Best Under Seat Subwoofer with Pros, Cons & Recommendations

 

Welcome to the best under seat subwoofer awards!

Best-Under-Seat-Subwoofer

After having spent the last 12 days mounting, wiring, fine-tuning, breaking in, and turning my car seat into a back and butt massager while skipping on house chores (sorry honey…), I’m ready to reveal which are the very best under seat subs on the market.

Look:

Finding the perfect under-seat woofer comes down to two things: the space available and your budget. As soon as you have determined these, it will be a breeze to find the perfect sub.

I’m ranking these five champion subs based on their size, weight, ease of installation, and the amount of bass they produce.

You see, for more than 20 years, I’ve been installing and upgrading car stereos. I’ve moved beyond a job into the passion territory. I thought it would be helpful to dig into my experience and share with you which are the best subs for under seat fitting. I’m doing the heavy lifting to save you tons of time. Pick any of these champions, and you can rest assured that it will deliver the best bass experience for your ride.

Let’s feel some thump, thump already!

In a Hurry? Here Are the Top 3 Under the Seat Subwoofers

For music fans who have no space to spare yet enjoy a concert-sounding ride.

It’s for music fans who have no space to spare even though they want some good bass for their daily commute.

It’s for car owners who want to make their daily commute more enjoyable with pounding bass.

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What Will I Learn? show

 

#1 Alpine Electronics PWE-S8 – Best Under Seat Subwoofer

Best-Under-Seat-SubwoofersAnd we have a WINNER!

Among all the subs on this list, this is the reigning champion. It has so many great points, so no wonder it’s #1 on my list. Not even Alpine can get around the laws of physics. It’s an 8” sub with a slim design that still manages to create a serious boom. It’s rated at 120 Watts RMS.

It gets the job done amazingly well. Even though it’s meant to be hidden under the seat, it still has good looks. Plus, you will be able to enjoy some great sound quality without sacrificing the trunk. Groceries have the full trunk while this sub can rest under the seat.

The installation isn’t hard. Plus, there’s a built-in amp, so you don’t have to spend a few weeks trying to find something compatible. The rugged construction will allow you to use it for many years to come.

This is why it’s top of my list:

  • Built to last: The rugged construction means it can take some off-road abuse with no problem.
  • Wow Factor: All you have to do is add this sub to your system, and your speakers will come to life.
  • Compact design: It’s a small one, so it will fit under or behind the seat, making it a great way to get a massage while driving.

A few drawbacks that I’ve encountered:

I noticed that this sub starts to struggle at the low end. With this Alpine woofer, the limit is 35Hz. Nothing comes through below that threshold.

Also, it might’ve been just me, but there weren’t enough brackets to mount this woofer.

Alpine did a great job with this subwoofer, so no wonder people are installing it left and right. My share of rides where I’ve installed it is a Nissan Hardbody, Tacoma, 4Runner, Silverado, Tundra Crewmax, and many others.

Since it’s a best-seller, I’m not surprised that the stocks are limited. The last time I checked, there were only a few left. So, make sure to order instantly if there’s one in stock or someone else will grab it from you!

If you want something a bit cheaper, check out #2 on my list below.

Pros
  • This sub brings the speakers to life. It’s the ultimate wow factor
  • If you want clean bass without sacrificing space, this is the right choice
  • The rugged construction is made out of cast metal so it can handle some abuse
Cons
  • It struggles when it has to go down below 35hz
  • There aren’t enough brackets for mounting

 

#2 Rockville RW8CA – Best Under Seat Subwoofer with Built-in Amplifier

Best-Under-Seat-Subwoofer-with-Built-in-AmplifierEven if you have a small ride, you can get that concert feeling with this woofer. I know many have taken a chance on this sub, and it delivers. It’s an 8” Rockville woofer rated at 150 Watts RMS. Besides these stats, it’s powerful and punchy.

As a matter of fact, this sub is loud without being loud. It rounds out the car stereo so you can enjoy the very best sound.

