20 best subwoofers in the car

Subwoofer - a device for accented reproduction of low frequencies (from 20 to 1000 Hz), adding to the sound of saturation and volume. Standard stereos used in automobiles have long gone beyond the acceptable quality of music playback, and, despite the futile attempts of automakers to drastically change the situation, they are gradually undergoing user upgrades urgently. The whole essence of their improvement comes down, in fact, to staffing the system with a regular subwoofer, located in the car’s cabin, or in its luggage compartment.

In modern realities, the production of subwoofers is a mass phenomenon, since in the last decade their number on sale has increased dramatically. In this regard, the independent selection of such a specific playback device causes many difficulties for consumers. Considering all the design details and the situation on the market, the team of expert.bigbadmole.com/en/en/ magazine ranked the best subwoofers for cars, divided into five distinct categories. The selection criteria were the following parameters:

1. popularity of the manufacturer and consumer models;
2. analytical opinion of experts;
3. mutual comparison of nominees among themselves;
4. specifications;
5. degree of reliability and performance;
6. the ratio of quality and nominal value.

How to choose a subwoofer in the car

Acquiring a subwoofer for installation in a car is accompanied by the need to follow a number of specific nuances and rules, which will depend not only on the amount of costs, but also on your personal enjoyment of use. Therefore, when choosing a bass player on its own, Expertex recommends that you pay attention to five key aspects:

1. dimensions. The main and obvious parameter selection, failure to comply with which can lead to significant problems with the placement in the trunk (or under the seat). As a rule, in modern models of auto space for the installation of a subwoofer stand out separately, which in itself imposes (albeit not strict) restriction on its dimensions. In the overwhelming majority of cases, the power parameters also directly depend on the model size. Therefore, if the nominal operating characteristics of the “low-frequency” inserted in the seat do not suit you, consider the option of purchasing a more efficient model.
2. Power. Characteristic, showing the degree of durability of the subwoofer speakers. In general, the higher the nominal value, the better. The maximum power, in turn, shows the magnitude of the short-term peak pulse that the acoustics can withstand without mechanical or other damage.
3. The number of acoustic bands. A parameter that directly determines the accuracy and sound quality of music through a subwoofer. Efficiency increases according to the “more-better” dependence, however, it naturally influences the increase in the price of an element of a speaker system.
4. Amplifier. The presence or absence of an amplifier in a subwoofer depends not only on its total cost, but also on the fundamental difference in sound reproduction.Subs without an amplifier make a significant increase in the bass component of music against the background of a weak sound component, while models with an amplifier provide a smooth increase in both components.
5. Housing. Many consumers note that the type of body does not play a big role in the selection of "barrels" in the car, but they are willing to buy models with a solid chipboard and fabric upholstery, rather than subwoofers with a different type of body design. In fact, its performance depends on both the quality factor of the sound transmission and the overall reliability of the product. Good fastening of the speaker in the landing nest ensures the absence of parasitic vibrations and noises, and also prevents the possibility of spontaneous mechanical damage when loosely attached.

Rating the best subwoofers in the car

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
The best car subwoofers with a rated power up to 300 W	1	Pioneer TS-WX70DA	17 400 ₽
	2	Hertz DBX 252.3	14 300 ₽
	3	EDGE EDV12A-E4	7 875 ₽
	4	Alpine SBG-1244BR	7 590 ₽
	5	Alpine SWE-815	8 138 ₽
The best car subwoofers with rated power up to 600 W	1	Hertz EBX 300.5	21 000 ₽
	2	Audio System RADION R 12 BP	20 000 ₽
	3	Hertz EBX 250R	15 670 ₽
	4	Pioneer TS-WX300A	6 789 ₽
The best car subwoofers with rated power up to 1 000 W	1	Kicker vs12l72	28 000 ₽
	2	Magnum MBW 151 SPL-BOX	-
	3	Mystery MBP-3000	6 490 ₽
The best car subwoofers with a rated power of more than 1 000 W	1	Kicker dl7122	78 000 ₽
	2	Magnum MLW 3x12-2SM	12 000 ₽
Best Compact Subwoofers	1	Kicx PRO-POWER 301D	8 558 ₽
	2	Focal E 25 KX	27 990 ₽
	3	Alpine SWR-1542D	18 590 ₽
	4	Hertz ES 300	8 560 ₽
	5	Alpine SWG-1244	5 690 ₽
	6	Pioneer TS-W306R	3 070 ₽

