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6 Best Marine Subwoofers – (Reviews & Buying Guide 2021)

Did you know that low-frequency sounds often attract fish? If your audio system is improved with the best marine subwoofer, you and the fish can jam together while you are on your boat. But you already know that probably. However, you have no idea what subwoofer will give you the ultimate music experience. Choosing the right product can be quite confusing.

What type should you get? How to install the subwoofer? How to take proper care of it? Are there any specific features you should be looking for?

All of these questions are essential for the excellent condition of the boat and its additions. Our team has collected some interesting information, great tips, and a list of marine subwoofer reviews, so we can make your choice easier. We are here to inform you, and together we can improve the quality of your audio system.

Best Marine Subwoofers Comparison Chart

PRODUCTDETAILS
BOSS Audio CXX8 Subwoofer

BOSS Audio CXX8 Subwoofer

  • Price: $
  • Dimensions: 8.2 x 8.2 x 4.3″
  • Weight: 4.06 pounds
  • Size: 8″
  • Power: 600 Watts Max
  • Impedance: 4 Ohm
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Planet Audio AC12D Dual 4 Ohm Voice Coil Subwoofer

Planet Audio AC12D Dual 4 Ohm Voice Coil Subwoofer

  • Price: $$$$$
  • Dimensions: 5.375″ Mounting Depth
  • Weight: 10 Lbs.
  • Size: 12″
  • Power: 7200 Watt Total
  • Impedance: 4 Ohm
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Pyle Car Subwoofer Audio Speaker

Pyle Car Subwoofer Audio Speaker

  • Price: $$
  • Dimensions: 3.7″ Mounting depth
  • Weight: 4.07 Pounds
  • Size: 8″
  • Power: 800 Watt Max
  • Impedance: 4 Ohm
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Rockville MS10LW White Marine/Boat Subwoofer with LED

Rockville MS10LW White Marine/Boat Subwoofer with LED

  • Price: $$$
  • Dimensions: 11.2 x 11.1 x 7.6″
  • Weight: 12.1 pounds
  • Size: 10″
  • Power: 2400 Watt
  • Impedance: 4 Ohm
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Skar Audio VD-12 D2 Shallow Mount Subwoofer

Skar Audio VD-12 D2 Shallow Mount Subwoofer

  • Price: $$$$
  • Dimensions: 14 x 14 x 8″
  • Weight: 15 pounds
  • Size: 12″
  • Power: 800W
  • Impedance: 2 Ohm
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Pyramid PW848USX High Performance 8 Ohm Subwoofer

Pyramid PW848USX High Performance 8 Ohm Subwoofer

  • Price: $$
  • Dimensions: 8.4 x 8.7 x 4.5″
  • Weight: 4.8 pounds
  • Size: 12″
  • Power: 350 Watt
  • Impedance: 8 Ohm
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Best Marine Subwoofers (Editor’s Picks)

Without further ado, we will show you the top subwoofers you will stumble upon when looking for something to add to your marine stereo. These units are not arranged in any particular order meaning that all of them are great choices.

1. BOSS Audio CXX8 Subwoofer

BOSS Audio CXX8 SubwooferThis first product that we bring to you caught our attention mainly because it is small and can fit in your car, house, or boat. The dimensions of 9″ depth x 9″ width x 4.3″ height should not deceive – the quality is gratifying. The speakers are capable of enduring high temperatures and fatigue due to the materials used. A cone made from polypropylene and a rubber surround provides durability and resistance to different kinds of sound abuse.

Thanks to the advantage of the die-cast frame, most of the energy is successfully absorbed and transmitted. Especially important for the owners of boats is the corrosion resistance that the basket provides. This subwoofer is not as loud as other, more prominent speakers. However, the bass is controlled and tight, which is preferred by some people.

A drawback of this subwoofer is that it blows easier if the energy increases, which shortens its lifespan. Therefore, make sure that your subwoofer undergoes the ‘break-in’ process by subjecting it to low-to-medium volume levels for 3-4 hours.

Pros

  • 3-year Platinum Online Dealer Warranty
  • Die-cast frame for strength
  • Rubber surround for higher endurance
  • Fits well into smaller spaces

Cons

  • Lower sound and base
  • Cannot last long if exposed to more massive amounts of energy

2. Planet Audio AC12D Dual 4 Ohm Voice Coil Subwoofer

Planet Audio AC12D Dual 4 Ohm Voice Coil SubwooferThe Planet Audio subwoofer is impressive for the quality it offers for the price. The value is measured by the materials used: polypropylene cone and foam surround. While polypropylene provides durability, the foam frame helps keep the subwoofer centered and controlled, without the transmission of unnecessary standing waves.

