Best Monoblock Amplifier with Pros, Cons & Recommendations

 

Welcome to the Best Monoblock Amplifier Award Show!

After spending the last 14 days in semi-isolation installing amplifiers, heat shrinking, soldering, running wires and fine-tuning meanwhile skipping on house chores and on kid’s bedtime stories (sorry honey…), I’m ready to reveal the best monoblock amps on the market today.

Look:

Finding the perfect monoblock amp comes down to three things, your power needs, available size and your budget. As soon as you know these, it will become super easy to find the perfect fit.

For more than 20 years now, I’ve been tinkering in the car audio world. I’ve installed so many audio-related items that I should’ve gotten a degree already. Now I know how hard it is to find the perfect amplifier, and it takes so much time. This is why I’ve decided that I will help you with my knowledge, so the choice is fast and easy.

I’m ranking these 5 monoblock amplifiers on looks, ease of install, how hard they punch and, of course, power-to-cost ratio. Also, you can rest assured that picking any amplifier from the list above is a guaranteed winner. You can’t go wrong with it.

Let me see those amps already!

 

[lwptoc]

 

#1 Kicker 46CXA8001 – The Best Monoblock Amplifier Overall

We have a WINNER!

This Kicker amplifier is the best of the best. I loved this amp so much because it delivers a tight bass, plus it punches a lot harder. I mean, if you have a trunk, this will shake it to the frame.

I have tested multiple configurations, and while playing, a 10” subwoofer neighbor walked by and didn’t want to believe that it’s just a 10” sub in the back. Your subs will work overtime when they are matched up with this amplifier.

Power Specs:

• 1600 Watts Peak Power output  (max power output)
• 600 Watts RMS at 2 omhs (rms power handling)
• 800 Watts RMS at 8 ohms (rms power handling)

What I love about this amp is that you will have more than enough bump in the car without disturbing the peace. You will be able to feel the bass inside, and the outside will be quiet. Since I brought it up, the installation has been quite simple.

I can’t get enough with this bass performance. It’s deep and hard, just as I like it.

This Kicker amplifier is a small unit, so you will have multiple install options.

This is why it’s top of my list:

• A True Vehicle Shaker: Man, oh man, this is brutal the amount of power it puts out. No matter what kind of the previous system you had, this amp will make a night and day difference
• Those Poor Subs: I feel for those unsuspecting subs you have. There’s no other way to put it than saying the subs will get a regular beating when you plug it into this amp
• Versatile Configuration: While this amplifier is perfect for a single sub setup, it’s not your average amp because you can easily power two 10” or even two 12”

A few drawbacks to consider:

A few people mentioned that this amplifier shuts down when it gets hot. The best way to prevent it is if you have 6” of space for adequate ventilation.

Well, this rubs me the wrong way. The bass remote is an added expanse. You have to buy it separately. Come on, Kicker, you can do better than this.

Besides these minor inconveniences, this amp delivers. So if you want something that’s made by a well-known brand and you want some good bass, this is the Winner!

I hate to say this, and you have to move because these amplifiers are popular, and people are buying them up like crazy so if you don’t want to wait weeks for the next supply, grab one before it’s too late.

If you want something cheaper, then check out #2 on my list.

 

#2 Taramp’s Smart 3 – Best Class D Monoblock Amp

This Taramp’s amplifier is on its league of its own. I mean, there are some JL and Rockford Fosgate amplifiers out there, and you need a second mortgage compared to this one. It’s simply a steal of a deal.

Warning! Don’t even think about letting this monster loose if you have some cheap subs. Even the best of the best subs are tortured by the power what this amplifier delivers.

When I’ve first started up, I thought the sub would jump out from the box. I’m worried that after extended use, the door panels might actually fall off. Most likely, it will flex your car. I’ve even managed to vibrate my windshield vipers.

Power Specs:

• 1 OHM: 3000 Watts RMS power handling
• 2 OHMS: 3000 Watt RMS power handling
• 4 OHMS: 2000 Watts RMS power handling

My initial reaction was that this small Class D monoblock amp would not deliver 3000 watts. Think again! I was shocked to see that it’s not overrated. It really puts out 3000 watts.

