Are Compact Subwoofers Good? [Pros, Cons & Great Brands]
Subwoofers are a must-have when creating great listening experiences. However, if you are limited on space in your car, you may consider getting a compact subwoofer.
But are compact subwoofers any good?
This article explains what compact subs are as well as their pros and cons. We will also discuss what to look for when looking for one, its durability, and the best available brands.
What Are Compact Subwoofers?
Compact subwoofers are also called under-seat subwoofers. And as their name implies, these subs are indeed compact.
There are two types of under-seat subwoofers:
Passive Compact Subwoofers
These need external amplifiers to work because they lack an integrated power system. You will have to wire these to an external amplifier. Fortunately, their high sound output level is worth the extra installation.
Active Compact Subwoofers
These powered subs come in a simple body with a built-in amplifier. This eliminates the need to get a separate amp that matches your woofer, then wire them up. However, their sound level is lower than passive subwoofers.
It is important to note that compact subwoofers are not as powerful as those subs with larger drives. Nevertheless, they do deliver pretty strong bass with their small size.
Why Go for a Compact Subwoofer?
These speakers primarily deliver massive bass sound with their 10-inch diameter drivers. They hit high peaks and strike a balance without rattling the cars close by.
Here are the advantages of getting a compact subwoofer:
1. Compact Size
The subs’ small size makes them easy to install under the driver’s, passenger’s, or rear seats. They are perfect for vehicles with limited interior space or trunk space like small sedans, coupes, and pickup trucks.
2. Deeper Bass
Underseat subwoofers help you listen to low frequencies that the human ear has trouble with. The bass deepens when listening to low-frequency audios in the 20Hz to 200Hz range.
3. Saves Space
These subs fit under the seat, a space that normally is never used. Unlike those subwoofers installed in the trunk, you get to save space to put more stuff in your trunk.
4. Easy Installation
Powered compact subwoofers come in an all-in-one design. You can easily install the systems with internal amplifiers without calling a technician.
5. Affordable
You do not have to break a bank to get a compact subwoofer. They retail at consumer-friendly prices.
6. Uses Low Power
These subwoofers use little power for their output sound.
The Cons of a Compact Subwoofer
Although compact subwoofers have several advantages, they also have their disadvantages. Here are the cons.
1. Less Durable
Due to their compact size, most under-seat subs do not feature durable external safeguards. This makes them less durable because they are constantly exposed to stress and shock within the cabin.
2. Limited Sound Quality
Compact subs have lower bass output compared to trunk subwoofers. Their small size limits their audio quality and overall performance.
6 Factors to Consider When Getting a Compact Subwoofer
Before you purchase an under seat sub, you should carefully consider the following factors:
Speaker Size
You want to get a speaker that fits the space under your seat. Getting a large unit will mean louder sounds and more low-frequency notes.
However, the big speaker will also take up legroom if it is larger than the room in your car seat, thus creating discomfort for you or your passengers.
Power Ratings
Also, look for an under-seat sub that matches your amplifier’s power rating. If you get a sub that needs more energy than your amp, the speakers may have little to no sound. On the other hand, if your amp is too strong, chances are you will damage the speakers.
Frequency Range
Look for a compact sub with a large frequency range. These have better high and low ends for better sounds. The lower the sub’s frequency, the better you will feel the bass frequencies.
RMS and Peak Capacity
Check the sub’s power ratings, too, before purchase. RMS power is the speaker’s ability to produce continuous output, while peak capacity is that high value that the speaker can reach momentarily.
Housing
Did you know that the housing of a compact sub determines the output sound and power consumption? Well, sealed housing highlights deep bass, band-pass housing improves high bass, and ported housing supports boosted bass. Moreover, ported housing uses less power compared to sealed housing.
Sensitivity
Compact subwoofers with higher sensitivity are better at converting less power into loud sounds. They are more durable, emit little heat, and use less power than those with low sensitivity.
How Long Do Compact Subwoofers Last?
On average, these subs last for 4 to 7 years. However, this life span can be greatly reduced through excessive use and maxing out the speakers’ volume.
To ensure that your under-seat sub lasts long, try the following:
- Play songs at low volume first, then gradually increase it.
- Avoid playing music at high volume for long.
- Provide required power to the subwoofer.
- Replace any damaged or worn-out parts.
What Are the Most Popular Brands of Compact Subwoofers?
Have you seen the various brands in the market selling under-seat subwoofers? If yes, you may catch a headache trying to pin just on a good brand. But, we have gone the extra mile to prevent that.
The following are the most popular brands of compact subwoofers:
1. Rockville RW8CA
Rockville brand delivers high-quality subs at affordable prices. They are the go-to option for buyers with a limited budget without compromising quality.
Their RW8CA generates clean music regardless of the genre. It’s got rich and punchy bass without creating disturbances.
I love these features from this sub:
- Thermo protection circuit
- Overload protection circuit
- 600 Watts peak power
- 150 Watts RMS
The subwoofer comes with a 1-year warranty.
2. Alpine PWE-S8
Alpine also makes some of the best subwoofers in the industry. Their units are durable and have excellent power handling and frequency response.
The PWE-S8 model is perfect for cars with limited space. Its speakers deliver punchy bass despite their small-size construction.
Some of the best features include:
- 8’’ sub and weighs 10 pounds
- 120 Watts RMS
- Rugged construction
- 35Hz to 150Hz frequency range
Installation is easy since the amplifiers are built-in.
3. Kenwood KSC-PSW8
Kenwood focuses on producing durable subs with clear sound quality. Many car owners express they always have an enjoyable commute with Kenwood subwoofers.
The KSC-PSW8 is a rounded subwoofer because it plays the low-frequency beats with punchy bass. The bass is intense on the inside but does not annoy other road users.
Here are some of the best features:
- 81 dB sensitivity
- Class D amplifier
- 150 Watts RMS
- 250 Watts peak power
This model matches a bass response similar to large trunk subwoofers.
Should I Buy a Compact Subwoofer?
Absolutely. Get a compact subwoofer if you are limited on space and want to play some bass.
They are affordable and pack quality sound output. Moreover, their compact size makes them easy to install.
Final Thoughts
Underseat subs stand out as a must-have for anyone looking to fit a subwoofer in a small space. These subwoofers deliver booming bass to boost sound quality. Moreover, they are affordable, and the above three brands are perfect for getting you started.