Many of you would have thought of adding an extra bass to your car audio. However, leg space issues have been holding you back. If you can relate to this situation, then our list of underseat subwoofer will surely help you to choose a good product in this segment.
Frankly speaking we analyzed and found there are exactly 4 factors one should concentrate on, when selecting the right underseat sub for car. Period. These 4 factors are the most important of all. Have a look into these 4 factors below –
- RMS Power.
- Compact Design.
- Good protection against – Overload, Thermal injury & short circuit.
- Easy Installation.
We hand picked exactly 3 products keeping in mind the above factors, for your immediate reference as the best in the market. If you want to know in details then read the complete review in next section.
Best shallow mount subwoofer for car Best competition subwoofer for car
In our detailed list below we present to you some of the best underseat subwoofers with complete know how. If you are looking for installation guide, then here is a step by step guide to install. These subwoofers have been chosen for their sleek design to fit under your car seat, saving space. All these products are chosen based on the above 4 deciding factors for optimum sound performance and long durability. So, read on to find the best in the business.
Check our picks for Top Underseat Subwoofer :
Alpine Electronics PWE-S8 Restyle Compact Powered 8-Inch Underseat Subwoofer :
Alpine Electronics PWE-S8 is an 8-inch subwoofer and 120 Watts amplifier housed together in a cast aluminum enclosure. With 120 Watts power and quad coil support, it produces deep and reverberating bass. Despite the genre of music you are listening to, it outperforms them all. Its RMS power is 120 Watts, whereas the maximum power handling is 240 Watts.
Besides that, its audio frequency response is 32Hz to 150Hz. This under-seat subwoofer is sized no more than 13.5″ L x 9″ W x 3″ D and thus a fit even in small and cramped spaces. It has a heavy-duty die-cast aluminium enclosure with a sand texture finish. For added protection, there is a metal mesh cover on the top. The device is small and can fix under cat sit without taking up much space.
Rockville RW10CA Underseat Subwoofer :
The Rockville RW10CA is a compact under-car subwoofer, undoubtedly one of the best in the range. This 10-inch subwoofer features an RMS of 200 watts whereas max power of a whopping 800 Watts. Even though its sound quality can’t compete with high-end subwoofers, it can generate a ton of deeper and louder bass. It generates an audio frequency response of 20Hz to 150Hz, and its impendence is 2ohm.
Besides that, its low pass filter is as low as 50Hz to 150Hz, whereas the bass boost is low at 0 to 18dB @ 45 Hz. The Rockville device also features a low-level RCA input and high-level inputs with auto turn on/off. Lastly, it comes with thermal protection circuitry that aids in added protection for lasting longer.
Rockford Fosgate P300-10 Punch Single 10-inch Amplified Subwoofer :
Rockford Fosgate offers a 10-inch subwoofer powered by a 10-inch woofer cone and an integrated Class D amplifier. The subwoofer has separate low level (1 RCA pair), speaker level (L/R summed) inputs, and large AWG input terminals. It is made up of heavy-duty 5/8 inch MDF and is meant to last longer than expected.
All of its components are sealed inside a robust cabinet that ensures low-end slam. At the same time, its wedge-like design (shape) allows it to fit smoothly into the vehicle. Its closed-loop and tightly packed design ensure optimal sound effects by making the woofer, the cabinet, and the amplifier work compatibly.
Additionally, an adjustable 12db/Octave low pass crossover adds to its sound output, built-in adjustable bass EQ, and powerful wattage. The subwoofer is available in two sizes, 10 inches, and 12 inches, to fit everyone’s demand.
Kicker 11HS8 Underseat Subwoofer :
Kicker isn’t a very well-known brand, but its 11HS8 Underseat Subwoofer won’t disappoint. Offering big power inside a small package, this 8-inch enclosure produces an output of 150 Watts. What makes it stand apart amongst other big names is its surprisingly low frequency and that too from such a small device.
The built-in amplifier aids in the excellence of performance and a powerful punch. The subwoofer features high and low-level inputs, wired remote control, bass boost control, and auto turn on/off. Adding onto it, its frequency response is 25Hz to 120Hz, variable phase control is 0 to 180ᵒ, and variable low-pass crossover is 50 to 120Hz.
Besides that, the fact that it is extremely compact and easy to plug in, a huge user base has already kept it in the favourites list. The device is apt for small cars or extremely concerned individuals about space.
