Bass in Depth: Uncovering the Best Powered Subwoofers for a Car

Bass in Depth: Uncovering the Best Powered Subwoofers for a Car

Looking for the perfect powered subwoofer to enhance your car’s audio experience? Rest assured, we’ve got the perfect guide for you.

In the electrifying world of car audio systems, nothing complements your favorite tunes better than a robust bass experience, a feat only achievable with a high-quality powered subwoofer.

With the landscape constantly evolving, it is paramount to stay informed about the latest technology advancements and products in the market. In this in-depth review and guide that is designed to help you navigate through the dynamic and often overwhelming world of powered subwoofers.

Whether you’re an audiophile seeking sonic excellence or a bass enthusiast looking for that extra punch, this review article will uncover the top choices to transform your in-car audio journey.

The Best 8 Inch Powered Subwoofers

Kicker 11HS8 8 150W Hideaway Compact 8inch Powered Subwoofer

Experience the thunderous power and deep bass of the Kicker 11HS8 8″ 150 Watt Hideaway Compact Car Audio Powered Subwoofer Sub HS8. This compact yet potent powered subwoofer, with an RMS power of 150 watts, is designed for tight locations, proving that size doesn’t always correlate with performance.

Measuring at 13 7/8 x 9 3/8 x 3 1/8, it hosts an 8-inch internal subwoofer and a 150-watt (RMS, 14.4v) power amplifier, this sub continues Kicker’s tradition of leading subwoofer technology.

This compact powered subwoofer, a first for Kicker, is an International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) Innovations award winner for its design and engineering.

The Hideaway subwoofer impressively generates substantial low-frequency output from its incredibly compact enclosure, setting a new benchmark for plug-and-play bass performance in a vehicle.

Despite its compact size—just over three inches high and nearly 14 inches long—the Hideaway houses a powerful 150-watt amplifier and an 8-inch subwoofer to bring booming bass to any vehicle.

With a remote bass control for fine-tuning bass levels, adjustable low-pass crossover, variable +6dB bass boost, phase-cancelling switch for maximum output, and two automatic turn-on options, the Hideaway offers advanced control and integration capabilities. It also features high- and low-level inputs, making it compatible with almost any factory or aftermarket head unit.

Verdict

The Kicker 11HS8 8″ 150 Watt Hideaway Compact Car Audio Powered Subwoofer Sub HS8 revolutionizes the notion of bass in compact spaces. Its award-winning design and engineering combined with KICKER’s legendary subwoofer technology result in clear, ground-pounding bass from a remarkably small enclosure, making this one of our top choices for anyone wanting a powered 8inch subwoofer.

JBL BassPro SL 8-inch 125W RMS Powered Under-Seat Compact Subwoofer Enclosure System

Experience a boost of bass with the JBL BassPro SL 8-inch 125W RMS Powered Under-Seat Compact Subwoofer Enclosure System. This under-seat compact subwoofer boasts an 8-inch BassPro SL enclosure, a peak power output of 250 watts, and an RMS power of 125 watts.

The system is built around an efficient Class D amplifier and includes soft start turn-on and speaker-level inputs with Audio Sense Auto-on. An optional wired bass remote controller enhances user control.

The BassPro SL is designed to fit under the front seat of many vehicles, seamlessly adding powerful bass to any car audio system. The system includes an electronic crossover control and flexible EQ adjustments, enabling you to customize the BassPro SL to your system, your car’s acoustic environment, and your listening preferences.

This energy-efficient digital amplifier can drive the subwoofer hard while remaining cool, making the BassPro SL a powerful addition to your sound system without occupying a significant amount of space.

The 8″ (200mm) woofer in the BassPro SL is specifically designed to deliver low distortion although the bass isn’t the most powerful. Its specs include a 125W RMS power, a 20A fuse, and a maximum current draw of 12A. With an input sensitivity ranging from 0.2V – 2V for line-level input and 2V – 20V for high-level input, it ensures wide-ranging compatibility.

Verdict

The JBL BassPro SL 8-inch 125W RMS Powered Under-Seat Compact Subwoofer Enclosure System delivers on punchy bass without compromising on space. Whether you’re looking to enhance your everyday car audio experience or seeking that extra punch in your music, this under-seat subwoofer is a practical choice.

Rockford Fosgate PS-8 Punch Single 8″ Amplified Loaded Enclosure Subwoofer

This Rockford Fosgate PS-8 Punch Single 8″ Amplified Loaded Enclosure Subwoofer unleash a sonic experience like no other 8 inch powered sub.

This self-contained system features a single Punch 8″ shallow subwoofer in a custom-sealed enclosure and a robust built-in 150 Watt Class D amplifier. This all-inclusive system simplifies your audio setup – all you need is to run power, ground, and a signal from your audio source to get the PS-8 in action.

This Punch system boasts an adjustable 12db/Octave low pass crossover and a built-in adjustable bass boost EQ. It offers hi-level/low-level inputs and a built-in 0°/180° phase switch, giving you full control over your audio experience.

The package includes a remote bass level control, all power, ground, turn-on wires, and mounting hardware. And it comes with an RCA/Speaker Harness that can handle either speaker level (high-level) or RCA (low-level) inputs.

The power connector enables a swift connection and disconnection of the amplifier’s remote, power, and ground source. Accommodating 4 AWG wires for power and ground and 8 AWG for the remote, the connectors are designed for convenience and ease of use.

If that’s not enough, the PS-8 offers additional customization options, including a built-in 12dB/octave Butterworth filter with a variable crossover point from 50Hz to 120Hz. A Punch EQ provides an adjustable bass control, variable from 0dB to +12dB @ 45Hz.

Verdict

The Rockford Fosgate PS-8 Punch Single 8″ Amplified Loaded Enclosure Subwoofer is the best of the 8 inch powered subs, but it comes at quite a cost. Its unique blend of power, versatility, and ease of installation makes it the perfect all-in-one subwoofer system that delivers excellent sound quality and rich bass.

The Best 10 Inch Powered Subwoofers

Rockford Fosgate P300-10 Punch Powered Subwoofer

If you’re seeking a simplified audio setup, look no further than the Rockford Fosgate P300-10 Punch powered subwoofer. This all-in-one solution integrates a subwoofer, custom-sealed enclosure, and a matching built-in amplifier, providing an effortless installation process.

The Punch 10 subwoofer, with its 4-Ohm DVC (Dual Voice Coil) and 300 Watts RMS, promises durability and a robust sound performance. The use of VAST technology increases the surface cone area by up to 25%, enhancing bass reproduction.

The included proprietary spider plateau venting design helps maintain the voice coil’s coolness, reducing distortion and prolonging the subwoofer’s lifespan. With an easy setup, just connect the power, ground, and a signal from the source.

The built-in amplifier, designed to match this subwoofer, packs a 300W RMS power handling capability. Its adjustable features provide complete control over your sound, and the closed-loop design optimizes performance across all components, improving bass accuracy.

Verdict

Rockford Fosgates’ Punch series subwoofers offer an impressive punchy performance. The P300-10 provides precise and punchy bass, elevating your car audio system’s quality, all with the ease of an all-in-one setup. These are available in 12 inch, too.

Rockville RW10CA 10″ 800W Slim, Powered Car Subwoofer

Embrace the power of unparalleled bass with the Rockville RW10CA 10″ 800 Watt Slim Low Profile Powered Car Subwoofer. This unit guarantees 800 watts of peak power and 200 watts RMS, ensuring an immersive audio experience.

The RW10CA model serves as an all-in-one solution, offering exceptional bass for your vehicle without consuming excessive space. The unique design, featuring a slim profile of only 2.7 inches, allows for convenient under-seat placement. With an integrated amplifier, the installation process is simplified and yields a clean, organized look.

Boasting an impressive 800 Watts Peak / 200 Watts RMS power output, and a PWM MOSFET Power Supply, this 10″ Slim Car Subwoofer stands as a remarkable choice. It comes with low-level RCA input, auto turn-on technology for high-level inputs, and an adjustable input sensitivity for tailored audio experiences.

Other notable features include a soft delayed remote turn-on and various protection circuits including thermal, short, and overload. The Phase Switch (0° or 180°), Low Pass Filter (50Hz – 150Hz), and Bass Boost (0 – 18dB @ 45Hz) further add to its functionality and adaptability.

