The Best JL Audio Subwoofers with Pros, Cons & Recommendations

 
Welcome to the Best JL Audio Subwoofer Awards!
Best-JL-Audio-Subwoofers

After having spent the last 12 days drilling, mounting, calibrating, and sweet-talking myself out of a fine because of some nosy neighbors, I’m ready to show off the best JL Audio woofers for your ride.

I’m ranking the very best 3 JL Audio subs based on bass strength, power, weight, looks, price, and ease of installation.

Look:

Finding the best JL Audio woofer comes down to two things: your ride and your budget. As soon as you’re clear about these, it will be easy to find the perfect sub for your needs.

It’s been more than 20 years since I first started tinkering with car audio systems. Since then, I’ve seen many brands disappear and some good ones going rotten, which is why I decided to create this sub-list to make things easy for you. By picking any of these 3, you will know that you get what you want, and the bass will be specific to your taste.

I only included the most popular sizes 8”-12” and have added both normal and enclosed subs on this list.

Now, let’s enjoy some bass already!

 

In a Hurry? Here Are the Top 3 JL Audio Subwoofers

For music fans who want absolute perfection without the faintest distortion whatsoever.

For people who want to enjoy some great bass and are not shy to show it off to anyone interested.

For sound fanatics who want to enjoy great sound in the car and at home, it will be the perfect fit.

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#1 JL Audio 12W1V3 – Best JL Audio Subwoofer

Best-JL-Audio-SubwooferAnd we have a WINNER!

You need to strap your seatbelt for this one. It’s a monster of a sub! The looks are all too deceiving.

Don’t test it in your lady’s car! A friend of mine learned this the hard way. Before he installed it in his car, he gave it a shot in his wife’s car. That was a bad call because she loved it so much that she didn’t let him remove it. Faced with no other option, he ordered a new one for himself.

This 12” sub is rated at 300 Watts RMS, which means that you’re getting some great bass.

Have you ever felt how the hair stands up on the back of your neck? Well, this woofer can do that intentionally. It’s a great feeling.

The bass is hard and clear, exactly what the doctor ordered.

Here are the top reasons why it’s a must-buy:

  • It’s powerful: Those who don’t know will believe you have two 12” in the back
  • WOW Factor: You can feel the hair on the back of your neck stand up
  • Looks Hot: This subwoofer looks so sexy. You will get compliments wherever you go

There are a few drawbacks that I would like to mention:

To get the best that this sub can offer, you need a very long break-in period, so be patient because it’s worth it.

This sub is great, don’t get me wrong. Yet, I would’ve loved to get an enclosure for it.

For some reason, I have only had a few installations for this sub, including in a Scion XB, a Jeep Grand Cherokee, and a Ford Ranger. They were all happy clients when they drove off with their new systems.

There’s no other way to say it: JL Audio is a hot product on the market, and, in most cases, is out of stock. If you happen to be lucky and find one, grab it and buy it, or you’ll have to wait weeks on end.

Pros
  • Clear bass, and it likes having two 12” in the back
  • When the perfect song comes, the hair on your neck will stand up
  • This one is a looker, not just a hard hitter
Cons
  • It takes a while to break this one in
  • There’s no readymade enclosure

 

#2 JL Audio 10W3v3-4 – Best JL Audio 10 Inch Subwoofer

Best-JL-Audio-10-Inch-Subwoofer

Although it’s just a 10” subwoofer, it’s rated at 500 Watts RMS.

This monster has a mean punch. From my experience, it can hit as hard as any 12” woofer. Best of all, it’s perfect for any music.

I installed this sub in a truck 5 years ago, and it’s still pounding strong. No wonder since it’s built with quality materials. I was brave (or daredevil) and put three of these in my truck. I know, it’s shameful, but I had to surrender; I couldn’t take it. They were too strong.

Ladies, if you happen to be reading this review, here’s a pro tip: Get this sub for your hubby. He’ll be a happy camper every time he turns the car on.