Pioneer TS-WX130DA Compact Active Subwoofer :
The Pioneer TS-WX130DA is another compact subwoofer in the range. This 160-Watt powerful active device is equipped with a built-in Class D amplifier. Its minimum to maximum power output ranges between 50 watts to 160 watts. It has two selectable bass modes, Dynamic and Deep, with both offering frequencies between 40Hz to 160Hz and 20Hz to 200Hz, respectively.
The best part is that users can adjust these modes and customize the bass output depending upon the musical genre. Not only that, but it even has an acoustic suspension enclosure for an added bass.
The Pioneer TS-WX130DA is well sized to fit under the driver or passenger seat. It can even go well with small cars without bothering much space. And if not, users can also install it in any small storage inside the vehicle.
Rockford Fosgate PS-8 8″ 150W RMS Underseat Powered Car Stereo Audio Subwoofer :
The Rockford Fosgate PS-8 8″ is another excellence that is custom-made to squeeze into the smallest of spaces. This convenient all-inclusive system comes in a custom sealed enclosure and is powered by a 150W D class amplifier. It generates RMS of 150 watts where Max power output of 300 watts. It even comes with Quick Disconnect power and signal connection and has a 0ᵒ to 180ᵒ phase switch.
The device is built with advanced acoustic technology. It maintains high-level power and bass output by minimizing stress on the car’s electrical system and battery. Its exterior frame is a hardy industrial-grade vinyl material that aids in protecting internal objects from physical damage. Not only that, but its protective circuitry provides protection from thermal, short circuit, and reverse polarity as well.
Pioneer TS-WH500A HVT Sealed 8.25″ 150W Active Subwoofer for Car Underseat Installation :
The Pioneer TS-WH500A HVT sealed and powered active subwoofer is something unique. As its name suggests, it is equipped with Horizontal Vertical Transforming technology. It works towards converting the horizontal movement of a woofer diaphragm into vertical movement. This results in generating full range and deeper bass.
Adding to that, the voice calls along with the diaphragm nullify the impact of vibrations and distortions, taking the music listening experience to the next level. To improve its audio experience more is a pair of 7-inch x 4-inch polypropylene woofers and protective rubber surrounds.
This Pioneer subwoofer can handle the max power output of 150 watts. Its frequency response is 20Hz to 200Hz, sensitivity is 98dB, and Impendence is 4 ohms. All of these combines for an excellent configuration that results in resounding audio delivery.
JBL Bass Pro SL Underseat Subwoofer :
The JBL Bass Pro SL Underseat Subwoofer is one of the affordable and preferably the best under-seat subwoofers for car audio. This 8-inch device is enclosed in a heavy-duty plastic cabinet with ABS construction. It is equipped with a Class D amplifier and produces a peak power output of 250W and RMS 125W. Its frequency response is 5 to 120 Hz, the Selectable phase switch is 0ᵒ to 180ᵒ, and the highest current draw is 12 ampere.
JBL has equipped this subwoofer with audio sense technology that aids in auto-on. For external protection, the device undoubtedly is robust. However, internal protection features a unique 3- way protection circuitry. This feature ensures thermal, overload, and short speaker protection. Despite its small size, JBL Bass Pro SL produces excellent quality bass.
Rockford Fosgate P300-12 Punch Underseat Subwoofer :
The Rockford Fosgate P300-12 is a Punch 12-inch subwoofer in a custom sealed enclosure. This dynamic device is powered by a 300 Watts RMS Class D amplifier that produces top power of 600 Watts. It undoubtedly is one of the most powerful under-seat subwoofers in the range. Its frequency response is 35Hz to 150Hz, and variable low-pass crossover is 50 to 200Hz and 12 dB/octave.
Besides the excellent external strength, it comes with thermal and high-voltage protection. Besides that, it is designed to deliver high output at low current consumption. Rockford Fosgate P300-12 is known for its tight and accurate bass. And for adding to that, it features an adjustable bass boost EQ and the bass level can be controlled remotely. Other noticeable features include auto on/off sensor mode, different levels, and CEA-2031 certifications.
Blaupunkt GTHS8 300 watt 8-inch Amplified Underseat Subwoofer :
The Blaupunkt GTHS8 300-watt 8-inch is a powerful yet affordable Underseat subwoofer in the range. Its 300 Watts Class D amplified subwoofer drivers the 8-inch speaker. Its continuous power output is 100 watts, whereas the maximum power output is 300 watts.