This amplifier comes with a clipping indicator which is a welcome sight, and it delivers great sound quality.

Here’s why it’s a must-buy:

• Beware it’s a Little Monster: Don’t underestimate this amplifier by its looks. This bad boy delivers insane power
• It Makes the Subs Shine: I feel for those subs; they are pushed to their limits. Yes, the bass is stronger than ever before
• Bang for Your Buck: Wow, simply just WOW. I can’t believe you can get such quality and insane power at a small price like this. I believe they made a mistake pricing it this low

Here are a few drawbacks:

You need a serious equipment upgrade to actually get those 3000 Watts. A second battery is a must and at least 150A alternator because it takes power to make power.

It doesn’t come with a low pass filter. It would’ve been nice, though.

All in all, this Taramp’s Amplifier is a rare gem. Not only is it a Class D monoblock amp, but it’s one of the best. It’s small efficient and delivers more juice than you will ever need.

Maybe it’s a mistake that they have priced it this low, or it’s temporary; either way, grab one while you still can. People are buying it up like hotcakes. Get one right now.

 

#3 Alpine S-A60M S-Series – Best Mono Amplifier For Car

This Alpine amplifier is underrated. You’re getting more juice than advertised. Also, make sure you don’t pass judgment on its size because it packs a punch.

How I see it is that this amp can be configured to get great sound quality or to rattle your internal organs. This comes down to your own preference.

Since the size is small, you can practically mount it anywhere. In most cases, under the seat is a perfect position. Also, it’s a Class D amplifier, so it won’t get hot no matter what.

Power Specs:

• 330 watts RMS power output x 1 at 4 ohms
• 600 watts RMS power output x 1 at 2 ohms

What I like about serious amplifier brands is that they come with a certification. In most cases, the certification shows more power than advertised. This means that you’re getting some extra juice without spending a dime.

As a matter of fact, the Alpine S-A60M is an investment in the best sound you will ever hear.

Here’s why it’s a must-buy:

• Power in a Small Package: It’s insane how hard this little guy hits. I mean, the subs are way more powerful than they used to be
• Better Performace without a Serious Investment: If you have an 8” sub, it will sound like a 10” or a 12” one. If you have a 12” woofer, it will sound like two 12”
• A True Gem: With his amplifier cranking out the juice, people will hear you coming down the street

Here are a few drawbacks:

There’s no bass knob included. I mean, we’re talking about Alpine, not some cheapo brand. Alpine, you can do better than this.

Also, I miss the subsonic filter that’s a must-have in my book.

All in all, this amplifier is a masterpiece. It’s perfect for the highs and mids, and it makes all subs sound like they are bigger or better.

So no wonder why they are so few left in stock. People love Alpine and want to get the best amplifier for their car. This means that you have to move fast if you want to feel some bump. Grab one now or else wait for weeks.

 

#4 Planet Audio PL3000.1D – Best Monoblock Amp For The Money

Here’s my shameful admission. I was highly sceptical about this amplifier, and it turned me into a believer when it blew my speaker box.

If you want bragging rights, then this amplifier will deliver it. It’s so easy to shake the other cars at the red light. I only have to turn it down when I have my wife or the kids in the back. Other than that, no mercy!

Power Specs:

• 3000 Watts Max power handling x 1 at 1-Ohm
• 1500 Watts Max power handling x 1 at 2-Ohms

This amplifier makes the whole system bump harder as a matter of fact I’ve got to the point to vibrate my vision. I didn’t know that was even possible.

What you’re getting with this amp is crisp bass and the sound is loud and clean. The build quality is good and it seems to be durable. I had no issues whatsoever.

Since it’s a class D amplifier you know that it’s highly efficient and won’t overheat.

Here’s why it’s a must-buy:

• Your Choice: You can set it to get a decent bass or go overboard and shake the other cars at the stoplight while vibrating your vision
• Makes Long Drives Pleasurable: This amp delivers great sound with minimal fuss; once you’ve set it up the bass is great and the miles fade away
• Ultimate Gift: This amplifier is the best gift for those who sound fans who love the feel of premium audio and amazing sound experience

Here are a few drawbacks:

That 3000 Watt output is highly optimistic. They have inflated that number significantly yet it doesn’t mean it won’t deliver.