The subwoofer performs efficiently because it can withstand high temperatures and more prolonged, heavy-duty play. Although the actual energy it can endure is less than 1800 watts, as the description says, this subwoofer performs admirably well for its size and price. However, the lower the peak it can reach, the more careful the owner needs to be not to overpower it.

To enjoy the sweet and clear sound that it produces, an initial ‘break-in’ process is obligatory. The dual voice coil will take care of the rest – it allows the amplifier to take on more energy, and you will be able to connect other subwoofers as well.

Pros

  • Durable materials such as polypropylene and foam
  • Controllable and compact
  • 3-year Platinum Online Dealer Warranty
  • Quality and price in one subwoofer

Cons

  • Peaks at less than 1800 watts
  • Requires cautiousness during heavy duty

3. Pyle Car Subwoofer Audio Speaker

Pyle Car Subwoofer Audio SpeakerOur third pick pushes watt power from 400 with a peak of 800, but it still manages to produce high resonance and clear-cut, versatile sound. Its mounting depth of 3.7″ allows you to easily install it on your car, boat or RVs and enjoy music anywhere you go. For the owner of vessels, a great advantage is the dual voice coil that prevents corrosion for long-lasting use.

It is designed with quality durable materials such as rubber and foam. Although this particular subwoofer cannot work well outside of a box, a ported enclosure is enough for it enhances the audio. Moreover, the subwoofer is supplied with a 40 oz. a Magnet for powerful sound that will offer you the pleasure that you need. However, a peak of 800 watts means less volume. This means that the subwoofer cannot handle overpowering. The owner needs to be careful and gentle when using it. The price is more than reasonable and will not break your bank.

Pros

  • Durable materials provide resistance
  • Dual voice coil to prevent corrosion and endure high temperature
  • Reasonable price
  • Compact and versatile

Cons

  • Cannot handle too much energy. However, gentle care will pay well.
  • Does not perform well in the open air.
  • Sound is beautiful, but not very loud.

4. Rockville MS10LW White Marine/Boat Subwoofer with LED

Rockville MS10LW White Marine/Boat Subwoofer with LEDThis next subwoofer on our list impresses with the fact that we can get a maximum of 2400 watts of power and RMS program power of 1200 watts. This characteristic increases the price, but it’s not unreasonable at all. Polypropylene is a popular material in many fields, including that of the subwoofers, because it emits great, long-lasting sound.

This subwoofer, however, is different and even stronger than other marine speakers on the market, because it has an 80 oz. the magnet that handles double the power. Therefore, the sound can go louder, the bass can be felt, and the experience is excellent. When it comes to design and construction, this subwoofer does not disappoint. The rubber edges absorb and transfer energy, while the ABS plastic basket prevents water damage.

The structure is unbendable and enduring. The only drawback is that the LED lights might connect poorly and they will not last you very long. Other than that, this is a great marine subwoofer that will make your boat trip enjoyable.

Pros

  • It supports large amounts of power and peaks at 2400 watts.
  • Reliable quality materials
  • 80 oz. magnet
  • Waterproof and unbendable
  • Comes in three colors

Cons

  • A bit pricier
  • LED lights don’t last long.

5. Skar Audio VD-12 D2 Shallow Mount Subwoofer

Skar Audio VD-12 D2 Shallow Mount SubwooferThe Skar Audio subwoofer might be less powerful, but it will not disappoint you. With a peak of 800 watts and RMS power of 500 watts, it can endure more energy than it seems at first. The 2-inch voice coil can withstand high temperature and prevents the overheating of the cone. The up-to-standard performance is further emphasized by a sensitivity of 86.7 dB, which allows it to create a clear and pleasant sound even in minimal airspace.

This product is sought-after also because it is compact and versatile in use. Mounting depth of 4.92″ allows it to fit well in your car, boat, or RVs. The cone itself is safe from water damage and heavy usage thanks to the durable rubber and foam that surround it and absorb the energy. Even if the manual does not say it, remember that any subwoofer should undergo a ‘break-in’ process to perform well for an extended time. Overall, this is the right product for the price that comes with it.

Pros

  • Compact and versatile
  • Frame made of rubber and foam
  • Reasonable price

Cons

  • A peak at the lower end – 800 watts

6. Pyramid PW848USX High Performance 8 Ohm Subwoofer

Pyramid PW848USX High Performance 8 Ohm SubwooferThe last product on our list is the Pyramid subwoofer. It consists of a robust non-pressed paper cone that emits clear sound. In addition to it, a non-fatiguing rubber suspension surrounds the inner part. It serves as a protector of the whole construction because rubber can efficiently withstand abuse and wear. A good basket means no corrosion, and this stamped steel basket will ensure that the subwoofer stays intact in different weather conditions and spaces.

