If you’re all about the bass, and like to listen to music in your car, then there’s nothing better than an under-seat subwoofer. This review highlights the best under-seat subwoofers and compares the differences between them.
I’ll explain my take on the pros and cons of each subwoofer, and describe which one I think suits which type of user best.
I’ll also give some details and information on how to choose an under-seat subwoofer. With so many models out there to choose from, it can be hard to know which one is the best choice for you. At the end of this post, I’ll share some knowledge that will make it easier for you to choose.
Keep reading for my full review of the best under-seat subwoofers!
If you need an amp to power your sub, check out this post on the best car amps for bass!
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Contents
- Skar Audio Triple
- American Bass USA XFL 1244
- Kicker L7S84 L7S
- Alpine S-W10D2 S-Series
- Rockford Fosgate P300-10
- JBL GT-BassPro12
- Kenwood P-W804B
- Rockville Punisher 10D1
What is an under-seat subwoofer?
An under-seat subwoofer is a kind of speaker used in cars and other vehicles. Subwoofers are large speakers primarily concerned with the production of bass and sub frequencies. These are the masters of low end, and if you want a massive, wobbling, bassy sound system, then you need a sub in your car.
An under-seat subwoofer is a kind of sub designed to be installed under the seat of a car. There are a few different types of subwoofers and even a couple of variations within the vehicle field. under-seat subwoofers are known to create full, powerful bass around the entire interior of a vehicle.
8 Best Under Seat Subwoofer – Review
1. Skar Audio Triple
First up we have the Skar Audio Triple in an 8” variety. This is a pre-housed speaker array, packing 3 Skar subwoofer cones into a single fitted enclosure.
This skar package is rated with a 100-watt power requirement, making it suitable for a large range of car amplifiers. It comes with a full wiring and installation kit so you can get it rigged up in a matter of minutes. This package even includes an amplifier, so you don’t even need to buy an additional one to power it
The design of this beast is geared for optimal bass response and goes as low as 46 hertz. This array is much louder than a single speaker and is powerful enough to fill a large car or van.
Product Specification
- Size – 3 x 8”
- Peak Power – 100 watts
- Frequency Range – 46-400Hz
- Style – loaded enclosure
Pros and Cons
- Comes pre-mounted in a fitted enclosure
- 3 speakers for maximum bass
- Quality Skar Speakers
- Pre housed, might not suit everyone
Conclusion
This Skar bundle is a great deal if you need a simple solution for your sub-bass needs. It really is a complete package and includes all the important accessories you might forget to order. The fact it comes pre-housed will make or break the deal depending on what you are looking for. This might be too large to fit under some seats, but this packs a punch if you need it.
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2. American Bass USA XFL 1244
This diecast, kevlar coned speaker is one of the best sub speakers around. This sub offers top-notch quality. The sound is superb, the bass response is incredibly crisp and powerful, and noticeably clean. This speaker can get cranked really loud before distorting, so if you need something to blow your eardrums, this speaker can do that.
This speaker features a superior design and uses a triple magnet stack driver to maximize bass performance. Easily one of the cleanest sub speakers on the market, the American Bass USA XFL is a high-end sub cone that will fill your car with serious bass.
This 12” speaker has a relatively high power requirement, at 400 watts, so you’re going to need a speaker as monstrous as this amp to get the full effect. A defining feature of this sub is the upper end of the frequency response is pretty high, maxing out at around 500hz. This gives the sub more mid-range, helping it to blend better with higher frequencies, tying all the speakers together.
Product Specification
- Size – 12”
- Peak Power – 400 watts
- Frequency Range – 38-500Hz
- Style – Single Speaker
Pros and Cons
- Superior sound quality
- Massive bass tones
- High power requirement
- Expensive
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a superior sub speaker with crystalline, engulfing bass and a huge dynamic range, the American Bass XFL is a top recommendation. This speaker is a little more expensive than the others on this list, making it a serious investment. Although if you have the cash to spare, this sub will make a noticeable upgrade over most sub speakers.
