The Loudest 12 Inch Subwoofer For 2024

Tim Powers By, Tim Powers
Updated
Loudest 12 Inch Subwoofer
Loudest 12 Inch Subwoofer

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Skar Audio 12" Subwoofer

The Skar Audio 12" subwoofer is a high-performance audio system designed for powerful bass output. It features a durable enclosure and a 5000-watt maximum power rating. A high-quality Class D amplifier provides enough power to drive your subs with crisp, clean tones. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: KICKER 12 Inch Subwoofer

KICKER 12 Inch Subwoofer provides high-quality audio to the user that they can depend on. It has a durable vented enclosure, two 12-inch subwoofers, and a peak power rating of 1200 watts. If you are looking for bass, this is the right product for you. Read Review

3. Best Sound Quality: AudioPipe 12 Inch Subwoofer

AudioPip 12 Inch is a powerful dual 2 ohm DVC speaker that delivers an incredible 2,200 watts of pure sound. It features black metal grille, rubber mounting feet and a built-in amplifier that can drive up to two full-range loudspeakers, or a single subwoofer. Read Review

4. Best Connectivity: Rockville 12" Subwoofer

The Rockville 12" Subwoofer is a great home audio solution with a big, deep bass response with a wide frequency range. It also features a high-quality wood enclosure, offers accurate sound quality with a power handling of 2 ohms and a power rating of 600 RMS. Read Review

5. Best Design: Pioneer 12" subwoofer

Pioneer's 12" subwoofer is a high-performance, compact subwoofer with an integrated amplifier. It features a maximum power output of 1300 watts and easy installation. The compact design makes it ideal for anyone who doesn't want to sacrifice sound quality for portability. Read Review

When you have a car filled with speakers, subwoofers and sound system amplifiers, the last thing you need is for everyone in the car to keep asking for more volume. The solution is a 12-inch subwoofer. These are small enough to fit in most cars without taking up too much space or bulking out the interior of your ride. They produce high-pitched frequencies that will help fill out the sound of your music and movie collections at lower volumes so people in the back can hear what you’re listening to without having their ears hurt.

While purchasing a new subwoofer, you may wonder what features are important and which you should ignore. Subwoofers come in all shapes and sizes. Some subs are small and discreet, while others are enormous and meant to be heard from across the room. The good news is there are a lot of 12-inch subs on the market right now. If you do not want to waste your time and money reading reviews, here is everything you need to know about buying an accurate 12 inch subwoofer.

We think the loudest 12 inch subwoofer that is available now is Skar Audio 12" Subwoofer. This is high-performance audio system designed for powerful bass output. It features a durable enclosure and a 5000-watt maximum power rating. A high-quality Class D amplifier provides enough power to drive your subs with crisp, clean tones. We also provide you with KICKER 12 Inch Subwoofer model that you may consider if the top product is not your choice. And bellow are the helpful buyer's guide to assist you in making your decision.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Skar Audio 12" Subwoofer
Our Score:
9.7
Skar Audio

Competition Grade EVL Series 12-Inch Dual 4-ohm Loaded Subwoofer Enclosure

Peak Power: 5,000 Watts | RMS Power: 2,500 Watts

Double Front Baffle (1.25") with Countersunk Subwoofer Design for Flush and Attractive Appearance

Subwoofers Come Mounted and are Pre-Wired Internally for a 1 Ohm Final Impedance Load at the Terminals

Premium Vented Enclosure Made of High Strength MDF and Finished in Black Carpeting

TOP Choice #2 KICKER 12 Inch Subwoofer
Our Score:
9.6
KICKER

INTERNAL BRACING: Sealed enclosure box design and has extensive internal bracing; Features vented back brace, creating a single integrated unit that both cools the motor and eliminates distortion

DUAL SUBWOOFER: Dual 12-inch subwoofer enclosure with an angled profile fits perfectly in tight spaces in any kind of vehicle; Dimensions (L x W x H): 20.37 x 33.75 x 15.87 inches

MORE VOLUME: Get up to 20 percent more volume compared to a round driver; Front-facing port design for loudest possible bass

SPECIFICATIONS: Type: Dual; Subwoofer size: 12 inches; Recommended amplifier power: 1200 watts; Final impedance: 2 ohms; Sensitivity: 95 dB

