Sometimes, you just want to hear a little good music right? The perfect song at the perfect time can make all the difference. However, just having the basic stereo system in your car is not enough. That is why you need the best under seat subwoofer. Without it, you will certainly not have the best bass or the best overall sound. However, what if I was to tell you that you can add to your sound system like you never thought was possible before.
It might seem a little scary to take in the full magnitude of what finding the right subwoofer is like, but this article has you fully covered. From products to a buyer’s guide, there is everything here for you to be successful. So, read on and take in the knowledge you need to have ultimate victory. Without this knowledge, you will just be another average Joe, who does not get the full experience of a sound system that they deserve.
Contents
Best Under Seat Subwoofer: Editor’s Top Picks
Top 10 Best Under Seat Subwoofer Reviews:
With the list of the top-10 subwoofers below, you can have the experience of a lifetime with sound. From a variety of brands and loaded with accessories, a subwoofer is life-changing. Check out the exhibits below for more details.
1. Rockford Fosgate P300-12 Punch 300 Watt Powered Loaded 12-Inch Subwoofer
B007AQ2W6W
The Rockford Punch is one of the best subwoofer models on the market. This model is a self-covered option that does everything right in the box. With 12-inch subwoofers, you will have a power amplification that people will be able to hear outside of your vehicle. By only running power, your subwoofer will work to perfection. The ground signal will help keep everything moving the right way musically.
Some of the attributes of this amazing subwoofer system are the low crossover that gets to 12 decibels. Additionally, there is a bass EQ with a phase switch for even better, well-rounded sounds. You can even use the subwoofer remote to give you the perfect leveling. The closed design is something people cannot scoff at either. No matter what you connect this subwoofer too, the aftermarket sound will be exquisite.
Lastly, you need to understand that this product comes with a 1-year warranty. This means if anything goes wrong in the first year, things will be fully covered by Rockford Fosgate. It is dependability like this brand that will not keep you up at night. What more can you ask for from a quality organization like Rockford?
Pros
- There are separate speaker and low leveler inputs
- Uses an MDF of 5/8-inches
- The subwoofer is covered by vinyl that is heat activated
- The connectors are detachable
- There is protection against over-voltage
Cons
- 12-volt batteries are required for the subwoofers to work
- The accuracy of the sound will need fine-tuning with the EQ
2. Rockville RW10CA 10″ 800 Watt Slim Low Profile Active Powered Car Subwoofer
B019Z3R582
If you are looking for a sleek subwoofer design, then you need to get yourself informed about Rockville. With 800-watts of power, this 14.25-pound product is fantastic to look at with its great blue and black colors. Some of the things include an RCA input that is low level. There are also high-level inputs with turn-on technology.
With extremely adjustable input sensitivity, you will love the way you can hear these subwoofers without blowing your eardrum out. There is also a remote for turning on and off the soft delay. Also, it is important to know the different circuits like thermal protection, short protection, and overload protection. The filter for this subwoofer is also impressive with a low pass ranging from 50 to 150 Hertz. The bass boost is also exquisite ranging from 0 to 18 decibels around 45 Hertz.
Lastly, know that there is a great user manual that is here to serve you. It has all the information and facts to get you on the right foot when installing and using your great subwoofer. This 10-inch speaker is certainly something you can work with right under the seat of your vehicle.
Pros
- The wattage maxes out about 2,000 watts
- The materials made of this subwoofer are extra heavy-duty
- Very easy to install in your vehicle
- Amazing value for the money you pay
- Perfect subwoofer if this is your first time using one
- The sound quality is second to none
Cons
- The settings will need some tweaking
- The output might not be as big as you imagined
3. Alpine Electronics PWE-S8 Restyle Compact Powered 8-Inch Subwoofer
B00OYGGMXK
Alpine Electronics is the next best under seat subwoofer option for you to choose from. With its small design, but maximum power, people like what this subwoofer puts out. Start with its 8-inch housing and the 120-watt amplification. The housing of this subwoofer is amazing as well with a cast aluminum construction.
When installing this model, you can either place it under your seat or behind where you are seated. Some people even like to place the subwoofer in the trunk of a sedan or the hatch of an SUV. With an auto-sensing speaker input and a frequency response time of 32 to 150 Hertz, you will have the power you deserve to hear in your vehicle.
You will also notice the splendid speaker inputs on the side panel of this product. With control for gain, phase, crossover, sub levels, and much more, you will have a product that is certainly worth your while. Lastly, you can either install the product yourself, or you can have Alpine’s professional installation team come over to assist. Positives abound when it comes to this subwoofer and all it can do for you in your life.
