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Forbes Wheels Staff Contributor
By Forbes Wheels Staff
Forbes Wheels Staff Contributor
Contributor
George Kennedy Contributor
George Kennedy has reviewed cars and provided car advice for outlets such as Consumer Reports, CarGurus, U.S. News & World Report, the Boston Globe, AutoBlog and others. He is the managing editor for UpShift, the official publication of the Larz Anderson Auto Museum in Brookline, Massachusetts. George has owned multiple future-classics before they were collectible, including a 1986 Toyota 4Runner, an XJ Jeep Cherokee and a two-door Chevy Tahoe.
Reviewed By
George Kennedy
George Kennedy Contributor
George Kennedy has reviewed cars and provided car advice for outlets such as Consumer Reports, CarGurus, U.S. News & World Report, the Boston Globe, AutoBlog and others. He is the managing editor for UpShift, the official publication of the Larz Anderson Auto Museum in Brookline, Massachusetts. George has owned multiple future-classics before they were collectible, including a 1986 Toyota 4Runner, an XJ Jeep Cherokee and a two-door Chevy Tahoe.
Contributor
Updated: Jan 5, 2024, 7:03pm
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A good sound system is instantly heard, and felt. Bringing that powerful sound to an automobile isn’t a matter of just installing some loud speakers and calling it a day. The right combination of a head unit, amplifier and speakers make all the difference between “loud” and “quality.” The subwoofer is the piece that brings much of that sound together harmoniously.
A quality subwoofer will deliver impressive low-pitched audio frequencies that contribute to wholesome sound. But knowing the right subwoofer (or subwoofers) to fit your needs is important. They vary based on budget, quality, type, fitment and more. Some setups come with an amplifier built into them. Others are a single component that will require more in-depth installation. A local automotive audio/video shop will know exactly how to set up your audio system to your needs, but you can also take the DIY approach. If you go it alone, make sure to do your research on your system’s power needs and what’s required for a safe, effective installation.
We’ve compiled some of the best subwoofers on the market today. Read on to find the one that best suits your needs.
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- Best Car Subwoofers
- MTX Audio Terminator Series TNE212D
- Skar Audio IX-8 D2
- Pioneer TS-WX1210AM
- Rockville RG212CA
- Kicker Dual 12-inch Solo-Baric L7R
- Methodology
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.
1
Rockville RW10CA
Speaker Type
Subwoofer
Speakers Maximum Output Power
800 Watts
Product Dimensions
12.4 x 13.4 x 2.7 inches
2
Pyle 6.5 Inch Mid Bass Woofer
Speaker Type
Woofer
Speakers Maximum Output Power
300 Watts
Product Dimensions
8.07 x 14.37 x 14.37 inches
3
Rockville SS8P
Speaker Type
Subwoofer
Speakers Maximum Output Power
400 Watts
Product Dimensions
14.1 x 8.3 x 2.8 inches
Best Car Subwoofers
- MTX Audio Terminator Series TNE212D : Best Subwoofer Overall
- Skar Audio IX-8 D2 : Best Affordable Subwoofer
- Pioneer TS-WX1210AM : Best Subwoofer for Smaller Vehicles
- Rockville RG212CA : Best Subwoofer for Trucks
- Kicker Dual 12-inch Solo-Baric L7R : Best Premium Subwoofer
Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
Featured Products
Advertisement
THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.
1
Rockville RW10CA
Speaker Type
Subwoofer
Speakers Maximum Output Power
800 Watts
Product Dimensions
12.4 x 13.4 x 2.7 inches
2
Pyle 6.5 Inch Mid Bass Woofer
Speaker Type
Woofer
Speakers Maximum Output Power
300 Watts
Product Dimensions
8.07 x 14.37 x 14.37 inches
3
Rockville SS8P
Speaker Type
Subwoofer
Speakers Maximum Output Power
400 Watts
Product Dimensions
14.1 x 8.3 x 2.8 inches
Methodology
Car subwoofers are the bass-thumping heart of any automotive stereo. Clear, punchy low frequency sound is only possible with a high-quality enclosure that doesn’t rattle, electrical connections that don’t overheat, and drivers that can consistently handle high volumes for long periods of time. Certain car subwoofers may need an external amplifier. We review those separately. Also, not every subwoofer will fit every car–and if you’re uncomfortable with wiring and taking apart your car’s interior, we suggest leaving the installation to an audio professional.
We evaluate all car subwoofers based on these weighted metrics:
- Sound quality and wattage (40%)
- Size and weight (25%)
- Ease of installation (10%)
- Brand reputation (20%)
- Warranty (5%)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I install subwoofers in my car?
This often depends on the equipment provided. Some systems come with wiring and instructions. Other systems come without, and this is often because of the level of customization in audio system installation. You’ll need to do the math on the system’s power needs. It’s not particularly easy, which is why there are so many automotive A/V shops out there. Sometimes it’s best to consult the professionals.
How many watts do I need for my car subwoofer?
The base factory radio might have somewhere between 50 and 200 watts. Upgraded optional audio systems will have more. And aftermarket system will have around 200 to 300 watts. Amplified systems require about 50 watts per channel, which could translate into 250 to 500 watts or more. This will require some math and figuring out how many speakers and their respective power needs by referring to the product spec sheet and/or instructions.
Do you have to break in new subwoofers?
Not always, but it’s a good rule of thumb to do so. Some manufacturers will recommend a break-in period of up to or around 10 hours. Even if the system doesn’t call for it, it couldn’t hurt.
Do subwoofers destroy your car?
Subwoofers create repeated vibrations. Such resonant frequencies can loosen components. Have you ever seen a rearview mirror vibrate to heavy bass? Or a trunk rattle as a car with a system passes you by? There’s bound to be wear and tear, and the build quality of your vehicle will play a role.
Can you install a subwoofer without an amp?
You can hook up a subwoofer without an amplifier, but it’s generally a moot point. Because the purpose of the subwoofer is to increase bass frequencies, customers will often prefer to pair the subwoofer with an amplifier.
Chauncey Crail contributed to this story.
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Forbes Wheels StaffContributor
George KennedyContributor
George Kennedy has reviewed cars and provided car advice for outlets such as Consumer Reports, CarGurus, U.S. News & World Report, the Boston Globe, AutoBlog and others. He is the managing editor for UpShift, the official publication of the Larz Anderson Auto Museum in Brookline, Massachusetts. George has owned multiple future-classics before they were collectible, including a 1986 Toyota 4Runner, an XJ Jeep Cherokee and a two-door Chevy Tahoe.
