Our team at Fab-Audio Visual is going to tell you how the cost-effectiveness of subwoofers with built-in amplifiers is attracting a lot of attention. Having both the amplifier and subwoofer in one unit will make installation more easier, and you need minimal wiring, and you will face less overall complexity.

The Under seat subwoofers are getting more popular among music lovers and car enthusiasts due to their compact solution. This tiny setup eliminates the need for an external amplifier, and with an under-seat subwoofer in-build amplification system, the sub will receive sufficient power to deliver well-defined bass notes, so while riding a car, you will enjoy a truly immersive sonic journey.

Whether you enjoy listening to music genres that heavily rely on bass, such as hip-hop, EDM, or rock, or you simply appreciate the fullness and richness that bass adds to any audio content, this subwoofer will undoubtedly enhance your listening pleasure. Additionally, many models feature adjustable controls, allowing you to fine-tune the bass output according to your preferences and the acoustics of your vehicle’s interior. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a frequent traveller, or simply enjoy having an immersive audio experience on the road, this subwoofer will undoubtedly elevate your listening pleasure.

Underseat subwoofers generate powerful bass that impacts listeners while remaining compact and space-saving. Without compromising your valuable trunk space and cargo space or altering the car interior aesthetics, you can fit Underseat subwoofers seamlessly beneath your car seats. The main benefit of built-in amplification found in any under-seat subwoofer is that amp will necessarily provide power and control to accurately re-produce more accurate low-frequency sound.

If you are an individual who truly appreciates the convenience of a plug-and-play solution, then our listed under seat subwoofers are great for you as they are compatible with factory-installed audio systems, utilizing high-level inputs, thereby eliminating the need for additional converters.

Best Under Seat Subwoofer With Built-in Amplifier Summary

Kenwood KSC-SW11 Best Budget Option Kenwood KSC-SW11 Read More See On Amazon
Rockville RW10CA Best Low Profile Active Subwoofer Rockville RW10CA Read More See On Amazon
JBL BassPro SL Best Build JBL BassPro SL Read More See On Amazon
Infinity BassLink SM 8 Best Ultra-Compact Infinity BassLink SM 8 Read More See On Amazon
Kicker 11HS8 Best Value Kicker 11HS8 Read More See On Amazon
BOSS Audio Systems BASS8 Best Low Profile Sub BOSS Audio Systems BASS8 Read More See On Amazon
Sound Storm Laboratories LOPRO8 Best Amplified Subwoofer Sound Storm Laboratories LOPRO8 Read More See On Amazon
Rockville RVB10.1A Best Large Size Subwoofer Rockville RVB10.1A Read More See On Amazon

Best Under Seat Subwoofer With Built-in Amplifier At a Glance:

Best Under Seat Subwoofer With Built-in Amplifier Reviews

Kenwood KSC-SW11 (Image credit: Amazon)

Kenwood KSC-SW11

Best Budget Option

SPECIFICATIONS

Maximum Wattage: 150 watts | Amplifier Power (RMS): 75 watts | Sensitivity: 110 dB

I first tested Kenwood KSC-SW11 in the lab, which is a compact subwoofer with an integrated amplifier that adds big heart-pounding bass to your car. If you are on your budget, then Kenwood KSC-SW11 powered enclosed subwoofers do not affect your pockets, and under the $150 range, you can buy them.

This KSC-SW11 compact powerhouse has a beautiful design and under-cast aluminium enclosure; both the subwoofer and amp are integrated. If we talk about KSC-SW11 outer body design, the shiny black grill protects the subwoofer and the small logo on the side, and there is subwoofer model number KSC-SW11 is mentioned on the subwoofer cone material that has great surround material.

The overall size of the KSC-SW11 contains 11-inch length, 7.5-inch width and 2-¾ tall, which looks much more compact so that you can install the KSC-SW11 easily Under or Behind your truck Seat, SUVs hatch or Sedan’s trunk or any tight spaces. Although small, this KSC-SW11 subwoofer performs exceptionally well at low frequencies thanks to its built-in amplifier, providing 150 watts of maximum power.

