5 Best Car Audio Subs Reviews

Best car audio subs can transform your driving experience, adding depth and power to your music. But with so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide reviews five popular choices to help you find the perfect bass boost for your vehicle.

Skar Audio Single 12″ Complete 1,200 Watt SDR Series

This all-in-one system packs a serious punch. The Skar Audio SDR Series subwoofer, amplifier, and wiring kit are bundled together for a convenient, high-power setup. It’s ideal for those wanting a powerful, hassle-free installation.

• All-in-One Package: Subwoofer, amplifier, and wiring kit included
• Peak Power: 1,200 Watts
• RMS Power: 600 Watts
• 12″ Subwoofer

• Class D Amplifier

• Pros: Powerful, easy installation, complete package

• Cons: Can be pricey, may be overkill for smaller vehicles

User Impressions: Customers consistently praise the sheer power and ease of installation. Many report a significant upgrade in their car audio experience.

MTX 12 Inch 1200 Watt 4 Ohm Dual Loaded Car Subwoofer System

This complete system from MTX boasts impressive power and a robust build. It includes a dual-loaded subwoofer, powerful amplifier, and capacitor for a well-rounded bass upgrade. The inclusion of a capacitor helps smooth out power delivery, preventing dips in performance.

• Dual 12″ Subwoofers
• Peak Power: 1200 Watts
• RMS Power: 825 Watts
• Included Amplifier and Capacitor

• Sturdy Construction

• Pros: Powerful sound, complete package, durable components

• Cons: Larger size may limit installation options, can be expensive

User Impressions: Reviews highlight the system’s clean bass and overall impressive sound quality, with many users reporting a noticeable improvement over their factory system.

litillbuly 10 Inch 800W Car Subwoofer, Slim Under Seat Car Subwoofer

If space is a concern, the litillbuly 10-inch subwoofer is a great option. Its slim design makes it perfect for under-seat installations in cars with limited trunk space. While less powerful than some other options, it still delivers a noticeable bass boost.

• Slim Design: Ideal for under-seat installations
• 800W Power Handling
• Remote Control Included
• Cast Aluminum Shell for Heat Dissipation

• 10″ Subwoofer

• Pros: Space-saving, good value, remote control

• Cons: Lower power output compared to others, may not be suitable for bass-heavy music lovers

User Impressions: Users appreciate the slim profile and the ability to fit it under their seats. The sound quality is described as decent for its size and price.

Scosche LOC2SL Line Output Converter with Remote Control

This isn’t a subwoofer itself, but a crucial component for many aftermarket installations. The Scosche LOC2SL Line Output Converter allows you to connect aftermarket amplifiers to factory stereos that don’t have RCA outputs. This is essential if you want to add a subwoofer to a system that doesn’t have pre-outs.

• Converts speaker-level signals to RCA line-level signals
• Works with most factory stereos
• Remote bass control

• Compact and durable

• Pros: Essential for many subwoofer installations, compact, easy to install.

• Cons: Not a subwoofer itself, requires additional components.

User Impressions: Customers appreciate its functionality and ease of use in getting their aftermarket subs working with their factory systems. It’s a critical part of many setups and highly praised for its reliability.

MTX TNP212D2 12″ 1200 Watt 4 Ohm Dual Loaded Car Subwoofer System

Another powerful option, the MTX TNP212D2 offers a similar feature set to the first MTX system listed, providing a complete package for enhanced bass. It boasts dual 12-inch subwoofers for a deep, powerful sound.

• Dual 12″ Subwoofers
• Peak Power: 1200 Watts
• Included Amplifier and Wiring Kit
• MDF Enclosure

• Rubber Surround and Polypropylene Cone

• Pros: Powerful and deep bass, complete kit, robust construction

• Cons: Large size, can be expensive

User Impressions: This system receives praise for its impactful bass response and the convenience of the all-in-one package. Users report a significant improvement in their overall car audio experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What size subwoofer should I get for my car?

A: The best size depends on your vehicle’s size and available space. Larger subs generally produce more bass but require more space. Smaller subs are more compact but offer less output.

Q: What is RMS power, and why is it important?

A: RMS (Root Mean Square) power represents the continuous power a subwoofer can handle without distortion. It’s a more reliable indicator of performance than peak power.

Q: Do I need an amplifier for my car subwoofer?

A: Most car subwoofers require an amplifier to reach their full potential. The amplifier provides the necessary power to drive the subwoofer effectively.

Q: What is a line output converter (LOC)?

A: An LOC converts speaker-level audio signals from your car stereo into RCA line-level signals, allowing you to connect aftermarket amplifiers to factory stereos that lack RCA pre-outs.

Q: How do I choose the right enclosure for my subwoofer?

A: The enclosure type (sealed, ported, bandpass) significantly impacts sound quality. Consider your preferences for bass response (tight and controlled vs. deep and booming) when choosing. Some subs come with pre-built enclosures.

Q: What gauge wire should I use for my subwoofer?

A: Thicker gauge wire (like 8 gauge) is recommended for higher-power systems to handle the current effectively and prevent voltage drops.

Q: What’s the difference between a single and dual subwoofer system?

A: Dual subwoofer systems generally produce more bass and a fuller sound compared to single subwoofer systems, but take up more space and cost more.

This guide should help you choose the best car audio subs for your needs. Remember to consider your vehicle’s size, available space, and your budget when making your decision. Happy listening!