Most vehicles come with ready-to-use audio systems that do not require you to add or upgrade them. Nevertheless, factory-grade audio devices merely provide you with minimal features—most of these components do not highlight any spectacular specification that sets them above the rest. If you are into bass, treble, midrange, or even loud feedback, you’d surely find the stock audio system lacking in so many ways. If you love bass, for instance, your factory-grade, the generic speaker won’t offer you a lot of those deeper-end tones. Of course, you can easily resolve this problem by upgrading your system, orchestrating a few tweaks here and there, or adding an efficient subwoofer.
Car subwoofers are excellent audio devices. They are designed to provide you with audible bass response, allowing you to experience those thump-thumping tremors that only a series of bass notes can provide. But adding another device to your system generally requires more space. If you have one of those modern, compact cars, you’d probably not want to place another extra baggage that’d merely cram up your already crammed-up car. An under-seat subwoofer, however, can be the best alternative solution to this predicament.
Under-seat subwoofers are generally meant for smaller vehicles that do not have ample space for the bulkier varieties. Most of them measure only a few inches on all sides, requiring only a bit of space in your car. Most music stores contain a variety of under-seat subwoofer brands and models to choose from. But this can be equally devastating when you don’t really know which to go for.
We came up with a comprehensive list of the best under-seat subwoofer currently available in the market. We looked through all the different offerings to find the best options that you can check out. Below is an in-depth review of the top under-seat subwoofers we found, including their key specifications, strengths, and weaknesses.
Quick Summary of The Best Under Seat Subwoofer
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
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Best Overall  |
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Best for Durability  |
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Best Mashed Up Capabilities  |
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The Best Under Seat Subwoofer Reviews
KICKER 11HS8 – Best Overall
Key Features
- Frequency response: 25-120 Hz.
- Variable low-pass crossover (50-120 Hz)
- Variable phase control (0 or 180 degrees)
- Variable bass boost
- Bass boost control (0dB to +6dB)
- 150-watt power amplifier
The KICKER 11HS8 8″ 150W Hideaway Car Audio Powered Subwoofer Sub Enclosure HS8 is one of the most popular picks in the market. This under seat subwoofer has an RMS power handling capacity of 150 watts with a built-in amplifier. This sub is easy to install—it has some Velcro straps attached to it and a quick-connect mechanism for added convenience. It can easily fit tight, tiny spaces, including your car’s under-seat areas.
The 11HS8 has an adequate frequency response range of 25 to 120 Hz. However, you ought to bear in mind that the human ear can detect 20 to 120 Hz and that a slight five-point deficit may matter, especially when you tend to love bass-based tracks. Nonetheless, this no-nonsense equipment is designed to offer precise, top-grade performance. It veers more toward function rather than the fancier audiophile digs. This sub has standard capabilities, including variable low-pass crossovers and bass boost controls.
Customers praise this compact powered subwoofer for its clear sound output, although a few people mention that it isn’t as durable as its higher-end counterparts. This sub is recommended for small, compact vehicles and can provide you with an adequate thump-thumping experience and a level up on your regular sound system.
| Pros • Fits tight, tiny spaces • Built-in amplifier • Easy to install • Velcro straps attached for added convenience • Fine-tuning capabilities | Cons • Possible distortion and noise at high level inputs • Lacks RCA inputs |
Kenwood KSC-SW11 – Best for Durability
Key Features
- Variable Low Pass Crossover: 50 – 120Hz
- Frequency Response: 35 – 150Hz
- Sensitivity: 110dB
- Power Capacity: 150 watts Maximum and 75 watts RMS
- Aluminum enclosure
The Kenwood KSC-SW11 Compact Powered Enclosed Subwoofer is another powered sub built to fit tight, tiny spaces. It has a built-in amplifier, as well. This means that you don’t have to purchase an extra receiver or amplifier to make it work. This compact powered subwoofer has a frequency response range of 35 to 150 Hz, although this can be a bit disappointing since some bass sounds are clocked at 30 Hz or below.