POWERFUL SOUND: Enclosure works best with 1,200 watts of recommended power; Loaded with a Genuine L7R Subwoofer and a single 2-ohm terminal

TOP Choice #3 AudioPipe 12 Inch Subwoofer
Our Score:
9.4
Audiopipe

PRISTINE QUALITY: 250-ounce magnet achieves crisp and clear sound quality

2800 W SUB: 1,400 watts RMS power with 2,800 watts peak power

4 LAYER COIL: Features 12-inch composite cone with 4-layer dual voice coil for incredible performance

HIGH QUALITY SUBWOOFER: High-performance subwoofer adds a whole new dimension to your audio experience

EASY WIRING: Includes custom spider ring to make parallel or series wiring easier

4 Rockville 12" Subwoofer
Our Score:
9.3
Rockville

Features of wire kit:: Rockville RWK81 8 Gauge 2 Channel Car Amplifier Wiring Installation Kit. (1) 17 High Grade Twisted Pair of 100% Copper RCA Cable. 17 8 Gauge Translucent Blue SuperFlex Power Cables.

PVC outer jacket can with-stand an extreme temperature range of -40 to 220 degrees F

17 18 Gauge Blue Remote Cable. 17 16 Gauge Clear Speaker Wire. 3 8 Gauge SuperFlex Ground Wire. Gold Plated AGU Heat Resistant Fuse Holder. 60 Amp AGU Gold Plated Fuse.

- 2 Ohm: 350 Watts x 1 Channel

7 Split Tube Loom. Accessories Included: Wire Ties, Ring Terminals, Butt Connectors, Spades, and Grommets. Soft abrasion proof insulating jacket allows for 100% improved flexibility.

Satin Nickel speaker wire push terminals. Enclosure air space is 1.52 Cu Ft per sub. Vent dimensions (inches): 2.25" x 7" x 8.5". Tuning frequency of enclosure: 35 Hz. 2" 4-Layer Black Aluminum Voice Coils Wound with OFC (100% Copper) Wire.

CEA Rated RMS Power Handling: 350 Watts. Final Impedance: 4 Ohm. ¾” MDF enclosure. Bonded stapled and braced. Computer designed vents. Angled at 15 % for perfect bass alignment. High quality aviation grade tweed carpet.

CEA Compliant Power Ratings (Rated at less than 1% distortion) (Use these CEA ratings when matching and comparing with other CEA compliant brands such as Kicker, Rockford Fosgate, etc.).

Features of Amplifier: Rockville dB11 1400w/700w RMS 2-Ohm Class-D Mono Car Amplifier and Bass Remote.

Loaded Sub Enclosure Features: Rockville Single 12" K5 1400w Car Subwoofer Pre-loaded In Vented Sub Enclosure. Peak Power Handling: 1400 Watts. Program Power Handling: 700 Watts.

5 Pioneer 12" subwoofer
Our Score:
9.1
PIONEER

Enclosure Features Carpet finish

Subwoofer Features Cellulose fiber cone Urethane surround Frequency Response 20 - 125 Sensitivity 114dB

Amplifier Features Class D amplifier Cross Overs 0-12dB Bass Boost Remote knob included

1300W Max Single 12" Sealed Subwoofer Enclosure with Built-In Amplifier Power Handling Peak 1300W / RMS 350W Preloaded with a single 12" Subwoofer Built-in Class D amplifier Sealed enclosure with carpet

6 DS18 12" in Subwoofer
Our Score:
9.0
DS18

SUPERIOR POWERFUL SOUND-The bass speaker features a 12-inch high-quality paper with glass fiber cone. The 45-oz magnetic structure and 2-inch black aluminum 4 layer voice coil w/ power and achieve a frequency response of 41 Hz to 4. 2 kHz. Sensitivity 90dB

INSTALLATION/PLACEMENT - The car subwoofer can be mount inside a box / enclosure. The sub has an Overall Diameter 12. 44", Baffle Cutout Diameter 10. 9", and Mounting Depth 5. 47"

FOR ENHANCED SOUND-The Select line of subwoofers are a great addition to your car stereo sound system. No sound system is complete without the perfect subwoofer for complimentary bass so don't deprive your Vehicle from the absolute best sound you can get!

