Best Polk Subwoofers with Pros, Cons & Recommendations

 

Welcome to the Best Polk Subwoofer Awards

After spending the last 10 days almost ruffing it in the garage, installing, drilling and fine-tuning meanwhile my wife was complaining that sooner or later, the kids will ask any stranger, “are you my daddy?”, I’m ready to showcase the best Polk subs to choose from.

Look:

I’m ranking the top 3 best Polk woofers by bass, power needs, ease of install and, of course, looks for bragging rights.

To find the perfect Polk sub, you will need to know two things space in your ride and your budget. As soon as you know these two, the choice becomes easy.

For more than 20 years, I’ve been upgrading car audio systems as a job. Scratch that it’s more than just a job. It’s my hobby. I’m the happiest when I see the owner driving away with a smile reaching ear to ear. So this is why I’ve created this Polk sub-list to make things as easy as possible.

By picking any of these 3, you are going with a winner. On the list, I’ve included only those that are among the most popular size 8”-12”, and there are enclosed and normal subs as well.

Let’s enjoy some bass already!

 

[lwptoc]

 

#1 Polk Audio DB842DVC – Best Overall Subwoofer

And we have a WINNER!

Let’s face it most cars have a weak sound system. And just in case one of the subs burns out, you have to pay a fortune at dealerships to replace it. That fortune does not justify the mediocre sound quality.

This is where this Polk 8” sub pops in. It’s rated at 150 Watts RMS so that it can do some damage.

Make sure you break this thing in because only after that will you get that crisp sound. To my surprise, it’s quite a loud woofer. I wouldn’t expect this much from a little guy like this one.

The best thing about this Polk sub is that the bass is clean and tight without being overpowering.

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

• Great for Factory Upgrade: it sounds a lot better than the stock subs, and it’s an affordable way to upgrade them
• Pounds for its Size: many people are turned off because it’s “just” an 8, “ and this little thing delivers quite the performance
• Polk that actually a hit: as you know, there are hits and misses with Polk audio now this sub is a hit

I have found a few drawbacks you have to see:

For being a small 8” sub, it’s not that easy to install as one might think; at least it is an inexpensive one.

I didn’t particularly like the terminals because they are huge and placed way too close for my comfort.

Polk is a popular brand amongst many drivers, so no wonder I’ve installed it in so many vehicles such as Lexus 430, Pontiac G8, Tahoe, Sequoia, Lexus SC430, Challenger, Yukon, Toyota Solara and Forrest River RV.

If you want something a bit bigger and more powerful, then check out #2 on my list.

Since this sub is a best seller, I’m not surprised that it’s flying off the shelves. If there’s isn’t one in stock, check back later because they get new shipments regularly.

 

#2 Polk Audio DB1042DVC – Best 10 Inch Sub

If you want a super clean subwoofer, then you have found just the thing. This Polk sub is 10” and rated at 350 Watts RMS. It’s not a power-hungry woofer, so that it will run with most cars without any issues.

This Polk Audio speaker is top-notch. It has a rugged construction quality so that it can handle some punishment. I’ve heard that a few people have used it as a marine subwoofer.

The bass is crisp and solid. If you put it in the box, then it will become punchy. Best of all, you’re getting your money’s worth.

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

• Bang for your Buck: this Polk sub is quite affordable, and it’s perfect for your daily commute
• Yesss Basss: the bass is punchy and tight and perfectly fills in the lows
• Built to last: the rugged construction allows serving you for many years to come

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

I know, I know it’s a lot to ask at this price range, and I would’ve loved to have a grill for protection

The screws are of inferior quality because they strip way too fast for my liking

I’ve installed this sub in a few vehicles Bronco, Jeep, Cadillac Deville, Chevy Aveo and Camero, to name a few.

I hate to be the bearer of bad news because I’m. The last time I’ve checked, there was only one left in stock. So just in case, you have missed out, check back regularly because you never know when the new shipment arrives.

Take a look at the top-rated car subwoofers for the money reviews.

 

#3 Polk Audio db1240DVC – Best 12 Inch Sub

I couldn’t help myself; I had to do the Mountain Dew test. After installing this sub and breaking it in, I’ve pushed the gain almost to the max. After that, I’ve placed a Mountain Dew can on the roof of the car. And I let it have it.

After a song, I’ve checked the Dew. It was shaken, not stirred. Good one, Polk.

This Polk sub is 12” in width, and it’s rated at 360 Watts RMS. Even though it’s a budget sub, it delivers big time. The bass is rich, and the sound quality is amazing.

If you’re on the budget, then this is your best choice for a great bass.

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

• Your Ears will be ringing: clean, clear, and hard bass. Can you ask for more at this price range?
• Pounds for the price: this sub is cheap and produces a lot of sounds and a rich bass
• Concert Hall Effect: I dare you to put 4 of these in the car, and you’ll see what I mean

Also read: Top 5 list of the loudest 12 inch subwoofers

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

The same thing as mentioned with the 8” sub that grille protection included would’ve been a lot better, but I can’t ask for more at this price range.

For a 12” sub, the power is tiny. I know 8” that is almost as powerful as this.

So far, I had only one install with this sub, and it was in an ’84 Land Cruiser, and the owner was grinning ear to ear when he departed.

You need to hurry because these subs are selling like hotcakes. It happened to me quite often that they were sold out. If you are lucky and get them in stock, buy them instantly, so you don’t have to wait.

You may also be interested in: The most powerful 10 inch subwoofer

Conclusions on the Best Polk Subwoofers

We have reached the end of the Polk subwoofer awards. Most people are not reading this because they have already placed their orders. However, it’s customary to tie up all loose ends. So here it goes. As you have seen, Polk is a great brand when it comes to subs. They pack a punch, and they are affordable.

As promised, I’ve only selected the very best that Polk has to offer. Also, I’ve cherry-picked the most popular sizes for an easy fit in most vehicles.

Keep in mind that there’s a stock shortage going on, so make sure you buy it fast if they are available, or you have to wait for a few weeks, maybe more.

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

Roger and Out.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Are Polk subwoofers good?

In general Polk subwoofers are considered the perfect choice because they deliver amazing value for not a lot of money. I don’t know how they can sell these subs at such a low price.

 

Last Updated on October 24, 2023 by Brian Beasley