Best Amplifier and Subwoofer for Car: Top 10 Reviewed

When I first upgraded my car’s sound system, I realized quickly that getting the deep, clean bass I craved wasn’t just about the speaker box—it was about matching the power to the subwoofer. I’ve spent countless hours tuning crossovers and comparing RMS ratings to find the sweet spot, and now I want to share my findings. If you’re looking for the best amplifier and subwoofer for car audio enhancement, you need a setup that delivers reliability and pounding sound without draining your bank account or melting your wiring. This comprehensive guide reviews 10 tested options, from all-in-one kits to high-power components, helping you achieve that concert-hall sound every time you hit the ignition.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	MTX 12-Inch Dual Subwoofer with Amp & Wiring Kit -…	View on Amazon
	Skar Audio RP-1200.1D Monoblock Class D MOSFET Amplifier…	View on Amazon
	Car Audio Amplifier ZE1000.1 2000W Monoblock Class D MOSFET…	View on Amazon
	Orion Cobalt CBA2000.1D Monoblock 1-Channel Class D…	View on Amazon
	3200W 12V 4 Channel Car Amplifier Stereo Power Amp Audio…	View on Amazon
	BOSS Audio Systems R1100M Monoblock Car Amplifier – 1100…	View on Amazon
	10 Inch 1200W Slim Under Seat Car Subwoofer with Built-in…	View on Amazon
	Rockville SS8P 400W 8″ Slim Under-Seat Active Subwoofer,…	View on Amazon
	MTX 12″ 1200W Dual Loaded Car Subwoofer Audio with Sub…	View on Amazon
	Skar Audio RP-800.1D Monoblock Class D MOSFET Amplifier…	View on Amazon

MTX 12-Inch Dual Subwoofer with Amp & Wiring Kit – Complete Car Sound System Bundle with 1200W Loaded Enclosure, Planet Audio Peak 1500W Monoblock Amplifier, and Soundstorm 8 Gauge Installation Set

This MTX bundle is the definition of convenience. It provides everything you need—the subwoofers, the amplifier, and the wiring kit—in one box, eliminating guesswork. When you install this setup, you get deep, heart-pounding bass perfect for hip-hop or electronic music lovers. The durable enclosure is built to handle heavy use, and the Planet Audio amp provides the flexibility needed to tune the sound precisely to your vehicle’s acoustics, offering 1200W loaded enclosure power at an outstanding value.

Key features that stand out:
– Complete Car Sound System Bundle: Includes dual 12-inch subwoofers, a monoblock amp, and an 8-gauge wiring kit.
– Durable Construction: Made with 5/8″ MDF and aircraft-grade black carpet.
– Flexible Sound Control: Features variable bass boost and a low-pass filter on the Planet Audio 1500W Monoblock for precise tuning.

Pros:
– All components required for installation are included.
– Excellent value for a high-wattage dual-sub setup.
– Reputable MTX quality ensures deep, reliable bass.

Cons:
– The included 8-gauge wiring kit might be slightly undersized for the peak wattage of the amp.

Best for:
First-time installers or budget-conscious buyers seeking an immediate, powerful upgrade.

Expert Opinion: This is a fantastic entry point into serious car audio. While the combined wattage ratings (1200W MTX/1500W Planet Audio peak) require careful tuning, the system delivers massive bass right out of the box.

Skar Audio RP-1200.1D Monoblock Class D MOSFET Amplifier with Remote Subwoofer Level Control, 1200W

Skar Audio is well-known in the car audio community for producing efficient, high-power amplifiers, and the RP-1200.1D is a prime example. This monoblock amplifier is a powerhouse, offering 1,200 Watts RMS at 1 Ohm stability. Its Class D architecture means it runs extremely efficiently, generating less heat while providing serious power to drive demanding subwoofers. If you want control and massive output, this amp is a solid choice.

Key features that stand out:
– High Efficiency: Class D MOSFET design for reduced heat and excellent power conversion.
– Maximum Power: Provides 1,200 Watts RMS at 1 Ohm.
– User Control: Includes an on-board Bass EQ Switch (+6 or +12dB boost) and a remote subwoofer level control.

