Last updated on November 19th, 2022 at 05:08 pm
If you are bored with your current audio system, you might want to upgrade/update to the best amplifier for subwoofer. There is no sound system that does not need upgrading as per today’s need and requirements from indoor use to outdoor.
Before going any further we would highly recommend you visit our thorough guide on How To Choose a Car Amplifier.
I hope you have gone through the above-linked guide and you are ready to choose the best amplifier for subwoofer.
In this post, we have compiled a list of the best amp for subs available in the market and we have explained their features, pros/cons and the technical specifications which differentiate each of them.
We have added in, the best amplifier for subwoofer as well as the cheaper amps so that you can pick the one which suits your budget and fulfils the requirement accordingly.[/su_box]
So without any further ado let’s jump into the list:
1-JBL GTX500 – Overall Best Amplifier For Subwoofer
The JBL GTX500 is one of the most popular midrange mono amplifiers. It offers some awesome features at its price. If you have a nice subwoofer lying around give it some serious power using JBL GTX500 and it will send a load of 500 watts RMS power which will result in a great sounding bass. The JBL GTX500 is not any difficult to install, it can be easily installed by anyone who knows a little about car electronics.
The JBL GTX500 is considerably small in size which helps in placing it wherever you want. Surprisingly it doesn’t produce a lot of heat keeping in view its small size. It has a great metal body that is constructed very ruggedly.
But every good thing has some cons as well the same is the case with the JBL GTX500, Due to its small size, the wiring terminals are placed on both of its sides which can be difficult for cable management and mounting in limited spaces. Also, it doesn’t feature any knob to control bass, etc. which can be disappointing for some people.
Technical Features:
- 350 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms (500 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms)
- Class D amp technology
- Frequency response: 20-200 Hz
- Varying low-pass filter (45-300 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
- Variable bass boost (0-12 dB at 45 Hz)
- Signal-sensing turn-on
- Preamp and speaker-level inputs (adapters included)
- Fuse rating: 25A x 2
Pros and Cons of JBL GTX500:
Affordable
Tough metal body
Small in size
1 Year Warranty
No bass control knobs
Wiring terminals on both sides
2-Alpine MRV-M500 best durable amplifier
If you are looking for a small-sized, yet the best amplifier for subwoofer, the Alpine MRV-M500 is another great choice as it offers almost all features for its price. This amp is designed so small that it can be fitted anywhere in your car with its 8 x 8 inches and just 2 inches tall dimensions.
The alpine amplifier produces a great punch by providing 500 Watts RMS at 2 ohms. A great thermal protection feature it offers is that if the amplifier starts to heat up it doesn’t trip your music instead it decreases the power level so that heat production goes to normal and then it continues to work at its maximum potential.
The Alpine MRV-M500 also has a low-pass filter and a knob for controlling bass punch which is not offered in JBL GTX500. The Alpine MRV-M500 supports both pre-amp and speaker level inputs and it automatically detects if the incoming signals are of speaker level or preamp which is great for people having factory fitted players/pres.
Technical Features:
- 300 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms (500 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms)
- CEA-2006 compliant
- Variable low-pass filter (50-400 Hz, 24 dB/octave)
- Class D amp with MOSFET power supply
- Preamp and speaker-level inputs
- Variable bass boost (0-12 dB at 50 Hz)
- Preamp Outputs
- Remote Sensing automatic turn-on when using speaker-level inputs
- Optional RUX-KNOB.2 wired remote level control
- Gold-plated screw terminals
- Fuse rating: 30A x 2
Pros and Cons of Alpine MRV-M500:
Affordable
Offers Great Bass
Stays Cool
1 Year Warranty
Small in Size
Low-pass filter and Bass control knobs
None
3-Pioneer GM-D9601 Mono subwoofer amplifier
The Pioneer GM-D9601 is an affordable yet beast of an amp. It can run your subwoofer with a lot of bass without breaking a sweat. It can send a powerful punch of 1200 Watts RMS to your subwoofer setup with its efficient Class D technology.
This particular Pioneer amp is visually very appealing and good looking. It is a great choice if you want your setup to look aesthetically pleasing. This powerful amp can handle 1-ohm load without any issues so that you never have to worry about matching the impedance later down the road when adding more subs.
A necessary feature which most of the manufacturers miss out is the ability to run the amplifier via speaker level inputs instead of RCA inputs. Which is mostly required when using a stock stereo/multimedia system.
The Pioneer GM-D9601 also comes with a low pass filter which lets you sharpen or focus the bass depending on the cabin size and the interior. A small yet useful feature about this amp is that it comes with a wired remote boost that can be placed under the front seat or wherever accessible, it is used to adjust the bass according to your needs.
