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Willie Greer - December 11, 2021
When installing a sound system in your car, space is a challenge many owners tend to face. A subwoofer with an internal amplifier can usually address this problem. But how sure are you that you can easily integrate it with your car’s limited space? Join our resident audiophiles as we examine the best woofer options so you won’t have to buy a bulky sub and undergo a lengthy product return process.
Fosgate
P300-12
- High Output: 300 Watts
- Integrated Phase Switch
- Bass Boost EQ
- Thermal Protection
- Closed Loop Construction
GT-BassPro12
Powered Subwoofer
- Built-in Amp: 150-watt RMS
- Frequency Response: 35Hz to 120Hz
- Vented Polepiece Design
- Single 12-inch enclosure
- Audio Inputs & Outputs
TS-WX130DA
Subwoofer
- Floor Standing Mount
- Class D Built-in Amplifier
- Power Source: 160W Maximum
- Contemporary Construction
- Digital Bass Control
Reviews of the Top Subwoofers
with a Built-In Amplifier
JBL GT-BassPro12 Powered Subwoofer
If you’re the kind of listener who enjoys bass-pounding music, then you’ll be pleased to know that JBL GT-BassPro12 can deliver the deep sound you’re looking for. During the audio checks our testers conducted, we were blown away by precise bass and distinct depth thanks to its port configurations.
You don’t have to worry about extended listening sessions because this unit can double the amp power up to 450 watts. This kind of sound delivery is something we already expected as the sub includes an internal 150-watt RMS amplifier.
It has easy integration with other systems as well. We didn’t have a hard time hooking it up with the receiver.
What We Like
- User-friendly subwoofer option
- Easy integration to existing sound systems
- Sleek and space-saving construction
- High amplifier power for extended usage
What We Don't Like
- May not be ideal for bigger cars
- May need wiring kit
Rockford Fosgate P300-12
Higher price doesn’t always mean better quality[1], but Rockford Fosgate P300-12 proved the perks of premium woofers with its closed-loop design. With this feature, the sound production gets elevated to the next level.
Our team also got to experience high-definition audio, greatly owed to its 300W RMS internal power. These premium subwoofers with a built-in amp also have thermal voltage protection, making any extensive usage safe and secure.
And if you have a multi-channel sound system, hooking these units up won’t be a problem as they have wide-range AWG terminals available. These features make the set-up relatively quick and convenient.
What We Like
- Includes ample connection settings
- Delivers high-definition sound quality
- Suits different audio system setups
What We Don't Like
- Higher pricing than other options
- May require constant maintenance
Pioneer TS-WX130DA Subwoofer
For homeowners on a tight budget, a slightly affordable option we can recommend is Pioneer TS-WX130DA Subwoofer. Despite its cheaper price tag, this unique woofer can deliver 160W power with digital bass configurations for frequency response and dynamic sound modes.
Upon first glance, what caught our eyes the most was its slim design that ultimately blends easily with any car interior. And given that Pioneer made this unit, it didn’t catch us by surprise when we found out that it has a deep mode that could reach 20Hz to 200Hz frequency response.
What We Like
- Manufactured by a reliable audio brand
- High-power sound reproduction
- Blends naturally with simple interior
- Heavy-duty and durable construction
What We Don't Like
- Better paired with smaller spaces
- Product Protection Plan sold separately
Subwoofers with Built-In Amplifier Buyer’s Guide
Size and Fit
More than anything else, you should consider the available space in your allocated car area before selecting a subwoofer. Although these units are specifically designed to eliminate the use of an external amp to save space, you should know that they have different construction and may or may not fit some spaces.
Power and Sound Quality
Believe it or not, the amount of power produced by your woofer affects the sound quality it delivers. Our resident audiophiles advise checking each unit’s RMS and peak power rating to determine how much energy they can handle during the sound reproduction.
Pros and Cons of Car Subs with Built-In Amps
There are many perks for choosing a woofer with an integrated amplifier, but the major advantage one should consider how convenient it is. You may not know it, but these units don’t require buying an external amplifier. So if you have limited car space or budget, our experts highly recommend these options.
On the other hand, their compact structure also poses some disadvantages. While some of them produce enough power output for decent sound production, it’s not always the best in delivering highly detailed bass.
Our Top Pick For a Subwoofer with a Built-In Amp:
JBL GT-BassPro12 Powered Subwoofer
After several audio checks and evaluations, our resident audiophiles concluded that JBL GT-BassPro12 is the best subwoofer in this brief product roundup. Besides coming from a reputable brand, this distinct unit earned our favor with its bass-pounding sound production and well-thought design that allow easy and fast system integration.