The best car subwoofers with a rated power up to 300 W

Pioneer TS-WX70DA

Rating: 4.9

Technically excellent element of the speaker system, designed for the acquisition of true connoisseurs of accuracy in the sound of your favorite songs. Pioneer TS-WX70DA is one of the few representatives of its company who has received the use of a D-class amplifier with built-in advanced bass control (Digital Bass Control). Its essence lies in the possibility of adjusting the system for two modes of operation:

Dynamic - for obtaining a rhythmic bass with high response accuracy, suitable for compositions of the genre of dubstep, drum’n bass, electro and the like.

Deep - a deeper bass sound, by definition, suitable for any music.

It is noteworthy that the presence of an amplifier for once does not give an increase in reproducible frequencies: Pioneer TS-WX70DA feels good in the range of 20-250 hertz, however, this does not diminish the feeling of fullness of sound. On the contrary, it is surprising that in the playback component this model is superior to all opponents without exception. However, it can be described for a very long time, but the fact remains: this subwoofer is definitely worth its money, especially in view of the fundamental dissimilarity of the others.

Hertz DBX 252.3

Rating: 4.8

Car subwoofer from the German company Hertz simply could not pass the rating of the best, hitting almost at the very top of this top. With a very specific configuration and constructive staffing, the DBX 252.3 provides a large increase in bass in the ordinary sound of a regular stereo system. Operating in frequencies from 28 to 300 hertz with a nominal power rating of 300 watts, this model can withstand jumps and peaks of up to 1200 watts without any hint of mechanical damage.

A feature of the Hertz DBX 252.3, which we casually mentioned, is the box configuration. Instead of the usual “cubes” to us, German manufacturers decided to stretch the body to the width, bringing this linear dimension to 650 millimeters. At the same time, it was possible to “press” the box a little in length and height (up to 295 and 300 millimeters, respectively). In this configuration fit two 10-inch speakers, stylized according to all the canons of the brand. From the point of view of cost, such an assembly seems to be slightly expensive, but given the overall operational parameters, this nuance is completely leveled.

EDGE EDV12A-E4

Rating: 4.8

A well-known model from a not very well-known manufacturer, the whole charm of which boils down to an extremely favorable ratio between cost and sound reproduction capabilities. EDGE EDV12A-E4 - a typical representative of budget subwoofers, the manufacturer has received, though not the coolest, but a good amplifier in the kit. With a nominal power of 300 watts, this “kid” is able to reproduce frequencies from 25 to 1500 hertz, somewhat winning in this component from a competitor in the face of Alpine SWE-815.

According to users, the effect of the acquisition of EDGE EDV12A-E4 is reflected not only in an increase in the saturation of the sound, but also in the banal vibration of non-noise insulated metal structures. To attribute this nuance to the shortcomings of the subwoofer is impossible, but for a general idea of ​​his work, dubbing of such a remarkable fact was very necessary. The expediency of acquiring a model from the point of view of key operational parameters is fully justified: for a small price you will receive not only a beautiful thing with a pleasant design, but also high quality sound reproduction, supported by the reliability of the most important components.

Alpine SBG-1244BR

Rating: 4.7

The model of the passive type subwoofer, the relevance of which has been maintained for the past 7 years. It is a typical “barrel” for bass frequencies in the range from 28 to 200 Hz with a rated power of 250 watts. Suitable for picking amplifiers with an impedance of around 4 ohms and a sensitivity of 94 decibels. According to users, the component sound Alpine SBG-1244BR can be attributed to the asset: at not the highest cost, the "richness" of the bass here exceeds the level of individual competitors.