If you mount it to the back of your seat, you will enjoy some good vibrations. This is the perfect combination for those who want rich and deep bass at the same time.

Here’s why it’s a must-buy:

  • More than it meets the eye: This is quite an impressive sub for its small size and slim appearance. It can kick some ass.
  • Perfect for any music genre: No matter your music preference, all the songs are clean.
  • A discrete Sub: It’s nice and loud inside. However, if the windows are up, nothing leaks out, so no disturbance.

A few drawbacks you must know about:

If you’re looking for window-shattering bass, you should look somewhere else. This sub wasn’t meant to do that.

It has an annoying blue LED light that will be distracting at night if it’s not hidden under the seat.

You’re getting amazing quality at a great price, so no wonder it’s selling like hotcakes. I’ve installed it in quite a few rides, like in a Tacoma, Jeep Rubicon, Honda Civic, Tundra, and Fiat 500, to name a few.

Since this Rockville sub is so popular, the stocks are almost always empty. It was rated as one of the best Rockville subwoofers. So, if you find one, grab it and run with it, or you risk waiting for a few weeks until the next shipment arrives.

Pros
  • Low profile sub that is ideal for small cars or minimal space
  • Powerful and punchy bass as if you were at a concert
  • Besides being a sub, it can be used as a great massager
Cons
  • The bass isn’t that powerful
  • The blue light might be distracting at night.

 

#3 Kenwood KSC-PSW8 – Best Under Seat Powered Subwoofer

Best-Under-Seat-Powered-Subwoofer

I almost passed over this sub by accident, but I’m glad I didn’t because this little one hits hard. Even if it’s an 8” sub, it’s rated at 150 Watts RMS.

If you have realistic expectations, this sub will deliver perfectly. Not only does it hit hard, but the lows are perfect as well. If you’re accustomed to your factory system, don’t be surprised to hear new notes with this Kenwood woofer.

Many clients of mine told me that their commute is more enjoyable thanks to this sub. The main selling point for this sub is that you don’t have to sacrifice any trunk space. Since it has a slim design, it fits anywhere to deliver some well-deserved bass.

Here’s why it’s a must-buy:

  • Bass if you have no space: The factory system is typically weak at best, and now, even if you have no space whatsoever, this Kenwood is here to give you the bass you need. For higher-rated subs, take a look at the best bass subwoofers for cars.
  • For the perfect lows: If you’re missing the lows, this Kenwood sub will more than make up for it. You can enjoy your favorite music with newfound sounds.
  • Finally, a great remote: Say goodbye to flimsy and cheap plastic remotes. This beauty will keep you safe while driving.

A few drawbacks you must know about:

Depending on your vehicle, it might be a bit tedious to mount, while for others, it’s a breeze.

You should set your expectations accordingly. It’s an 8” sub, and it has a slim design, so that it won’t rattle your teeth.

It’s a popular woofer. I had my hands full with this one. So many clients picked it that it’s almost impossible to remember all the vehicles. Some of them include a Chevy Crew cab, BMW X3, Toyota Yaris, Silverado, Ford F150, Nissan Hard Body, Jeep Wrangler, and Chevy Bolt, to name a few.

For small cars, this is a keeper, so no wonder why the stocks are low. The last time I checked, there were only a few available, so grab one while you can.

Pros
  • It has an ultra-thin profile while banging hard
  • It hits the lows perfectly and rounds up the sound system nicely
  • Excellent remote control knob to adjust the bass on the fly for every song
Cons
  • It’s not that easy to mount if you don’t have the right harness
  • Too bad it’s just an 8-inch sub

 

#4 Rockville SS8P – Best Sub for Under Truck Seat

Best-Sub-for-Under-Truck-SeatBoys, we might have a sleeper sub over here. In most cases, under-seat 8” subs aren’t that powerful. However, this might be the exception to that rule. This Rockville sub, besides having a slim profile it’s rated at 100 Watts RMS, and it’s stronger and louder than expected.