With both RCA and high-level inputs on the Kenwood KSC-SW11, installation is a breeze, so you can easily sub virtually any car stereo system. Did you know Kenwood KSC-SW11 also maintains your comfort as you can control volume and bass levels via remote control from your driver’s seat?

The Kenwood KSC-SW11 also features a variable low-pass filter to adapt the frequency range and blends seamlessly with your existing speakers to give you a sound stage that is coherent and balanced. In terms of construction, the Kenwood KSC-SW11 is built to withstand daily use as it features a durable enclosure, and its speaker cone is really robust and long-lasting. So overall, the Kenwood KSC-SW11 is the best under-seat subwoofer with a built-in amplifier and adds some low-end punch to your car audio experience.

What included: 

  • Wiring harness
  • Mounting brackets

Rockville RW10CA (Image credit: Amazon)

Rockville RW10CA

Best Low Profile Active Subwoofer

SPECIFICATIONS

Size: 10 inch | RMS power: 200 Watt | 800 Watts Peak | Impedance: 2 Ohm

After Kenwood KSC-SW11, I took a lab test of Rockville RW10CA, which is a great active powered car subwoofer under budget option like you can get it under the $160 range. The Rockville RW10CA is a bass-enhancing subwoofer which comes in three sizes 10 Inch, 6x8 Inch and 8 Inch and I am reviewing the 10-inch option of Rockville RW10CA, which has 800 Watts Peak / 200 Watts RMS and uses pulse-width modulation (PWM) technique for significantly managing the voltage output. So  Rockville RW10CA MOSFET power supplies provide great features like Higher efficiency and less noise as compared to other slimline subwoofers.

If we talk about subwoofer size, then as similar to Kenwood KSC-SW11, this one is also compact and fits easily under the seat as the subwoofer is 2.7 inches thick and packs built-in amplifiers and smart circuit technology.

For incredible protection, the Rockville RW10CA features Thermal, Overload and short protection so the amp keeps monitoring internal temperature and in the condition the amplifier gets too hot, it will auto shut down and also shut down when a short circuit is detected or the amplifier’s input signal overloads. With the Rockville RW10CA adjustable input sensitivity, you are getting great flexibility for amplifier adjustments for amplification that is tailored to your tastes (Music preferences).

On the side body design of Rockville RW10CA, you will find a Phase Switch (0° or 180°), Low Pass Filter of 50Hz - 150Hz, Bass Boost 0 - 18dB @ 45Hz, Built in Subsonic Filter @ 29Hz, Low-Level RCA Input, Soft Delayed Remote Turn-On and High-Level Inputs (Auto Turn-On Technology) so use what sound demands.

With the help of Rockville RW10CA’s high-level input capability you can, you won’t need to use a separate amplifier and just pair this RW10CA directly with your car audio and home audio setup. Moreover, the Rockville RW10CA has 20Hz - 150Hz frequency response and 90dB @ 1w / 1m of sensitivity range.

So overall, with the built-in amp option Rockville RW10CA is a top-quality under-seat subwoofer to give you deep and powerful bass response while riding and for room audio setup, you can also fill your room with bass. With Rockville RW10CA, you can make installation quick (no additional wiring required) and can fine-tune the sound to your liking.

JBL BassPro SL (Image credit: Amazon)

JBL BassPro SL

Best Build

SPECIFICATIONS

Amplifier Power (RMS): 125 watts | Frequency Response: 35-120 | Peak: 250 watts

Now after Rockville RW10CA, I will guide you about JBL BassPro SL, which is another under-seat slim subwoofer that offers strong bass performance. As compared to Kenwood KSC-SW11 and Rockville RW10CA, the JBL BassPro SL also comes equipped with a Build in Class D amplifier, so I am damn sure that you never require extra amps to drive the subwoofer. With the shallow-profile woofer and slim design, you can place this JBL BassPro SL to your car under the seat. 

The JBL BassPro SL design is decent, and it features an ABS enclosure, and on the front, a strong grill containing the JBL logo in the central upper location is installed, which protects the subwoofer cone and inside material.

