Due to their construction, subwoofers need a significant amount of power to recreate low-frequency sounds. A subwoofer amplifier is an electronic device that increases the power of the subwoofer or its sub-bass frequencies. Specifically, it boosts the level of bass output from a powered subwoofer.
Though numerous types of car subwoofer amplifiers are available in the market, deep bass automotive amplifiers are one product line that is becoming very popular.
Adding a subwoofer amplifier gives you a much better sound experience, whether you’re at a stoplight or starting up your vehicle. In addition, it will minimize distortion from outside interference.
With many options available, however, choosing the right amp depends on a number of considerations such as the kind of vehicle you drive, your listening expectations, and your budget.
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There are two kinds of subwoofers: passive and active. Passive subwoofers need an external amplifier to operate, whereas active or powered subwoofers do not.
Before deciding on whether to settle for a passive or an active sub, it is vital to consider the pros and cons of each in relation to your peculiar needs and preferences.
If you’re unsure whether your subwoofer requires an amplifier, start by examining the type of sub in question. Unless you really want to push the sound to ludicrous levels, you may not require an additional amplifier if you have a powered active subwoofer.
A passive subwoofer, on the other hand, is unable to function without an amplifier.
The first thing to check for is the device’s impedance which is expressed in ohms and is a measure of how much power a subwoofer can put on an amplifier. Because an amplifier’s output power depends on the connected load, it’s imperative that the amplifier’s impedance matches that of your subwoofer.
Next, look for the RMS (Root-Mean-Square) power output or rating. The watts of RMS power of your subwoofer are an indicator of how much power it can reasonably take before it starts to distort or harm itself. An amplifier that can provide 100-150 percent of your subwoofer’s RMS power will get the greatest results.
You’ll need an RCA cable to connect your passive subwoofer output to your amplifier input. If you wish to include additional speakers, you’ll need speaker cables. Just make sure they’re correctly connected to both the amp and sub outputs which are easy to identify.
Be sure to unplug/turn off both the amp and the sub from the power supply if plugged in. As soon as everything has been unplugged/turned off, connect the RCA wires to both devices to start enjoying high-powered sounds. You can also consult the product’s manual for a more comprehensive understanding.
Below is a more detailed video on how to install amps and subs.
But now, let us take a look at 15 of the best amplifiers in the market today.
Skar Audio SKv2-2500.1D is a powerful and versatile amplifier. This device is stable at 1 ohm and comes with a high-speed monoblock Class D MOSFET power that makes it capable of extreme levels of power production for long periods of time.
It has a heavy-duty advanced heatsink design that ensures maximum cooling and efficiency while delivering stable performance even when the amp is pushed to its limits.
Skar Audio SKv2-2500.1D also features 4-way protection circuitry for stable operation in any environment, meaning you can rest assured that this amp will do its job, no matter the noise level in your car or the bass frequency of your speaker system. A 1/0 gauge input power and ground input terminals make the connection to your power source as secure as possible.
With this amp, you can achieve a frequency response of 15Hz – 270Hz. For added convenience, a remote level control lets you adjust gain from the driver’s seat or from up to 100 feet away from the amplifier itself. To ensure adequate cooling for this amplifier, it features an adjustable low pass filter that can be set from 35Hz – 250Hz for any subwoofer system configuration.
The amp comes with a built-in bass boost control that can be adjusted between 0dB and 9dB to enhance output volume ensure you get the best from every aspect of your bass response, from deeper lows all the way up to high frequencies.
Last but not least, a phase control switch is included at the rear panel for added ease when tuning your system. If you are looking for an amplifier that is capable of handling extreme levels of output while delivering remarkable levels of power and performance in a compact, stylish and attractive package, then the Skar Audio SKv2-2500.1D is definitely worth checking out!
Fosi Audio M03 is a high-efficiency power subwoofer amplifier designed for driving passive speakers and powered subwoofers. The M03 has 2 selectable inputs: unbalanced RCA/phono and 3-pin XLR. There’s a PBTL (Parallel Bridge Tied Load) for powering stereo speakers so as to handle both passive and active loads with the same input signal. A built-in 20Hz to 300Hz low pass filter and an integrated DSP (Digital Signal Processing) that allows for accurate low pass filtering, full-frequency control, and adjustable gain to match any speaker system. LFE (Low-Frequency Effects) can also be sent to the subwoofer.