For those seeking alternatives, the Rockville RW10CA is also available in 8″ and 6×8 configurations, offering the same high-quality, powerful bass performance for different sizing requirements. This model undoubtedly marks itself as a game-changer in car audio systems.

Verdict

The Rockville RW10CA 10″ 800 Watt Slim Low Profile Active Powered Car Subwoofer stands out as a top contender for our powered subwoofers’ guide. Whether you’re a casual listener or a bass enthusiast, this all-in-one solution promises to deliver powerful, immersive, and reliable audio performance.

Devmo Gemini II Dual 10-inch Powered Subwoofer

For those seeking dynamic low frequencies from a 10” woofer, doubling up on subwoofers is a smart move. The Devmo Gemini II Dual 10-inch subwoofer is an excellent choice, particularly for those dealing with space constraints.

This dual 10-inch active subwoofer model from Devmo stands out with its ultra-slim design – with a depth of just 6.7”. This sleek form factor makes it a perfect fit for most cars, pickups, and SUVs. And, the dynamic low-frequency reproduction of this dual subwoofer surpasses most single 10” subwoofers.

Each of these powered subwoofers boasts 100W RMS power handling and a sensitivity of 90 dB, delivering an impressively powerful performance for such an ultra-thin device.

The flexible ported subwoofer enclosure can be configured to craft the bass to suit your preferred genre, providing an adaptable audio experience.

The built-in amplifier powers the dual 10” subwoofer at 10 ohms, and with a frequency response ranging from 10 Hz – 220 Hz, and a low pass filter from 40 Hz to 250 Hz, you gain complete control over the bass for a diverse range of musical genres.

This all-encompassing powered subwoofer system includes an amplifier, dual 10-inch subwoofers, an ultra-thin subwoofer enclosure, and all the necessary wiring for a hassle-free installation.

Verdict

The Devmo Gemini II dual 10-inch subwoofer set may not suit everyone, but its innovative design empowers any vehicle owner to savor each note’s resonating vibration and experience a powerful bass, while occupying minimal space.

The Best 12 Inch Powered Subwoofers

SUMEINA 12″ Compact Active Subwoofer System

Introducing the SUMEINA 12″ Compact Active Subwoofer System, a power-packed bass master that will revolutionize your car audio experience. With a remarkable 1000W output power and 120W RMS, this compact active subwoofer box can deliver some serious low-frequency bass volume that amps up the party vibe in your car.

Built to impress and perform, the SUMEINA subwoofer system features a compact and lightweight design. It stands as a perfect embodiment of high-performance sound reinforcement for your mobile audio equipment.

The subwoofer box, with dimensions of 23.6″ Length x 7.1″ Height x 15.3″, easily fits under the seat of most vehicles, making it an effortless addition to your car or truck.

A standout feature is the built-in amplifier, complete with full MOSFET circuitry. This integrated 1000 watts Peak / 120 watts RMS mono amplifier includes an adjustable low-pass filter, which efficiently filters out high-frequency noise, ensuring distortion-free audio when you need it most.

The SUMEINA subwoofer system provides flexibility with both high-level and low-level inputs. High-level inputs, often referred to as speaker-level inputs, allow you to connect the system to your factory radio or an aftermarket radio that lacks low-level (RCA) inputs.

On the other hand, low-level inputs or RCA inputs enable you to use RCA interconnect cables to link the subwoofer system with the source unit, accommodating multiple amplifiers if your aftermarket radio offers multiple pairs of RCA outputs.

Verdict

The SUMEINA 12″ Compact Active Subwoofer System is a game-changer for music enthusiasts seeking impressive low-frequency bass and clear audio in their vehicles. With its potent power output, compact design, and versatile connectivity options, this subwoofer system offers an excellent balance between performance and convenience.

JBL GT-BassPro12 12-Inch Car Audio Powered Subwoofer System

Unleash the full potential of your car audio with the JBL GT-BassPro12 12-Inch Car Audio Powered Subwoofer System. Boasting a 12-Inch (305mm) woofer encased in a die-cast aluminium basket, this subwoofer promises solid, immersive sound under all conditions.

