10 Best 8 Inch Subwoofers for Car Audio Systems

Music enthusiasts are always on the lookout for the best subwoofers to enhance their listening experience. Subwoofers are an essential component of any music system, and they help to produce the bass that gives music its depth and power. Among the different types of subwoofers, 8-inch subwoofers are a popular choice for their compact size and impressive sound quality.

When looking for the best 8-inch subwoofers, there are several things to consider. The first is the type of music you listen to. Different subwoofers are designed to handle different types of music, and it’s important to choose one that can handle the specific genre you prefer. Another consideration is the power handling of the subwoofer. This refers to the amount of power the subwoofer can handle without distorting the sound. The higher the power handling, the louder the subwoofer can play without compromising sound quality.

Additionally, the enclosure type of the subwoofer is also crucial. The enclosure type will affect the overall sound quality, and there are two main types to choose from: sealed and ported. Sealed enclosures provide tight and accurate bass, while ported enclosures offer more volume and deeper bass.

In this article, we will review the best 8-inch subwoofers on the market and provide a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a casual listener or a serious audiophile, our recommendations will help you find the perfect subwoofer to take your music listening experience to the next level.

Best 8 Inch Subwoofers

If you’re looking for a subwoofer that can deliver powerful and clear bass without taking up too much space, an 8 inch subwoofer is the perfect choice. These compact subwoofers can fit in tight spaces, but still pack a punch when it comes to sound quality. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best 8 inch subwoofers on the market, so you can find the perfect one for your car or home audio system.

KICKER CompR 8″ Subwoofer

If you’re looking for an 8-inch subwoofer that can deliver distortion-free bass and increased reliability, the KICKER CompR 8″ Subwoofer is worth considering.

Pros

• Ribbed Santoprene Surround for large excursion and distortion-free bass
• Rigid SoloKon Cone System with 360-Degree Bracing for increased reliability
• Forced-Air Cooling for 25% cooler operation

Cons

• May require custom installation depending on your car or subwoofer housing
• Sound may crack at high volumes
• Requires more power than some other 8-inch subwoofers

The KICKER CompR 8″ Subwoofer features a Ribbed Santoprene Surround that provides large excursion and distortion-free bass, making it an ideal choice for music lovers. The Rigid SoloKon Cone System with 360-Degree Bracing ensures increased reliability, while the double-stacked magnet and full-coverage steel basket provide added durability. Additionally, the stitched surround offers unsurpassed reliability.

One of the standout features of the KICKER CompR 8″ Subwoofer is the Forced-Air Cooling, which helps keep the subwoofer 25% cooler for increased reliability. However, it’s worth noting that this subwoofer may require some custom work depending on your car or subwoofer housing.

While the KICKER CompR 8″ Subwoofer delivers excellent bass, some users have reported that the sound may crack at high volumes. Additionally, this subwoofer requires more power than some other 8-inch subwoofers.

Overall, if you’re looking for an 8-inch subwoofer that delivers distortion-free bass and increased reliability, the KICKER CompR 8″ Subwoofer is a solid choice.

PIONEER 8″ Slim 700W 2 OHM SUBWOOFER

If you’re looking for a slim subwoofer that packs a punch, the PIONEER 8″ Slim 700W 2 OHM SUBWOOFER is a great option.

Pros

• The unique design with just 2-5/8 in. mounting depth makes it easy to install in small enclosures (.15 to .5 cu. ft.).
• With a maximum power of 700 watts and RMS of 250 watts, this subwoofer can handle a lot of power.
• The frequency response of 20 Hz to 1.4 kHz ensures that you get a full range of sound.

Cons

• This subwoofer is not suitable for larger enclosures.
• Some users have reported that the bass can be a bit overpowering at times.
• It may not be as durable as some of the more expensive options on the market.

