5 Best Budget Subwoofers for Cars: Unleash the Bass

Introduction

Car audio enthusiasts understand the importance of a robust sound system. Among the key components of a great car audio setup, a powerful and reliable subwoofer is paramount. Specifically, a subwoofer provides the low-frequency sounds or bass that can transform an ordinary drive into a musical journey. In this guide, we’ll explore the best subwoofers for cars, catering to various preferences and budgets.

What Is A Subwoofer?

The Subwoofer is the heart of the sound system. It is the low pounding bass-producing speaker that is responsible for low frequency sounds in audio. When people refer to having “10s” or “12s” in their car, they are talking about the type of subwoofer they have, specifically, the diameter. Subwoofers come in various setups consisting of enclosed systems, powered systems, and more. Typically, the average subwoofer is a single or two speakers mounted in an enclosure or box. From there, the subwoofer is wired into the car and connected with the vehicle’s amplifier to power it.

Understanding What Makes the Best Subwoofers for Cars

Before diving into our list of the best budget subwoofers, it’s essential to understand the key features that make a subwoofer great for car audio systems.

1. Subwoofer Size

Subwoofers come in various sizes, typically measured in inches for the diameter of the subwoofer cone. Common sizes include 8-inch, 10-inch, 12-inch, and 15-inch subwoofers. In general, larger subwoofers produce deeper and louder bass but may require more space and power.

2. Power Handling

Power handling, measured in watts, refers to the amount of power a subwoofer can handle. It’s crucial to match the subwoofer’s power handling capabilities with the amplifier’s power output to avoid damaging the subwoofer.

3. Subwoofer Enclosure Type

Subwoofers can be housed in different types of enclosures, such as sealed, ported, and bandpass. The enclosure type significantly influences the subwoofer’s sound characteristics and efficiency.

4. Sensitivity

Sensitivity is the measure of how effectively the subwoofer converts power into volume. Typically, higher sensitivity subwoofers require less power to produce the same volume as a lower sensitivity subwoofer.

5. Frequency Range

The frequency range shows the lowest and highest frequencies a subwoofer can reproduce. A broader frequency range allows the subwoofer to produce a wider range of bass notes.

6. Voice Coils

Subwoofers can have single or dual voice coils. Dual voice coil subwoofers provide more wiring options, allowing for more flexible installation and configuration.

The Best Budget Subwoofers for Cars

#1 Best Budget Subwoofer For Small Spaces – Pioneer 8″ Shallow Box Subwoofer

This subwoofer is an 8″ 700w setup in a shallow box. This design is very low profile and ready to fit in many car interior spaces! Some of the other features include:

• 700 Watt Max / 250 W RMS
• 2 ohm Single Voice Coil
• Rubber Surround Fully Covered Steel Mesh Grille
• Removable Feet & Cushions Carpeted Enclosure with Embroidered Logo

Overall, this is a great complete setup that will fit in practically any car. Coming in at an affordable $115 price tag, Pioneer has set this up to be one of the best budget subwoofers on the market.

#2 Best Budget Subwoofer For A DIY Setup – Infinity Primus 1200 12″ Subwoofer

If you want a truly budget-friendly set up, you can absolutely do this job yourself! The Infinity Primus 1200 Subwoofer is quite a performer coming in at $59.95. Furthermore, the specs of this subwoofer is awesome!

• 1200 Watt Max
• 12″ Diameter
• 4 ohm
• 35-200Hz Frequency Response

A 12″ subwoofer is often the standard for bass setups. Combine this subwoofer with a home-built subwoofer box and you can have great performance under $100!

#3 Best Budget Subwoofer With Power – JBL Amplified 12″ Subwoofer

If you need a built-in amplifier with your subwoofer, it’s hard to beat JBL’s 12″ Amplified Subwoofer. JBL is a well-known name in the car audio industry and is respected by audiophiles worldwide. A powered subwoofer allows you to have an all-in-one package rather than having to connect the subwoofer to a different amplifier.

• 12″ subwoofer with built-in amplifier that matches the woofer performance at 150W RMS or 450W Peak.
• 35 – 120Hz frequency response
• Slipstream port for distortion-free bass at all output levels
• Polypropylene Woofer Cone

Right now it is on sale for $249.95, making it an absolute steal. A low price tag for a powered subwoofer made by a reputable company is hard to pass up on.

#4 Best Budget Dual Subwoofer – Skar Audio Dual Enclosed 12″ Subwoofers

Dual subwoofers in the trunk is an iconic view in the modified car audio community. Fortunately, Skar Audio provides an affordable option for those looking for a dual sub setup for not a lot of money. Look at what Skar is giving you for just under $300!

• 2 Skar Audio SDR-12 D4 – 12″ Dual 4 Ohm Subwoofers Pre-Installed Into Enclosure
• Peak Power: 2,400 Watts (pair) | 1,200 Watts (each)
• RMS Power: 1,200 Watts (pair) | 600 Watts (each)
• Frequency Response: 32 – 300 Hz
• 2.5″ High Temperature Copper Voice Coil

For this price, you’re going to get insane bass power in your car. While the downside of this set up is a reduction in trunk space, Skar Audio’s dual subwoofers will be a great addition to complete your car audio upgrade.

#5 Best Budget Subwoofer For Under Your Seat – Rockville SS10P 10″ Under Seat Subwoofer

If you need an absolute low-profile unit, then you need an under seat subwoofer. Fortunately, Rockville is here to provide you an under seat subwoofer that is also powered! A built-in amp in a small profile subwoofer is perfect for any car! Rockville offers this subwoofer to you around $140 and is ready to be installed.

• Peak Power: 800 Watts
• RMS Power: 200 Watts
• Impedance: 4 Ohm
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 180Hz
• Signal to Noise Ratio: >90dB
• Sensitivity: 90dB @ 1w / 1m
• Input sensitivity, Low level: 300mV
• Input sensitivity, High level: 1.0V
• Dimensions (Inches): 13.6″ L x 9.65″ W x 3″ H

The size dimensions alone make this such a great find for those wanting bass but don’t have a lot of room in there car. For me, I see this as a great option for my Wife’s Jeep Wrangler! This subwoofer would work well with this car since it doesn’t have a lot of cargo space and it has a low enough profile for the seats. Overall, this is a great option for small cars or those just wanting to add a little bass to their music!

Conclusion

Adding awesome bass to your car audio system doesn’t require a ton of money. These best budget subwoofers will provide you with great bass performance while keeping your wallet happy. Remember, take consideration of your vehicle’s current car audio system and what adding a subwoofer may require. Alternatively, make sure the subwoofer you are adding is enough for your aftermarket system to ensure your bass isn’t missing. Refer back to this guide when weighing your options and you can ensure you’ll find the right subwoofer for your budget.

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Frequently Asked Questions

#1 Is there such thing as too much bass?

Absolutely! When you hear people playing their music loud and all you hear is bass, the subwoofer might be too large. Also, the subwoofer is not properly tuned for the system. If you need help tuning your subwoofer, check out Crutchfield’s subwoofer tuning guide!

#2 What if my budget is super tight?

You can absolutely save when upgrading a car audio system. There are so many videos and helpful guides out there for DIY installs to help save you money. For example, if you are installing a subwoofer, you can build your own wooden enclosure with common materials. This guide I found on YouTube is an awesome resource for building your own budget subwoofer box!

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