If you’re all about the bass when it comes to music, then a sub and amp combo is a must-have when listening to tracks in your vehicle. But, with so many options available, how do you pick the ideal sub and amp combo? The article will go through the top ten best sub and amp combos in sound quality, build specs, and simplicity of installation.
It will also explain why a sub and amp combo is an excellent upgrade for anybody from the casual listener to the audiophile. However, if you are in a hurry, you can look at the table below and choose one from the list. But still, if you feel you need to know more, keep reading.
Rockford Fosgate P300 | JBL GT Bass Pro 12 | MTX Audio TNP212D2 Terminator | |
Preview |  |  |  |
Best For | For those searching for a space saver: It’s ideal if you have little room yet still want to get some decent bang. | If you’re looking for praises, most people will believe there are two 12″ in the trunk rather than just one. | This sub is for people who wish to experience the thunder in their hearts without breaking the wallet. |
Pros | Built to last | Loud and powerful | High-quality bass with perfect lows |
Cons | 1 year warranty | Overheating | Expensive |
10 Best Sub And Amp Combo Reviewed
1. MTX Audio TNP212DV Dual 12″ Subwoofer Vented Enclosure with Amplifier
What sets it apart?
If you are looking for power and elegance, the MTX TNE212DV is the subwoofer for you. The MTX comes with a firm enclosure construction that yields the quality bass the system produces. The sub creates a 2 Ohms load to any connected amplifier.
The Terminator subwoofers have polypropylene dust caps which make the sub lightweight and durable. The unit produces a power output of 1000 Watts RMS/2000 Watts. It comes with a venting mechanism that allows the subwoofer to cool down during prolonged play.
Who should use it?
The MTX TNE212DV is a perfect choice for anyone who wants an affordable alternative to their bass needs. The TNE212DV is the ideal combination of performance and price, enabling audiophiles of all types to enjoy quality sound.
Recent buyers’ confession
Excellent quality with deep bass. Work perfectly in my 2007 Subaru.
Final Note
The chamber quality is 0.63″ MDF, which is ideal for subwoofer enclosures to guarantee strength. This is the reason why the chamber can withstand low-frequency sound waves produced by the subwoofer. The cage lining makes the system even more attractive with a black aviation carpet. The timeless black complements any decor and is resistant to ripping and wear. The embroidered Terminator logo acts as a safety precaution from counterfeit products.
2. KICKER 46HS10 Compact Powered 10-inch Subwoofer
What sets it apart?
The Kicker 46HS10 comes with a fail-safe Integration technology that has made it grow in popularity due to its durability. It is efficient in accessing input signals ranging from 0.25 to 40 volts. The device is compatible with modern cars that utilize start/stop systems.
Who should use it?
When correctly set up, the Kicker 46HS10 has an incredible amount of power. It houses a 1000w subwoofer capable of keeping your neighbors awake when the volume is turned up to max. When placed under the seat of your car, the 46HS10 works well.
The combination provides extremely clear sound even at low volumes. The device is suitable for outdoor and indoor use.
Recent buyers’ confession
Install this bad boy beneath the driver’s seat, and you’ll undoubtedly feel it. I’m not sure how much you’d notice if you place it in the trunk, but it won’t be annoying outside the car. It’s ideal for storing a lot of bass without drawing attention to yourself.
Final Note
With all that said, you dont have to worry about the quality of the sound system. The Kicker 46HS10 is constructed of high-quality materials and has an all-aluminum design, allowing it to generate powerful bass without taking up much room. This little subwoofer is affordable and comes with a valid company warranty.
3. Rockford Fosgate P300-10
What sets it apart?
If you intend to add bass to your sound system, then the P300-10 is the sub for you. The 300w amplifier comes with a Punch 10″ subwoofer in a bespoke sealed enclosure. All you need to get started is power, ground, and a transmitter since the framework is all-inclusive.
The cage has a tough shell that can withstand scratches and bumps in the trunk or cargo compartment.