One of the main attractions of this system is the patented Slipstream port, an innovation that effectively eliminates port noise while providing distortion-free bass, even at high output levels. Not only does this minimise turbulence, but it also ensures that you’re getting the full bass experience you paid for.

Equipped with a 12″ (305mm) polypropylene cone, the JBL GT-BassPro12 delivers a bass response that is both powerful and agile. The system is driven by an integrated 150-watt amplifier that ensures potent audio output.

A handy remote level control is included for easy volume adjustments. The system’s mechanical stability is boosted by a progressive spider design. Furthermore, the inclusion of a vented polepiece not only elevates the power handling capacity but also minimizes heat, thereby extending the subwoofer’s durability and operational life.

However, what sets the JBL GT-BassPro12 apart is the system optimisation. The amplifier is precisely matched with the woofer, enclosure, and Slipstream port to guarantee optimal performance and value.

To ensure user-friendly interaction, this subwoofer system includes signal-sensing turn-on, which automatically powers the subwoofer on and off when the head unit sends an audio signal. And to top it off, the system is equipped with input level, low-pass, bass-boost, and phase controls, making it easy for any user to achieve the desired sound.

Verdict

The JBL GT-BassPro12 12-Inch Car Audio Powered Subwoofer System is a powerful player in the realm of car audio. With its stylish design and innovative features like the Slipstream port and system optimisation, it delivers big on bass.

Rockford Fosgate Punch P500-12P – 12″ Powered Subwoofer

With the Rockford Fosgate Punch P500-12P we have certainly saved our most powerful and clear sub until last.

This all-in-one powered subwoofer system boasts a single 12″ high-output subwoofer, perfectly paired with a robust 500-watt class-D amplifier, housed in a high-output vented enclosure.

Expertly designed for hatchbacks, sedans, and SUVs, the P500-12P seamlessly connects via speaker level inputs to factory systems or traditional line level inputs for aftermarket systems.

The P500-12P stands out with its adjustable 12db/Octave low pass crossover and built-in adjustable bass boost EQ. Coupled with hi-level/low-level inputs and a built-in 0°/180° phase switch, it offers maximum adaptability.

The subwoofer is enclosed in a precision-constructed MDF ported wedge enclosure, complete with a heat-activated vinyl finish. Its compact dimensions of 15″ (H) x 24.76″ (W) x 10.91″ (D1) x 7.71″ (D2) make it an excellent fit for most vehicle types.

The Punch P500-12P goes beyond the ordinary, offering a “closed-loop” design for the optimum performance between the woofer, amplifier, and enclosure. The innovative slot port delivers impressive output at lower frequencies, enhancing bass reproduction.

Verdict

The Rockford Fosgate Punch P500-12P is a powerhouse, delivering unparalleled performance and a dynamic audio experience. Its compact, all-in-one design, paired with advanced features, makes it one of the best powered subwoofers on the market, and will undoubtedly elevate your on-road audio experience.

Powered Subwoofers for Cars: A Buyer’s Guide

Adding a powered subwoofer to your car’s audio system can make a tremendous difference to your listening experience. These units combine a subwoofer and an amplifier into one device, which makes them easier to install and saves space in your car.

Here are some crucial factors to consider when purchasing a powered subwoofer for your vehicle:

Power

The power output of the subwoofer, often measured in watts, is a crucial factor to consider. The power can be described in two ways – RMS (Root Mean Square) and peak power.

RMS power refers to the amount of continuous power that the subwoofer can handle, while peak power refers to the maximum power output that the subwoofer can reach for short periods. Generally, the RMS power is a more accurate representation of the subwoofer’s capabilities.

Size

Subwoofers typically range from 8 to 15 inches in diameter, but the most popular sizes are 10 and 12 inches. Larger subwoofers produce more volume, but they typically also require more power. The right size will depend on your personal preferences and the amount of space available in your car.

Enclosure Type

The enclosure, or box that the subwoofer is housed in, can significantly impact the sound. Sealed boxes produce precise, clean sound, while ported and bandpass enclosures deliver louder and more booming bass.

Frequency Range

The frequency range of a subwoofer will determine how low it can play. If you love music with a lot of bass, look for a subwoofer with a lower frequency range.