Nevertheless, this sub is capable of high-volume levels, especially because it has a high sensitivity rate of 110 dB. However, its low RMS power handling capacity of 75 watts may affect that high-volume capability.
This sub has an aluminum enclosure. However, that helps provide louder feedback. It is also built to last. It comes with a wired remote bass control that allows you to conveniently control several mechanisms, including phase, frequency, and volume levels. It has RCA and speaker inputs, which makes this sub easier to install than most. If you need an upgrade from your regular car sound system, this is a great choice.
| Pros • High sensitivity rate • Built-in amplifier • Durable | Cons • Low RMS capacity than competition |
Rockville RW10CA – Best Mashed Up Capabilities
Key Features
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 150Hz
- Sensitivity: 90dB @ 1w / 1m
- Peak Power: 800 watts
- RMS Capacity: 200 watts
- Impedance: 2 ohms
The Rockville RW10CA is a slim, ten-inch model that already has a built-in amplifier. It has a high-power capacity of 800 watts and an RMS power handling capacity of 200 watts. This sub provides you all the different requirements like a bass response, loud sound levels, and high-power ability. It may not be as small as its eight-inch alternatives, but its slim design allows you to fit it into tight spaces. This one has a wide frequency response range of 20 to 150 Hz—a range that covers all the deeper- and higher-end tones plus a few extra ones. It has a high-sensitivity rate of 90 dB, which makes this sub capable of higher volume levels.
Designed for safety, Rockville RW10CA is equipped with thermal, short, and overload protection mechanisms. It has an auto-switch capability, as well, for added convenience. The RW10CA provides you with exceptional fine-tuning capabilities specifically because it has a bass boost, and variable low-pass crossover controls, among others.
So, if you’re looking for a budget purchase that fits most of your audio needs, this sub is a perfect choice. It even comes with a remote control that allows you to tweak your audio output easily.
| Pros • High-volume capacity • Upgraded control mechanisms • Clean design • Easy to install • Wide frequency response range • High sensitivity rate • High power capacity | Cons • Requires careful installation • It may not be durable |
Rockford Fosgate P300-12 Punch – Best for Peak Power Capacity
Key Features
- RMS Capacity: 300 watts
- Adjustable bass boost EQ
- Auto-switch function
If you have a bigger vehicle, the Rockford Fosgate P300-12 Punch Subwoofer is a superb option for you. This sub measures 12 inches. It has a high RMS power handling capacity of 300 watts, including a built-in amplifier that powers it up. Built for power, Rockford Fosgate P300-12 provides you with a high-impact performance.
This sub is built for convenience and equipped with an adjustable remote bass level control and an auto-switch function. You don’t have to worry about overheating because this one has thermal protection, as well. So, if you want a subwoofer that offers you a more powerful performance than its usual competition, this Rockford Fosgate option is the best buy.
| Pros • Auto-switch mechanism • Various audio controls • High RMS power handling capacity • Thermal and overvoltage protection • Powerful audio feedback | Cons • Recommended for bigger spaces |
Alpine Electronics PWE-S8 – Best for Accurate Bass Response
Key Features
- 25 – 152 Hz Frequency Response Range
- 120 watts RMS Capacity
- RCA plus speaker Inputs
- Variable Low-Pass Crossover: 80 – 200 Hz
- Variable Phase Control: 0 – 180 Degrees
The Alpine Electronics PWE-S8 Restyle Compact Powered 8-Inch Subwoofer is our best pick for its most accurate bass response. It has an RMS power handling capacity of 120 watts which could reach up to 240 watts. Integrated with various fine-tuning capabilities, this sub is equipped with RCA plus speaker inputs, as well. It is capable of a wide frequency response range of 25 to 152 Hz, which covers many deeper-end and higher-end tones.