As for the ergonomic parameters of the model, in this component, first of all, a serious weighty model is striking. With overall dimensions of 411x383x390 millimeters, the total weight of the 12-inch speaker and the massive MDF case is about 19 kilograms. This is quite a lot and inconvenient, but it provides reliable protection of the “filling” against any mechanical effects. The fixing of the dynamics itself is of sufficient quality, which eliminates the likelihood of extraneous noise and vibrations for the next few years of operation.

Alpine SWE-815

Rating: 4.6

Phase-inverter subwoofer active type, got into the rating due to high ratings from consumers and complementary reviews from experts. Even despite several fruitful years spent on the market, the Alpine SWE-815 still remains one of the most expensive models in its segment. But despite this, users continue to aggressively pursue his purchase. This is dictated by two factors:

First, the manufacturers team managed to achieve an optimal balance between the bass and sound component of the playback, forcing the device to play frequencies in the range from 34 to 1500 Hz. Coupled with a sensitivity of 91 decibels, the sound is truly superb.

secondly, a subwoofer remote control system was introduced via a wired remote control, which, with minimal modernization attempts, allows manipulation of the speaker (in the luggage compartment) straight from the salon.

All of the above is enough to understand that the Alpine SWE-815 is a worthy representative of its class, which can compete with much more powerful models.

The best car subwoofers with rated power up to 600 W

Hertz EBX 300.5

Rating: 4.9

Having learned from the mistakes of the very decent Acoustics Hertz EBX 250R, the German masters focused on creating a more advanced model of the subwoofer in the car, and, it is worth saying, coped with their task brilliantly. Hertz EBX 300.5 received not only a significant increase in peak sustained power, but also a good increase in the structural part. Providing reproduction of frequency in the range of 25-250 hertz, this device got 500 watts of nominal power, due to which it significantly added in terms of the sound pressure produced. Which, in turn, had a beneficial effect on the bass - the depth and accuracy of its reproduction reached a qualitatively higher level.

Peak power has grown to 1000 watts, safeguarding the speaker from a high probability of mechanical damage during sudden drops. In the design of the sound element appeared a lot of qualitative changes:

a double winding was introduced, allowing the speaker to be connected to the amplifier in any convenient way for realization (in series, in parallel, independently);

the place of a neodymium magnet was taken by a simple ferrite “pancake”, which made it possible to achieve the effect of reducing the cost without loss of quality.

All this and much more allowed EBX 300.5 to penetrate into the number of the best subwoofers of the market, in parallel winning a large part of the audience from the subwoofers of the Pioneer segment.

Audio System RADION R 12 BP

Rating: 4.8

The model, with all its appearance showing commitment to the old canons of external design. Which, nevertheless, plays into her hands, since for consumers it is an additional guarantee of quality. Audio System RADION R 12 BP is a typical representative of band-pass subwoofers (Band Pass) for increasing the sound pressure, which gives not so much atomicity as fanciness and charging bass depth for almost any musical genre. It is not known for certain what its true ranges of reproduction of working frequencies are, but on sensations they overlap the lower bounds completely (approximately, from 20 to 300 hertz).

Audio System RADION R 12 BP power ratings also delight sound fans: 400 watts for such a dynamic system is a necessary minimum. But as for the maximum values, here is a situation similar to Hertz EBX 250R. 600 watts in peak is not bad, but with a sharp increase it can cause big problems and the loss of a considerable amount of money. Fortunately, such cases have not been described on the Internet spaces among user reviews, but the fact of the possibility of such an outcome is alarming.