Sensitivity

Sensitivity goes hand-in-hand with power to achieve high output. A subwoofer with a higher sensitivity rating will require less power to produce the same amount of sound as a model with a lower sensitivity rating.

Impedance

Most subwoofers are 4-ohm impedance, but 2-ohm and 8-ohm and even 1-0hm models are also available. Usually you have to make sure the impedance of your selected subwoofer matches your amplifier, but with powered subs, they come with the amp.

Built-in-features

Look for subwoofers that come with features such as adjustable low-pass filters, phase controls, and automatic turn-on for more control over your audio output.

Brand Reputation

Consider subwoofers from well-established brands in the audio equipment industry. Companies like JBL, Rockford Fosgate, Pioneer and Kicker are renowned for their high-quality, durable products.

Reviews and Ratings

Don’t forget to check out user reviews and ratings before making your purchase. They can provide useful insights into the product’s performance and reliability. Remember a lot of fake reviews, good and bad, are posted online, so go with the general flow with something that has thousands of reviews.

Price

Finally, consider your budget. The price of powered subwoofers can vary significantly, and while higher-priced models usually offer more features and better performance, there are plenty of reasonably priced models that deliver excellent sound quality.

Powered Subwoofers – For Convenience and Loudness

Choosing the perfect powered subwoofer for your car is a mix of art and science, blending your personal sound preferences with technical considerations. Whether you’re looking to amplify your favorite tunes, enhance the clarity of bass notes, or simply add some extra punch to your music, a powered subwoofer can transform your vehicle into a mobile audio paradise.

Remember to consider factors such as power output, subwoofer size, enclosure type, frequency range, and additional features. Don’t forget to factor in the reputation of the brand and read through customer reviews to ensure you’re getting a reliable, high-quality product.

With the right knowledge and careful selection, you can find a powered subwoofer that fits seamlessly into your car’s audio system, elevating your listening experience to a whole new level. Enjoy the journey of turning your car into your very own concert hall on wheels!

The power output of the subwoofer, often measured in watts, is a crucial factor to consider. The power can be described in two ways – RMS (Root Mean Square) and peak power. RMS power refers to the amount of continuous power that the subwoofer can handle, while peak power refers to the maximum power output that the subwoofer can reach for short periods. Generally, the RMS power is a more accurate representation of the subwoofer’s capabilities.

2. Size:
Subwoofers typically range from 8 to 15 inches in diameter, but the most popular sizes are 10 and 12 inches. Larger subwoofers produce more volume, but they may also require more power. The right size will depend on your personal preferences and the amount of space available in your car.

3. Enclosure Type:
The enclosure, or box that the subwoofer is housed in, can significantly impact the sound. Sealed boxes produce precise, clean sound, while ported and bandpass enclosures deliver louder and more booming bass.

4. Frequency Range:
The frequency range of a subwoofer will determine how low it can play. If you love music with a lot of bass, look for a subwoofer with a lower frequency range.

5. Sensitivity:
Sensitivity goes hand-in-hand with power to achieve high output. A subwoofer with a higher sensitivity rating will require less power to produce the same amount of sound as a model with a lower sensitivity rating.

6. Impedance:
Most subwoofers are 4-ohm impedance, but 2-ohm and 8-ohm models are also available. Make sure the impedance of your selected subwoofer matches your amplifier.

7. Built-in Features:
Look for subwoofers that come with features such as adjustable low-pass filters, phase controls, and automatic turn-on for more control over your audio output.

8. Brand Reputation:
Consider subwoofers from well-established brands in the audio equipment industry. Companies like JBL, Rockford Fosgate, and Pioneer are renowned for their high-quality, durable products.

9. Reviews and Ratings:
Don’t forget to check out user reviews and ratings before making your purchase. They can provide useful insights into the product’s performance and reliability.

10. Price:
Finally, consider your budget. The price of powered subwoofers can vary significantly, and while higher-priced models usually offer more features and better performance, there are plenty of reasonably priced models that deliver excellent sound quality.

In conclusion, choosing the right powered subwoofer involves understanding your specific needs, doing some research, and making an informed decision. Happy shopping!