Who should use it?
The Rockford Fosgate sub has groundbreaking bass even when you use it outdoors. It has one of the best warranties in the market. This extensive business warranty is only available to consumers who buy from authorized dealers.
Recent buyers’ confession
This product performs well in my car. If you are searching for something with a punch, it works perfectly.
Final Note
Due to its popularity in the market, the Rockford Fosgate is prone to counterfeit. This is why it is advisable to buy from approved dealers who are specifically certified to sell and install these systems.
4. Infinity Basslink Mini – Powered 6×8 under-seat subwoofer
What sets it apart?
This Infinity subwoofer is another excellent choice for vehicles with limited trunk space. The Infinity Basslink’s slim shape allows it to fit under most vehicle seats. Its all-die-cast aluminum shell cools the system and increases its durability.
Who should use it?
The gadget is great for car camping occasions and road trips. The infinity Basslink has a 100 RMS amp which delivers high and mid-bass via its 68″ woofer offering nothing less than quality. Very easy to install with a valid warranty from authorized dealers.
Recent buyers’ confession
This tiny sub adds a great bang to my aftermarket Android deck, including Kicker speakers and tweeters. For the sound to escape, I drilled a couple of two-inch holes in the console. It is effortless to set up.
Final Note
The bass on this sub is fully customizable with a low-pass filter, adjustable bass boost, and phase switch. Line-in and speaker-level inputs provide you with a lot of flexibility when it comes to wiring your system. When installing the system, you will need a wiring kit.
5. Bazooka BTA8250D BT Series 8-Inch 250-Watt Class D Amplified Tube
What sets it apart?
The BTA8250D is a game-changer when it comes to producing intense bass. The eight-inch dual boost converter subwoofer improves the sound quality and bass level in your vehicle. It comes in a compact shape, is convenient to fit perfectly in your trunk, and still saves you space.
For impressive results, the sub works well in the corner of your vehicle, which amplifies the bass output.
Who should use it?
The Bazooka subwoofers work well with individuals who want an already set up system. These bass juggernauts are entirely independent and are the honest solution to the common problem of an inadequate bass area in vehicle interiors.
A Bazooka subwoofer provides the bass, clarity, and realism that your system lacks while requiring no changes to your vehicle, warranty, or original audio system. There is no better way to improve your audio system if you are leasing your vehicle than installing a Bazooka subwoofer.
Recent buyers’ confession
My Pontiac Montana SV6 2008 was missing bass. The bass of the BTA8100FHC is powerful enough to shake the mirrors. The installation and wiring were simple.
Final Note
The integration of the amplifier within the chamber simplifies installation and avoids power loss. The bass tubes enclosures help capitalize on the subwoofer set amplification qualities in a vehicle’s corner to produce deep bass.
6. Kicker CompRT 43TCWRT84
What sets it apart?
The Kicker’s 43TCWRT84 bags a booming 8″ CompRT subwoofer and a passive subwoofer that guarantees you nothing less than quality sound. It is most suitable for trucks with limited room. The second sub, known as a passive radiator, responds to the air pressure generated by the active sub, producing much more bass with no port noise.
Who should use it?
The 8″ CompRT subwoofer has a polypropylene cone that will not bend and create distortion when you pump up the bass. It’s ideal for loud music lovers with a keen ear to detail every beat. The rubber surround can withstand years of hard usage.
Recent buyers’ confession
This thing pumps. I’m just sending 125 RMS to it, but it thumps pretty vigorously. Louder than the majority of 10″ woofers. It also sounds exceptionally clean. I’m astounded that it can replicate all of the low notes like a larger speaker.
Final Note
Due to the complexity of Kicker CompRT speakers, they need a break-in period to provide an optimal low-bass response. The suspension setup is very stiff. You will have to use it for two weeks to achieve its optimal balance of better bass output, smoother sound, and more low-bass extensions.
7. Rockville USS8 8
What sets it apart?