This sub offers solid audio feedback. It can provide a huge upgrade to your existing audio system and be easily installed in tight, tiny spaces. You can put it under your seat or even let it sit nicely beside your compartment. This one has a variable low-pass crossover of 80 to 200 Hz and variable phase control of 0 to 180 degrees.
Nevertheless, customers report that this sub isn’t as easy to install as all the others. You may need to read the manual thoroughly to do its installment appropriately. This sub has a built-in amplifier, so you don’t have to purchase a receiver to make it work. A piece of equipment that allows you to save more space, this sub is merely eight inches in height and is a recommended option for small, compact cars.
| Pros • Clear, crisp audio quality • Wide frequency response range • Capability for various audio controls • Accurate bass response • Fits tight, tiny spaces | Cons • Installation is not easy • Manual provided needs thorough reading |
Rockville SS8P – Best Budget Choice
Key Features
- Peak Power Handling: 400 Watts
- RMS Power Handling: 100 Watts
- Low Pass Filter: 50Hz – 150Hz
- Bass Boost: 0 – 12dB @ 45Hz
- Built-in Subsonic Filter @ 20Hz
The Rockville SS8P is our best budget choice for this under-seat subwoofer list. It costs less than a hundred dollars! The great thing about this sub is that it is already powered by a built-in amplifier capable of an RMS power handling capacity of 100 watts. It has a peak power rating of 400 watts, as well. This subwoofer is designed with an aluminum enclosure which adds to its durability and sound quality. It also comes with an adjustable sensitivity input and is capable of producing high-level volumes.
Since it has a die-cast aluminum encasement, this sub has efficient handling of possible overheating. The material used aids in cooling down the system, allowing you more extended periods of usage. Although it isn’t equipped with preamp capability, this sub is easy to install because it has various inputs, including those for RCA and speakers. Nevertheless, this unit has a limited bass response, but its price makes it an attractive choice.
| Pros • Easy to install • Fits tight, tiny spaces • Easy and precise adjustments for input sensitivity • Affordable • Die-cast aluminum enclosure helps cool down system | Cons • Limited bass response |
JBL BassPro SL – Best for Beginners
Key Features
- 250 watts peak power and 125 watts RMS capacity
- Frequency Response 35Hz – 120Hz
- Crossover Frequency 50Hz – 120Hz
- Crossover Slope 12dB/octave
- Bass Boost 0dB to +9dB @ 70Hz
The JBL BassPro is an excellent beginner choice. It has clear-cut usage instructions and a straightforward design that lets you find its numerous controls easily. If you are someone who loves tweaking your system’s audio feedback capacity, this device allows you to do just that. It has various controls located in its back part, individually labeled for added convenience.
A powered subwoofer, this device already has a built-in amplifier. It is capable of 250 watts peak power and an RMS of 125 watts. This unit has a frequency response range of 35 to 120 Hz. However, this range can be a bit disappointing, primarily if you’re used to listening to heavier and deeper-end bass. However, it makes up for that by offering you a design meant to handle high temperatures. For a piece of powered equipment that’s meant to be placed under your car seat, its -auto-cooling mechanism is a huge plus—you can turn up your music and use your system for more extended periods without worrying about possible overheating.
The sound quality for this sub is clear, crisp, and powerful. This sub can be enjoyed by beginners and those who prefer straightforward, easy-to-use audio equipment.
| Pros • Easy to install even for beginners • Individually labeled functions • Can work with a wired remote control • Premium build • Numerous functions included • Stays cold even at high volumes | Cons • Limited bass response |
What To Look For In An Under Seat Subwoofer
Factory audio systems are capable enough to provide you with good music even when you choose not to upgrade it. However, a lot of people like to have added capabilities to their car audio system. Adding an efficient underseat subwoofer, for instance, offers you added bass and volume levels. In short, customizing or upgrading your system provides you with several capabilities that may not be otherwise present in your stock audio system.