Pros:
– Excellent power output for the price point.
– Highly stable at 1 Ohm, ideal for dual subwoofer setups.
– Built-in 4-Way Protection Circuitry enhances longevity.

Cons:
– Requires quality wiring (4 Gauge minimum) to handle the current draw effectively.

Best for:
Audio enthusiasts pairing it with demanding aftermarket subwoofers who need serious, reliable RMS power.

Expert Opinion: The Skar RP series consistently outperforms its price tag. The 1200.1D is a workhorse amp—just ensure you match it with subs that can handle its strong 1 Ohm output to maximize performance.

Car Audio Amplifier ZE1000.1 2000W Monoblock Class D MOSFET Subwoofer Audio, 1-4 Ohm Stable, Low Pass Crossover, Mosfet Power Supply, Stereo

The ZE1000.1 offers impressive power and flexibility in a relatively compact frame. This Class D monoblock provides 1000 Watts RMS at 1-Ohm, making it a great option for powering one or two standard subwoofers. What sets this amplifier apart are its safety features—it’s equipped with thermal, overload, and short circuit protection, giving you peace of mind that your equipment is safe even under heavy loads.

Key features that stand out:
– Power Flexibility: 1 Ohm Stable with 1000 Watts RMS @ 1 Ohm.
– Class D Efficiency: Significantly reduces power loss and minimizes the size of the unit.
– Safety First: Robust thermal, overload and short circuit protection built in.

Pros:
– Excellent power-to-size ratio.
– Highly stable and built with safety in mind.
– Affordable entry into the 1000W RMS power range.

Cons:
– The actual usable RMS power drops significantly above 1 Ohm stability.

Best for:
Users needing a reliable, powerful monoblock amp that prioritizes safety features and compact installation.

Expert Opinion: This amp is efficient and dependable. Its 1 Ohm stability is a major benefit, allowing flexibility in wiring your subwoofers, and its compact size (11” x 6.9” x 2”) means it can fit into tighter spaces than many competitors.

Orion Cobalt CBA2000.1D Monoblock 1-Channel Class D Amplifier for Car Subwoofer, 2000W MAX, 1/2/4 Ohm Stable, Adjustable Low Pass with Bass Boost, MOSFET Power Supply, Bass Knob Included

The Orion Cobalt CBA2000.1D is designed for serious bass delivery. While its peak rating is 2000W, its usable RMS power is 500W at 1 Ohm, making it a fantastic choice for mid-to-high-level single subwoofer setups. Orion is a name recognized for quality bass products, and this amp includes crucial features like an adjustable low pass filter, subsonic control, and thermal protection to ensure longevity and clean sound.

Key features that stand out:
– Subsonic Control: Allows you to filter out ultra-low frequencies that the subwoofer cannot cleanly reproduce, preventing damage.
– Stable Operation: 1/2/4 Ohm Stable, offering versatility in wiring configurations.
– Tuning Features: Includes a Remote Bass Knob for easy bass level adjustments on the fly.

Pros:
– Exceptional frequency response and crossover network quality.
– Durable design for continuous high-power operation.
– Subsonic filter is essential for protecting expensive subwoofers.

Cons:
– The 2000W MAX rating is promotional; the true RMS power is lower than some competitors in this list.

Best for:
Sound quality enthusiasts who prioritize features like subsonic control and clean signal delivery over sheer, high-cost wattage.

Expert Opinion: The true benefit of the Orion Cobalt is its attention to sound quality features. The ability to fine-tune the low-pass and use the subsonic filter ensures that the bass you hear is clear and controlled, not just loud.

3200W 12V 4 Channel Car Amplifier Stereo Power Amp Audio 4CH Bass Sub Woofer

Unlike the monoblock (single channel) amplifiers reviewed so far, this is a 4-channel amplifier. This means it’s incredibly versatile: you can use two channels to power your main interior speakers and bridge the remaining two channels to drive a modest subwoofer. Its aluminum alloy drawing process provides slim design and great heat dissipation performance, crucial for maximizing longevity.

Key features that stand out:
– Versatility: 4 Channel design allows power for both interior speakers and a bridged subwoofer.
– Durable Housing: Aluminium alloy casing promotes excellent thermal management.
– Nondestructive Installation: Designed for easy integration, restoring a high degree of sound quality.