The USS8 is another excellent solution for getting great-sounding bass in your car without taking up a lot of room. This sub enclosure is 2.9″ thick, allowing it to fit beneath your seat with ease. Its power is impressive, with the sub integrated into the chamber of a top-tier amp built-in.
The amp comes with an automatic on and off circuit, which turns itself ON when it detects an audio signal. When you switch off your audio signal, the amplifier integrated into this subwoofer system will turn off automatically. Another thing done to simplify installation was to place all of the inputs and outputs on one side.
This makes wiring neater and simpler to manage.
Who should use it?
The USS8 has a power rating of 600 watts and an RMS output of 150 watts. This model is CEA-2006 compliant, which means a third party has validated the ratings, so you can be confident that this item will generate the power it claims with zero disappointments. The sub is common due to its legit ratings, and many owners confess that the sound is worth every cent.
Recent buyers’ confession
This little gadget is a must-have for paranormal investigators, just newbies. The Ghost Meter is by far the most affordable of the commercially available EMF detectors, but it does have advantages and disadvantages that may influence your decision to purchase it.
Final Note
The USS8 features fantastic settings that allow you to fine-tune the sound to your taste. It includes a volume level control and a subsonic filter to filter out very low frequencies that the human ear cannot hear: a low pass crossover filter, phase adjustment, input sensitivity, and bass boost.
8. Kicker TL7T Single Square 600 Watt 12
What sets it apart?
For those searching to save space but still want to experience quality bass, the Kicker’s TL7T is the Subwoofer for you. The gadget produces deep bass with a 600watt power rating and can fit comfortably beneath your car’s seats. The Kicker’s Square Sub offers 20% more cone area and air movement to the setting for a more outstanding bass experience.
Who should use it?
The single 2-ohm terminal produces a more potent, bolder sound that will make every road trip memorable. This subwoofer is durable, with solid MDF construction and substantial internal bracing. It is easy to install with a valid warranty in case of technical issues.
This thin sub has a giant voice coil and magnet available, ensuring quality sound and a more compact look.
Recent buyers’ confession
I needed a low-profile subwoofer to fit in the trunk tool compartment of my S2000. It works well and is presently operating at 500rpms with bumps, even in the trunk of a convertible.
Final Note
The gadget is the perfect solution for audiophiles who like cranking up their music while driving. The subwoofer will ensure all your drives are memorable, and the sound is nothing less to the best in the market.
9. Rockford Fosgate R2S-1X12
What sets it apart?
The Rockford Fosgate sub enclosure provides powerful bass without taking up too much room in your car. This 5-1/4″ deep box was designed with the standard cab truck owner in mind. The enclosure is 5/8″ thick with medium-density fiberboard with black carpeting to ensure durability.
Who should use it?
The R2S is popular due to its portability and its ability to fit small spaces with ease. Because of the slim-line depths of 3.25″ on top and 5.25″ on the bottom, the enclosures fit small places well and still offer you the thumb effect. The wedge shape is also ideal for single-cab vehicles with minimal seat travel.
Recent buyers’ confession
It’s badass, nearly too loud for my 2014 Tundra, but if you get the Rockford PEQ Punch remote, you can dial the level down… you won’t be disappointed.
Final Note
All Rockford Fosgate subwoofers satisfy the CEA-2031 loudspeaker output industry standards, which means that you can trust the subwoofer to handle the steady RMS power rating safely. During installation, you need a CEA-2031 power regulator to prevent power damages to the amplifier.
10. Kicker 44DCWC122
What sets it apart?
The 44DCWC122 is the system to go for if you are all about durability and power all in one. The twin enclosure has a pair of CompS woofers in a strong MDF box with rounded corners and interior framing for further strength and support.
It also comes with a proven box design and an outstanding bold appearance. All enclosures come in a luxurious charcoal grey with yellow branding giving you a lavish look. Dual woofer cabinets have an impedance matching of 2 Ohms giving you the deep bass that you need.