WATT POWER - 12-Inch Car Audio Subwoofer offers a 250W RMS & peak power of 500W Max w/ 4ohm impedance. Lets you pump out some great low-frequency bass volume to enhance the party vibe making it a great addition to your Car / SUV music audio system

TREATED FOAM SURROUND - Made entirely of specially treated foam surround for durability. Designed with this non-fatiguing suspension to keep equipment safe. It is a clean-cut car subwoofer that boasts a non-pressed paper cone and black steel basket

7 Generic 12" Subwoofer
Our Score:
8.9
Generic

QUALITY TESTED AND CUSTOMER ACCLAIMED | This American Bass car subwoofer is rated at 3000 Watts peak and has a proven SPL of 86.6dB. Each of the American Bass competition car audio subwoofer goes through an extensive quality control process to ensure the quality, performance and reliability to ensure maximum customer satisfaction.

DUAL 4 OHM IMPEDANCE: The car stereo subwoofer has a dual 4 ohm impedance rating and a 3” 4-layer coated copper wire voice coil. This deals with the issue of undersized wires found in many cars today. As a result, this subwoofer gives an optimal output with minimal distortion and enables you to enjoy a crisp and clear sound thus enhancing your car audio stereo system.

HIGH QUALITY BUILT: This American bass competition car subwoofer is a clean cut car stereo subwoofer with an extra element of strength to it. This subwoofer has a Kevlar fiber added non-press paper cone with texture finish. So you enjoy your car stereo subwoofer performance without any worries for the unit. This car audio subwoofer enhances the overall performance of your car stereo system.

7.8” MOUNTING DEPTH: This car subwoofer comes with an easy to install 7.8” mounting depth. As a result, this car audio stereo subwoofer fits most audio system for cars, boats or RVs. The essential cables are already included along with a manual to how to install this 12-inch car subwoofer.

3000 WATT POWER: This 12 inch car subwoofer has 3000 Watt peak power that will produce high sound resonance. It also has a 240oz heavy triple stacked magnet structure and dual 4 Ohm impedance voice coils to give you an experience like never before.

8 Q Power 12 Inch Subwoofer
Our Score:
8.8
Q Power

Ensures the safety of you and your speakers with a shared slot port vent design that helps the speakers stay cool

Adds more bump to your ride with powerful bass and smooth audio; Dual-chamber design doubles your kick

Specs: Holds (2) 12-inch car audio subwoofers; Air space: 1.6 cubic feet per chamber; Dimensions (L x W x H): 16.25 x 36 x 13.25 inches

Stands strong with solid MDF wood construction and blends into your vehicle with charcoal carpeting

Each of the 2 dual car audio subwoofer box holds (2) 12-inch subwoofers that blast ecstatic sound so your vehicle rocks the town

9 ALPINE 12" Subwoofer
Our Score:
8.7
Alpine

Features of SWT-12S4: ALPINE SWT-12S4 1000w 12" Car Audio Subwoofer in Bass Tube Enclosure 4-Ohm Sub, Speaker System: Bass Reflex Type, 12” (30cm) High-Performance Subwoofer, Peak Power: 1000W, RMS Power: 300W, Overall Dimensions: 12.75" x 25.98", Frequency Response 28 - 200Hz, Speaker Impedance: 4 Ω, Sensitivity: 92dB/W (1m), Stitched Alpine Logo, Included Installation Brackets and Belts, Heavy Duty Subwoofer Grill

Perfect for camping, hiking, pool, beach, shower, bedroom, iPad/Laptop speaker, kitchen and many other applications, Includes Aluminum hook to latch it onto a backpack, pocket book, etc, Bluetooth version. 4.1 with EDR (Enhanced Data Rate), A2DP audio streaming 40 foot max Bluetooth range, Playback Controls - Play, Pause, Skip Forward, Skip Back, Volume Up, Volume Down, Will control next song, pause, play on popular apps like Pandora, Spotify, and others, Can control next song.

The built-in mic allows you to speak through the device so you can make and receive phone calls hands-free, Rugged and Shockproof!, Rubberized impact-resistant silicone feet for great sound when placing speaker on any hard surface, Compatible with any Bluetooth devices such as iPad, iPhone, Laptops, Android phone, other cell phones, iPods, other Bluetooth MP3 Players, Distortion: Less than 1 %, Natural sound with enhanced bass response, Frequency Response: 145HZ-18KHZ.