As compared to RW10CA, the JBL BassPro SL also produces minimal heat and does not require lots of current; with its custom circuitry, you will improve the sound quality and less distortion and also match the amplifier to the source.

The JBL BassPro SL is capable of managing  125 watts and with 250 watts Peak power, and with its electronic crossover control features, you can set each speaker’s frequency range should be adjusted (Variable adjustment from 50 Hz - 120 Hz).

You will find Line and high-level inputs on JBL BassPro SL, so no doubt installation is super easy, and after subwoofer installation, you can also control the subwoofer from driving by using  RBC remote level control. The JBL BassPro SL has  20A Fuse, 12A current draw (Max) and quiescent current draw (less than 800mA) and has a 35Hz – 120Hz frequency range.

Kicker 11HS8 (Image credit: Amazon)

Kicker 11HS8

Best Value

SPECIFICATIONS

RMS: 150 Watt | Frequency Response: 25-120 Hz | Size: 8 Inch

After JBL BassPro SL, here is another best under seat subwoofer with a built-in amplifier that costs you under $250. The reason why I am recommending you Kicker 11HS8 is its design, performance and price.

First, the design on Kicker 11HS8 looks very blackish, and you will find a fancy grill with white colour printed Kicker logo. The height of Kicker 11HS8 is 3 inches, and the body is very strong and reliable and made of aluminium material (mounted under vehicle’s interior)

The Kicker 11HS8 will enhance your car’s sound system, delivering deep and rich bass. The  Kicker 11HS8  sub has power handling, is rated at 150 watts peak and 75 watts RMS and has excellent capability to produce low frequencies with impressive clarity, so whatever your musical tastes are, like hip-hop, rock, or electronic music, the 11HS8  subwoofer by Kicker ensures that each beat is felt.

With the Kicker 11HS8 subwoofer, you can control the bass knob remotely to set a soul liking strong bass, and also, the woofer can hit low notes. On Kicker 11HS8, you will also find speaker-level inputs (installation is a breeze) and an auto turn-on switch.

Furthermore, the Kicker 11HS8 subwoofer has a 25-120 Hz frequency response, and there is a variable low-pass crossover (50-120 Hz), variable phase control (0 or 180 degrees) and bass boost control (0dB to +6dB).

On the side of the Kicker 11HS8 body, you will find the control panel contains Auto turn on, Input level, Phase switch, Bass boost, X-over freq, Gain, Remote level control and 10 A. So overall, if you have Kicker 11HS8, then absolutely you can kick low-quality bass out from your car and fill sound with high-quality bass.

BOSS Audio Systems BASS8 (Image credit: Amazon)

BOSS Audio Systems BASS8

Best Low Profile Sub

SPECIFICATIONS

800 High Output | Size: 8 Inch | Color: Black

If you want to enjoy bass like a boss, then here is BOSS Audio Systems BASS8, which you can install under your car seat as it is only 3 inches tall. Getting Boss BASS8 is super easy as only under the $100 range can anyone purchase this sub.

The BOSS Audio Systems BASS8 has a similar design as compared to Kenwood KSC-SW11 and has a 12.20 width and 8.86-inch length. On the side panel of BASS8, there you will find RCA and speaker level inputs for easy installation, and with a Low pass filter, all frequencies should be reproduced with accurate standards. Also, you will find Phase Control, Variable Bass Boost and LED status indicator.

On the front of BOSS Audio Systems BASS8, there is a robust grill installed for sub-protection, and inside the enclosure, there is a Subwoofer with Aluminum Cone which features High-Performance Voice Coil and has Rubber Surround to keep high notes. No worries, BOSS BASS8 comes with thermal and short protection, so your location is safe where you install the subwoofer and keep in comfort with remote subwoofer control.