However, there are several elements that you should always take note of when purchasing an efficient underseat subwoofer. Below are a few tips that may help:
Subwoofer size
Most subwoofers are made in sizes of 8, 10, 12, or 15 inches. However, many modern vehicles do not have adequate space to accommodate huge subwoofers, and most people prefer units that you can safely hide behind or under their car seats. If you have a small, compact car, it may be best to purchase an 8-inch or even 10-inch subwoofer. You can easily tuck this unit under or behind your seat or even place it on the side of your trunk.
Take note, however, that your sub needs to have adequate ventilation because a pretty crammed-up space for it may increase its chances for overheating. You can also find a subwoofer that has an indicated cooling mechanism or design. This will help you maintain your system’s manageable temperature levels even when you choose to use it for longer periods or even crank up its volume.
Power Capacity
Most underseat subwoofers are built with efficient power capacities, allowing you to surround yourself with some powerful audio feedback. Nevertheless, you can also make sure of this by identifying your unit’s power capacity—its RMS and peak or maximum power capacity. RMS or Root Mean Square refers to the amount of power that your unit can handle continuously at any given period. Peak power capacity refers to the maximum power that your unit can manage during those intermittent bursts. Likewise, your unit’s power capacity impacts the volume levels it is capable of producing. It also correlates with the power safety allowance that you have.Make sure to check the speaker and power inputs before making a purchase.
Installation Process
A lot of powered subwoofers are of the plug-and-play kind. Since they already have built-in amplifiers, these powered subs merely need you to connect them to your power and audio sources, and they’re good to go. Many of them can be placed under or behind your car seat or even placed on the side of your trunk. However, some subs do need careful installation. They require a seasoned technician to help integrate your sub into your existing car audio system to work appropriately. You can, however, choose to find a car subwoofer that is indicated as easily installable to remove the need for extra help.
Easy Usage and Controls
Likewise, not all subwoofers are easy to use and control. If you like simple, straightforward controls, find one like JBL Pro Series subs that have individually indicated control mechanisms. You should also purchase a sub that already has a remote control accompanying it. An efficient sub should not require you too much tweaking and fine-tuning. It should be easily integrated into your existing audio system and must be user-friendly to the extent that you can conveniently switch it on or off as you drive.
Frequency Response Range
Frequency response range refers to an audio equipment’s capacity to detect and produce sound at a given range of frequency levels. This element is measured by Hertz (Hz). Most powered subs can provide frequency response ranges that capture the detectable frequencies for humans, which is 20 to 120 Hz. This is a crucial aspect to note because bass tones are typically situated at the lower-end frequencies of 35 Hz and below. If you are looking for a subwoofer that offers you the most solid lower bass responses, you should purchase a sub with an indicated frequency range of at least 20 to 120 Hz.
Sensitivity Rate
Another essential element to consider is your underseat subwoofer sensitivity rate. Sensitivity rate refers to the level of sound volumes that your sub can detect and produce. This element is measured by decibels (dB). It relates directly to the loudness that your sub gets to produce solidly. If you love loud music, you should find a sub with an indicated sensitivity rating of above 85 dB or has adjustable input sensitivity. You should also remember, however, that this rating is related to your unit’s power capacity. So, the higher your unit’s power capacity, the higher its sensitivity rating should be. If both these elements are high, you get to have solid, powerful sound levels when you choose to ramp up your volume knob.
Conclusion
Using your car’s stock audio system can be adequate. Choosing to upgrade your system, however, can provide you with added volume and bass response. An efficient under-seat subwoofer—especially if you have a small, compact vehicle—is an upgrade that you should consider, especially if you want a more solid audio performance.
Below is are the best under seat subwoofers:
- Best Overall—KICKER 11HS8 8″
- Best for Durability—Kenwood KSC-SW11
- Best Mashed Up Capabilities—Rockville RW10CA
- Best for Peak Power Capacity—Rockford Fosgate P300-12 Punch
- Best for Accurate Bass Response—Alpine Electronics PWE-S8
- Best Budget Choice—Rockville SS8P
- Best for Beginners—JBL BassPro SL