Who should use it
With the Kicker 12-Inch dual subwoofer enclosure, you can keep the bass pumping in your vehicle and take your car audio to the next level. You dont have to worry about quality, since the parts are of high quality. The MDF and thick black carpet make the gadget durable and long-lasting.
This sub box optimizes bass in less space, and it provides excellent performance even in the smallest trunk area.
Recent buyers’ confession
Outstanding speakers. I know some are talking about them blowing up, but I’ve used them for two years and have had no issues.
Final Note.
With the Kicker dual, you can be confident that you’ll experience nothing less than quality in every soundtrack you put on.
How To Match Subwoofers To Amplifiers – A Step-By-Step Guide
Now that you are up to speed with the best sub and amp combos, It is essential to know how to match subwoofers to amplifiers to create a solid audio system for your car. A subwoofer functions as a speaker, It reproduces low-frequency sounds while amps amplify the sound output, boosting loudness.
The key to obtaining excellent bass is to make sure that your amplifier and subwoofers are correctly in sync. This guide will help you analyze your audio system in detail, including the fundamentals of power matching, the number of subs needed, and impedance.
Factors To Consider
What kind of power do you require?
Subwoofers typically have two power handling specifications: RMS watts, continuous power handling, and peak power handling. The RMS rating indicates the level of power it can handle on a routine basis, while the peak wattage means the highest power output that the woofer can take without damage.
Be keen always to match the RMS watts to the amp to achieve the greatest possible sound quality. Most power amplifiers on the market show the RMS watt ranges, which define the highest and lowest power ranges that the amp can generate.
Once you’ve established the amp’s wattage capacity, make sure the RMS watt output of the subwoofer is 75% minimum and 150% maximum to the amp capacity. Calculate your subwoofer’s watts RMS rating, then double the total count of subwoofers by the RMS rating of each of them.
The amp’s wattage should be the same with every sub you choose to connect in your vehicle sound system. So, if you’re going to add several subwoofers to your vehicle’s audio system, consider updating the power amplifier as well. Now all you need to do is mount it to your car.
But before you do this, it is crucial to be keen on the following;
Impedance Matching
Impedance is another essential element to consider when matching subwoofers to amplifiers. It is a unit of measurement for electrical resistance. Most authorized dealers allow you to choose between a 2 ohms or a 4 ohms rating when purchasing a sub.
When connecting several subs, make sure they have the same impedance and coil. If they do not match, there will be no equal distribution of power between them. This will result in distortion in speech when listening to music and can cause damage to the amp.
Consider connecting each sub-woofer separately to individual amplifiers if you plan to use various kinds of subs in your car’s audio system.
Choose Your Subwoofer And Amplifiers
When it comes to subwoofers, you may choose between single and dual voice coils. Single voice coils have one set of terminals, while dual voice coils have two sets. Dual voice coils have the benefit of providing more wiring choices than single voice coils.
Another benefit is that two voice coils improve performance and power handling. Once you’ve decided on the amount of boost you need, you can go ahead and choose the finest amp. For most bass systems, there are two primary amp types available, mono and 2-channel amps.
Remember that single-channel amps are the greatest for creating impressive base sound. They can handle a single audio stream utilizing a single channel connected to the sub for resounding bass performance.
Connecting multiple subwoofers to a mono channel amplifier will give you the same frequency of sound in all subs, which in most cases produce poor-quality music. On the other hand, using a two-face will give your music a stereo experience and improve the bass quality.
Choosing the best amplifier for your subwoofer
To acquire the best bass, you should read the ten sub and amp combos to get the best sound out of your stereo system.
A single 4-ohm voice coil subwoofer
Because of its simplicity, low cost, and compatibility, a single subsystem is usually the first selection when choosing a sub. A single 4-ohm impedance sub is ideal for a two-channel amplifier. By bridging the amp’s output, you may obtain a lot of power at an affordable cost.