Features of RPB27: Rockville RPB27 rugged waterproof portable Bluetooth speaker with 20 watts power, IPX6 Water Resistant, 20 watts peak power, 10 watts continuous RMS, Battery charges with included USB cable, 1000 mAH battery supports 18 hours of playback at 50 % volume! , Charge time: 4-5 Hours, Our speaker has the loudest bass from any competing Bluetooth speaker!, Extremely loud, powerful, and rugged, Material: 100% ROHS Silicone & plastic .

Package Includes: (1) Alpine SWT-12S4 1000w 12" Car Audio Subwoofer in Bass Tube Enclosure 4-Ohm Sub, (1) Rockville RPB27 20w Rugged Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker w Bumping Bass!

10 Rockford Fosgate 12" Subwoofer
Our Score:
8.5
Rockford Fosgate

Famous Rockford Fosgate build quality with a full 1-year warranty when purchased from an authorized Rockford Fosgate reseller

The P2-1X12 vented loaded enclosure is Internally wired to create a 1-Ohm amplifier load with power handling of 400 Watts RMS / 800 Watts Max

The P2-1X12 is a single P2 12” DVC subwoofer in a vented enclosure that reproduces low bass frequencies accurately with high output SPL (Sound Pressure Level)

Punch Loaded enclosures are constructed with durable 5/8" MDF material and feature a proprietary high-flow, low-noise port with high current binding posts for maximum signal flow to the speaker inside

The P2-1X12 loaded enclosure measures at 15.125" x 19.125" x 15.75" (HxWxD)

Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a loudest 12 inch subwoofer?

Looking for the loudest 12 inch subwoofer requires consideration of many criteria. Product learning varies in type, feature, and customer ranking. Overall, it comes with several difficulties in buying. So, we are available to support you occasionally.

It is beneficial for you to have a closer look at the things below to evaluate and then choose which one is suitable:

Diaphragm Material

Material refers to what is used in the manufacture of the diaphragm. The tweeter's diaphragm materials are plastic, metal, and silk. There are many diaphragm materials for the woofer, including paper, polyethylene, wool, and aluminum-magnesium alloy cones.
They have different prices and properties. It is difficult to determine who is better or worse. Choose paper or wool pots if you enjoy orchestral music. Polyethylene cones are best for metal music. Paper cones and wool cones shouldn't be used in humid environments. They absorb moisture easily and can change the sound quality.

Frequency Response

This is the "dive" index for the subwoofer's low frequency. This parameter indicates how low the subwoofer's output can reach. Subwoofers capable of reaching this frequency can typically be heard by humans at 20 Hz. However, subwoofers with the ability to achieve such low frequencies are more costly.
Don't worry too much about the frequency limit. It is generally acceptable to use a subwoofer at 160-200Hz. Why? Why? Because the frequency above 120Hz is where most of the midrange woofers are. This indicator can't be altered and is established when the subwoofer has been designed, manufactured and shipped to the factory.
If you are able to find a subwoofer that has a dive of around 20Hz for a reasonable price, it is difficult for consumers.
Some entry-level subwoofers with low-end features have a dive of 40Hz or less. The frequency that is too low can cause serious distortion. It is a sign that there are not enough dives. The foundation may not be reliable and all parameters will become meaningless.

Active Vs Passive Subwoofer

There are two types of subwoofers: passive and active. The active subwoofer is currently the most common in home theatres. Subwoofers require a lot power. Many receivers don't have sufficient driving power. Independent passive subwoofers can be found in professional audio more frequently. This is a rare feature in consumer audio. An active subwoofer has a built in power amplifier module. The active subwoofer is currently the most popular home theatre component.

Wired Or Wireless

A rising number of subwoofers powered by Bluetooth are capable of wireless connectivity. Wireless connectivity eliminates the requirement for long cables between subwoofers and receivers.

A wireless subwoofer is usually equipped with a transmitter that plugs into any receiver's subwoofer outputs.
Low-frequency audio signals are transmitted by the transmitter to the wireless subwoofer from the receiver connected to home theater. The wireless receiver integrated into the subwoofer powers the amplifier, which produces the low-frequency sound.

Subwoofer Size & Number

If manufacturers don't want to disclose the maximum sound pressure, most can refer to the third parameter.
The Frequency Response element explains that subwoofers must have sufficient power to produce high frequencies and push air around enough to be heard by the ear. The maximum sound pressure that a subwoofer can achieve is directly related to its size and quantity. The unit's configuration is the best way to determine the subwoofer's strength.