This Fosi Audio amplifier is a full-frequency mono amp that has a low power consumption rate even when running active speakers only! The maximum output is 200 watts with a provision of 150 RMS power into 4-ohm loads or 120 watts RMS into 8-ohm loads. This ensures clean efficient power with no distortion.
Fosi Audio M03 is for anyone looking to install highly efficient monoblock amplifiers in their vehicles. It will drive up to four speakers that are powered by one amp. It is designed with small and strong 2 channel amplifiers and a TPA3255D2 chip with DSD (Direct Stream Digital) and low distortion. It combines power and reliability in a small package and a minimal budget.
This amplifier is an excellent solution for those who want to run passive speakers, powered subwoofers, or full-range speakers (mono). It comes with an 18-month warranty and can be used in cars, trucks, motorhomes, boats, or any other place where power is needed.
The BOSS Audio Systems R1100M RIOT Series is a powerful bass subwoofer amplifier that delivers 1100 watts max x 1 @ 2 ohms/550 watts max x 1 @ 4 ohms and belongs to class A/B topology with low and high-level inputs. The MOSFET power supply creates an accurate flow of electrical current while the variable low-pass crossover provides precise sound specifications for low-frequency reproduction.
Other features that allow users to listen to their music the way they want to listen to it include a switchable bass boost, a high pass filter, and variable input gain control. The bass boost feature can be adjusted to meet certain preferences in music while the high pass filter makes for full-range sound reproduction while still providing deep-bass effects. The variable input gain control adjusts the amount of signal from your receiver and to your amp.
The R1100M RIOT Series is designed with the user in mind. The high-level inputs are adjustable to specific levels while the low-level inputs can be adjusted for different audio signals. The remote subwoofer level control allows users to customize sound settings without switching audio cables.
This modern subwoofer amplifier is perfect for adding bass to your boom box or car audio system. It will definitely amplify all your speakers and take them to the next level.
The OSD Audio SMP300 is a solid subwoofer amplifier, designed to pump out 250 watts RMS/500 watts peak power per channel @ 4 ohms and 150 RMS power/300 watts peak power per channel @ 8 ohms. It offers you the convenience of two 8 ohm output terminals for those instances when you need to drive 2 subs in parallel. For sound system applications, this amp will provide clean and powerful bass reproduction with shorter signal paths than others in the market.
This is a very reliable sub amp that provides continuous stable power and boasts an advanced crossover circuit set at 35Hz to 160Hz that can be adjusted by the front panel control knob. Designed for use with passive subwoofers such as in-wall subs that require external power, the SMP300 is just 3” inches high, 9 ¼” deep, and 16 ¼” wide which means it can be installed anywhere.
The SMP300 provides clean and powerful bass reproduction with shorter signal paths than many others in the market. It is one unit designed to provide outstanding sound quality.
Nobsound G2 PRO is the latest addition to a high-end subwoofer amplifier line. It comes with a 300 watts max output power, TPA3255D2 amp chip, and a 32V/5A large power supply, enough to drive 320 passive and active subwoofers, with an easy PBTL/SUB switch as well as an aluminum heatsink. In addition to its compact size, the Nobsound G2 PRO has a very durable solid aluminum chassis that can effectively prevent it from being damaged by power surges caused by lightning.
There’s a flexible crossover frequency control knob that can be adjusted from 40Hz to 300Hz, allowing you to easily select the optimal crossover frequency for your sound system. It also has a built-in protection circuit that prevents damage by an overheating or overloaded power supply, making it very safe and reliable.
The low pass filter makes the amplifier suitable for both music and movie applications as you can adjust the low pass filter to achieve your desired frequency response curve. Its simple, compact design and exquisite appearance make the Nobsound G2 PRO suitable for both home and desktop audio systems use. It is a perfect match for your bookshelf speakers, computer speakers, desktops, floor standing speakers, ceiling speakers, and outdoor speakers, among others.
The Soundavo PSB-400DSP Class D Subwoofer Amplifier is a high wattage power output that is compact in size. This device has a built-in digital signal processor which makes installation a breeze and eliminates the need for any other equipment. It takes up only 1U of rack space and weighs in at 7 Kgs, meaning that it won’t be too hard for you to mount on the back of your sound system.