Technical Features:
- 500 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms (800 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms)
- 1200 watts RMS x 1 at 1 ohm
- CEA-2006 compliant
- Class D amp technology
- Variable low-pass filter (40-240 Hz, 12 dB per octave)
- Wired remote control adjusts variable bass boost (0-18 dB at 50 Hz)
- Preamp inputs and outputs
- Speaker-level inputs via supplied RCA-type adapters
- Fuse rating: 40A x 3
- 4-gauge power and ground leads recommended — wiring and hardware not included with amplifier
- 13″W x 2-3/8″H x 7-7/8″D
Pros and Cons of Pioneer GM-D9601:
Powerful Amplifier
Visually Appealing
Stays Cool
Valuable
Speaker Level Inputs
Low-pass filter
Bass Control
None
4-Infinity Kappa K1000 Mono subwoofer amplifier
Infinity Kappa K1000 is one powerful mono amplifier which gives your subwoofer a powerful punch of bass. It has the capability to provide power up to 1000 watts RMS. The Infinity Kappa K1000 is designed futuristically having an awesome brushed aluminum chassis that features dancing, signal-level LEDs which gives your amplifier a dope look and makes it look beautiful.
It is a great choice if you have to place it in a fiberglass enclosure. Like many other amplifier manufacturers, the Infinity Kappa K1000 can handle both RCA and Speaker Level inputs which are great for stock players. The Infinity Kappa K1000 features a low pass filter which helps your subwoofer to play clean and powerful bass. It also comes with Infinity Dynamic Bass Optimizer circuitry which helps in optimizing the performance of your subwoofer and enclosure.
The Infinity Kappa K1000 has a solid build quality and uses high-quality circuitry. It doesn’t heat up much considering its size and the amount of power it pushes, which makes it the best amplifier for subwoofer.
Technical Features:
- 700 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms (1,000 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms)
- Variable low-pass filter (32-320 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
- Dynamic Bass Optimizer uses a variable bass boost (0-12 dB at 45 Hz) and subsonic filter (10-80 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
- Phase switch (0, 180 degrees)
- Preamp and speaker-level inputs
- Speaker wire-to-RCA adapters included
- Fuse rating: 35A x 3
- 4-gauge power and ground leads recommended — wiring and hardware not included with amplifier
Pros and Cons of Infinity Kappa K1000:
Amazing Quality
Powerful
Low Pass filter
1-year warranty
Affordable for its features
Doesn’t heat up
Doesn’t include a Bass knob/adjuster but that’s fine for the quality it offers.
5-Kicker 43CXA300.1 CX Series – best budget amp for subwoofer
Next, up on the list of the best amplifier for subwoofer, we have a budget-friendly mono amplifier called Kicker 43CXA300.1. This tiny yet powerful little amplifier can send up to 300 watts RMS to your subwoofer which results in providing in an adequate bass boost to your favorite music and also lit up your moods.
This little beast also features a variable low-pass filter which makes your subwoofer reach its optimal working level. It also features a subsonic filter which helps in removing low resonances which keeps distortion away. It also comes with a wired bass adjust remote which is placed anywhere convenient so that you can adjust the bass.
Kicker’s Fail-Safe Integration Technology means you can tap into any speaker connection without having any distortion or interference. It also comes with a handy mount that lets you mount it vertically for saving floor space.
Technical Features:
- 150 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms (300 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms)
- CEA-2006 compliant
- Class D amp technology
- Variable low-pass filter (50-200 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
- Fixed subsonic filter (25 Hz, 24 dB/octave)
- Variable bass boost (0-12 dB at 40 Hz)
- Frequency response: 20-200 Hz
Pros and Cons of Kicker 43CXA300.1:
Compact
Affordable
Amazing Quality
Clean Bass
None for its price
6-JL Audio JX500/1D – Easy setup best amplifier for subwoofer
The JL Audio JX500/1D is a great choice for people who are short on space but they want a clean, powerful bass from their subwoofer. This is a great amplifier in a fairly small package and offers more than what it is capable of.
The JL Audio JX500/1D comes with an optional bass adjust knob which can help you control bass from under your seat when required. Like many other brands, the JL Audio also features RCA and Speaker level inputs so that you need to use a converter/adapter for hooking it up with stock pres or media players.
Technical Features:
- 300 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms (500 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms)
- Class D amplifier design
- MOSFET switching power supply
- Frequency response: 10 Hz – 150 Hz
- Variable low-pass filter (50-200 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
- Optional wired remote level control
- Preamp inputs and outputs
- Variable bass boost (0-12 dB at 45 Hz)
- Speaker-level inputs
- 4-gauge power and ground leads and a 50-amp fuse recommended — wiring and hardware not included with amplifier
Pros and Cons of JL Audio JX500/1D:
Small and compact
Easy to find locations to mount
Very powerful
Easy setup
Cheap
Limited controls
You need to buy bass adjust knob separately
it doesn’t have a built-in fuse
7-Rockford Fosgate R1200-1D
If you are a bass freak and want no compromise on the bass then Rockford Fosgate R1200-1D is the best choice for you. its size is one of the best plus points about it, it puts out 400 watts RMS to a 4-ohm subwoofer whereas it can push out 1200 watts RMS when it’s running on a 1-ohm subwoofer setup which is amazing for its size.