Pros:
– Excellent solution for comprehensive system upgrades (speakers + sub).
– Slim design makes it easy to install under seats or in tight trunks.
– Strong power dynamic restores high-quality sound across all frequencies.

Cons:
– Requires careful bridging and wiring to achieve usable subwoofer power.

Best for:
Users looking to improve their entire car audio system (door speakers and bass) with a single, reliable amplifier unit.

Expert Opinion: Don’t let the generic name fool you; 4-channel amps are often the smarter choice for a balanced system. While it won’t hit the massive bass levels of a dedicated monoblock, its ability to power the entire system efficiently makes it a top consideration for sound quality.

BOSS Audio Systems R1100M Monoblock Car Amplifier – 1100 High Output, 2-8 Ohm Stable, Low/High Level Inputs, Low Pass Crossover, MOSFET Power Supply

The BOSS R1100M is a highly popular entry-level monoblock amp, known for its straightforward performance and reliable Class A/B operation. Delivering 1100 Max x 1 @ 2 Ohms, this amp is great for powering single or dual shallow-mount subwoofers. Its inclusion of both RCA (Low Level) & Speaker Level Inputs (High Level) makes it easy to integrate with factory stereo systems that lack RCA outputs.

Key features that stand out:
– Connectivity: Low/High Level Inputs ensure compatibility with virtually any head unit.
– Extended Warranty: Backed by a powerful 6-year platinum online dealer warranty (when purchased through Amazon).
– Protection Circuits: Includes Thermal, Short, and Overload protection.

Pros:
– Great reliability and peace of mind with the extended warranty.
– Easy integration into OEM (factory) systems.
– Remote Subwoofer Control is included.

Cons:
– Class A/B design is less power-efficient than Class D, generating more heat.

Best for:
Beginners installing their first amplifier who need flexibility for OEM integration and excellent warranty coverage.

Expert Opinion: If you are nervous about installation or running high power, the BOSS R1100M is a safe bet. Its simplicity and robust protection circuits make it very forgiving for novice users, and the long warranty coverage is hard to beat.

10 Inch 1200W Slim Under Seat Car Subwoofer with Built-in Amplifier – Powered Subwoofer for Car/Truck, High/Low Level Inputs, Remote Control, Enhanced Bass (14″ L x 10.2″ W x 3″ H)

When trunk space is zero and you still crave bass, a powered under-seat subwoofer is the best amplifier and subwoofer for car. This 10-inch unit delivers a punchy 1200W peak power while standing only 3 inches high. Because the amplifier is built into the enclosure, installation is streamlined, requiring fewer components. The cast aluminum shell is designed for 300% better heat dissipation than standard iron shells, ensuring it stays cool under heavy load.

Key features that stand out:
– Space Efficiency: Ultra-thin 3″ high profile fits under most seats in sedans or trucks.
– Built-in Amplifier: Simplifies wiring and configuration (active subwoofer system).
– Sound Customization: Included remote control allows adjustments for gain, bass boost, and crossover settings.

Pros:
– Saves massive trunk space while delivering strong bass.
– Integrated amp and high/low-level inputs make installation very easy.
– Durable, vibration-resistant structure.

Cons:
– Will not achieve the low-frequency output of a large, dedicated ported enclosure.

Best for:
Truck owners, small car drivers, or anyone absolutely unwilling to sacrifice trunk space.

Expert Opinion: Active, powered subwoofers like this are a marvel of engineering. While they won’t shake the block, they provide incredible musicality and much-needed low-end support that factory systems just can’t touch.

Rockville SS8P 400W 8″ Slim Under-Seat Active Subwoofer, High-Level Inputs, Cast Aluminum Enclosure, for Car/Truck Audio Systems

The Rockville SS8P is another excellent solution for maximizing bass in minimal space. This 8-inch active subwoofer system delivers a clean 400W peak power and stands only 2.8 inches tall. Its built-in amplifier utilizes high-level inputs and auto turn-on technology, meaning it detects the signal from the stereo and turns on automatically—a massive convenience for factory stereo integration.