A few people mentioned that in certain vehicles it’s a real pain to install

All in all this is a very good monoblock amp even though it’s overrated at 3000 Watts it still delivers more than enough juice for the sub. As a matter of fact my sub sounds way better with this amplifier than with a more expensive 5000 Watt one.

As you know this is a popular amplifier so people are buying like crazy. Do yourself a favor and get it right now or you risk waiting for a long time because shipments are slow these days. Get it now.

Related article: [REVEALED] Best car amplifier for bass list

 

#5 BOSS Audio Systems R1100M Riot Series – Best Car Monoblock Amplifier

Boss has really outdone itself with this amplifier. I mean just look at it. This is one cool amp that delivers the power needed for a great bumping system.

I love how the logo lights up in red. It’s a real shame if you have to hide it under the seat. It’s a sexy amplifier.

In short this Boss amplifier thumps, bumps, booms, and pounds.

Power Specs:

• 1100 Watts max power output x 1 at 2 Ohms
• 550 Watt max power output x 1 at 4 Ohms

Warning! You might need to get two of these amps and it’s not what you think. While I was testing this amplifier my wife heard it and wanted one as well. Luckily the price is insanely low. And this is compared with a 6-year platinum warranty. It’s not a throwaway amplifier.

You can hate me as much as you like and I’m saying that this amplifier is as good as an expensive Kicker amplifier. It’s not for competition yet it will make your drive pleasurable.

Here’s why it’s a must-buy:

• Heavy Duty Amplifier: To all the skeptics out there I have friends who are pushing it hard every day for months and years and it’s performing like it would be its first day
• Great Bump: The reason why I love this amplifier is because it bumps the car without disturbing the peace
• Bang for Your Buck: The price is a real steal. Damn, it’s insane how much power you’re getting at this price. Even though it’s overrated it’s worth it

Here are a few drawbacks:

A few people mentioned that this amplifier tends to overheat especially if there’s a carpet. The simplest solution would be adding spacers because the vents are facing downwards.

There were also complaints that the remote is not working. Well, there’s a trick to it you have to turn it up to max then you can use the remote and adjust it as needed.

All in all this Boss amplifier is a good one. The price makes it almost throw away yet it lasts for a long time and delivers on all fronts.

I hate to say this and here it goes by far it’s the #1 best-selling amp on the market. So you will be lucky if you manage to get one because they are flying off the shelves. Since the price is unbeatable it seems everyone wants one all of a sudden. Grab one before someone else does.

You might also like: Best competition car amplifiers 

 

Conclusions on the best monoblock amps

We have reached the end of this amplifier award ceremony. I hope you have enjoyed it reading it as much I loved testing them out.

There are many amplifiers on the market that are good monoblocks however only 5 of these made the cut. As you have seen I’ve tried to cover the whole power spectrum so you find your match as conveniently as possible.

Also because we’re living in particular times these bestselling amplifiers are almost always out of stock because they are so popular. The only thing to do is buy it as soon as they are available or risk waiting for weeks on end.

If you have any tips or ideas reach out and let me know.

Roger and Out

Which monoblock amp is the best?

These are the best monoblock amps:

• Kicker 46CXA8001 – Best Overal Monoblock Amplifier

• Taramp’s Smart 3 – Best  Class D Monoblock Amp

• Alpine S-A60M S-Series – Best Mono Amplifier for Car

• Planet Audio PL3000.1D

• BOSS Audio Systems R1100M Riot Series

What is the difference between a Class D amplifier and a monoblock?

Monoblock means how many channels the amp has in this case only one. And Class D means the classification. Also these amps are more efficient with how they work and produce no or little heat. It’s not a true comparison because monoblock amps can be class D.

What amplifier is best for the subwoofer?