Pros
- The max power output is 240 watts
- The subwoofer weighs 10 pounds
- Comes with some wireless features
- The owner’s manual is one of the best-described options when it comes to subwoofers
- Comes with mounting brackets
- Made in the United States of America
Cons
- Black is the only color that it comes in
- The base is not extremely soft
4. Kenwood KSC-SW11 Compact Powered Enclosed Subwoofer
B07BQSTMCB
Kenwood has always been known for creating great musical products. This next subwoofer is no exception. With the help of an aluminum enclosure, this roughly 8×5-inch sub is powered coated for the ultimate protection. With a speaker maximum output of 150-watts, you will surely get some decent power. Additionally, the speaker barely weighs anything at all, at 6.17 pounds, making it extremely lightweight.
Some other things you will like about this subwoofer is the fact that there is a wired remote to help with settings like low-pass crossover and volume level control as well. The sub even has a built-in amplifier to help with the RMS power of 75-watts.
The last thing you will surely fall in love with is the noise-less sound. This means your subwoofer will put out great bass, but not rattle and roll, making for obnoxious, additional sounds in your vehicle. With a 1-year manufacturer guarantee, if you have any issues with your subs, Kenwood will redeem the issue in as little time as possible. It is a company like this that surely has your back.
Pros
- No need for a battery connection
- Amazing space saver subwoofer
- The bass quality will enhance your musical experience
- Very easy to install and this subwoofer together
- Will add to your door speakers currently constructed
- Will be a perfect fit every time
Cons
- The product may have chemicals that can cause cancer
- Will not get the deep bass sounds from this product
5. Pyle PLBASS8 8-Inch Super Slim Active Subwoofer
B00BMRE0RE
If you are looking for one of the best low-proofer systems on the market, then you have to check out this subwoofer. For under-seat installation, there is no other. The RCA low levels are amazing with this input as well. Check out the LED power indicators to boot. They have an amazing phase shift from 0 to 180 degrees.
As an 8-inch option, this low-profile system is perfect with thermal protection, as well as overload protection circuits. At 10.5 pounds, this subwoofer barely weighs anything at all. Check out the level line inputs as well. With sensitivity from 0.2 to 3 volts, the fuse is an amazing 2 by 15 amps option. The bass boost is stellar too at 45 Hertz. Maximum power of 600-watts will certainly do the trick for you.
You cannot forget the remote bass boost either. With stop and soft start delay, this remote is one of the best around. It is a product like this one that gives off a great low pass filter to keep unwanted sounds at bay, and the good sounds for all to hear.
Pros
- The subwoofer weighs 12.47 pounds
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
- The depth of this subwoofer is 3-inches
- Very easy to put together and install
- Amazing value for the money you pay
- The hooks ups are made of quality materials
Cons
- We will need to adjust the sonic output
- Not the most robust of designs
6. MTX Audio RT8PT Universal Powered Subwoofer Enclosure
B005FXFS8G
Another stellar 8-inch subwoofer comes to us from MTX. With a sound clarity of 50 Hertz, this floor-standing subwoofer has a great 120-watt RMS design. The subwoofer itself is in a carpeted place that has a vented enclosure. For the easiest of connections, this high-level RCA input can work with any system on the market today.
The bass control is something you will love. At the front of the vehicle, you will conveniently be able to control the volume to your liking. The MTX RT8PT is a solution for those that want bass in their vehicle more than ever before. Luckily, you will not have to get 2×12-inch speakers, but just use this option for the best results.
At just under 20 pounds, this subwoofer uses RCA tech with a wireless display to make things easier for the user. Made by Mitek Corporation, this subwoofer has been on the market awhile, giving it a reputation like none other.
Pros
- Comes with wires and everything for a great installation
- The speakers have been known to last more than five years
- The quality of sound is second to none
- Perfect for beginners who are putting subwoofers in for the very first time
- The noise level adds a great boost
- Sweet durability even in the harshest of conditions
Cons
- The product has been discontinued warranties possible challenging
- Subwoofers share similar airspace
7. Kicker 11HS8 8″ 150W Hideaway Car Audio Powered Subwoofer
B007LQWSYC
With an RMS power of 150-watts, this subwoofer for car use is some of the best in the business. With a powdered design, you can expect this subwoofer to get into the closest of spaces. The 8-inch subwoofers have amazing power amplifiers at 14.4 volts.
By giving off low frequencies for the output, there are small enclosures to make the plug-and-play subwoofers workable and great. This hideaway subwoofer has velcro nylon straps that keep the installation tight and simple. The remote for this product is great as well. With quick connections, you will love the power of this model.
What kind of power will you get from these subwoofers? With a variable bass boost of 6 decibels, there is even a phase canceling switch towards your output. There are auto-turn-on qualities as well. At only 13.55 pounds, these subwoofers will certainly not wear you down. As a wireless option, the display features are top of the line.