Key features that stand out:
– Ultra-Slim Profile: Only 2.8 inches high, fitting into the tightest spaces.
– Active Subwoofer: Integrated amp simplifies the system layout.
– Easy Installation: Features auto turn-on technology and includes a remote bass knob.

Pros:
– One of the slimmest options available for maximum space-saving.
– Cast aluminum enclosure helps reliably dissipate heat.
– Simple installation compatible with almost any car stereo.

Cons:
– 8-inch driver provides less sheer output volume than the 10-inch slim models.

Best for:
Users with extremely limited space (like small coupes or specific truck models) who prioritize ease of installation and subtle bass enhancement.

Expert Opinion: The Rockville SS8P is designed for clean, tight bass support. It won’t rattle windows, but it will dramatically improve the sound stage and definition of your music, making it ideal for rock and jazz genres where clarity is key.

MTX 12″ 1200W Dual Loaded Car Subwoofer Audio with Sub Box and Amplifier, TNP212D2

The TNP212D2 is another impressive MTX all-in-one package, offering a straightforward route to powerful bass. This specific combo features dual 12-inch subwoofers capable of 1200 watts of max power (400 watts RMS) paired with an ultra-compact 250-watt RMS amplifier. This setup is geared toward guaranteed reliable performance and easy installation, featuring MTX’s renowned bass sound and reliable surface mount technology (SMT) in the amp.

Key features that stand out:
– Guaranteed Pairing: Factory-matched subs and amp for reliable performance.
– Compact Amplifier: The ultra-compact amp is designed to be installed almost anywhere.
– Reliable Technology: Uses Surface Mount Technology (SMT) which is resistant to vibrations.

Pros:
– Excellent durability and resistance to harsh vehicle environments.
– Perfect acoustic match between the enclosure, subs, and amplifier.
– Ideal for those who want deep bass without complex system building.

Cons:
– The 250W RMS amp might underpower the dual 12-inch subs for users seeking extreme volume.

Best for:
Reliability-focused buyers who want the MTX sound legacy and a guarantee that the components work perfectly together.

Expert Opinion: If you are worried about over-driving or under-driving components, this combo takes the headache away. It’s an efficient system that uses a relatively modest power input (250W RMS) to achieve satisfying, robust bass.

Skar Audio RP-800.1D Monoblock Class D MOSFET Amplifier with Remote Subwoofer Level Control, 800W

If the Skar RP-1200.1D was overkill for your single subwoofer, the RP-800.1D offers the same high-quality Class D efficiency and features in a slightly less powerful package. Delivering 800 Watts RMS at 1 Ohm, this amplifier is ideal for powering a single high-performance 10-inch or 12-inch subwoofer. It retains the crucial features of its larger sibling, including the 4-Way Protection Circuitry and the remote level control.

Key features that stand out:
– Efficient Power: 800 Watts RMS at 1 Ohm provides serious power for single-sub setups.
– Class D Efficiency: Runs cool and conserves power compared to older amplifier classes.
– Tuning Control: Features on-board Bass EQ Switch (+6 or +12dB boost).

Pros:
– Excellent power delivery for a single, high-quality subwoofer.
– Inherits all the protective features of the higher-end Skar RP series.
– Smaller physical footprint than the 1200W model.

Cons:
– Less versatile for future dual-subwoofer upgrades than the 1200.1D.

Best for:
Users maximizing the performance of a single, premium 10-inch or 12-inch subwoofer.

Expert Opinion: The RP-800.1D is often the smarter choice. Unless you are running two highly demanding subs, 800W RMS is more than enough to achieve powerful, clean bass, and it places less strain on your vehicle’s electrical system than higher-wattage models.

Comparison Insights: Which Setup is Right for You?

When choosing the best amplifier and subwoofer for car audio, your decision generally boils down to three categories: All-in-One Bundles, High-Power Components, and Space-Saving Active Subs.

For the All-in-One Bundles (MTX 12-Inch Dual Bundle and MTX TNP212D2), you’re prioritizing value and simplicity. The larger MTX Dual Bundle offers higher peak wattage and includes the wiring kit, making it the superior choice for sheer volume, while the MTX TNP212D2 is slightly more conservative on power but guarantees a perfectly matched, highly reliable system.