Sound Storm Laboratories LOPRO8 (Image credit: Amazon)

Sound Storm Laboratories LOPRO8

Best Amplified Subwoofer

SPECIFICATIONS

Max Power: 600 Watts | Size: 8 inch | Protection: Yes

After BASS8 by BOSS, here is Sound Storm Laboratories LOPRO8, a great 8-inch powered subwoofer providing obvious bass under the $150 range. The Sound Storm Laboratories LOPRO8 subwoofer features a MOSFET Power Supply Class A/B amplifier, so signals are amplified by two transistors.

In terms of audio quality, the Sound Storm Laboratories LOPRO8 subwoofer delivers exceptional results and getting started is easy to operate the LOPRO8 because it is equipped with a remote control.

Due to its dual input levels, the LOPRO8 is adaptable to any car audio system. Sound Storm Laboratories' LOPRO8 subwoofer blends easily with any factory-installed audio system and aftermarket head unit.

With the LOPRO8, subwoofer frequencies can also be controlled via the variable low-pass filter for cleaner and more focused bass response. The LOPRO8’s compact size makes Installation easy in a variety of locations on vehicles(space-constrained areas); whatever mounting location you choose, it is flexible and convenient.

The LOPRO8 subwoofer also features excellent features like automatic shut-off protection. On the front beautiful grill with a silver round installed to protect the subwoofer from damage, and there is a panel on the body side which contains RCA inputs, Power Terminal, Fuse, Gain control, LED Indicator, High and Low-Level Inputs, Bass Boost, Subsonic Filter, Phase Control and Variable Low Pass Crossover.

Rockville RVB10.1A (Image credit: Amazon)

Rockville RVB10.1A

Best Large Size Subwoofer

SPECIFICATIONS

RMS: 500 Watts | Single 4-Ohm | Peak RMS: 300 Watts

Now after Sound Storm Laboratories LOPRO8, I will review Rockville RVB10.1A, which is a tremendous 10-inch active-powered car subwoofer that has a beautiful design. The Rockville RVB10.1A body is made of an anti-vibration braced MDF cabinet, and its angled back fits perfectly when installed under the car seat. The body of Rockville RVB10.1A has a Blue/Black Aviation Grade Tweed Carpet that feels premium, as other subwoofers contain a painted look.

The company has placed a Beautiful Rockville Logo on the body, which presents the company with respect. The excellent unique feature making the Rockville RVB10.1A winner from all listed under seat subwoofers is its Computer Tuned Bass Reflex Port; a hole in cabinet flows air in and out of the cabinet, so more accuracy will be reproduced with this Rockville RVB10.1A CTBR subwoofer in your car.

The Rockville RVB10.1A comes with a class AB Amplifier that can manage 300-watt RMS and with a Peak of 500 Watts, and the subwoofer has a Single 4-Ohm nominal impedance. The control panel of Rockville RVB10.1A contains High-Level Speaker and Low-Level RCA inputs, Fuse, Gain and Built-In Low Pass Crossover (30Hz - 160Hz)

The Rockville RVB10.1A has a 35 Hz - 200 Hz frequency response and 88dB sensitivity level. The subwoofer material used for Rockville RVB10.1A is Inverted Carbon Graphite Molded Dust Cap, and the sub has Kevlar Reinforced Pulp Cone and Double Lami, which ensures long life without damage.

Note: You must remember that under-seat subwoofers with in-build amps may somewhere disappoint you as they don’t match the same level of bass extension and large power as there are some dedicated subwoofer setups in the market that can deliver, so if you love portability and flexibility, then consider under seat subwoofers which are the compact solution.

With their space-saving design, easy installation, and ability to deliver impressive bass performance, these subwoofers provide a convenient and efficient solution for achieving optimal sound quality on the go.

Quick Buying Tips

Before purchasing, you can follow buying guide for the best under seat subwoofer with a built-in amplifier below:

Power Output And Amplification

First, you have to consider the power output of the under seat subwoofer that measures in watts RMS (root mean square). Simple connect is if the wattage is higher, then your subwoofer will be louder. Expert advice is always to select as much power which you only need and don’t go crazy with power. For enjoyable bass, you can go with a subwoofer with 100-150 watts RMS. You also have to check the built-in amplifier capabilities of the under seat subwoofer.