Blaupunkt GTHS8 300 is noted as one of the best subwoofers for deep and powerful bass tones. What adds to its power is its 8-inch slim woofer cone that can deliver an audio frequency response of 20Hz to 250Hz. The device has a total harmonic distortion of <1% and a signal-to-noise ratio of >88dB.
Blaupunkt GTHS8 300 is built with the highest technical quality and has an adjustable input sensitivity selector and a 40Hz to 250Hz variable low-pass filter. Lastly, it has Thermal, Short, and Overload Protection to ensure all-around safety.
Sound Storm Laboratories LOPRO10 Amplified Car Subwoofer :
The Sound Storm Laboratories LOPRO10 is the most powerful compact car subwoofer one can invest in. This 10-inch audio device handles an RMS power output of 600 watts and a max power output of 1200 watts making the music listening experience to a whole new dynamic level. Since it comes with a single voice coil, it becomes suitable for low to medium-power applications.
It has an audio frequency response of 20Hz to 150Hz, its low and high input sensitivities are 0.6V and 190mV, respectively, whereas the signal-to-noise ratio is >90dB.
The subwoofer has Thermal, Short, Overload, and Fuse Protection for long-lasting usage and zero disappointments. There’s even an LED status indicator that denotes whether the protection is on or not. The best part about this Sound Storm under-car subwoofer is its one-year promise and two years extended warranty.
Pioneer TS-SWX2502 10 inch Shallow-Mount Underseat Subwoofer :
Another subwoofer from Pioneers, this TS-SWX2502 10 inch is surely a promising under-seat subwoofer. It comes preloaded without changing the external dimension, an oversized cone structure that provides a greater cone and gasket surface. This design and make moves more air and allows the subwoofer to produce louder, deeper bass. The clear highlight of this device is its loud and clear sound, along with the booming bass.
The oversized cone in itself is extremely robust since it is made up of reinforced MICA injection-molded resin. Besides that, this Pioneer subwoofer uses advanced acoustic technology to add loud and resonating bass. Its RMS power output is 300 watts, whereas the Max power output is 1200 watts. Its Impendence is single 4 ohms; audio frequency response is 20Hz to 200Hz, and sensitivity is 1W/1meter @ 89dB.
KICKER 46HS10 Compact Powered 10-inch Subwoofer
The KICKER 46HS10 is another impressive compact car subwoofer. It comes in two styles, subwoofer only and Subwoofer with Amplifier Kit Bundle. This mini subwoofer option provides plenty of clean basses that hits really hard. However, if you want to rattle the car, it may disappoint a little.
The device doesn’t hit hard like a traditional sub and amp; however, it is definitely great for car usage. The KICKER 46HS10 is driven by a 180 Watt amplifier. It generates RMS power of 180 watts whereas max power of 360 watts. Its audio frequency response is 25 to 120 Hz, and low and high input sensitivity levels are 250mV-10V and 1V-40V, respectively.
Rockville SS8P 400 Watt Slim Under-Seat Powered Car/Truck Subwoofer
The Rockville SS8P is a powerful under-seat subwoofer for cars and trucks. The device is sealed inside a cast aluminium enclosure that ensures keeping the component cool every time. And since its enclosure is only 2.8 inches thick, it can easily fit under the driver’s seat without occupying much space.
This Rockville SS8P subwoofer has an RMS of 100 watts and a Peak power output of 400 watts. Its audio frequency response is 20Hz – 150Hz, sensitivity is 90dB @ 1w / 1m, whereas signal to noise ratio is >90dB. For customized user experience, the device has a level control for the volume and subsonic filter. Depending upon one’s preference, it is quite easy to adjust the sound.
The subwoofer comes with components like Wire Ties, Ring terminal, Butt Connectors, Spades, and Grommets.
Rockville SS8P 400w 8″ Slim Under-Seat Active Powered Car/Truck Subwoofer Sub
The Rockville SS8P 400w 8 compact car subwoofer is another all-in-one solution to give you great-sounding bass. This device will seamlessly fit under the driver’s passenger’s seat without occupying much space. It comes with a built-in amplifier driven by RCA jacks. This configuration also makes installation and wiring clean and simple.
The subwoofer generates RMS power of 100 watts whereas peak power of 400 watts. Its frequency response is 20Hz – 150Hz, sensitivity is 90dB @ 1w / 1m, and Signal to Noise Ratio is >90dB. All the inputs are enclosed inside a cast aluminium enclosure that keeps everything cool and safe. With this subwoofer in usage, users do not need to worry about thermal overpowering or other power-related damages.