If you are building a custom system and need maximum Component Power, the Skar Audio amplifiers are industry leaders. The Skar Audio RP-1200.1D is the clear winner for maximum RMS output and 1 Ohm stability, making it ideal for powering multiple subwoofers. The ZE1000.1 offers comparable power (1000W RMS @ 1 Ohm) with slightly more compact dimensions and an emphasis on protection circuitry.

For Space-Saving Solutions, the powered under-seat subwoofers are unbeatable. The 10 Inch Slim Under Seat Subwoofer provides the best mix of size and power (1200W Peak), but the Rockville SS8P is the winner for minimal space, boasting a 2.8-inch profile and useful auto turn-on technology for seamless factory stereo integration.

Final Verdict: Our Recommendations for the Best Amplifier and Subwoofer for Car

Selecting the absolute best depends entirely on your needs:

The Best All-Around Value: The MTX 12-Inch Dual Subwoofer with Amp & Wiring Kit provides everything you need for a major bass upgrade at a killer price point. It saves you the hassle of matching components and includes all the necessary wiring.

The Best for Raw Power and Custom Builds: The Skar Audio RP-1200.1D Monoblock Class D MOSFET Amplifier is unmatched for its stable 1 Ohm efficiency and high RMS output. Pair this with a high-quality dual subwoofer enclosure for earth-shaking bass.

The Best for Space-Constrained Vehicles: The 10 Inch 1200W Slim Under Seat Car Subwoofer with Built-in Amplifier delivers surprisingly powerful bass support while requiring no trunk space whatsoever, making it the perfect choice for trucks or small cars.

Common Questions About best amplifier and subwoofer for car

What is the difference between a powered (active) and passive subwoofer system?

A powered (active) subwoofer has the amplifier built directly into the enclosure. This is typically found in space-saving models like the under-seat units, and it significantly simplifies installation. A passive subwoofer requires an external, separate amplifier (monoblock or bridged 4-channel) to drive it. Component setups generally use passive subwoofers paired with dedicated external amplifiers.

Why do amplifiers have both a “Max” power rating and an “RMS” rating?

RMS (Root Mean Square) is the most important number. RMS measures the amount of power an amplifier can continuously produce without distortion or overheating. Max (or Peak) power is simply the highest amount of power the amp can produce for a very brief moment. When choosing the best amplifier and subwoofer for car use, always match the amplifier’s RMS rating to the subwoofer’s RMS rating for optimal performance and equipment longevity.

How does “1 Ohm Stable” benefit my subwoofer setup?

Amplifiers like the Skar RP series are often 1 Ohm stable. Impedance (measured in Ohms) relates to resistance. Wiring multiple subwoofers allows you to drop the final load impedance presented to the amplifier. A 1 Ohm stable amp is capable of handling the highest current and providing maximum power to demanding setups, usually requiring thicker power wire (like 4 gauge) to safely manage the current.

Can I connect a new amplifier to my factory (OEM) car stereo?

Yes, absolutely. Many of the reviewed amplifiers, like the BOSS R1100M and the powered under-seat models, include High-Level Inputs (Speaker Level Inputs). These inputs allow you to tap directly into the existing wiring running to your factory speakers, converting that signal for use with the aftermarket amplifier, bypassing the need for RCA pre-outs on your head unit.

Do I need a capacitor for my best amplifier and subwoofer for car setup?

In most modern car audio setups, a capacitor isn’t strictly necessary unless you are running very high wattage (typically over 1500W RMS) or if your vehicle already has a weak electrical system. For setups under 1000W RMS, a high-quality wiring kit with the correct gauge wire (like 4-gauge) and a good ground connection are usually sufficient to prevent headlight dimming (voltage drops).

What is a “low pass crossover” and how do I set it?

A low pass crossover (LPF) is a filter that ensures your subwoofer only plays low-frequency sounds (bass). You set this filter on your amplifier or head unit to stop higher frequency notes from reaching the subwoofer, which would cause sound distortion. Typically, an LPF is set between 80Hz and 100Hz. For instance, setting it to 80Hz means the subwoofer will only reproduce frequencies below 80Hz.