However, this subwoofer might not be able to perform as well in the open air. A portable box should allow it to demonstrate better audio qualities, and it will satisfy the needs of your car or boat. A good thing is that the rubber outer edge also improves the bass and increases the value of the speaker. Be careful, though, because this type of subwoofer might blow up quickly if overpowered.

When you purchase it, don’t forget to subject it to a ‘break’ in’ process the way you would do with any speaker if you want it to function longer. In general, the sound quality is good, considering the lower cost.

Pros

  • Foam rubber out edge for protection.
  • Stable, clear sound.
  • Good price

Cons

  • Blows up quickly if overpowered and exploited.
  • Does not perform well in the open air.

What Is a Marine Subwoofer?

Best Marine SubwoofersBoat subwoofers can take the strain from the other speakers to give a more in-depth and crisper sound. In addition to adding extra bass, the best subwoofers for sailboats will make your other speakers sound better. By taking the excess weight of bass duty away from them, you achieve better sound from your speakers. Instead of drawing out the highs, mids, and lows at once, your subwoofer can look after the deep lows while your other speakers deliver crisper, brighter high and mid-range sound.

Without a doubt, a subwoofer itself will not complete your boat’s audio system. You also want to get your hands on the top marine speakers and luckily, we have reviewed the most distinguished models on the market.

Subwoofers usually use speaker drivers (woofers) between a diameter of 8 inches (20 cm) and 21 inches (53 cm). Some rare subwoofers use more significant drivers and manufacture single prototype subwoofers as large as 60-inch (152 cm). Subwoofer drivers as small as 4-inch (10 cm) can be used at the lower end of the spectrum.

It could be a bit challenging to pick the best subwoofer for your boat if you are new to the world of audio installations. There are different terms you will encounter, such as peak power, RMS and impedance, and so on, but you need to know about the subwoofers, in general, is discussed below.

Types of Subwoofers

When you are upgrading the stereo system on your boat, it is essential to choose the right kind of product for your needs. Here we are going to introduce you to the primary types of subwoofers. All these products can be put in some categories depending on what feature you are looking for.

  • Voice Coil

All subwoofers can be divided into two types: single voice coil and dual voice coil.

  • Impedance

Each voice coil of the subwoofer is engineered to a particular impedance. This impedance plays a significant role in connecting accurate subwoofer wiring to the amplifier. So it is essential to have an amplifier for the speakers. Based on impedance, the subwoofers can be divided into 3 types –

-1 ohm

-2 ohm

-4 ohm

  • Sound

Sound is made by all subwoofers, but not all basses are created equal. Some subs are designed for loud sound levels, while others are designed to replicate music accurately. The type of subwoofer you want depends on the aim of your construction. Here you can see three types – SPL Subs, SQ Subs, and SQL subs.

  • Size

The size also matters. You need to know the size of the subwoofer so you can predict where to put the item. The subwoofers usually come in several standard sizes – you can find 6.5”, 8”, 10”, 12” or 15”.

Features

Like every other item, here you have to know the main features of the subwoofers. The subwoofer on your vessel must be able to resist the abuse of a marine climate. The elements of such an environment include humidity, rapid changes in temperature, and constant UV exposure. We can take a look at the most important ones of the characteristics.

  • Power Ratings

When choosing a marine subwoofer, you should take note of two power ratings. These are RMS rating and peak power. These values should be present on the back of the speakers.

    • RMS rating stands for “mean root square,” a mathematical measure of a waveform’s best value. In other words, this is the recommended rating of power. RMS is the level that allows you to enjoy music for an extended period through a sub.
    • The peak power rating is usually the subwoofer’s most significant number, and in short, how loud the subwoofer can go without damaging itself. You will, of course, need a matching class marine amplifier to play it to the highest quality as well. See how to get one by reading our guide on those marine amps. PPR will indicate how loud your device will be able to go. Most people don’t take this metric as seriously as they take RMS.
  • Size

Size of the subwoofer should be taken seriously. For marine subwoofers, 10-inches is the most common size, but there are different sizes for different applications. Bigger isn’t better at all times. You don’t want to have the biggest unit on a smaller boat. The whole thing would be shaking with vibrations.