A remote is included to control the power button, volume, and play feature. There’s also a volume control knob for adjusting how loud you want your subwoofer speakers to sound as well as a crossover adjustment setting that can be used on each speaker.
It is able to deliver up to 400 watts RMS @ 4 ohms (1000 watts peak power), creating a cinema-like effect on your home audio and theater installations. It can be used in multiple modes such as base, mid and high frequencies. A built-in memory function stores the mode that is best for use with your subwoofers. You’ll also be able to recall this setting whenever you want to use it again so that you won’t have to change it back and forth very often. This unit can be used with 8″ or 10″ or 12′ subwoofers.
The Soundavo PSB-400DSP Subwoofer Amplifier has a lot of great features that set it apart from the others. For example, it is able to deliver up to 4 different low-cut slope choices and can be used on up to 12″ subwoofers, as noted above. It comes with an easy quick connection menu which you will be able to quickly navigate through when setting this device up. This means that you won’t have to look at the manual every time that you need something changed or installed onto this device.
This device is able to deliver solid clean power with strong, high fidelity, and deep bass frequency. You will be able to drive medium-to-large-sized in-floor speakers or wall-style sub-woofers with this device. It is also able to receive audio from any audio amplifier or receiver and can be used for your LFE input if you want to add some extra bass to your home audio/theater system.
The Acoustic Audio WS1005 is a compact and discrete subwoofer amplifier that can serve as a powerful addition to any home entertainment system. It is designed for use with only passive subs and comes with LED indicators for power on/off status which makes it easier to tell if the amplifier is working or not. This is ideal for those interested in using this amplifier for multiple room systems. It features 200 watts of power output for low bass frequency response at 50 – 200Hz +/- 3dB.
Raw wire outputs make this product perfect for hardwired runs or extension cables without the need for additional splitters or converters. As this amplifier has a low bass response, it would not be suited for horn-loaded or dipole speakers.
The Acoustic WS1005 offers loud clean output when it is in use with passive subwoofers, but in order to enjoy the full power of this amp in your home theater, you will want to pair it up with an active subwoofer that can reproduce frequencies well above the 50Hz mark. At that point in time, you will be able to get the most out of this amplifier.
A built-in crossover network allows you to use the subwoofer volume controls with passive subwoofers only. This is very helpful for those who are looking to save some space by not having an external crossover unit. Another great feature of the WS1005 is that it features LFE and RCA inputs which make it easier to use with your home audio receiver if you are not looking to use this amplifier independently.
All in all, the Acoustic Audio WS1005 by Goldwood is a great addition to your home entertainment system if you seek something versatile and discreet to fit either in-wall or ceiling passive subwoofer applications.
With 400 watts of power, the CXA4001 is KICKER’s highest-power sub amp yet. All of that power means the CXA4001 can pump out sound quality that’s up to 16 times louder than conventional amplifiers. So it’s not something you want firing in the background at levels below one watt. And if your system is moving around a lot, you might want to mount the CXA4001 on a piece of solid wood. This application-specific design is purpose-built for use with subwoofers in both mobile and fixed installations and comes with a frequency response range that ranges from 25Hz-200Hz.
Like in all KICKER amps, the CXA4001’s adjustable crossover and bass-management capabilities let you tailor the amp’s performance to your needs. And it’s built with design features that let you adjust the subwoofer gain to suit your application as well as multiple safety features such as a dual-microprocessor control and a true-peak LED power display.
The RCA-level inputs and speaker-level crossover outputs let you get more juice out of your system, even if you’ve got a smaller amplifier or need to salvage an amp from another vehicle. These features make the CXA4001 Mono Class D Subwoofer Amplifier great for mobile and fixed installations. But it’s also perfect if you want to build a high-performance system with multiple subwoofers.
As an amplifier that does not have a dedicated speaker output that would be used in the installation, this product is best suited for applications where either one or two amplifiers are being used to drive high-power speakers in a multi-amplifier system.
Fosi Audio M04 is a full-frequency amplifier that is designed with NE5532 op-amp and TPA3116 chip and can output power for a 4-ohm subwoofer or speaker. With a smooth volume control knob, this amplifier enhances the bass response of passive subs. Its mini size and solid shell help to reduce the vibration effect of the machine’s rotating weight and large rotating area to ensure that it has a firm hold on objects with complex shapes.