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3. Kicker L7S84 L7S
This low noise, low distortion speaker is a mid-budget cone that packs a punch. With a 450-watt power requirement, this needs a larger amp than most, but it also makes much deeper bass than other speakers. With a bottom end reaching as low as 28hz, this sub is one of the lowest on this list. This is a true rumbler.
The overall sound quality is very decent, creating a tight, defined bass without any unwanted blurring or muddiness. Thanks to the ceramic magnets, this speaker handles a lot of power without breaking up, so you can crank this thing super loud before it distorts.
This is a square speaker, so it has a different look to others, although this doesn’t affect the sound and is more of an aesthetic touch. The Kicker uses specially designed back bracing, using advanced cone shapes for more responsive and reliable woofing.
Product Specification
- Size – 8”
- Peak Power – 450 watts
- Frequency Range – 28-100Hz
- Style – Single Speaker
Pros and Cons
- Super low sub frequencies
- Easy to install
- Durable and clean
- High power requirement
Conclusion
This kicker sub is a great addition to any in-car sound system. This is relatively high in the price range, so you can expect a good level of quality and durability. For the size of this speaker, the depth of bass is quite shocking, as this extends very low, and packs a huge amount of power. One of the most noticeable characteristics of this under-seat sub is how clean it sounds, even at high volumes.
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4. Alpine S-W10D2 S-Series
Next we have the sleek, slim Alpine S series. This speaker features a stripped-back profile, cutting down over an inch on older models. This is the slimmest speaker on the list, with a shallow body that would fit under most car seats.
This is a well-voiced speaker, going as low as 26 Hz and as high as 200. The frequency range on this sub is impressive, and despite being relatively low cost, it has a very competitive response.
This uses a reinforced kevlar cone for increased clarity and durability. This thing can handle up to 1800w max power, which is very loud.
The sound of this speaker is more punchy than boomy, probably thanks to the size. Although the overall sound is very satisfying. There was a little rattle at max volume, but this is all around a clean-sounding speaker. It has more of a modern sound than some others on this list.
Product Specification
- Size – 10”
- Peak Power – 600watts
- Frequency Range – 26-200Hz
- Style – Single Speaker
Pros and Cons
- Ultra shallow profile
- Super low sub-bass
- Punchy tone
- Lacks some warmth and boom
Conclusion
This Alpine speaker is another fantastic under-seat subwoofer. The main attraction of this piece is its slim profile and lower price. This speaker takes up hardly any room, making it much easier to install in limited space situations. Despite the small size this speaker still provides a decent amount of bass, with a satisfying low end that rumbles the entire car. It even costs a little less than other speakers on this list, so it’s highly recommended for those on a budget.
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5. Rockford Fosgate P300-10
The Rockford P300 is a beefy subwoofer packaged in a durable enclosure. This unit is prewired and fitted, all you need to get up and running is the power, ground, and audio signal. Packing a considerable punch, it uses a 10” Rockford speaker cone which provides a full, pumping bass.
The exterior housing shell itself is very tough and will withstand any bumps and jolts of driving. It might be a little too large to fit under some car seats, as the box is fairly bulky, although it will fit in most trunks. With broad projection, it sounds just as good in the back or front of the car and delivers a roaring sub.
The sub frequencies are relatively low, bottoming out at around 35 Hz. It isn’t as subby as other speakers here but it still has a good subtone and brings a new layer of depth when paired with regular speakers.
It also features a remote bass level control, and a boostable bass equalizer so you can tune the sound a little. It comes with all the wires you need to connect it to your amp.
Product Specification
- Size – 10”
- Peak Power – 300 watts
- Frequency Range – 35-150Hz
- Style – Sealed Enclosure
Pros and Cons
- Highly durable enclosure
- Pre-wired
- EQ and bass level controls
- Bulky housing
- Limited sub frequencies
Conclusion
The Rockford Fosgate P300 is an all in one solution for those in need of an under-seat subwoofer in their car. This is a good choice if you need something simple to get started with subs in your car sound system. If you don’t have room under your seat then you might be better off looking at the single speaker subs.