Subwoofer Box Material

Subwoofer boxes are currently made from plastic or wood. Some high-end models will also use metal. Wood speakers used to be considered superior to plastic speakers at first, though this is not the case anymore. Some well-made speakers are better than those made from rough wood. When choosing speakers, it is important to weigh the components. A large wooden speaker will perform poorly if it is too light.

Sealed Vs Ported Subwoofer

When searching for the best subwoofer guide, this is one of the most crucial questions. There are two types of subwoofers depending on whether or not the interior of the cabinet connects with the exterior. The sealed subwoofer is, like its name, a closed cabinet. Low-frequency output occurs because of the compression within the box. This subwoofer has a simple structure and a better transient response. It also provides clear, crisp hearing. Low-frequency speakers have a lower cutoff frequency than others. You will need to use a bigger cabinet, and a higher-calibre speaker if you wish to achieve a lower frequency of low-frequency diving. The speakers are also more sensitive and efficient than any other type of speaker.
The hole is accessed by the ported subwoofer, which leads the radiation wave through it. The port is generally circular in shape and has one. Some subwoofers can have multiple ports, which allows users to adjust their output energy and enhance the listening experience. A subwoofer port may even have a bar design to allow for greater integration and aesthetics.

Maximum SPL

A subwoofer's quality cannot be determined by a single parameter. What makes a subwoofer so capable of producing a sufficient sound pressure level to be considered excellent? Let's first examine the hearing curve of the human ear.
The curve shown in the figure illustrates that different frequencies and sensitivity levels are found within the human ear. Human hearing is identical to this up-and-down curve, which indicates a variable sound pressure level.
The sound of 80dB at 1000Hz is almost identical to 120dB when you listen at 20Hz. This difference amounts to 40dB. The threshold for hearing is 80dB at 20Hz. However, the sound itself is extremely faint and barely audible.
This is why subwoofer parameters must include the maximum sound pressure level. The human ear cannot sense low frequencies and needs to hear a higher sound pressure to feel slight differences. Mix it up if the voice of your subwoofer is too low.

FAQs

What kind of enclosure should I use for my 12 inch subwoofer?

The best kind of enclosure for a 12 inch subwoofer is a ported enclosure. This type of enclosure is designed to provide maximum bass response and help to reduce distortion. It is important to ensure that the enclosure is large enough to accommodate the 12 inch subwoofer and that it is properly sealed and vented.

How do I know if my 12 inch subwoofer is working correctly?

To ensure that your 12 inch subwoofer is working correctly, you should check the connections between the subwoofer, amplifier, and enclosure. Additionally, you should check the wiring of the subwoofer and make sure that it is securely connected to the amplifier. Finally, you should test the subwoofer by playing various types of music at different volume levels.

What is a 12 inch subwoofer?

A 12 inch subwoofer is a type of speaker designed to produce low-frequency audio tones. It is typically used in car audio systems to provide a deeper bass response and is usually mounted in the trunk or rear of the vehicle.

What type of amplifier is best for a 12 inch subwoofer?

The best type of amplifier for a 12 inch subwoofer is a mono amplifier or two channel amplifier. Mono amplifiers are designed specifically for subwoofers and provide more power while two channel amplifiers are more versatile and can be used to power other speakers as well.

What kind of enclosure should I use for my 12 inch subwoofer?

The best kind of enclosure for a 12 inch subwoofer is a ported enclosure. This type of enclosure is designed to provide maximum bass response and help to reduce distortion. It is important to ensure that the enclosure is large enough to accommodate the 12 inch subwoofer and that it is properly sealed and vented.

How do I know if my 12 inch subwoofer is working correctly?

To ensure that your 12 inch subwoofer is working correctly, you should check the connections between the subwoofer, amplifier, and enclosure. Additionally, you should check the wiring of the subwoofer and make sure that it is securely connected to the amplifier. Finally, you should test the subwoofer by playing various types of music at different volume levels.


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About Tim Powers

Tim Powers

Tim Powers is an audio equipment & home theater gadget reviewer and the editor of TheAudioInsights.com. He has been involved in the home theater hobby since the late 1990s when he purchased his first AV receiver. Tim is also a writer, with articles appearing in various online and print publications.