Hertz EBX 250R

Rating: 4.7

The phase inverter passive sub from the German company Hertz is a very expensive, but effective solution to the problem of the scarcity of sound of regular car stereos. Operating in the range from 28 to 300 hertz, this “box” provides a sound comparable to the similar in the older design from the Korean “pioneers” (Pioneer TS-WX300A).

If the main advantage of the Hertz EBX 250R is entirely tied to the key function (high-quality reproduction of low frequencies), then the lack of fully affects the power characteristics. The fact is that at peak power this model can withstand only 700 watts of load, while opponents have indicators that exceed the threshold of 1000. This is uncritical, however, in the case of extreme operational situations, it can cause serious damage to the dynamics. Actually, this was the only complaint to the subwoofer from a circle of experts, while the majority of users were completely satisfied with the model. True, if it were not for the high cost, there would be much more satisfied people.

Pioneer TS-WX300A

Rating: 4.7

The active bass-reflex subwoofer, invariably included in the ratings of the best from the very moment of its debut on the market. It is a typical carrier of Pioneer's philosophy, which does not want to deliberately overestimate the range of reproduction of its products, so as not to adapt to the trends of Western competitors. In this regard, Pioneer TS-WX300A works only with frequencies of 20-130 Hertz, immersing users in a special state of the bass liturgy. The saturation of the low frequencies eliminates the terrible sound of a regular stereo system installed in the car, which makes the subwoofer an ideal “companion” of any “domestic pelvis”.

In addition to the quality of the bass on a very clamped (unfortunately, this is true) range, the Pioneer TS-WX300A can boast quite good performance and peak power (350 and 1300 watts, respectively), as well as a very small weight of the structure (10 kilograms) dimensions. In parallel with this, all consumers mark a successful combination of red and black in the decoration with small inclusions of chromium on the protection of the 12-inch speaker. This is one of the best offers of its price range, alas, somewhat lost its relevance from the moment it went on sale.

The best car subwoofers with rated power up to 1 000 W

Kicker vs12l72

Rating: 4.9

Subwoofer Solobaric production company Kicker, who knows a lot about creating powerful acoustic equipment. The main feature of this model is the configuration and shape of the diffuser - in this case it is square, which is not so much a decorative as a deliberately technological chip: thanks to this step, the manufacturers managed to achieve almost double (42%) increase in the radiating area. The box itself, upholstered in gray CARPET, is a standard cube with a rear wall bevel for mounting the subwoofer close to the second row of seats (and adding extra rigidity).

As for purely technical parameters, it is worth noting a good ratio of power with the level of sound pressure and pickups at various frequencies. Rated power indicators Kicker VS12L72 are 750 watts with peak increases up to 1500. In order to fully realize the potential of acoustics, experts recommend to buy a special amplifier, preferably from the same Kicker, to minimize problems with connection and adjustment. This model is ideal for music lovers who prefer juicy and loud bass to a deeper and more dimensional sound.

Magnum MBW 151 SPL-BOX

Rating: 4.8

The basic version of the high-power bass-reflex subwoofer from Magnum, which, they say, is capable of giving a physical feeling of deep bass. Despite the passive performance of the Magnum MBW 151 SPL-BOX provides reproduction of frequencies in the range from 28 to 550 hertz, which, together with a good stereo system, provides an incredible flow of clear and rich sound.

The nominal power of this model is 1000 watts, and in this parameter it significantly exceeds its opponents by rating. The situation is similar in terms of maximum power: 2000 watts is an unattainable value for all representatives of the segment. Due to this state of affairs, the sound pressure generated by the subwoofer can cause a lot of problems with the vibration effect on the unsound auto parts and assemblies of important units. But, leaving this on the conscience of the owners, let's say: Magnum MBW 151 SPL-BOX is definitely worth it to buy it.

Mystery MBP-3000

Rating: 4.7

The most inexpensive and at the same time productive “box” from the company Mystery, designed for installation in cars with a great need for loud bass. MBP-3000 Works within 25-140 hertz, which determines the ability to pick up only low bass frequencies. However, even this level of the model is quite enough to ensure deep sounding of compositions, however, in this component, consumers often compare it with a representative of another segment, which is Pioneer TS-WX300A.