Don’t get me wrong, you won’t do any hair tricks or rattle the neighbor’s windows, but you are getting a strong bass-producing clean and crisp sub. Best of all, you get everything you need to set it up in your car. There’s a wiring kit included with a built in amp and enclosure while at a ridiculously low price. As a matter of fact, it’s a steal.

The highs and the lows are clear, and you get a one-year no-questions-asked return warranty. Can you ask for more?

Here’s why it’s a must-buy:

  • Audiophile Approved: the bass is clean and crisp, and it rounds out the system nicely.
  • It won’t provoke road rage: the bass isn’t strong enough to piss off people at the stoplight; however, you can feel it on the inside.
  • Inexpensive bass: if you’re on a budget, then this sub is the right choice for you. For a hundred a few dollars, you get everything you need for a great sounding system.

A few drawbacks that you have to know about:

This is an under-seat subwoofer which means that if you put it in the trunk, you won’t hear or feel anything. Keep this in mind.

For some reason, manufacturers love to put some insanely bright blue LEDs in the subs. Normally it’s not a problem if it’s under the seat, but if it’s in plain view, it’s distracting.

She’s a keeper because I’ve installed it in so many cars that I’ve lost count. Here are a few from my list of happy customers: Honda Accord, Jeep JK, Nissan Murano, Subaru Forrester, Tacoma, 95 Mustang, Tundra, Jeep Liberty and Ford F-150.

Since you’re getting an insane deal at this price no wonder, Rockville has problems keeping this sub in stock. Just in case it’s out of stock, do come back later because they get new shipments all the time.

Pros
  • It won’t shake the rust off the car, but it will give you a well-rounded system.
  • The bass is strong enough to turn your seat into a massage chair
  • It’s a ridiculous deal you get everything at such a low price
Cons
  • The wiring kit could be better. You’re better of with heat shrink materials
  • The remote control volume is made out of cheap flimsy plastic

 

#5 Kicker 11HS8 – Best Hideaway Subwoofer

Best-Hideaway-SubwooferThis Kicker 11HS8 is the perfect hideaway sub if you’re afraid that thieves would steal it. It’s small and compact, so you can easily put it below the driver or passenger seat.

It’s the best 8 inch Kicker subwoofer that has 150 Watts RMS rating. To my surprise this baby slaps. Of course, it can’t compete with bigger and more power-hungry subs, yet the space-saving shape is well worth it.

The installation is super easy. A professional is not needed. You can get by with the help of YouTube.

All in all, it’s a great sub to own. The hideaway aspect is a major selling point for many, plus it delivers the perfect lows for a great-sounding ride.

Here’s why it’s a must-buy:

  • Compact sub: it has a small profile to fit just about anywhere, even in the smallest vehicle.
  • Enjoy the lows: this sub is perfect for the lows, so if you enjoy deep bass music like rock and hip hop, here’s your winner.
  • Perfect bass inside: if the windows are up, there’s nothing leaking out, so no disturbing the neighbors.

A few drawbacks that you have to know about:

You will need an expert to dial this baby in. To get the best performance out of it, you need to take your sweet time to make it perfect.

As expected, there’s isn’t that much boom for an 8” under-seat sub; still, it’s more than enough for a small vehicle.

This is the preferred sub for many, so no wonder I was putting in overtime to install them. Here are some vehicles which are thumping with this sub: Ford F150, Suzuki x90, Tacoma, Lexus, Hilux Surf, Jeep Wrangler, to name a few.

Since this is a very popular sub, people are going nuts, and the stocks are almost always depleted. If you are lucky and see one in stock, pounce on it or risk waiting for weeks on end.