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6. JBL GT-BassPro12
JBL is one of the big names in the audio industry and is known for making excellent speakers at affordable prices. This is one of their relatively high-end models and uses a 12” speaker cone housed in a sealed enclosure.
This sub provides a good level of customization and features a bass boost and low pass controls. The sub has a built-in 150-watt amplifier, so you can boost the level even louder than others. This is probably the loudest speaker on the list and goes as low as 35 Hz, which is relatively bassy although not fully subbed. It features an automatic power function, which turns the sub on when it detects an audio signal.
It uses an aluminum basket which ensures the speakers are protected from the environment. The slipstream port minimizes distortion and helps with even propagation. The oversized speaker bars help to keep the cones safe too.
Product Specification
- Size – 12”
- Peak Power – 450 watts
- Frequency Range – 35-120Hz
- Style – Enclosed Speaker
Pros and Cons
- Built-in amp
- Customisation controls
- Pre-wired
- Sturdy enclosure
Conclusion
This sub is a solid pick for anyone who needs a quick, loud subwoofer that takes minimal set up. You can get this ready in no time thanks to the way it’s designed. Including a bunch of useful extra features such as the EQ and automatic function, this is a modern amp with a powerful sound. The only real issue is the size and potentially lack of super-low frequencies.
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7. Kenwood P-W804B
From industry giants Kenwood, the P-W804B is an open sub in a ported enclosure. It features an 8” cone that provides a mighty amount of thud and punch. Not only does the enclosure keep the cone safe, but it also increases the acoustics, and helps to create a robust bass response. The internal circuitry is very well made and keeps the unwanted noise low and the signal clean.
The new cone designs use ribbing patterns to add strength and maximize volume before distortion. The enclosure is much larger than the cone itself, so the overall unit may be too large for some vehicles. But if you have the space, this can fill it!
My only criticism is that it doesn’t go as low as other speakers. The bass is good, but the subs don’t extend as far as I would like to see.
Product Specification
- Size – 8”
- Peak Power – watts
- Frequency Range – 41-300 Hz
- Style – Ported Enclosure
Pros and Cons
- Reliable Kenwood sound
- Durable enclosure
- Easy setup
- Bulky
- Moderate subs
Conclusion
The Kenwood P-W804B is another fantastic enclosed subwoofer. It comes at a very reasonable price and provides an attractive amount of bass and dynamic range. It is a bit large, so check the dimensions and measure your car if you plan on using it under your seat. Although it should fit in any trunk.
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8. Rockville Punisher 10D1
Punisher by name, punisher by nature… Rockville Punisher is a series of high-quality, high-volume subwoofer speakers. This link is for the speakers themselves, so you’ll need to work out how you are going to house them.
The speaker uses a thick cone which helps with bass tightness and longevity of the material itself. The cone is reinforced with black plastic, which is designed to be as clean and punchy as possible. You can find a wide range of sizes and power ratings in this range, so you can be assured that you will find the one that fits your setup.
It’s a fair bit chunkier in-depth than the Alpine speaker above, so you will need slightly more room in the installation position. All the materials and design features of this amp are well thought out – it’s well-engineered and you can tell there has been a lot of attention to detail.
These speakers also have a little more low-mids too, extending the upper frequencies to around 500hz. This helps with blending and gives the speakers a slightly fuller sound.
Product Specification
- Size – 10” (also available in 12” and 15”)
- Peak Power – 500 watts (and others)
- Frequency Range – 30-500Hz
- Style – Single Speaker
Pros and Cons
- High dynamic range
- Durable
- Deep bass with mids
Conclusion
The Rockville Punisher range is a great choice for those in need of an affordable but great sounding set of sub speakers. They have a solid bass response with extra resonance in the mid-range. The quality is high all around, although you will have to install them yourself.