Despite the fact that nominally Japanese (and in fact Chinese), Mystery does not rank among the preferred manufacturers, users with a huge desire (but not without a share of fear) acquire the MBP-3000. In particular, they are attracted by the good performance of the nominal power (800 W), the successful design of the strip housing, as well as the wide range of options for amplifiers of any level. Unfortunately, longevity leaves much to be desired: in this component of the company there is still something to work on.

The best car subwoofers with a rated power of more than 1 000 W

Kicker dl7122

Rating: 4.9

Leading the rating line goes Kicker DL7122, broadcasting in a very small frequency range (20-100 Hz), but with a very large nominal power. If you completely build on the performance indicators, then this model is almost the most optimal in the entire market of speaker systems. Indicators above (or better) can only be in premium and exclusive developments for cars, as well as in full-size subs for multimedia centers and other entertainment equipment.

Due to the fact that the nominal capacity of the installation is 1800 watts, manufacturers had to go a step reasonable replacement of standard materials with other, as happened in the case of a diffuser. Instead of cloth and paper, polypropylene of high degree of strength was used here, with custom overlays to match the overall design of the box. The dynamics themselves (due to an increase in the radiation area) were square in shape and located at a small angle to each other. Given the use of high-quality materials, as well as the highest performance indicators, the cost of Kicker DL7122 is quite expected. However, apart from everything, it also looks daunting, and is guaranteed to cut a large group of budget consumers from its audience.

Magnum MLW 3x12-2SM

Rating: 4.8

Another representative of the company Magnum is losing the competition for the leadership of the subwoofer from Kicker, yielding both in terms of reliability and in terms of technical characteristics. The original form of the MLW 3x12-2SM allowed to place on the front surface three 12-inch speakers at once, creating the effect of a comprehensive sound. The total capacity of the installation in the nominal was 1200 watts, and with such indicators the car becomes more the object of stationary music playback, which is called “outside”.

Despite the complexity of the design and the very acceptable quality of the materials used, the cost of the Magnum MLW 3x12-2SM barely exceeds the price of low-power models of subwoofers of famous manufacturers. This is due primarily to the marketing principles of the company itself, trying to squeeze the maximum possible even from not very high-quality raw materials. In this regard, the subwoofer may lose some form during long-term operation, but stubbornly remain in condition until the speaker fails.

Best Compact Subwoofers

Kicx PRO-POWER 301D

Rating: 4.9

The most advantageous difference between the Kicx PRO-POWER 301D and its competitors lies in the cost-performance ratio - getting a low-end subwoofer at such a similar price is unlikely to work. Its rated power is 1250 watts with the possibility of short-term perception of 2500 watts at the peak, which is not available even for standard “boxed” subwoofers. The value of the reproduced frequency varies in the range from 30 to 600 hertz, and with the installation of the amplifier this number increases by several points.

As a coil, Kicx PRO-POWER 301D has a dual high-temperature winding that needs intensive cooling. It also allows you to connect the amplifier in any convenient way for the user, which greatly simplifies the installation of the model. The basket is made of aluminum, the heat sink of which is also in a good level, but this requires the provision of several technological openings for the through circulation of air. Speaking frankly, the purpose of this subwoofer rests on ensuring high loudness of the bass and its dynamics, rather than depth and richness, so some music lovers may not like using it.

Focal E 25 KX

Rating: 4.8

Considering the novelty factor, the Focal E 25 KX is a better alternative to the notorious Alpine SWR-1542D, but with slightly less pronounced power parameters. So, in the nominal the speaker produces 600 watts, while at the peak this value can reach 1200 watts. For a 10-inch subwoofer, this figure is optimal, especially given the ability to reproduce frequencies in the region of 25-500 hertz.