  • Impedance

In the description of your speaker, you will see ohms measurements. Ohm is an electrical resistance measurement and it indicates the impedance of the subwoofer. Every speaker acts as a resistor. If the ohm rating is smaller, the unit will be able to receive more power by the amplifier. If you use an expensive amplifier, a specific resistance may be required to work correctly. This is quite crucial if you want a powerful bass.

  • Materials

Marinization is what distinguishes the best marine subwoofer from normal ones. A car subwoofer doesn’t need to be able to withstand the elements like a marine one. Marinization doesn’t just mean water resistance. It also has to be able to resist salt, UV rays, and perhaps sand.

Installation

Marine Subwoofer ReviewsYou need to make sure that it can be easily installed in your existing fixtures and fittings before you get any product for your boat. You would also want to make sure it fits the current marine speakers if you have ones.

The most important thing is to check the instruction of the manufacturer. If you are not sure about the installation, call a technician.

Perhaps the hardest part to install the subwoofer will be to mount it. You want it to match your marine stereo, and you want it to fit correctly as well. For some, this may be tricky, especially if holes need to be cut. You want to know exactly where your speaker will be.

Although the actual speaker’s diameter is universal, the rest of the body’s dimensions may vary significantly from one model to another. What you need to do is make sure that you have the proper mounting bracket size for your model.

Measuring is the way to go. Also, make sure you the mounting bracket and the subwoofer will fit in the area of the boat where you want to have them installed. It’s best to decide on these things prior to making a purchase.

 

Maintenance

How to clean the subwoofer? This is a fundamental question. Every audio component on your boat requires proper care. Read all about the various marine-grade sound elements you can have installed by visiting our thorough guides.. Now you can look at some tips on cleaning and taking care of your subwoofer.

  • Always clean the dust from the speaker and the subwoofers.
  • Try to keep the subwoofer dry. Are the marine subwoofers waterproof? Yes, they are. But when it comes to electricity, it is better to keep the water away. All of these listed products have the right amount of water resistance, but if you’re particularly worried about it, it’s a good idea to find a subwoofer that can give you a full amount of waterproof protection.
  • If you want to keep the gloss finish of the subwoofer, make sure that the surface area doesn’t have any debris that could leave scratches. Feel free to use a handheld vacuum cleaner to get rid of dust and other particles.
  • In case you are looking to remove greasy stains from your unit, we recommend using a damp cloth. Use pure water. Our advice is to refrain from applying any alcohol-based detergents as they may severely damage the speaker.
  • When you clean debris, to lift dust and other micro-contaminants from the surface, you can use a microfiber duster.

If you want your subwoofer to have a long life and fabulous look, do not forget to clean it.

Safety Tips

Of course, safety is one of the most important things. Here are some tips on how to enjoy your audio system carefully and safely.

  • Be sure that the subwoofer is installed right. If you’re unsure how to do it, calling a professional would be the best idea. If not, just want to be extra careful as any mistake could leave a lasting mark on your boat that you obviously want to avoid.
  • Clean the surface of the subwoofer. When you are cleaning it, it will look at its best.
  • Check the electrical wires so you can be sure, there is no problem with them.
  • Go for a stranded wire and if you can have it tinned, that would be even better.
  • Avoid using alcohol when clearing up the item.
  • Keep the water away. Although these products are of marine quality, many of them are not waterproof, in fact. However, they will be designed to cope with rain and splashes as they are not going to succumb to this type of water.
  • The size is important. You need enough space to put the product, but you also need the item to fill the space, predetermined for the subwoofer.
  • By combining direct sun, salt water, wind, and extreme temperatures, you understand why your electronic gear needs protection. For example, a regular car receiver cannot handle moisture or constant UV rays. For maximum weather protection, look for plastic cones and rubber surroundings. Free-air rated subs, or enclosed subwoofer components are suitable for the challenging mounting locations you will often find in a boat. Look for a powered enclosed subwoofer if you don’t plan to add an external amplifier.

Wrap Up

So, guys, we are already at the finish line. You have reached the end of our buying guide on finding the best marine subwoofer. Now that you are equipped with these marine subwoofer reviews and our additional information and tips, you realize that finding a reliable product has become a lot easier. It is essential to have the right subwoofer for your boat. Do not forget to maintain it in good shape and always to follow the manual and the safety tips so you can enjoy the music on your boat during your trip in the water.

If you found this article interesting, do not forget to forward it to your fellow melomaniac friends and family who also own boats. Also, tell us your opinion – leave us comments or write us an email, we are looking forward to hearing from you.

Now you can put on your life vest, choose your favorite music, and go cut the waters with your boat and great sound! Thanks so much for reading, and as always – stay put!

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