Pros
  • This is a small footprint compact sub that has the bump that you’re looking for
  • If you want to enjoy a rich audio experience, you have found the perfect sub it plays anything from rock to hip-hop.
  • It’s the perfect sub. It can’t be heard when the windows are up, and it’s punchy inside.
Cons
  • This sub comes with a very short remote wire, so you will have to upgrade
  • Dialing takes some time to eliminate distortions

 

Conclusions for the best underseat subwoofer

We have reached the end of this subwoofer award show. By now, you should know which one of these woofers is the best subwoofer fit for your taste and your vehicle.

I have ruthlessly eliminated all subs that weren’t up to my standards. That’s why my list is short. I hope you had a blast reading through my reviews. I had a great time testing them for you.

As you have read before, many of these are close to being out of stock, so you need to take action and buy it if they are available.

If you have questions or tips, you know where the contact button is.

Roger and out!

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Are underseat subwoofers any good?

Yes, underseat subwoofers are good subs especially if you don’t want to sacrifice trunk space. These underseat woofers create a unique sound since they support the low frequency bass. Plus they don’t need that much power yet the power output is high.

What is the best subwoofer for deep bass?

The best subwoofer for deep bass is as follows:

  1. Rockford Fosgate P300-12 Punch 300 Watt Powered Loaded 12-Inch Subwoofer Enclosure

  2. Pioneer TS-WX130DA Compact Active subwoofer

  3. KICKER 44CWCS124 CompC 12 Inch 600 Watt 4 Ohm Single Voice Coil Car Audio Subwoofers with Polypropylene Cone and Polyurethane Surround

What is the best all around subwoofer?

My best all around subwoofer would be the Rockford Fosgate P300-12 Punch 300 Watt Powered Loaded 12-Inch Subwoofer Enclosure.

Where should underseat subwoofer be placed?

As the name suggests the underseat subwoofer should be placed under the seat. The decision is if you put it under the driver or passenger side. This depends on preference.

Which is the best ?

From my research and tests the best waterproof under seat subwoofer would be: Pyle Lanzar AQTB8 8-Inch 1000 Watts Low-Profile Super Slim Active Amplified Marine/Waterproof Subwoofer System.

What is the frequency response for the best underseat subwoofer list?

The frequency response (frequency range) for these best under seat subwoofers is as follows:

  1. Alpine Electronics PWE-S8 Restyle Compact Powered 8-Inch Subwoofer 120 watt rms power (power rms), 240 watt maximum power; frequency response: 32 – 150 Hz
  2. Rockville RW8CA 8″ 600 Watt peak power (active power) Under-Seat Slim Amplified Car Subwoofer; frequency response: 20 – 150 Hz
  3. Kenwood KSC-PSW8 250W Maximum power (150W power rms, rms power) Single 8″ Under Seat Powered Subwoofer Enclosure wired Remote Control; frequency response:  35 – 150 Hz
  4. Rockville SS8P 400 Watts of peak power Slim Under-Seat Powered Car/Truck Subwoofer Sub+Amp Kit; frequency response: 20 -150 Hz; low frequency response
  5. KICKER 11HS8 8″ / Kicker Hideaway Car Audio Powered Subwoofer Sub Enclosure HS8 150W  power handling; frequency response: 25 – 120 Hz

Related: [Revealed] Best 10 inch competition subwoofer (with Buying Guide)

Which powered subwoofer didn’t make the best under seat subwoofers list?

This powered subwoofer didn’t make my list: kenwood ksc sw11 compact powered subwoofer, kicker 11hs8 low profile car subwoofer , rockford fosgate under seat subwoofer, rockville rw10ca 800 watt slim and compact, cerwin vega slim subwoofer (compact subwoofer), sound storm 10 inch subwoofer with powerful bass that includes a wired remote (comes with a remote), under seat subwoofer alpine.

What should you check out when you’re buying a new compact powered subwoofer or car audio sound system?

