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Willie Greer - August 23, 2021
Choosing the right amplifier for your subwoofer is crucial to enjoy those deep, rumbling bass notes when listening to music. Without the right amp, you may end up having subpar sound or worse, damaging your entire sound system.
To take out the guesswork when buying amps, our audio engineers have rounded up the best car amplifiers for bass frequencies below.
KAC-M1824BT
- Ideal for both cars and boats
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 4-channel amplifier
- USB port
R1200-1D Prime
- Impressive performance
- High power rating
- Deep, punchy bass
- Rugged construction
R1100M
- Low distortion
- High efficiency
- Good fine tuning abilities
- Short circuit protection
Reviews of the Top Car Amplifiers for Bass
Rockford Fosgate R1200-1D Prime Mono Amplifier
We’re starting off strong with Rockford Fosgate. The brand produces some of the best car amplifiers out there, and the R1200-1D Prime is a workhorse when it comes to power and bass.
With power ratings of 400 RMS watts at 4 ohms or 800 RMS watts at 2 ohms, this class D amplifier packs in a punch in a compact package. It has highly impressive features, including a MOSFET power supply, infrasonic filter, Punch bass boost, remote control, 4-gauge power/ground connectors, and power supply thermal sensing.
In our tests, the Rockford Fosgate R1200 amp was versatile enough for tweaking the audio settings while delivering a resonant and thunderous bass.
What We Like
- High power rating
- Excellent performance
- Delivers a maximum power of 1200 watts at 1-ohm
- Fine tuning options
- Remote bass control
- Protection against overload and overheating
- CEA 2006 compliant
- Durable cast aluminum heatsink
What We Don’t Like
- Can get hot when used for long periods
- Vibrations when the amp is turned up high
Kenwood KAC-M1824BT
This compact 4-channel amplifier from Kenwood is an excellent choice for any vehicle — a car, a motorcycle, or a boat. It might not be the cheapest on our list, but its reliability in land or water vehicles places it ahead of competition. No party would stop just because of a little moisture and wetness.
The Kenwood KAC-M1824BT provides 45 watts RMS at 4 ohms or 2 ohms. It’s 4-ohm stable when bridged. But the definite edge is its built-in Bluetooth, which allows you to play music even without a receiver. Other features include an IP65 remote control, MOSFET power supply, USB port, speaker-level inputs, and a conformal-coated circuit board.
What We Like
- Great for land or marine applications
- 4 channel unit
- Impressive audio quality
- CEA 2006 compliant
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 4-ohm stable in bridged mode
- IP65-rated remote control
- Supports AAC files for iPhone users
- Preamp and speaker level inputs
What We Don’t Like
- Doesn’t have high power ratings
- Steep price
BOSS Audio Systems R1100M
If you’re in the market for a car amp that won’t break the bank, this one from BOSS Audio systems is a great choice. It’s a Class A/B monoblock amplifier that hits that sweet spot between value and function.
Even at this price point, this amp has remote subwoofer control, low pass crossover, and a variable bass boost that allows you to boost the range and modify your audio settings the way you like. It also has high and low level inputs, allowing you to connect to an aftermarket radio.
The Boss Audio R1100M also has an automatic shut-off feature to protect against high temperatures or short circuiting.
What We Like
- Great value
- 1100 watts x 1 at 2 ohms and 550 watts x 1 at 4 ohms
- 2-ohm stable
- Class AB configuration for better fidelity
- Remote bass control
- Low distortion and high efficiency
- Short circuit protection
What We Don’t Like
- Not as efficient as class D amps
- Slight distortion if cranked up too high
Pioneer GM-A6704 4-Channel Bridgeable Amplifier
Pioneer is another audio industry leader, and the GM-A6704 is one of their best car amplifiers for bass. Testing this amp in our listening room, our experts report that it delivers a punchy and authoritative bark that significantly improves the sound quality.
It’s also a 4-channel amp, meaning you can run your front and rear speakers to drive your subwoofer. You can also upgrade down the road with another sub and a dedicated amp. The RMS power ratings are pretty impressive too.
Other notable features of the Pioneer GM-A6704 include variable low and high-pass filters, switchable high and low pass filters on the rear channels, and a switchable bass boost.