The Rockford Fosgate R1200-1D comes with Low-pass and Subsonic filters which helps in optimizing and tuning the subs for maximum performance.
Technical Features:
- 400 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms (800 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms)
- 1,200 watts RMS x 1 at 1 ohm
- CEA-2006 compliant
- Variable low-pass filter (50-250 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
- Included wired remote Punch Level Control
- Class-D amplifier design
- MOSFET power and output stages
- Variable subsonic filter (15-40 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
- Frequency response: 20-250 Hz
- Variable Punch bass boost (0-18 dB at 45 Hz)
- Preamp-level inputs and outputs
Pros and Cons of Rockford Fosgate R1200-1D:
Compact
Efficient
Runs cool
Can be mounted anywhere easily.
None
8-Sound Ordnance M350-1 – affordable best amplifier for subwoofer
If you are not a fan of heavy bass and want something moderate which makes you enjoy music and doesn’t make your neighbors mad then the Sound Ordnance M350-1 should be your number one choice. It is a great amplifier to provide moderate bass and not only that its rugged build quality justifies its price.
The Sound Ordnance M350-1 pushes out 350 Watts RMS to your subwoofer and it also comes with a bass knob to adjust the bass from under your seat. Keeping in view its price, it comes with a low-pass and subsonic filter which really helps in tuning your subwoofer to match your car’s environment.
Lastly, the icing on the top the Sound Ordnance M350-1 comes with 3-year warranty which ensures that you will happily enjoy driving for 3 years without any worries.
Technical Features:
- Variable subsonic filter (15-55 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
- 290 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms (350 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms)
- Class D amp technology
- Variable low-pass filter (35-150 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
- Wired remote level controller
- Preamp inputs
- Variable bass boost (0-18 dB, at 45 Hz)
- Cooling fan
- Fuse rating: 30A x 2
Pros and Cons of Sound Ordnance M350-1:
Great looks
Awesome tuning capabilities
Rugged build quality
Small in size
Affordable
3-year warranty
None
9-Rockford Fosgate Power T750X1bd
If you the best amplifier for subwoofer to bang at its full potential then you should consider the Rockford Fosgate Power T750X1bd. This beast can drive up to 750 watts RMS into a 1-ohm load which allows you to run multiple subwoofers for more bass and power.
This powerful amplifier comes with two factory fitted fans which help in cooling it down and protecting it from overheating. Another great advantage of this powerful amplifier is that power remains constant every time.
It also features a clip indicator. The only drawback I saw is that the power and ground receptacles are quite small, if you are using a thick wire it will require trimming to fit the wire.
Technical Features:
- 500 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms (750 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms), 750 watts RMS x 1 at 1 ohm
- Class BD amplifier technology with Constant Power topology
- C.L.E.A.N. gain setup system includes clip lights and test tone CD
- Differential input circuitry helps eliminate hum
- Dual-fan forced induction cooling
- Variable low-pass filter (50-250 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
- Switchable subsonic filter (28 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
- Variable Punch EQ (0-18 dB at 45 Hz)
- Optional PLC2 Punch Level Control wired remote with clip light available
- Preamp and speaker-level inputs
- Signal-sensing turn-on with speaker-level input eliminates the need for remote turn-on lead
Pros and Cons of Rockford Fosgate Power T750X1bd:
Compact
High Build Quality
Great Price
Awesome Quality
High Power
Overheats sometimes
10-JBL GTR-1001 Mono amp for subwoofer
JBL’s GTR-1001 is compact, therefore it consists of a low pass filter that makes a clear way for the sub to play strong bass. Its bass boost and phase switch allow you to listen to the sound, the way you like.
You can adjust it according to your desire. This amplifier comes with a screw-on RCA-to-bare wire adapters for the speaker level signal. This amp is compatible with various outputs, which makes it the best for almost every system.
The GTR-1001 sub amp will work amazingly as a full range amplifier when it is used with a matching JBL GTR-102 or GTR-104 with its Bluetooth connection.
Technical Features:
- 700 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms (1,000 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms)
- Variable low-pass filter (32-320 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
- Variable bass boost (0-9 dB at 45 Hz)
- Phase switch (0, 180 degrees)
- Preamp and speaker-level inputs
- Speaker wire-to-RCA adapters included
- Fuse rating: 35A x 3
Pros and Cons of JBL’s GTR-1001:
Easy Setup
Simple Controls
Fantastic Sound
Powerful
No subsonic filter
Conclusion | Best Amplifier for Subwoofers
We have given you a list of the best amplifier for subwoofer you can buy in the market today, now it’s your turn to evaluate your requirements and find the one which is suitable for you. The best amplifier for subwoofer enhances your listening experience if chosen correctly.