When you’re looking for some new under seat subwoofers these features are the most important ones: variable bass boost, pwm mosfet power supply, variable low pass filter, wired remote control, adjustable input sensitivity, cast aluminum enclosure, easy to install, thermal protection circuit short protection circuit, subsonic filter, excellent sound quality, input sensitivity, aluminum enclosure, speaker level inputs, bass control, phase control, class d amplifier, remote bass knob,  auto turn on tech, phase switch, compact design, adjustable low pass filter, low pass crossover, remote bass, rca inputs. Some under seat subwoofer provides remote bass level control which makes it easy to adjust the bass level on the fly (remote bass control). Bass boost control allows you to easily adjust the under seat subwoofer to your personal preference. Bass boost technology (Variable Bass Boost) for under seat subwoofers is an important feature.

Which are the best powered subwoofers on the market?

Finding the best powered subwoofer available in the market is not an easy choice. You can pick up rockville rw10ca 10 inch 800 watt aluminum enclosure and speaker level inputs or kicker 11hs8 8 inch car subwoofers 200 watts rms phase control for deeper bass. The remote control comes handy when you want to adjust the bass boost on the fly. Also stay away from the peak power (watts peak) number because that’s not realistic look for something like 75 watts rms or 200 watts rms. For accurate bass you will need low level rca input (rca inputs) and phase switch. Fit accurate bass, quality sound and a great audio system you can always with this under seat subwoofer rockville rw10ca 10 inch auto turn on 800 watts (800 watt) peak power mosfet power supply,  or 200 watts rms bass boost.

How thick should under seat subwoofers (under seat car subwoofer) should be?

Typically for the best fit the under seat subwoofers (under seat car subwoofer) should be less than 3 inches thick. For the best experience you can install it under the driver’s seat or passenger’s seat.

Should I go with 8 inch or 10 inch under seat subwoofers (under seat car subwoofer)?

Both 8 inch and 10 inch under seat subwoofers (under seat car subwoofer) are a good choice. It really comes down to your available space (under car seats) and budget. Here’s what you need to know about the best under seat subwoofers they are easy to install. It’s almost plug and play. If you can get one that has 800 watts that’s more than enough. These features are an absolute must for the top rated under seat subwoofers: auto turn technology, variable low pass filter and low pass crossover, adjustable input sensitivity, cast aluminum surroundings, easy to install,  remote sub level, car seat fit. Also ignore the peak power rating.

Are the best under seat car subwoofers truly the best?

Yes the best under seat car subwoofers are the best of the best. I’ve tested a more than a dozen of subs and left with 5 champions. These will fit under most car seat.

Do under the seat subwoofers have built in amplifier?

Yes, the highest rated under seat subwoofers have built in amplifier. For the best sound quality an amplifier should have at least 100 watts rms output power.

Where can I buy the best underseat subwoofers?

You can buy the best underseat subwoofers on Amazon. Amazon has a great return policy if you don’t like it you can always send it back for a full refund or replacement.

What is the best under the seat subwoofer?

The best under the seat subwoofer is the Alpine Electronics PWE-S8. It’s an under seat subwoofer with built in amp which makes it easy to install. This under seat subwoofer is so powerful that it will shake your car and take it to whole new level of audio experience. People who care how their bass sounds will appreciate the accurate bass reproduction of this under seat subwoofer. If you have a limited budget and don’t want to spend a fortune on a new car stereo for some decent sound quality I highly recommend Alpine Electronics PWE-S8 under seat car subwoofer. It doesn’t take too much space under your car seat and still delivers loud music. Great sounding bass with deep accurate lows and crystal clear highs. Your car sound system is lacking bass ? You are in for a surprise this under seat subwoofer is powerful. It has built in amplifier, so you don’t need to buy one separate. I tested it myself and was I blown away by the sound quality of this car subwoofer!

Who makes the best under seat subwoofer?

Rockford Fosgate makes the best under seat subwoofer. Rockford Fosgate makes great audio components starting with amplifier, speakers, subwoofers and speaker wire. They also have a great reputation for their customer support.

Where should underseat subwoofer be placed?