What We Like
- Good power handling
- 60 watts RMS x 4 at 4 ohms or 95 watts RMS x 4 at 2 ohms
- Flexible with its fine tuning abilities
- Deep and punchy bass
- Low-pass filter
- Protection control system
- Speaker level inputs
- CEA 2006 compliant
What We Don’t Like
- Bulkier than others
- Can get hot with long hours of use
Planet Audio AC1500.1M
Next on our list is a budget option from Planet Audio, the AC1500.1M amplifier. If you just want a car amp that does the job, this Class A/B amp is a decent option.
It delivers a maximum power output of 1500 watts at 2 ohms into one channel, or 750 watts at 4 ohms. And if you have an aftermarket system, the Planet Audio AC1500 amp can handle it with its low and high level inputs.
When it comes to audio tweaking, you have a low-pass crossover and a variable bass boost. These allow you to get a good rumble in your bass and keep high frequencies out.
What We Like
- Low-priced amplifier
- Decent power rating
- Stable at 2-ohm
- Can connect to an aftermarket radio
- MOSFET power supply
- Good starter amp
What We Don’t Like
- Bass quality could be improved
- Can go into protection mode at times
Kenwood KAC-8406
The Kenwood KAC-8406 is another great car amplifier from the KAC series. Its aluminum alloy construction makes it look professional yet effective for heat dissipation.
But our experts say there’s more to this amp underneath its rugged construction and smooth aesthetic. Performance-wise, the Kenwood KAC-8406 brings the bass to the forefront, resulting in impactful and resonant low frequencies.
At 4 ohms, this amp delivers 70 watts RMS x 4. At 2 ohms, it delivers 100 RMS watts x 4. You can also switch to 2-channel mode if you want to connect other components and subs.
Furthermore, you also get switchable bass boost, low-pass filter, high-pass filter, and triple protection.
What We Like
- Heavy-duty construction
- 900 watts peak power
- 70 watts RMS per channel to full-range speakers
- Impressive performance
- Switchable bass boost
- Good versatility
- Protects against overheating and short circuiting
What We Don’t Like
- A bit expensive
- May be too bulky for some
Taramps HD3000-2 Full Range Amplifier
If raw firepower is what you’re looking for, the Taramps HD3000 can do the heavy lifting. It has a maximum power rating of 3,000 watts at 1-ohm, which is more than what most provide at this price point.
With this power output, the HD3000 Class D amp is equipped with features that can handle things effortlessly. It has thick heavy-gauge wires and a smart cooler system that work hand-in-hand, so overheating is not a problem.
Plus, the low and high level inputs in this car amplifier allows you to connect aftermarket and OEM systems as well. It really packs in great value at this price point.
What We Like
- High power handling
- 3000 watts at 1 ohm
- 1,140 RMS power
- 10Hz to 20KHz frequency response
- Smart cooler system prevents overheating
- Heavy-gauge wires
- Deep and powerful bass
What We Don’t Like
- A bit expensive
- Audio customization can be improved
Rockford Fosgate Punch P1000X5 5 Channel Amplifier
With a total of 1,000 watts of power, the Rockford Fosgate Punch P1000X5 is the most suitable 5-channel amp for your entire system. It has an RMS power output of 75 watts to each of your front and rear speakers, plus 500 watts RMS to your sub. At 2 ohms, it can deliver 125 watts for your speakers plus 300 watts to your sub.
Aside from the high power rating, this Rockford Fosgate unit has low-pass and subsonic filters, Dynamic Thermal Management System, MEHSA cooling process, and C.L.E.A.N technology for a clean yet forceful audio.
What We Like
- Powers your entire system
- 500 or 300 watts to the subwoofer
- Cast aluminum heatsink
- Subsonic filters
- Punch EQ2
- Clean and powerful sound
- Efficient cooling system
What We Don’t Like
- Not for a starter amp
- Premium price
Car Amplifiers for Bass Buyer’s Guide
Finding the best car amplifier for bass tones can be a walk in the park if you know what to look for. But if you’re new to the world of car audio systems, you should read our guide below to know what factors you should consider. Otherwise, you might end up with an amp that doesn’t match your vehicle or something that could damage your system.