The built-in low pass filter offers even more convenience for sound adjustment settings. The low pass filter and sub-frequency control switch allow the amplifier to be used as a subwoofer power amplifier or whole frequency monoblock amplifier.
Fosi Audio M04 amp is compatible with most modern audio systems. Additionally, this amplifier can play its parts not only by the full frequency output but also by low-frequency subwoofer or speaker output. It will enhance the bass performance for any speaker, including rear speakers. This amp has a big power output to handle speakers with large impedances and long voice coils and is especially suitable for car audio use.
Four different color calibration switches are provided to adjust the sound according to your preference: flat (off), classical, rock and pop. With its high-quality material and highly efficient circuit design, this amp offers excellent sound quality with a rich bass effect without any form of noise interference, even at maximum volume.
This compact sub amp with an appealing professional design is perfect for your living room, bedroom, basement, garage, and other places.
Autotek MM2020.1D is one of the most advanced subwoofer amplifiers in the world. This 2-block, mono design has extreme power capacity for handling high-powered speakers and subwoofers with ease. The high-speed MOSFETs give it a fast response time while the 0 to 12dB bass boost adjusts the system sound to achieve the optimal levels desired by different listeners. For power output, the MM2020.1D features 2,000 watts x 1 @ 1 ohm; 1,000 watts x 1 at 2 ohms; and 500 watts x 1 at 4 ohms as well as a frequency response of 15 – 150Hz.
This unit can be operated from its front panel or run from a speaker wire output RCA connection which is great for installing into a new vehicle or upgrading an older car’s existing system without any additional wiring required. The unit has a TCID (twin coil isolation design) which assists in producing high-quality sound throughout its frequency range.
The amplifier’s power supply is designed with multiple heat sinks for efficient heat dissipation, enabling the unit to operate cooler than most amplifiers of this power output. The unique design of the MM2020.1D also helps in achieving the industry’s lowest level of distortion relative to other amplifiers in its class, including higher-priced competitor products with equal or lower power output levels.
Autotek MM2020.1D is a perfect choice for those looking to install a high-power subwoofer amplifier system or upgrade their existing system without any extra wiring requirements. Its small footprint and flexibility make it great for installing into new or old cars. It packs extreme power and sound quality for such a small sub amp and is clearly one of the best in the market today.
Kenwood X502-1 eXelon Subwoofer Amplifier offers a variable low pass filter for bass boost and an optional wired remote to keep control over your tunes at all times, plus a detachable sliding terminal cover that makes installation easier than ever. The wired remote level control easily adjusts the subwoofer volume, preventing accidental turn-on by lifting up the front of the amplifier cover during operation.
This is one of the most powerful amplifiers in its range. With 300 watts RMS x 1 @ 1 ohm, this will take even the hardest hitting bass to the fullest extent. The Kenwood X502-1 eXelon comes with all necessary accessories including a user manual, basic wiring harness, power wire, speaker wire, remote wire, and mounting screws for quick and easy installation.
The use of a dedicated high current power wire reduces wiring complexity and excess wire loss in the vehicle. Wires are routed internally through the electrical box, reducing conduits and connectors. A battery compartment is provided inside to keep the remote power source contained in a dedicated spot in your vehicle.
This Class D subwoofer amplifier has a versatile design that makes it great for systems of all sizes so you can feel confident there will be no over or underpowering of your speakers.
AIYIMA 100W is a mono amplifier that can power up to 100 watts into a 2-8ohm load and includes a low-pass filter, RCA audio input, and gold-plated audio outputs that are located on the device’s output interface at the back of the amplifier. Sound quality is adjustable through a built-in potentiometer knob and tact switch, as well as the sub-frequency control knob. This amplifier is designed for portability with its compact size. It also comes with built-in durability with makes it withstand challenges like overheating or electrical surges from other devices around it.
This subwoofer amplifier has a switchable bass cut-off frequency. There is no noticeable noise or interference produced from this amplifier as it is designed with low noise and low distortion circuitry. The power supply for this device is 12V-24V DC adjustable voltage. This amplifier is not designed for high impedance loads, and can only power single or dual 4 ohm or 2 ohm loads for maximum output.