Pros
- Sensational deep base
- You will not need an amp kit
- Everything comes with your purchase
- Sweet storage capacity
- Ideal for beginners in the world of subwoofers
- Very easy to connect with your stereo system
Cons
- Only comes in the color black
- Can get some unused pre-opened boxes
8. Pioneer TS-WX130DA Compact Active Subwoofer
B078PHCHSW
The Pioneer subwoofer is a perfect 8-inch option. With 160-watts of maximum power, you will love the sound of these speakers. The built-in amp is something to marvel at as well. Since the subwoofer has 50-watt nominal power, you will certainly get what you pay for.
With an aluminum cone and surround urethane sound, you will love this Class D amp. Even the bass control tailors to a digital frequency response sound. It even increases to give you the deepest listening modes that are extra dynamic with the best gain in town.
There is a lot of control you have with this kind of subwoofer. From bass to phase modes, you can use your remote to your advantage. It is the frequency response deep mode of 20 to 200 Hertz that will wow you like never before.
Pros
- The subwoofer only weighs 16 ounces
- Still comes with a warranty since the manufacturer has not discontinued the subwoofer
- Splicing can be done with this subwoofer
- Comes with terminals with high-level inputs
- Amazing storage capacity
- Exquisite sound quality
Cons
- Cannot be operated on one, single-channel
- Bass is not loud enough with a full vehicle of people
9. Cerwin Vega VPAS10 10″ 550W Max / 200W RMS Powered Active Subwoofer
B078PHCHSW
The Cerwin-Vega Store enters the list for the very first time. As a 10-inch subwoofer, you will love this product at hand. With the help of a remote, you will be able to have the most control you have ever had before with your sound system.
Power handling is the first thing that you will notice. With a peak of 550-watts and 200 watts of RMS power, you will have a subwoofer that you can be proud of. The power supply that is full of thermal protection, you can be your circuit remote will handle RCA and different levels of high inputs.
Since you have a soft delay remote, you can turn up the sensitivity. There is a bass boost from 0 to 12 decibels and a low-pass from 85 to 150 Hertz. Check out the subsonic filter as well that ranges from 0 to 180 degrees. Enjoy the fuse rating of 25 amps by 1, truly making this one of the best under seat subwoofers.
Pros
- The LPF filter ranges from 75 to 150 Hertz
- Comes with a bass knob remote
- The subwoofer has a custom-fit design
- This product only weighs 13.02 pounds
- Can be turned on automatically
- Is made with a splendid thickness
Cons
- The subs can overheat
- Can be shipped in sub-par packaging
10. Sound Storm Laboratories LOPRO8 Amplified Car Subwoofer
B0082YUR7M
The last powered subwoofer car option comes to us from Sound Storm Laboratories. The first thing you will notice about this subwoofer is the completely built-in amplifier. This subwoofer also has a great power supply, which means the sub will move with ease. With the best performance around and less and less power used, your gate will need to drain out, giving your the best thermal impedance protection than ever before.
A low pass filter is something else that you should check out. With an electric circuit that takes away unwanted notes and tones, you can change the frequency setting to what you want them to be. The high-level inputs are spectacular as well. No matter what kind of radio you connect to your subwoofer, your sound will only be enhanced.
Low-level inputs should not be overlooked either. These RCA inputs link well to any source unit. This means you can connect your subwoofer to multiple amplifiers to get more and more power to your liking. With a bass boost worth talking about, you can boost the range the way you want it.
The space-saving technology is not something you will scoff at either. With everything in one, the subwoofer can still sit under your car seat. No matter the space you have or do no have in your car, this subwoofer will do the trick.
Pros
- Comes with a three-year warranty
- Can be installed by you or by professionals
- Comes with a warranty card to remind you of your benefits with this subwoofer
- The owner’s manual is very easy to follow
- Is a Class A & B speaker
- Only weighs 11.5 pounds
Cons
- Only has one channel
- Over 75% volume and it is hard to hear the bass boost
Things To Consider When Buying Under Seat Subwoofers
Now that you have the products in mind, it is time to understand a buying guide. With so many options on the market today, it can be difficult to navigate what you need and what is extra. So, look below to give you a full perspective.
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Getting Convenient
If you are looking for something ultra-convenient in your life, then you need a subwoofer that fits under your seat. With most subwoofers need amps, enclosure, etc., this kind of model will not make your head hurt. This is what the process should be about anyways, should it not?
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Cost Efficiency
Instead of buying a full-size bass, why not go the cost-effective route. You will still get the pass you want for your car audio system, but it will be less expensive than a full-size sub.