Overall the above list contains a very comprehensive, economical yet good choice for an everyday use underseat subwoofer.
Check Some Important FAQ Of Powered Underseat Sub For Your Vehicle :
What is an underseat subwoofer ?
An underseat subwoofer is a powered subwoofer for cars. It is a compact box-like woofer with built-in amplification. It is an all-in-one device that directly plugs into a car stereo system. It powers itself and does not require a separate amplifier.
If you are planning on upgrading the bass signature of your car music system, but don’t want to get your hands dirty and are just looking for an easy remedy, you should go for an underseat powered subwoofer. It is a one-stop-shop for all your bass needs. An underseat sub obviates the need to buy a sub and an amp separately, and then figure out a way to wire and mount them. It offers a complete solution as it contains both the subwoofer and the amplifier in a single consolidated unit. All you have to do it connect it to your receiver and an electrical source and you are good to go.
How big is an underseat subwoofer ?
An underseat subwoofer is a flat device with a shallow-profile cabinet. It has a space-saving design which allows it to slide into narrow spaces. A typical underseat sub is no more than 4 or 5 inches tall. It resembles a pizza box, but is thicker and more rectangular than square. The length and breadth are between 10 to 20 inches. The weight ranges from 3 to 12 kg.
An underseat sub works best with what kind of vehicles ?
An underseat subwoofer is a space-efficient gadget. It is suitable for vehicles with limited interior space like hatchbacks, small sedans and pickup trucks.
Where does one mount an underseat sub ?
The best place to install an underseat subwoofer is under the driver’s seat or the passenger seat. If those places are taken, try the rear area if you have a small car or the trunk if you own a sedan. If you have a truck, try mounting it behind the rear bench. The idea is to keep the sub out of sight so it doesn’t get in the way of things, but is still capable of filling the car with booming bass.
How big is the sound ?
An underseat sub produces a notable amount of bass. It boosts low frequencies and enhances the overall sound of the stereo system. However, it is not amongst the loudest automobile subwoofers. You won’t really be turning heads at a red light or rousing your neighbors as you enter your driveway. It doesn’t have a ton of power, but enough to fill up the gaps in the music. For a compact sub, we think it scores really well. It gives you just the right amount of bass without overwhelming the rest of the notes, which is very important.
What should be the frequency response of an underseat subwoofer ?
For a subwoofer to be able to reproduce all the low end frequencies, the ideal frequency response is 20 Hz to 200 Hz. It covers most of the audible bass frequencies and allows for a more complete reproduction of the original soundtrack.
How does the power and sensitivity of the sub impact the sound ?
The power output of a subwoofer is represented in 2 ways: peak and RMS power. Peak power is the highest power a sub can put out at a given point. RMS power, also known as continuous power, is the average power a sub is capable of delivering over a period of time. Peak power is obviously higher than RMS power. When choosing an underseat subwoofer, pay attention to the RMS power as it is a more realistic representation of the power handling capacity of a subwoofer. For best results, make sure the power rating of the sub is equal to or more than the power the stereo head-unit can supply.
A sub’s sensitivity is an indication of the amount of output it can produce. A sub with high sensitivity requires less power to put out the same amount of output as a sub with low sensitivity.
Construction of an underseat powered subwoofer :
Most underseat subs have extruded aluminum or ABS plastic enclosures. They have metal grilles to protect against knocks and impact. The circuitry has Overload Protection, Thermal Protection and Short Circuit Protection for trouble-free service. The cones are made of polypropylene or aluminum, and the surrounds are made of rubber. Some subs have single voice coils and some double. For a car subwoofer, a dual-voice-coil sub is better as it is easier to wire. An underseat subwoofer comes with an integrated amplifier to power the woofer driver. A wiring harness and mounting equipment are provided for setting up the system. For connectivity the sub has low-level and high-level inputs. A wired or wireless remote may be added for ease of use while driving. Other functions include low-pass filter, high-pass filter, adjustable input sensitivity and variable bass boost.
Top brands :
Kenwood, Rockford Fosgate, Rockville, Alpine Electronics, JBL, Kicker and JL Audio are some of the top brands selling underseat powered subwoofers.
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Good review, thank you.
Thanks Ashley for the feedback.
I appreciate mentioning the other cheap subwoofers but if you are serious about bass. Stick to the JL Audio products.
They are expensive no doubt but that is the car audio game. Good selection in this article!