Among other features of the Focal E 25 KX, one can single out the presence of a double winding to increase the ways of connecting the amplifier (in parallel, in series and independently). Despite the presence of only one band for playback, the speaker demonstrates high accuracy and the practical absence of parasitic noise and vibrations. The only caveat: the cost of such a model exceeds all imaginable limits, in connection with which it loses attractiveness for most buyers.

Alpine SWR-1542D

Rating: 4.8

Alpine SWR-1542D is the most protected from unwanted power surges model of the subwoofer, capable of operating at exorbitant values ​​of key technical parameters. Providing up to 750 watts of power in the nominal, the user gets an excellent chance of increasing the sound pressure until the peak values ​​reach 2000 watts. Thanks to such indicators, listening to music can become not a purely individual process, but a nationwide exercise.

The parameters of the minimum / maximum frequency did not disappoint - the Alpine SWR-1542D is included in the work in the range of 22-500 Hz, ensuring exceptional accuracy and dynamic bass. As advantages of the design, without exception, the cast basket is noted as the most resistant to vibration and fatigue deformation. Manufacturers strongly recommend “pack” this model in bass-reflex and closed boxes for optimal sound effect.

Hertz ES 300

Rating: 4.7

An interesting representative of the company Hertz, the installation of which is recommended to produce in the case of 20-38 liters in order to achieve the best sound effect. It operates in the range from 25 to 250 hertz, possessing a sensitivity of around 92 decibels and an impedance of 4 ohms, which allows a wide choice of amplifiers to be installed in a single package. Which, by the way, it is recommended to make out for a phase inverter or closed type.

The positive feature of the Hertz ES 300 design is entirely in the presence of a double magnet on an extended voice coil. This pair allows the subwoofer to not lose the sound quality at all, even during long-term operation at high power. Which has quite severe restrictions: for example, at a nominal 350 watts short-term peak jump can reach 700 watts. Anything that will be above the limit, can lead to sad consequences. Of the other features of the dynamics, users often mention a universal appearance, a pleasant sound and a very high reliability parameter.

Alpine SWG-1244

Rating: 4.7

The speaker of a leaner type than the Pioneer TS-W306R, unexpectedly for himself, became the benchmark for all low-budget products in this category. With a lower rated operating power (namely, 250 watts), the Alpine SWG-1244 captivates consumers with a wide range of reproducible frequencies of 28-1000 hertz.

As in the case with the above-mentioned competitor, this model acquired a huge number of fans and, obeying the laws of logic, boxes began to be gradually thrown onto the market, once assembled to order or according to an established pattern. That, on the one hand, simplified installation for the car owners themselves, but deprived the niche of a share of individuality. However, this does not in the least negate that chic sounding demonstrated by the Alpine SWG-1244 and so elegantly described by thousands of domestic users. According to them, the bass acquires in the atmosphere, depth and richness, and also fits absolutely any composition, which is important for inveterate music lovers.

Pioneer TS-W306R

Rating: 4.6

Pioneer TS-W306R is a subwoofer for ambitious natures that place high demands on sound quality. Working in the range from 25 to 125 hertz, he is able to take on a little more, but only in conjunction with a quality amplifier (preferably from the same "pioneers"). Fortunately, the sensitivity indicators (96 decibels) and impedances (4 ohms) make it possible to select amplifiers of a rather wide nomenclature.

With regard to power parameters, the nominal for the Pioneer TS-W306R is 350 watts, with the possibility of perception in the short term up to 1300 watts without the appearance of any damage. According to users, due to the high demand for these dynamics, a huge number of custom and factory boxes for their installation appeared on the market. The exterior design of the model is quite interesting, even despite the scarcity in terms of colors (from the "abundance of colors" on the dynamics there is only a red belt and a gray company logo). This option is rather cheap and is inferior to opponents in the category only in terms of power.

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Attention! This rating is subjective, is not advertising and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you should consult with a specialist.