The best amplifier for a subwoofer would be Class AB or Class H. These amplifiers seem to be specifically made for subwoofers. The thing is that Class D amplifiers are too slow to keep up with the repetitive bass. Here’s a good list of amplifiers that I’ve picked for subwoofers and bass. Check out my best amps for subwoofers and best amps for bass posts.

What is a mono amp good for?

The mono amp is good for delivering a lot of power through a single channel for a subwoofer. Typically mono amps are used to power subwoofers because they provide the big power needs that subwoofers want.

 

FAQ about the Best Mono Amps:

What is the max power output for these monoblock amps (mono amplifiers)?

The max power output and RMS power output are as follows:

• Kicker 46CXA8001 1600 Watts high power rating; 600 watts RMS at 2 ohms; MOSFET power supply;
• Taramp’s Smart 3; 3000 watts RMS; bass boost
• Alpine S-A60M S-Series; 330 Watts RMS power rating; 600 watts RMS power output x 1 at 2 ohms; mosfet power supply; bass boost
• Planet Audio PL3000.1D; 3000 Watts max power output; MOSFET power supply; bass boost; class d amp; speaker level inputs
• BOSS Audio System R1100M Riot Series; 1100 watts max power output; 825 Watts RMS @2-Ohms; class d amp;

 

Why aren’t there any JL audio monoblock amplifiers on the list?

The main reason why I haven’t included any JL audio monoblock amplifiers is that they are very expensive. I would be doing a disservice if I would recommend the most expensive monoblock amplifiers on the market. Yes, they are powerful amps and perfect for subwoofer amps and not many can afford them. Even most subwoofer amps are below the mid-4-figure mark.

Which monoblock amplifiers (single channel amp) or class d amp (compact subwoofer amplifier) didn’t make it on the list?

These monoblock amplifiers didn’t make it on my list: jl audio System mono amp (subwoofer amp), Rockford Fosgate prime mono amp (single channel amp) with bass boost, Boss Audio Systems Ar1500 M subwoofer amp (mono amplifier) with bass boost. The boss audio system ar1500m might not have enough power for serious bass. The Rockford fosgate prime doesn’t come with a variable low pass filter.

What kind of features does the best mono amps should have?

Many car audio systems (car’s audio system, sound system) have one or more of these features: power efficiency for stereo system, big bass output, more power from the input signal for the subwoofer, more than enough power for the car audio system, speaker level inputs, variable low pass filter, variable bass boost, mosfet power supply, remote subwoofer control, variable low pass crossover, switchable input sensitivity, superior sound quality, remote bass level control, customized sound output, professional peak limiter circuitry, variable input control, switchable bass boost, phase control switch, onboard bass boost and remote control.

What would be the best option for car audio enthusiasts?

For car audio enthusiasts I would recommend the following: a must-have MOSFET power supply, following the car audio industry’s latest trends, stereo sound from speaker level inputs for the car speakers, more than average power, and remote speaker wire for sound output. If you’re going with rockford check the Rockford Fosgate power rating.

What is the peak power output for Kicker 46CXA8001?

The Kicker 46CXA8001 has a peak power output of 1600 Watts.

What is the RMS power handling at 4 ohms for the Alpine S-A60M S-Series?

The Alpine S-A60M S-Series has an RMS power handling of 330 Watts at 4 ohms.

How much RMS power can Taramp’s Smart 3 deliver?

Taramp’s Smart 3 delivers 3000-watt RMS power handling at 1 ohm, 2 ohms, and 4 ohms.

Which monoblock amplifier offers the most wattage?

Taramp’s Smart 3 offers the most wattage with 3000 Watt RMS Power Handling at 1 ohm/2 ohms/4 ohms.

What is a Class D Monoblock Amplifier?

A Class D Monoblock Amplifier is a type of amplifier that uses an efficient, switching type design to deliver all the power from its maximum power rating with short circuit protection. It is also 1 ohm stable, meaning it can handle even more power for higher output applications.

What are some of the best monoblock amplifiers?

Some of the best monoblock amplifiers on the market include Kicker Mono Amps, Rockford Fosgate Power Subwoofers and Skar Audio amps, which are often rated as among the most powerful mono amplifiers available.