The best place for an under seat subwoofer (under seat car subwoofer) is putting the sub against the rear seats facing toward the back of the vehicle, therefore, most of the bass is reflected off the hatch and goes forward. This helps to minimize phase anomalies and should improve bass response.

Can you put a subwoofer under a seat?

Yes, under seat subwoofers are specially designed to be installed under a seat. You can’t put a regular subwoofer under a seat. Underseat subwoofers are designed to produce loud bass at a decent price.

Where can I buy the best under seat subwoofers?

The best under seat subwoofers can be purchased online on Amazon. Amazon has a very easy return policy and will give you your money back if you don’t like it.

Which is the best under seat subwoofer with built-in amplifier?

The best under seat subwoofer with built-in amplifier is the Alpine Electronics PWE-S8. This slim design subwoofer is a great choice for anyone who is looking for the best slim subwoofer under seat.

What is the best hideaway subwoofer?

The best hideaway subwoofer is the Kicker 11HS8 because it has great sound quality with deep accurate lows, crystal clear highs and distortion free. This car subwoofer (under seat car subwoofer) is perfect for people who like deep thumping bass speaker system in their vehicle. The Kicker 11HS8 can be hidden away under seats or your trunk so you don’t have to worry about taking up space in your cabin.

What is the best slim subwoofer under seat?

The best slim subwoofer under seat is Rockville RW8CA because it has high-quality materials and construction, delivers great sound, and is easy to install. Their competition subwoofer line is no exception, delivering great sound that will give your car stereo a boost. The installation is also very easy, making it a perfect option for those who are not particularly handy with tools.

What is the best truck under seat subwoofer?

The best truck under seat subwoofer is the Rockville SS8P because it has great sound quality with deep accurate lows, crystal clear highs and distortion free. It is perfect for people who like deep thumping bass speaker system in their vehicle. The Rockville SS8P can be hidden away under seats or your trunk so you don’t have to worry about taking up space in your cabin.

What is the best compact powered subwoofer?

The Kenwood KSC-PSW8 is the best compact powered subwoofer because it hits hard, has a slim design, and comes with a remote control knob.

Is the KSC-SW11 worth buying?

There are a lot of under seat subwoofer controls on the market. Some products have separate bass and treble controls, while others have a single knob that controls both frequencies. There are also amplifiers that allow you to control the volume of the subwoofer independently from the main speaker system. The ksc-sw11 is a great solution for tighter spaces. It also has a lot of features that allow you to customize the sound to your liking. 

What should I consider when I’m buying a car subwoofer?

When shopping for a car subwoofer, one of the first things to consider is depth. The depth of the subwoofer will determine how much space it takes up and how much clearance you’ll need. Another important consideration is the dimensions of your trunk or SUV. If you have a small car, you may not be able to fit a large subwoofer under your seat. You’ll also need to pick a subwoofer with the right turn-on method. Some subwoofers can be turned on by an amplifier, while others need to be turned on manually. Once you’ve picked the right subwoofer, it’s time to install it. Installation can be simple or complex, depending on the type of equipment you’re using and the cables you need to connect. If you’re not sure how to install your subwoofer, consult a professional or read the instructions that came with your equipment. With a little bit of effort, you can get great sound from a car subwoofer under your seat.

A subwoofer is designed to reproduce low frequencies, providing the listener with a deep, rich sound. Subwoofers are available in a variety of sizes and designs, but one of the most popular types is the under-seat subwoofer. Under-seat subwoofers offer a number of advantages, including build quality, convenience, and price. In terms of build quality, under-seat subwoofers are typically made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of the road. In terms of convenience, under-seat subwoofers are easy to install and require no modifications to the vehicle. Finally, in terms of price, under-seat subwoofers are very affordable and are an excellent value for the money. There are a number of different types of under-seat subwoofers on the market, and each offers its own set of benefits. However, all under-seat subwoofers share one common goal: to provide the listener with superb sound quality.

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!