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Important factors when choosing an under seat subwoofer
Here is a list of things to consider when choosing a new under-seat subwoofer for your car. Run through this checklist before you buy, to help you find the best fit.
Speaker size
When choosing a new sub, you should think about the size of the speaker that is a good choice. There are a couple of things to think about here – how much room there is under your seat, and how loud you want the bass to be.
Larger speakers are capable of producing a louder sound, with more low frequencies. Speakers size 8” and above are a good place to start. I’d recommend anywhere between 8-16” for standard 5-door cars. For larger vehicles, or if you just want more bass, go for something 16” and larger.
Obviously, you want to choose a size that will fit your car. You should measure the space beneath your seat before ordering a speaker to ensure it’s the right size.
Frequency range
This specification details the speaker’s depth of frequencies. Speakers with a larger frequency range tend to sound better and have more high and low end. When choosing a subwoofer, there can be a fairly large amount of variation between the frequency ranges provided.
Subwoofers tend to operate anywhere between 10hz and 120Hz. The lower the frequency, the lower subs can be achieved. The human hearing range extends between 20Hz and 20Khz. Audible bass frequencies are between 20hz and 120hz. Below 20hz is more ‘felt’ than heard, these subsonic frequencies are called ‘subs’ because they are below the normal hearing range.
Style
There are a few different types of under-seat subwoofers. Some use a single cone, others have multiple speakers in an array. This is really a personal choice and might be easier to choose if you already have some speakers in your car. You can just choose a style that fits with what you already have. You might also think about how you’re going to wire it all up.
Power Requirements
Different subwoofers require a specific wattage input to power them. You’ll be able to find the exact requirements for the sub on the product pages. You need to make sure you choose an under-seat subwoofer that is compatible with the power rating of your amplifier. All amps have a maximum output wattage, if the speakers require more energy, they may be too quiet, or have no sound at all. If the amp is too powerful there is a slight risk you could blow the speakers.
Make sure you check the power rating of your amp before buying a speaker. You should be able to find more information about the powering of your amp either on the device itself or by searching for the product page online.
FAQ
Are under-seat subwoofers any good?
under-seat subs are generally one of the better types. They can help to increase the quality and depth of bass frequencies. They often extend the frequency range of a car’s sound system very noticeably.
What size is the best subwoofer for deep bass?
When you are looking to make a sub-bass heavy sound system, size counts. Bigger speaker cones are always better at producing low frequencies than smaller ones.
Larger speakers are big enough to oscillate cleanly at super low frequencies – like subs.
Smaller woofers like 8” still produce a great bass sound. Small cones have a tighter, more focussed sound which some listeners may prefer. They are also a more suitable sound level for public places, and not excessively loud.
16” subwoofers will create large, powerful bass tones that can be heard (and felt) from a long distance. In short – when it comes to speakers for bass, bigger is always better.
Where should the under-seat subwoofer be placed?
Generally, you want to place the subwoofer somewhere where the sound can transmit effectively. Not stuffed in anywhere too tight where the vibrations might get absorbed. Most people choose to put the subwoofer under the rear seats, with the speaker facing the back of the car. This way the bass reflects off the back and propagates well across the entire vehicle.
You can alternatively have the speaker facing forward, which can create more intensity for the seats closest to the sub.
This also helps with phase and minimizes phase cancellation which can negatively affect the subs sound quality.
How thick should under-seat subwoofers be?
As a rule of thumb, sub speakers with a thickness less than 3 inches are suitable for most cars.
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Wrapping Up
Thanks for reading! You now have a good idea of the best under-seat subwoofers available on the market today.
Noah is an accomplished audio engineer with several years of experience producing music for major companies and independent artists. He enjoys sharing his vast knowledge of audio engineering topics to help musicians and music producers create great music.