Here is why it’s the top pick on my list:

  • Eargasmic Experience: You can’t go wrong with JL. It offers clean, crisp sound with 0 distortions
  • Monster Bass: People won’t believe it’s just 10” and it can pound as hard as a 12” sub, and you can feel it
  • Audiophile Approved: There are no distortions whatsoever. This is a top-of-the-line woofer, and no expense was spared. It’s made out of high-quality materials

I have encountered a few drawbacks you have to see:

There’s no beating around the bush. This sub is a serious commitment, but it’s worth every penny.

Another biggie is that the installation isn’t that straightforward with certain car models. A harness can speed the work up greatly.

This 10-inch subwoofer is quite popular amongst my clients. I’ve installed it in a Saab, Tacoma, Chevy Crew Cab, Mustang GT, GMC Jimmy, Jeep Wrangler, and ’86 300 ZX. All my clients were more than happy with their new sound systems. It’s actually one of the best sounding 10 inch subwoofers money can buy.

If you want a smaller and cheaper sub, check out #2 on my list.

Since these are so popular, you can hardly get them. The last time I checked, there were still a few in stock. So, don’t let someone else beat you. Get it while it’s available.

Pros
  • This little monster is impressive. When the thump comes, you can feel it
  • It hits just as hard as if it were a 12”
  • Perfect for audiophiles who value 0 distortions on any sound level
Cons
  • It’s a pricey one
  • It might not fit into certain cars straight off the bat

 

#3 JL Audio 8W1v3-4 – Best 8 Inch Sub

Best-8-Inch-Sub-from-JL-Audio

This is not a tiny 8” chihuahua of a sub (btw, it’s rated at 150 Watts RMS). I picked it as one of the best because that’s what JL is making.

If you want a well-rounded sound system, this is the best one for you. The bass is clean without distortions, it’s not boomy, and it doesn’t pound.

Some friends of mine installed it in their home theater systems, and wow, movies with action-packed events, like gunshots and explosions, sound so real!

Once you’re done with the break-in period, you will enjoy some amazing lows. You can’t go wrong with this sub.

There’s one major drawback with this sub, and this is for those in their 20s or 30s: it won’t fill your ego for the rest. It’s the perfect sub with amazing sound quality.

Here are the top reasons why it’s a must-buy:

  • Quality Bass: This sub pumps out some hard-hitting and accurate bass
  • Perfect Lows: It’s known that 8” subs typically can’t handle the lows. This JL is the exception to the rule
  • For a Home System: This little sub is excellent for movies since gunshots and explosions sound all too real

Although, there are a few drawbacks that I would like to mention:

For “just” and 8” sub, this is a pricey one, but it’s all worth it in my book because you can use it in your home theater system as well.

For the price, they could’ve kicked in some kind of grille for protection.

This sub is not just a looker because people have requested me to install it in all sorts of vehicles: Corvette, 4Runner, Kia Sportage, Explorer, F150, Expedition, Tacoma, Silverado, and Tundra.

You need to hurry! The last time I checked, there was only one in stock. So, grab it before someone else does.

Pros
  • If you want beautiful bass that you can feel, this is for you
  • The lows are hit perfectly
  • This little one pump out quality bass that hits hard and accurately
Cons
  • It’s a pricey sub
  • Grille protection would’ve been nice

 

Conclusions on the best JL Audio Subwoofers

We have reached the end of the JL subwoofer awards. It’s that part of the article again when I say fair well. Before that, however, here are a few things to keep in mind.

As you have seen, you have seen JL is a well-known and well-liked brand. JL Audio makes the best subwoofers in the market. I was picking any subs from above means that you are in great hands, and you will enjoy some awesome bass with your well-rounded sound system.

I don’t know what’s going on, but there were very few units on stock, so grab it while they are there or risk waiting for weeks, if not months.

If you have questions or tips, feel free to contact me.

Roger and Out.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

What is the best JL Audio subwoofer?

The best JL Audio subwoofer is the: JL Audio 10W3v3-4 10″ Single 4 ohm W3v3 Series Subwoofer 10W3v3; The W3 series are the best of the best because they can handle more than enough power without distortion. These car subwoofers are highly efficient, so you can fit them in most cars or trucks. Also, the price is perfect for most people’s wallet.

Does JL Audio make good subs?

JL Audio makes excellent subs. While some are complaining that the max power handling isn’t that high the quality and crystal clear sound quality speaks for itself.

What is the best sounding subwoofer?