The AIYIMA 100W Subwoofer is commonly used with subwoofers or speakers, but can also operate as a standalone amp without any other audio equipment. It is built with high performance TPA3116 HD amplifier chip +NE5532 op-amp.
The KICKER CX400.1 is a new member of kicker’s Class D subwoofer amplifier series. It is a device that is capable of driving a subwoofer as well as tweeters effortlessly with its full range outputs which can be used for expanding a system or mixing needed outputs without cutting into other components in the process. Its compact size is perfect for many systems while its signature dual-mono speaker-level inputs deliver crystal clear sound quality from streaming services or any audio source. Other features include a 12dB crossover, a variable bass boost up to 6dB, good connectivity options with good power delivery, and protection against noise-induced distortion.
When paired with an appropriate subwoofer, it is able to deliver up to 400 watts of peak power which is far more than most individuals will need. This high level of power allows users to enjoy high-quality bass output that neither strains nor overworks the amplifier.
The KICKER CX400.1 comes in a compact design that ensures it fits in nicely behind your vehicle or home entertainment system without taking up too much space. It can also be mounted onto a wall, placed in a small compartment, or in many other tight spaces without causing any problems.
In terms of device controls, the CX400.1 offers both an adjustable crossover and a variable bass boost. The crossover is able to separate frequencies so users can customize their audio settings for each component in their system. The bass boost, on the other hand, allows for more customization by offering up to 6dB of additional bass power which greatly enhances the overall listening experience for music lovers who have subwoofers at their disposal.
To conclude, although this amplifier is very compact and has limited connectivity options, it is very versatile and delivers excellent sound quality.
The JL AUDIO JD1000/1 Monoblock Class D Subwoofer Amplifier brings versatile and efficient power to the table with 1000 watts into 2 ohms. It features a switching technology that offers huge power output in 2 ohms, making this unit excellent for driving difficult loads with ultra-low distortion. It also includes controls on its input panel for quick and easy adjustments.
The JL AUDIO JD1000/1 has a 12dB/octave lowpass filter which is adjustable between 50 and 500Hz. There’s a variable frequency switch that allows adjustment from 50 to 250Hz and a variable bass boost EQ control for tuning the output of the JL Audio amplifier to your speakers. Another feature of the amplifier is its dual-range, differential-balanced input which will accept either line-level or speaker-level signals from a multitude of sources, whether they are active, passive full-range, or surround sound speakers equipped with surround sound amplification.
Its RCA outputs make it possible to use the JL Audio volume control unit, RBC-1, which offers remote control for your amplifier. Set remote control points include –0dB, –3dB, and –10dB and a standby mode for power-saving purposes.
This Class D amp also comes with a variable input sensitivity control, and an integrated LED clipping indicator ring. It is a perfect match for any of JL Audio’s Tice or Droplet Peerless line-level or speaker-level line inputs with RCA jacks. It accepts a wide range of signal sources from analog, optical and digital inputs.
The Crunch Subwoofer Amplifier is designed to provide the best possible sound quality with minimal distortion and noise for your home theater system. It is a Class D amp that includes a variable low pass crossover 12dB per octave: 40Hz – 300Hz; bass boost from 0 – 12dB; subsonic filter: 10Hz – 40Hz, and more to help give you an immersive experience. These features help eliminate interference and minimize distortion in the signal path. This amplifier also comes with an electronic equalizer, exclusive Crunch SPEED-FET MOSFET QTD technology components that maximize power efficiency, boost sound quality, and minimize distortion.
The CRUNCH Class D Subwoofer Amp uses Texas Instrument’s exclusive MOSFET pulse width modulation power supply to achieve the best possible sound quality. The level inputs come with a switch for either a single pair of inputs or dual speaker jack inputs. An RCA jack is provided for the subwoofer amp only. You can use it to connect an external amplifier or power your home theater system without using the included pre-amp.
It is a monoblock amplifier, which means it can power a single channel of audio equipment. If you run more than one channel of electrical equipment at the same time, you need to connect additional inputs to your amplifier or purchase a separate pre-amp and power amp. The pre-amp and power amp inputs come with controls for adjustment of input level and bass boost/cut.
This sub amp can achieve a continuous power output of up to 4000 watts @ 1 ohm, 2000 watts RMS @ 2 ohms, and 1000 watts RMS @ 4 ohms.
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