is square, not round, tubing.
No LED lighting on either PowerBar, unlike several marine speakers already covered.
The KPB2's added output means a heavier, longer unit (26 lbs and 40" long boxed, versus the KPB1's 16.7 lbs and 27"). Confirm your mounting point can support the larger size before buying up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a separate amp or head unit for either PowerBar?
No — both are fully self-contained, needing only power, ground, and a Bluetooth or AUX audio source.
How does Broadcast Mode work?
It wirelessly links multiple PowerBar units so they play the same source in sync, useful for group settings with more than one unit in range.
Can I mount either PowerBar on square tubing?
Only with the separately-sold KPBSQ bracket; the included hardware is built for round tubing (1.5", 1.75", or 2").
Can I add more speakers to the system later?
Yes — the 3.5mm line-out lets you feed a separate amplifier for additional speakers beyond the PowerBar's own built-in drivers.
Bottom Line
Both PowerBars are genuinely complete, self-contained audio systems with a real group-listening feature in Broadcast Mode. Pick the KPB1 for a compact single-unit install, or the KPB2 for meaningfully more output at a higher price and larger footprint.