Power
Power ratings are all about numbers. However, one must know the difference between the peak power output and the RMS of an amp. This way, you won’t be fooled by manufacturers who advertise their products as ‘better’ due to the higher numbers on the specs sheet.
When buying an amp, remember that the max power or the peak power rating equates to the maximum amount of voltage the unit can produce without breaking down. Put simply, it’s the amount of power that an amplifier can handle safely.
On the other hand, the RMS (Root Mean Square) refers to continuous power handling, or how much power an amplifier can produce. The RMS power is typically lower than the max power output, but it actually is a better representation of how much power your amplifier can handle.
To make sure you’re purchasing an amplifier that won’t break down in a few weeks, choose something whose RMS power output per channel is not higher than the top RMS rating of each speaker in your car sound system.
Channels
If you’re only looking to power your subwoofer, a single-channel or monoblock amplifier is all you need. If you’d like to power your front speakers as well, a 3-channel amplifier will be a good option.
However, if that’s the case, we recommend going for a 4-channel amplifier instead. That way, you can configure two channels for the speakers and bridge the other two for the subwoofer. If you decide to have a full-range audio system down the road, then your amp will be ready for the upgrade.
On the other hand, you can also go with a 5-channel option if you want the full package. Each speaker will have its own channel, and the other one will be for the sub.
You can also find 6- or 8-channel models in the market, but expect to pay a premium for these. You’d have more flexibility, though, as you can have a double-bridged sub or have a multiple active system for every car speaker.
Mono vs Multi-Channel Amps
As you may have grasped from the previous section, it’s pretty easy to tell the difference between a mono and a multi-channel car amplifier. The most important thing is for you to decide how many channels you want to have.
Monoblock amplifiers like the Boss Audio R1100M and the Planet Audio AC1500.1M, which are both featured on our list above, are great for powering the subwoofer alone. Installing a mono results in a more powerful bass response.
If you’d like more flexibility in your setup, however, the 4-channel Rockford Fosgate R1200 or the 5-channel Rockford Fosgate Punch P1000X5 would be more suitable. They can provide amplification for your other speakers as well, and if there are extra channels, you can bridge them for an extra kick.
There is one caveat for multi-channel models, though. Because they share the load between speakers, the bass response is slightly compromised. However, they still work well for the bass and you won’t really notice the subtle difference.
Amp Class
When buying a car amplifier, you will often see Class A/B or Class D on the sheet and not know what it means. Each amplifier class is basically a design category that tells us how the electric circuits inside the amp combine power and signal for operation.
Class A is the most basic one. It just has one transistor in a linear mode. They offer great sound fidelity, but it has poor efficiency.
Class B amps use two transistors, and are more efficient than Class A. The drawback, however, is crossover distortion. [1]
Class A/B combines the best things about A and B. They produce great sound, no crossover distortion, and have good efficiency. This class is common in many low-cost options today.
Class D is the go-to type for many people. Its main benefit is its high efficiency of about 90%, which then allows it to be more compact without the addition of cooling systems and heatsinks. A Class D amplifier doesn’t offer the highest sound fidelity, though, but most people are okay with the compromise.
Compatibility
Of course, it’s important to purchase an amplifier that is compatible with the rest of your car audio system. Determine the right power rating, the number of channels, and the size of the amplifier itself. Remember that some amplifiers may be too little or too bulky for your car, so make sure you have the space first.
Our experts also emphasize the importance of matching the amp’s output power to your speakers’ required power. When these don’t match, you will either get weak sound or blow your speakers out.
FAQ
What class amp is best for bass?
Class D is the best class amp for bass. Not only are they highly efficient, they are also equipped with low pass crossover filters that minimize distortion at high volumes.
Our Top Pick For a Car Amplifier for Bass:
Rockford Fosgate R1200-1D Prime
When it comes to power and performance, the Rockford Fosgate R1200-1D Prime is the best car amplifier for bass frequencies. It has an infrasonic filter, a good range of fine-tuning options, remote bass control, and the proprietary Punch bass boost for extra moxie. Furthermore, this amplifier has a durable heatsink and power supply thermal sensing to protect against overheating.
If you are still in search of other great options, you can also check the pages below:
