There are many things to love about automobiles: the engine sound, the interiors, the feel of the wheel, the audio system, etc.
One of the best things about cars and trucks is getting to customize them and make them your own. If you’re a bass lover looking to upgrade your car or truck audio system for thumping bass, you know that subwoofers are the way to go.
When most people think of upgrading their car or truck audio system for bass, the first thing that comes to mind is big subwoofers.
Big subwoofers are very efficient, but what if you don’t have the space in your vehicle for one? That’s where shallow mount subwoofers come into play.
There are plenty of great shallow mount subwoofers on the market today that produce thumping bass, and you have come to the right place to learn about them.
In this article, we will review the 10 best shallow mount subwoofers for trucks and cars. Whether you are looking for something to add to your existing audio system or want to build a new one from scratch, this article will help make your search easy. Let’s get started.
Our 10 Best Shallow Mount Subwoofers:
1. Rockford Fosgate P3SD2-8 8″ Dual 2-Ohm Punch Series Shallow Mount Car Subwoofer
If you’re looking for top-notch sound quality in a shallow mount car subwoofer, you can’t go wrong with the Rockford Fosgate P3SD2-8.
This subwoofer has been designed to produce low-frequency bass with maximum power and clarity.
Its dual 2 Ohm voice coils are connected through anodized aluminum former that helps to keep the subwoofer cool during operation.
With 150 watts RMS and 300 watts max power handling, you will enjoy your music to the fullest whether you’re a fan of hip hop, rock, or any other genre of music.
This shallow mount subwoofer features anodized aluminum cones and dust caps, with a unique dual linear spider venting design embedded to 16 AWG tinsel leads for increased cone-to-coil cooling.
Rockford Fosgate used an M-Roll Santoprene surround with VAST technology that significantly improves the subwoofer excursion for more cone area and deeper bass. They also used an innovative hybrid stamp-cast basket that provides super strength while minimizing the subwoofer’s weight and resonance.
The Rockford Fosgate P3SD2-8 shallow mount subwoofer is easy to install in just about any vehicle and takes up space that a traditional subwoofer cannot occupy.
It has also been optimized to work in a sealed enclosure with 0.25 cubic feet or a vented enclosure with 0.75 cubic feet. Additionally, it comes with a full 1-year warranty when bought from an authorized Rockford Fosgate dealer.
Benefits
- This car subwoofer packs a serious punch, delivering deep, powerful bass that will enhance your music listening experience.
- It comes with Rockford Fosgate one-year warranty.
- It will fit anywhere in your car and is optimized for both vented and sealed enclosures.
- The subwoofer is well-built and will last for years.
Drawbacks
- You need an enclosure to get the most out of it.
2. Infinity REF1000S 10 Inch Shallow Mount Subwoofer
The Infinity REF1000S 10” shallow mount subwoofer is designed to give you a mind-blowing listening session, regardless of what type of music you enjoy. Its sleek and compact design fits easily into any vehicle – perfect for those who love car audio & truck audio.
This subwoofer can handle 200 Watts power and 800 Watts maximum power for optimum performance. Its 35Hz – 175Hz frequency response and 89dB sensitivity enable it to reproduce the sound of any music genre perfectly.
With its Harmanproprietary SSI™ (Selectable Smart Impedance) technology, the Infinity REF1000S can provide impressive performance with both 2 and 4-ohm impedance.
It features a Polypropylene woofer cone for accurate bass reproduction and an integrated spider venting system that keeps the motor cool for long-lasting performance.
Note that to bring out the best in it, you need to mount it in a sealed box with 0.5 cubic feet or a ported box with 1.5 cubic feet rather than mounting it on the rear deck.
Benefits
- This subwoofer has an excellent bass reproduction in any music genre.
- It features Harman proprietary SSI™ (Selectable Smart Impedance) technology to switch between 2 and 4-ohm impedance.
- It is affordable and offers excellent value for money.
- You can install it in a sealer or ported box.
Drawbacks
- It may not last long.
3. Kicker TL7T Single Square 12” 2 Ohm Solo-Baric Subwoofer with Thin Enclosure
Kicker’s TL7T single square 12″ 2-ohm Solo-Baric subwoofer is another outstanding choice for car and truck music enthusiasts who want to get the most out of their audio systems.
It offers 600 watts RMS power handling and 1200 watts maximum power handling to deliver premium performance. With its large voice coil and magnet that produces a low-end frequency response, the TL7T subwoofer is sure to give you the thumping bass you crave in your music when driving.
This high-performance subwoofer features Kicker’s Square Sub technology that delivers 20% more bass than subwoofers in its league. It comes mounted in a thin enclosure to maximize bass output while providing outstanding sound quality.
Kicker made the enclosure with an angled design so you can place it in your vehicle with the subwoofer firing left, right, or upwards. They also made it durable with thick MDF construction and heavy internal bracing.
The Kicker’s TL7T single square 12″ 2-ohm Solo-Baric subwoofer measures 7.75” D x 13.75” W x 21.5” H, making it fit comfortably under the car & truck seat. However, if you use it continuously for hours, it will explode.
Benefits
- This subwoofer comes packaged in a thin enclosure that fits under car & truck seats perfectly.
- It is well-made and built to last.
- The subwoofer has Kicker’s Square Sub technology that delivers 20% more thumping bass than other brand subs.
- The enclosure has an angled design for versatile placement.
Drawbacks
- It doesn’t endure long hours of use.
4. PIONEER 10″ TS-A2500LB Shallow Subwoofer with Box
While most car and truck music enthusiasts know that Pioneer is a leading name in audio equipment, many might not be aware of the company’s impressive lineup of shallow subwoofers.
The TS-A2500LB 10” subwoofer is one of Pioneer’s offerings in this category, and it does not disappoint. With a 2-ohm single voice coil, 1200 watts Max & 300 watts RMS power handling, this subwoofer will produce earth-shattering bass.
The TS-A2500LB subwoofer packs quite a punch for its size. Its glass fiber and mica interlaced injection-molded polypropylene cone with Butyl Rubber surround not only ensure durability but also improve the subwoofer’s overall performance. Thanks to the fixed steel mesh grille, the subwoofer won’t get damaged easily. However, the grille rattles.
The Pioneer TS-A2500LB subwoofer comes mounted in a custom-built enclosure, enabling it to deliver even more bass than you would get from a traditional subwoofer.
The enclosure has four adjustable feet and cushions, allowing for a variety of installation choices. You can place the subwoofer to fire down, up, and vertical.
Additionally, the angled push terminals on the enclosure box make connecting speaker cables a breeze. Its direct connection saves space and allows easier installation coupled with the included sturdy mounting brackets and screws. Overall, this is an excellent product for anyone looking for good sound quality in a small package.
Benefits
- This subwoofer’s unique design and powerful bass create an immersive audio experience.
- It comes with an enclosure designed for placement flexibility.
- It features sturdy construction, making it very durable.
- This subwoofer is simple to install, thanks to its angled push terminals.
Drawbacks
- Its fixed steel mesh grille rattles.
5. Skar Audio VD-12 D4 12″ Power Dual 4 Ohm Shallow Mount Car Subwoofer
Skar Audio is a company that has made a name for itself in the car audio world by providing high-quality products at an affordable price. One of their offerings is the VD-12 D4 12″ shallow mount car subwoofer.
The VD-12 D4 is a dual 4-ohm subwoofer that handles 500 watts RMS power and 800 watts peak power. It features a high-temperature voice coil for superior sound quality and bass output. Plus, its frequency response range is 25 – 300 Hz, and the sensitivity is 86.7 dB.
This subwoofer features a reinforced paper cone, high roll foam surround, and a 2-layer Conex spider for added durability.
Furthermore, it has an advanced airflow cooling system that helps keep the subwoofer running cool, even under heavy use. And to top it all off, the VD-12 D4 comes with a 2-year warranty from Skar Audio. Also, if you want the best sound from your subwoofer, install it in a ported box!
Benefits
- This subwoofer runs cool and doesn’t overheat.
- It is inexpensive and bangs for the bucks.
- It is designed for audiophiles who want to feel the music in their seats with an accurate and powerful low-end response.
- The manufacturer has a 2-year limited warranty on it.
Drawbacks
- If you’re not careful with the power supplied to the subwoofer, it may blow up.
6. Alphasonik Dynamis DCP8 8” 4-Ohm Shallow Mount Subwoofer in Ported Box
Looking for an 8” 4-ohm shallow mount subwoofer that can deliver big bass? The Dynamis DCP8 from Alphasonik is worth considering.
This subwoofer offers 350W RMS and 1000W MAX power to handle even the most demanding bass sounds. Its 4-ohm impedance allows it to work well with a range of amplifiers, while the high-temperature voice coil ensures that you will get plenty of power without any distortion.
Built on a stamped steel basket that provides stability, the Alphasonik Dynamis DCP8 subwoofer is designed to deliver reliable performance for years to come. Its lightweight and rigid pressed paper cone has an inverted poly dust cap that keeps the cone shape unaffected at an increased excursion.
Furthermore, this subwoofer comes in a ported enclosure enabling it to deliver high power output thought to be only possible with larger enclosures. There’s an optimized bass reflex slot port that wraps around the walls of the enclosure to produce the necessary low frequencies for excellent frequency response.
Alphasonik made the enclosure from sturdy ⅝” MDF with a high-grade black carpet to beautify your car interior. Plus, it has a dimension of 5” W x 19” L that fits tight spaces perfectly.
The Alphasonik Dynamis DCP8 subwoofer is simply connected and powered via spring-loaded nickel-plated terminals, so installation is straightforward.
Benefits
- This subwoofer packs a punch.
- It has a sturdy construction for lasting optimum performance.
- The subwoofer comes with a ported box that delivers high power output and extension.
- It is easy to install and mount in any car & truck.
Drawbacks
- The subwoofer blows up if run continuously at its rated RMS power.
7. JBL Club WS1200 12” Shallow Mount subwoofer w/SSI (Selectable Smart Impedance) Switch & Alphasonik Earbuds
The JBL Club WS1200 12” shallow mount subwoofer is ideal for small cars, SUVs, and trucks. It is a shallow mount subwoofer, only requiring 3-5/16” of mounting depth.
This subwoofer 1000W peak power and 250W RMS power handling will make your favorite tracks sound alive with their bassline!
It has a 92 dB sensitivity rating, so even low volume levels are heard perfectly clearly without any distortion. Plus, its 27 – 125 Hz frequency response range provides sound clarity when listening to all types of music.
The JBL Club WS1200 12” shallow mount subwoofer features the Selectable Smart Impedance (SSI) switch that allows you to select between 2 and 4 ohms, depending on your setup and needs.
It has a slim, sleek, and stylish polypropylene cone that offers great sound quality. Unfortunately, this subwoofer doesn’t last up to a year.
The JBL Club WS1200 12” shallow mount subwoofer also comes bundled with Alphasonik earbuds. These earbuds are designed for intense bass, and they sound great. They’re perfect for listening to music or watching movies when you’re on the go.
Plus, they offer superior noise isolation and feature a built-in microphone for taking calls. Alphasonik earbuds are made with high-quality materials, making them durable and long-lasting.
Benefits
- This subwoofer features JBL’s Selectable Smart Impedance (SSI) switch that allows you to select between 2 and 4 ohms.
- It comes with Alphasonik high-quality earbuds.
- It requires 3-5/16” of mounting depth, making it ideal for small cars, SUVs, and trucks.
- This subwoofer offers great sound quality.
Drawbacks
- The subwoofer doesn’t last long.
8. Kenwood Excelon KFC-XW1200F 12” Mount Subwoofer Car
Kenwood’s Excelon KFC-XW1200F 12” mount subwoofer is one of the most popular car subwoofers on the market.
It’s known for its clear, powerful bass and easy installation. But how does it measure up to other subwoofers? We’ll take a look at the features, performance, and value of the Kenwood Excelon KFC-XW1200F to see if it’s worth your hard-earned money.
The Kenwood Excelon KFC-XW1200F is a 12” subwoofer that’s designed to provide clear, powerful bass in your car or truck. It offers 4 ohms impedance, 350 Watts RMS power handling, and 1400 Watts peak power. Thanks to its heat transfer system, it runs cool at all times.
This subwoofer performance is awesome. It delivers tight, punchy bass that will make your music sound richer and fuller. Kenwood made it with a 12″ carbon glass honeycomb cone and an aluminum diecast basket that handles high power and delivers clean bass. This heavy-duty construction ensures years of reliable use.
Thanks to its affordable price tag, the Excelon KFC-XW1200F is a great value for budget-conscious car and truck music enthusiasts. Plus, it features a tough, durable mounting system and push-terminal (84WG capable) that makes installation a breeze. To get the best out of it, install it in a sealed enclosure.
All in all, it is an excellent subwoofer that’s sure to please even the most discerning car music enthusiast. It’s tough, durable, and delivers powerful bass that will make your music sound richer and fuller.
Benefits
- This subwoofer is tough, durable, and very reliable.
- It delivers powerful bass that will make your music sound richer and fuller.
- The subwoofer is affordable and easy to install.
Drawbacks
- It blows up.
9. Alpine S-W12D2 S-Series 12″ Dual 2-Ohm Subwoofer
Alpine’s S-W12D2 S-Series 12″ dual 2-ohm subwoofer is a nice addition to any music enthusiast’s car audio system. This subwoofer is ideal for audiophiles who want to experience a high-quality audio system.
With a 5-layer 65mm dual 2-ohm voice coil that has been high-tempered on an aluminum former, it can tolerate a lot of power. Plus, its dual voice coil allows you to effortlessly add another subwoofer.
This subwoofer can handle up to 250-600W RMS power and 1800 watts peak power, making it ideal for those who like to feel their music. It has a frequency response of 25Hz – 500Hz, making it the perfect option for anyone looking for an audiophile-grade subwoofer.
The Alpine S-W12D2 subwoofer features a Kevlar-reinforced pulp cone with a HAMR Santoprene rubber surround that enhances bass response and provides an overall richer sound. Its construction also ensures that it will stand up to even the most extreme conditions.
Additionally, Alpine optimized the subwoofer to work in both 0.55 – 1 cubic feet sealed enclosure and 1.0 -1.5 cubic feet vented enclosure. Installing it is simple, thanks to the 8-AWG push terminals.
Benefits
- It is an audiophile-grade subwoofer, producing great bass for less price.
- The subwoofer works well in both sealed and vented enclosure boxes.
- It features high-quality material construction that ensures its durability and reliability.
Drawbacks
- It doesn’t last up to a year.
10. Hifonics BXS8D4 Brutus Shallow Mount Subwoofer
The Hifonics BXS8D4 Brutus shallow mount subwoofer delivers some serious bass, thanks to its 8″ woofer, peak power rating of 400 watts, RMS rating of 200 watts, and 84dB sensitivity. It also has a frequency response of 30-250 Hz, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Hifonics built it with high-temperature resistant materials to ensure stability and clarity. The voice coil features a 2” diameter, while the former consists of an aluminum former that vents heat away for more efficient performance.
The voice coil gap is ventilated by front and back vents that help extend its life span by dissipating heat.
The Hifonics BXS8D4 Brutus shallow mount subwoofer is designed with a heavy-duty stamped steel basket that can withstand even the roughest of use.
This bass speaker UV-rated polypropylene cone ensures long-term durability and resists moisture, so you won’t have to worry about it getting destroyed! Plus, its spider, made entirely out of a cotton blend, lasts indefinitely without losing shape.
Installing this subwoofer is as simple as ABC, thanks to its stainless steel push & insert that securely connects the wiring with minimal interference. Be informed that it is best mounted in a sealed enclosure. Best of all, it is very affordable.
Benefits
- This subwoofer is inexpensive.
- It is made from high-quality material.
- It delivers a decent bass thump.
- This subwoofer works perfectly in a sealed enclosure.
Drawbacks
- Most times, it ships damaged.
How to Choose the Best Shallow Mount Subwoofer?
Now that you know what are the best slim subwoofers, you may be wondering how did we pick them up.
In this section, we will discuss the factors you need to consider when buying a shallow mount subwoofer for your car or truck.
The Size of the Subwoofer
One of the most important factors you need to consider when choosing a shallow mount subwoofer is its size.
People look for shallow mount subs when they lack enough space inside their car or truck.
That’s why the size of the subwoofer is an important consideration. You’ll want to make sure that the sub will fit right in your vehicle without causing any issue.
The Power Handling Capacity
Another factor you need to consider when choosing a shallow mount subwoofer is its power handling capacity.
This dictates how much power the subwoofer can handle before it gets damaged.
You need to make sure that the subwoofer you choose can handle the amount of power your amplifier can provide.
Make sure to match the sub to the amp, speaker, and head unit specifications so that it runs efficiently. Compatibility is a must to check.
Frequency Response Range
The frequency response range refers to the range of frequencies that a subwoofer can produce.
Most subwoofers have a frequency response range of 20 Hz to 200 Hz.
However, some subwoofers can go as low as 15 Hz or even lower. If you want to get the most out of your subwoofer, make sure to choose one with a wide frequency response range.
Sensitivity Rating
The sensitivity rating is another factor you need to consider when choosing a shallow subwoofer.
This refers to how much power the subwoofer needs in order to produce sound.
The higher the sensitivity rating, the less power the subwoofer needs.
If you want your subwoofer to be more efficient, choose one with a high sensitivity rating.
The Enclosure Type
The enclosure type is another factor you need to consider when choosing a shallow mount subwoofer.
There are three types of enclosures: sealed, ported, and bandpass.
Each type offers its own set of benefits and drawbacks. You’ll need to decide which type of enclosure works best for your needs.
You can choose to get one ready-made in an enclosure or you can buy the subwoofer and fit it in an enclosure of your preference.
Sealed enclosures produce tight and accurate bass while ported enclosures produce more powerful bass.
Bandpass enclosures are somewhere in between. They offer a good balance of power and accuracy.
If you’re not sure which type of enclosure to choose, consult with an expert or read reviews online.
Price
Finally, the price is always an important consideration when making any purchase.
Make sure to find a subwoofer that fits your budget without compromising on quality.
You don’t have to break the bank in order to get a great shallow mount subwoofer.
Advantages of a Shallow Mount Subwoofer
Now that you know what to look for when choosing a shallow mount subwoofer, let’s discuss the advantages of these subs.
Shallow mount subwoofers offer a number of benefits over their traditional counterparts.
Some of the most notable advantages include:
They take up less space
This is the most obvious advantage of shallow mount subwoofers.
If you’re short on space, a shallow mount sub is the way to go.
They’re easier to install
Shallow mount subwoofers are easier to install than traditional subs.
This is because they don’t require as much work in terms of cutting and splicing wires. They generally come in a nice and slim enclosure ready to connect in the car.
They offer more flexibility
Since they’re easier to install, shallow mount subs offer more flexibility when it comes to placement.
You can put them practically anywhere in your vehicle without having to worry about clearance issues.
They sound better
Many people find that shallow mount subwoofers sound better than traditional subs.
This is due to the fact that they have a smaller enclosure which allows them to produce tighter and more accurate bass.
If you’re looking for quality bass without taking up a lot of space, a shallow mount subwoofer is a way to go!
Final Thoughts
Not having the space to install a large car subwoofer shouldn’t stop you from enjoying quality bass in your car or truck. With a shallow mount subwoofer, you can have a small speaker that still packs a punch without taking up unnecessary space.
We understand that you may not know where to start from when looking for a shallow mount subwoofer, that’s why we took the time to carefully and thoroughly review each shallow mount subwoofer that made it on our list.
Now that you’ve read our reviews, it’s time for you to make a decision. All of the models on our list are excellent choices. However, how do you decide which one is right for you? All in all, a way to narrow down your options is to consider your budget.
But don’t just think about the cost of the subwoofer itself – also factor in the price of an amplifier if needed and the installation costs. Once you have a ballpark figure in mind, select from our list and make a purchase. We know you won’t be disappointed with whichever model you choose. Enjoy!