The best sounding car subwoofer is the the Rockford Fosgate P300-10 Punch Single 10″ 300 Watt Amplified Subwoofer

Which car subwoofer is best for bass?

The best car subwoofer for deep bass are these: Rockford Fosgate P300 12 inch subwoofer. This subwoofer is perfect for you if you want deep bass, as it has an amazing depth.

What is the frequency response, mounting depth and rms power handling for these JL audio car subwoofers?

The frequency rate, mounting depth and rms power handling for these JL audio car subwoofers is as follows:

  1. JL Audio 10W3v3-4 10 inch Single 4 ohm W3v3 Series Subwoofer 10W3v3;  Mounting Depth: 5.93″; frequency response: 25-250 Hz; 1,000 watts peak power handling, 100 watts RMS power – 500 watts RMS power
  2. JL Audio 8W1v3-4 4 ohm W1v3 8-inch Subwoofer Drive; mounting depth: 3-7/8″; frequency response: 25-250 Hz; 300 Watts watts peak power handling, 150 watts RMS power;
  3. JL Audio 12 inch Subwooder 12W0V2-4 300W (12W0V2) 12 inch 4-Ohm voice coils; Mounting depth 5.40″; frequency response: 25-250 Hz; 500 watt peak continuous power handling, 300 watt RMS power (amount of power); dual 4 ohm voice coils (dual voice coil, dual voice coils)

Which JL audio car subwoofers didn’t make it on the list?

These JL audio car subwoofers have fallen short: JL Audio 12 inch car stereo 12W1v3-2 12 Inch car subwoofer 1200 watts peak power, 600 watt rms power;  2 ohm single voice coil, JL Audio CS112TG-TW3 Sealed enclosure PowerWedge Truck Style Enclosure 400 watts rms; 2 ohm (2 ohms ), JL Audio 12TW3-D8 car subwoofer 12″ TW3 Series Dual 8-Ohm Shallow mount Subwoofer, 400 watt rms power; JL Audio 10W6v3-D4 10″ 600W Dual 4-Ohm w6 subwoofers (car subwoofer) 400 watts rms power. These subs didn’t make the cut because of the following things: hard to mount in a subwoofer box, doesn’t have a sealed enclosure (sealed enclosures), ported enclosure (ported enclosures), low frequency handling isn’t that good, it only comes in 4 ohm or 2 ohm impedance voice coils, doesn’t fill the low end, sufficient cu ft box for a great audio system.

What kind of traits should JL Audio’s subwoofers have if  I’m looking for the best quality subwoofer?

Finding the best subwoofer jl audio made should have these perks: sealed enclosure (sealed enclosures), ported enclosure (ported enclosures), decent cu ft sub box for great sound, cast alloy basket, injection molded filled polypropylene for a powerful subwoofer, dual voice coil subwoofers. Audio enthusiasts graded these are the most important features for a good car subwoofer sound quality.

Where can I buy the best JL Audio car subwoofer?

The easiest way to buy the best JL Audio car subwoofer is on Amazon.

How good are JL Audio car subwoofers?

JL Audio car subwoofers are very high-quality and have a lot of power. They use high-quality materials to make great subs. If you need perfection, JL Audio is the way to go.

Does JL Audio make the best car audio subwoofer?

JL Audio makes excellent subs. While some are complaining that the max power handling isn’t that high the quality and crystal clear sound quality speaks for itself.

What are the features a car subwoofer should have?

The best car subwoofer should have these features: high power, sealed enclosure (sealed enclosures), cast alloy basket. People believe that the best quality car subwoofer is something that has a high wattage and can drive up to 1000 watts peak power handling with an rms of 500 watts. The bass quality should be top-notch and the mounting depth should only be three to seven and a half inches because it is very hard to mount a bigger subwoofer in a small car because of space issues. Top quality audio enthusiasts want the best quality bass (loud bass), which makes it hard for them when they can’t get a good audiophile-grade sound because of their smaller cars.

Related: Best 8 inch subwoofer on the market (with buying guide) 

Powered subwoofers or passive subwoofers?