How do I find the best mono car amplifier?

When looking for the best mono car amplifier, be sure to consider factors such as its max power rating and subwoofer amplifier capabilities. Additionally, you should look at head unit compatibility and class d amp capabilities if you plan to use it in a stereo system.

Where can I buy a monoblock amp?

Monoblock amps can be found in many electronics stores or online retailers such as Amazon or eBay. Prices will vary depending on brand, features and power ratings so take some time to compare options before purchasing.

What is the best monoblock amplifier?

The Kicker 46CXA8001 is the best overall, with 1600 Watts Peak Power output and 600 & 800 Watts RMS power handling at 2 ohms and 8 ohms respectively.

Which monoblock amplifier has the highest wattage?

Taramp’s Smart 3 delivers 3000 Watt RMS power handling at 1 ohm/2 ohms/4 ohms – but beware of its power! You need a serious equipment upgrade to actually get those 3000 Watts.

Which monoblock amplifier offers more juice than advertised?

Alpine S-A60M S-Series is underrated with 330 watts RMS power output x 1 at 4 ohms and 600 watts RMS power output x 1 at 2 ohms – plus you’re getting more juice than advertised.

Which monoblock amplifier is most reliable?

Rockford Fosgate R500X1D is not the strongest, but is able to deliver 500 Watts RMS power at 1 ohm and 300 Watts output at 4 ohms – plus it’s one of the most reliable monoblock amplifiers you can get.

What is a Class D Monoblock Amplifier?

A Class D Monoblock Amplifier is an amplifier that contains its own power supply and can be used to drive one or more subwoofers. It uses a high switching frequency which enables it to produce the maximum output power with minimal distortion. It also has short circuit protection and often comes with 1 ohm stable amps for increased safety when driving low impedance loads.

What are some of the best monoblock amplifiers on the market?

Some of the best monoblock amplifiers currently available include Kicker Mono Amps, Skar Audio Max Power Rating Monoblocks, Rockford Fosgate Power Series Monoamps, PowerBass Monoblocks, and More Power Monoamps.

How do I choose the right mono amp for my car audio system?

The right mono amp for your car audio system will depend on your individual needs. Factors such as budget, room size, power ratings of both your head unit and the amplifier itself should all be taken into consideration before making a final decision. Additionally, you should consider what type of subwoofer you have in order to determine if a class d amplifier or traditional mono subwoofer amplifier is necessary.

What is the most powerful mono amplifier available today?

The most powerful mono amplifier available today is Skar Audio’s Max Power Rating Monoblock Amplifier which boasts an impressive 8200 watts RMS power at 1 ohm max and 3000 watts RMS at 2 ohms. This makes it one of the most powerful monoblock amplifiers on the market today.

What is a monoblock amplifier?

A monoblock amplifier (or mono amp) is a single, compact unit that incorporates both an amplifier and one subwoofer into one device. They are typically used to drive car audio systems, but can also be used in home theater or other audio applications. A monoblock amp provides power to the speaker while allowing the user to control the bass volume and tone remotely with a remote control.

What is the best budget mono car amplifier?

The best budget mono car amplifiers vary depending on your specific needs and requirements. Generally speaking, for basic needs it’s advisable to opt for a Class D amplifier such as Rockford Fosgate Prime R500X1D 500 Watt Mono Amplifier which offers great value for money at an affordable price point of around $150 USD.

What are some of the best class D amplifiers available?

Some of the best Class D amplifiers currently available include models from Kenwood, Alpine and Rockford Fosgate such as Kenwood KAC-M1804 Compact 4-Channel Power Amplifier, Alpine MRV-M500 V-Power Digital Monoblock, and Rockford Fosgate Punch P1000X2D 2 Channel Car Amp.

Which power wire should I use for my mono block amplifier?

When connecting your mono block amplifier you will need to use a power wire rated at least as high as your system’s total current draw in order to ensure peak performance from your unit without any risk of damage due to inadequate wiring. For most setups this means using 8 AWG or larger power wires with multiple connections running from your battery directly up front near the stereo system.”

Last Updated on November 7, 2023 by Brian Beasley