Frequency Range and Sensitivity

If the under-seat subwoofer has a wider frequency range than a broader spectrum of bass notes, it can reproduce, so you also have to consider frequency range. The Idea of frequency response is of 20-200 Hz, which you can choose. Note that the Higher sensitivity of the under seat sub means that more louder sound will be produced with less power.

Frequency Range and Sensitivity Graph For Under Seat Subwoofer

Size

The under seat subwoofer comes in multiple sizes, so the choice is yours. If you have a small car like Hyundai Elantra, then a smaller subwoofer is the best option, whereas if you have a larger car like Dodge Charger, then buy a larger size sub. 

Construction Quality

A well-constructed under-seat sub will last longer, so always check durability and high-quality construction materials before purchasing a sub. The sturdy build is crucial for long-lasting performance as the location where you install the sub have much-confined space where they may be exposed to vibrations and movement.

Features and Functionality

 Checking additional features before purchasing an under seat subwoofer is much vital part of fine-tuning your bass output properly. So check features like adjustable bass boost, phase control, and low-pass filters etc.

Topic: Learn about connecting powered subwoofer to factory stereo.

Budget Range

Always do budget consideration as under seat subwoofers can range in price from around $100 to $700, and these prices truly depend upon sub specifications and features like power output, Size, frequency response, build quality etc.

Installation

Do check installation hardware and wiring if it comes with an under seat subwoofer. If you are not confident to properly install, then consider a professional for installation.

In A Nutshell

So after reading our detailed guide on the best under seat subwoofer with a built-in amplifier, you are now trained to purchase a superior subwoofer which is suitable for yourself. The most inexpensive option on our sub list is BOSS Audio Systems BASS8 which is under $100. The three subwoofer models under the $160 range are Kenwood KSC-SW11, Sound Storm Laboratories LOPRO8 and Rockville RW10CA, and all providing superior bass. These three under seat subs are purchasable under the $250 range, which are JBL BassPro SL, Infinity BassLink SM 8, and Kicker 11HS8 and provide good performance.

I hope this helps!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an under seat subwoofer produce the same sound quality as other subwoofers without a built-in amplifier?

With respect to sound quality, the sound produced by under seat subwoofers is limited (especially bass output); the reason is smaller size only as compared to subwoofers which drive with separate amplifiers. So for bigger bass, you need a big size separate subwoofer which will power with your car amplifier.

Does under-seat subwoofer replace the traditional subwoofer setup?

Well, the answer is No; under-seat subwoofers are not meant to replace larger, traditional subwoofer setups that are installed in the trunk or custom enclosures. While you will get an improved audio experience with added bass. But under-seat subwoofers are unable to match the sheer power and depth of audio production as larger subwoofer setups can be produced. So, you can use an under seat subwoofer if you have limited space or you want a more discreet installation.

Can I adjust the settings of the under-seat subwoofer?

Yes! Many Under seat subwoofers models in the market, like Rockville RVB10.1A and Kenwood KSC-SW11, come with adjustable settings like gain control, low-pass filter, and phase control. So by using these settings, you can fine-tune the subwoofer’s output for the listening preferences you like or the acoustics of your vehicle’s interior.

What kind of power source does an under-seat subwoofer require?

The under seat subwoofer features a built-in amp so you can direct connection to the vehicle’s battery to draw power. Underseat subwoofers also require a remote turn-on wire to activate the amp. So I will recommend you always ensure power and ground wires are perfectly connected to prevent any electrical issues.

What size of under-seat subwoofer is suitable for my car?

Basically, the size you choose for the under seat subwoofer depends on your personal preferences and on available space under your car seats. Common sizes range from 8 inches to 12 inches. So you have to ensure space under your seats and do measurements.to ensure a proper fit.

Tom Parsons
Tom Parsons is Audio Lover, and content writer by night. He Loves to test various combinations of home theater setups, speakers, receivers, amplifiers etc to churn out the maximum sound quality. To help other novice Audiophiles get the best bang for the buck, has taken it upon himself to regularly write on this website.