One 4-ohm dual voice coil subwoofer
DVC subs with two voice coils provide various methods to connect them to an amp. Another benefit of utilizing a single DVC is improved power handling and performance. A single 4-ohm dual voice coil sub is ideal for a mono sub amp.
This is because mono amplifiers provide greater power at lower impedances, such as 2 ohms. You reach maximum power output if you connect a 2-ohm impedance sub to a parallel wiring voice coil amp.
Two single voice coil 4-ohm subwoofers
For those seeking a more extensive foundation, having two subs makes a lot of sense. You can move a lot of sound in the air with two subwoofers. A mono sub amp is an ideal fit for this kind of setup.
When you connect the two subs in parallel, you provide the amp with a 2-ohm impedance. Mono amps are excellent for such circumstances since they give the most power.
Two 4-ohm dual voice coil subs
Two 4-ohm dual voice coil subs provide a lot of wiring options. You have many options for connecting up the combo to obtain that bass that excites you. This combo would benefit from a two-channel amplifier.
When the subs connect to a bridged 2-channel amp, the total impedance exhibited is 4-0hms.
The Advantages Of Purchasing A Subwoofer And Amplifier Combo Package
There are many advantages to putting a sub and amp combo in your vehicle. The first and probably most significant benefit is that the combination eliminates the uncertainty involved in matching a subwoofer with an amplifier. There is also an enclosure included in these products, so you don’t have to bother about that anymore.
Because the system is compact, you need to locate a suitable location in your vehicle and install it. If you don’t buy this whole kit, you’ll need to find an enclosure that fits the subwoofer as well as an amplifier with the appropriate power. Many times, a bundle like this is also less expensive than purchasing the components separately.
FAQs
What are the best subwoofer and amplifier combinations?
The MTX Audio TNP212D2 Terminator Power Pack Subwoofer System is the best subwoofer and amp combination. It has proven to be the most dependable and most refined of all vehicle subwoofer manufacturers throughout the years.
What are the top subwoofer amplifiers?
The finest subwoofer amplifiers are usually part of a combination package. As a result, be sure that you choose the appropriate amp for the subwoofers. For example, if you have a Rockford Fosgate subwoofer, you should look at the Rockford Fosgate amps that are available. They do not tolerate various brands well.
What do I need for the optimum audio quality in my car?
A good head unit or vehicle radio is essential for the most fantastic automobile audio quality. Car speakers are also needed. Please don’t bother with stock since it won’t provide you with the results you need. When it comes to vehicle subwoofers, you may select between 10 and 12-inch subwoofers.
Is it essential which amp I buy for my subwoofers?
To obtain the most incredible vehicle audio quality, you must get the best-powered amp. The more power you can provide your head unit, the better it will function. At max power, you will still be able to listen to quality music. Typically, mono amps or 2-channel amps are on the market.
What technical features should I look for in-vehicle subwoofers?
When purchasing vehicle subwoofers, you should always consider the following factors: peak power, voice coil, power ratings, power handling, RMS power, RMS rating, frequency range, and wiring choices. Some vehicle subwoofers provide bass level control and bass sound.
A vehicle subwoofer may be a passive subwoofer if it’s the correct one, like type r subs. Rubber surround polypropylene cone, dual voice, ported box, sound pressure level, cooling system, and compression terminals are other things of importance.
Conclusion
Although it is simple to find an entire combination of the finest subwoofers and amplifiers, most people choose to purchase them individually. Combining a subwoofer and an amplifier for the most remarkable results for your vehicle’s sound system is only possible if the fundamental components are compatible.
It would be best to examine your amplifier and subwoofer specs to guarantee an excellent match for good results. Be keen to note that a high-end amplifier must be a single-channel device. Always consider the frequency response and sensitivity of a subwoofer before purchasing one.
Finally, to get a cleaner and louder sound, ensure the amp and sub’s impedance match the power handling capabilities and are compatible. Be careful when matching amplifiers with subwoofers; this guarantees the safe functioning of your equipment by minimizing overheating hazards.