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The Ease Of An Install
We all want the installation process to be a breeze. That can be the case with an under-seat sub. Since most of these models are plug and play, your bass problem can be resolved quickly and efficiently. With no need for massive amounts of cables, everything can be hooked up to the receiver, and an extra amplifier is no longer needed.
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Save Your Space
Some vehicles that we own are not very big. Even if you own a massive truck, having a space-saving subwoofer is a gamechanger. The more compact does not always mean you will get better sound, but you will certainly not see them impeding in your vehicle.
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Warranty Wants
With most anything we buy in this day and age, people want a warranty, especially when it comes to technology. A subwoofer should be no different. Most warranties range from one year up to five but do know this will probably cost you more in the process. So, if you have a few more dollars to spare, go for a warranty.
There is nothing worse than a subwoofer breaking down on you and there is no help in sight. But, hypothetically, if your sub did break with a warranty in hand, then you can bet the company will have your back and repair or replace it altogether. This is the kind of company you should go with.
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Passive vs. Powered
When you are looking for the right subwoofer for you and your vehicle, you must know the difference between passive and powered systems. For example, powered systems have amplifiers built into the product. With no need for external amplifiers, you will have the space-saving tech you want. This means fewer wires and fewer problems.
On the other hand, passive subwoofers do not have amplifiers with the system. This means an external amp is needed for things to work right. But, this does mean you will have to fork out some more money to get your system to work properly. However, you can also get an amp that adds more power to the bass boost. The choice is yours and yours alone.
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Size-ability
Size does matter when it comes to subwoofers. You need to know if the product will sit under your seat or not. So, do the diligent thing and measure with space under your seat. Then, you will be able to install it appropriately.
The rule of thumb is that under 3-inches usually works to place under a seat. But, if you have more room, go for a bigger option. This was, you will surely get better bass sound.
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Wanting The Power
When you look into the right subwoofers, you have to know about RMS and Peak power. As you check both of these elements, then you will be able to know if you will get the power you want in your vehicle. RMS power or root mean square, tell you how much continuous power you will get from your subwoofers.
On the other hand, peak power is the max power you will get from a subwoofer. For many, the peak power is around 800-watts and the RMS is between 100 and 200 watts of power. Find a balance that works for you and your lifestyle.
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Being Sensitive
Sensitivity is not something you should overlook in the subwoofer buying process either. The more sensitive a subwoofer is, the less energy it will burn in the process. This means that you will have better power efficiency. Also, the components of your subwoofer will last longer as well, so heat will not affect your precious product.
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Impedance Life
Do you want a clean install? Of course, you do. That is why impedance should be on your radar. With limited wires to look at and fewer connections, you want a subwoofer that works and works well without all the excess. When you have the best impedance around, this means you have thin, skinny wires. But, overall, having a 2 Ohms sub is better than even the best impedance model.
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How Frequent Is Your Frequency
When it comes to frequency, you want to have a lower frequency around. Then, you will not have distortion problems. Under your seat is a problem for distortion, though, so be aware to get a cleaner and crisper sound.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Below are the best questions about subwoofers that you need to answer. There may be a plethora of questions out there, but we got you covered here. So, rest easy and read on.
Q1: What are subwoofers all about?
Subwoofers use low-frequency to get lower ranges than most typical stereo systems can muster. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes to produce the best bass around.
Q2: What are the main factors that affect subwoofer performance?
The top factors include frequency response, sensitivity, the cone build, and enclosure type. To get the deepest, lowest notes in town, subs need to be in a box that is sealed.
Q3: What is the difference between a sub and a woofer?
A woofer is another name for a subwoofer. But, if you are looking for specifics, then the sub has woofers inside of a box to create a deep, low sound. The increase in the sound pressure level (SPL) creates the richest of sounds.
Q4: How much power is needed for a sub to work?
Well, when you know the RMS, then you can get an idea of how much power is needed to keep the sub moving and working. So, find an RMS that has a great rating.
Q5: Are aftermarket stereos good for hooking straight to the sub and amp?
There are many plug-and-play models out there that you can work with. They are cost-effective and can work for you in a flash.
Final Verdict
Now that we have come to the end of the review/buyer’s guide, it is time for you to make a great decision. The best under seat subwoofer is at your fingertips, but the choice is ultimately up to you. You can get all the advice in the world, but it all comes down to what you need for your vehicle.
Remember to sift through all the products, the buyer’s guide, and the FAQs, so you have a well-rounded perspective. This way, you will not make a quick decision that could be devastating in the end. But, if you take your time, pace yourself, and do your homework, this process certainly will not be troublesome.
Then, you can enjoy your music to the fullest. Because that is how music should be enjoyed, should it not? Everyone deserves to have the best experience in the realm of music and this can be you with the right subwoofer. Best of luck out there and have a blast using your new subwoofer to its full potential Best of luck!