Car subwoofers come with different types of theirs: active powered subwoofers and passive. When it comes to powered subwoofers there’s a lot more room for an upgrade because you can use the amplifier if you want more power and volume, but on a passive subwoofer, they do not have an amp built in. This makes it hard to add more power and volume if you need it for your sound system, but on the other hand, passive subwoofers are cheaper than powered subs. The difference in price is not that much because both of these types come with different prices: It all depends on what kind of bass do you want: loud or turn the bass down kind of bass (punchy bass).

What should I look out for before I purchase a JL audio sub?

When it comes to finding the best jl audio subwoofer, you’ll have to answer these questions: what are you planning on doing with car subwoofer, how much do you have for a budget? What is your favorite type of music that you will be playing with this car subwoofer (loud bass, punchy bass)?

To make sure you get the best car subwoofer that fits your needs, first you need to know what kind of music do you like and how much power would you like to have for your audio system.

Single voice coil subwoofer or dual coil subwoofer?

When it comes to subwoofer voice coils there are single coil subwoofers and dual coil subwoofers. The difference between the two is that the single voice coil subwoofer has one voice coil, while the dual voice coil subwoofer has two voice coils. Having two coils gives you an advantage over the single coil because they are capable of playing more frequencies. For great sound quality buy dual voice coil subwoofers.

Sealed enclosure or ported enclosure? Which one is better?

When it comes to sound quality, sealed enclosures give you an advantage over ported enclosures because the speakers are not prone to distortion. The bass quality of a sealed enclosure is better than the bass quality of a ported enclosure.

Which are the best Jl audio subs?

The best JL Audio subs are:

  • #1 JL Audio 10W3v3-4

  • #2 JL Audio 8W1v3-4

  • #3 JL Audio 12W0V2-4

What is the best Jl subwoofer?

The best JL Audio subwoofer is the JL Audio 10W3v3-4 for those looking for quality and performance. This subwoofer is designed to deliver accurate bass, making it perfect for those who want to improve the sound quality of their car audio system. It’s also built to last, with a durable construction that can withstand daily use.

Are Jl audio subs good?

JL audio subs are considered to be high-performance subs that produce powerful, strong bass. JL subs are known for their longevity and durability. JL subs offer an even sound across the spectrum resulting in detailed precision that is perfect for everything from movies to music.

What is the best Jl audio 10 inch subwoofer?

The best Jl audio 10 inch subwoofer is the JL Audio 10W3v3-4. It’s a high-performance subwoofer that delivers accurate bass, making it perfect for those who want to improve the sound quality of their car audio system. It’s also built to last, with a durable construction that can withstand daily use.

What is the best Jl audio 12 inch subwoofer?

The best Jl audio 12 inch subwoofer is the JL Audio 12W0V2-4. It’s a high-performance subwoofer that delivers accurate bass, making it perfect for those who want to improve the sound quality of their car audio system. It’s also built to last, with a durable construction that can withstand daily use.

Is Jl audio good?

JL Audio is considered to be a high-end, high-performance sub-brand that produces quality sound products. JL subs are known for their longevity and durability. JL Audio offers an even sound across the spectrum resulting in detailed precision that is perfect for everything from movies to music.

Is Jl audio the best?

There is no definitive answer as to whether JL audio is the best, as this is subjective. However, many people believe that JL audio subs are some of the best on the market due to their high quality and performance.

Is Jl audio worth the money?

JL Audio is considered to be a high-end, high-performance sub-brand that produces quality sound products. As such, JL audio is usually worth the money for those looking for a top-quality product.

Is Jl audio a good brand?

JL Audio is a well-known and respected brand in the world of car audio. They produce high-quality products that are built to last. Their products are known for delivering accurate sound reproduction, making them perfect for those who want to improve the sound quality of their car audio system.

Last Updated on October 23, 2023 by Brian Beasley

Written by Danny Reid

Hey, I'm Danny, and I know how hard it can be to find the perfect audio gear. Need a new stereo, amp, speakers, or subs? Don't worry – my blog is here to help you cut through the noise! My mission is to give you the best reviews, so you can make the right decision for your audio needs. And if you ever get stuck thinking, "Where does this blue wire go?" don't worry – I've got tons of cool tips to help you out of any jam. So come along with me on this fun, sound-filled adventure, and let's find the perfect audio setup to make your tunes really sing!