If you’re looking for a subwoofer that can fit in a small enclosure, the PIONEER 8″ Slim 700W 2 OHM SUBWOOFER is a great option. It has a unique design that allows it to be mounted with just 2-5/8 in. of depth, making it perfect for smaller enclosures. With a maximum power of 700 watts and RMS of 250 watts, this subwoofer can handle a lot of power and deliver great sound. The frequency response of 20 Hz to 1.4 kHz ensures that you get a full range of sound. However, this subwoofer may not be suitable for larger enclosures, and some users have reported that the bass can be a bit overpowering at times. Additionally, it may not be as durable as some of the more expensive options on the market.

MB Quart DS1-204 Discus Shallow Mount Subwoofer

If you’re looking for a versatile and compact subwoofer that can deliver deep bass without taking up too much space, the MB Quart DS1-204 Discus Shallow Mount Subwoofer could be a great choice.

Pros

• With less than 3 inches mounting depth, this car subwoofer is ideal in sealed enclosure applications and makes for one of the most versatile subwoofers for cars in areas with limited space.
• Front and rear venting allows cooler air to be exchanged in the voice coil gap which helps the sub make deep bass and extend the life of the component.
• Heavy gauge powder coated stamped steel basket provides a solid base for the motor system and moving parts and delivers big bass in a small space that does not consume your cargo space.

Cons

• The subwoofer does not handle deep bass well.
• Some drilling and/or modifications may be required for installation.
• The product may not be suitable for larger vehicles or those with high-end sound systems.

The MB Quart DS1-204 Discus Shallow Mount Subwoofer is built to last and delivers high performance in a small package. Its shallow mount design makes it ideal for use in sealed enclosures and areas with limited space, while its front and rear venting helps to keep the voice coil gap cool and extend the life of the component.

While the subwoofer may not handle deep bass as well as some other models, it still provides a good level of bass and is a great choice for those who want to improve the sound in their vehicle without taking up too much space. However, some drilling and/or modifications may be required for installation, and the product may not be suitable for larger vehicles or those with high-end sound systems.

Overall, if you’re looking for a compact and versatile subwoofer that delivers good performance and is built to last, the MB Quart DS1-204 Discus Shallow Mount Subwoofer could be a great choice.

Skar Audio IX-8 D4 8″ 300 Watt Max Power Dual 4 Ohm Car Subwoofer

If you’re looking for a powerful and affordable 8-inch subwoofer, the Skar Audio IX-8 D4 is a great option.

Pros

• The Skar Audio IX-8 D4 is a high-quality subwoofer that delivers excellent sound quality.
• This subwoofer is easy to install and works well with a variety of car audio systems.
• The Skar Audio IX-8 D4 is also very affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious buyers.

Cons

• Some users have reported quality control issues with this subwoofer.
• The Skar Audio IX-8 D4 may not be as durable as some other subwoofers on the market.
• This subwoofer may not be as powerful as some other 8-inch subwoofers.

The Skar Audio IX-8 D4 is a great option if you’re looking for an affordable and powerful 8-inch subwoofer. This subwoofer delivers excellent sound quality and is easy to install. However, some users have reported quality control issues with this subwoofer, and it may not be as durable as some other subwoofers on the market. Additionally, this subwoofer may not be as powerful as some other 8-inch subwoofers.

Overall, if you’re on a budget and looking for a great 8-inch subwoofer, the Skar Audio IX-8 D4 is definitely worth considering. Just be aware of the potential quality control issues and make sure to take proper care of this subwoofer to ensure it lasts as long as possible.

Skar Audio EVL-8 D2 8″ 1200 Watt Max Power Dual 2 Ohm Car Subwoofer

If you’re looking for a powerful 8-inch subwoofer for your car, the Skar Audio EVL-8 D2 might be the one for you.

Pros

• With a peak power of 1,200 watts and RMS power of 600 watts, this subwoofer packs a punch.
• The 2.5″ dual 2-ohm high temperature 4-layer copper voice coil with black coating and sensitivity of 81.8 dB makes for authoritative and powerful bass.
• The high flux 122 oz. double stack ferrite magnet with a BL of 20.27 n/a and low end frequency response of 44.9 Hz make for an extremely dynamic and powerful listening experience.

Cons

• This subwoofer is designed for car use only, so it may not be suitable for other audio setups.
• Some users may find the price to be on the higher side compared to other 8-inch subwoofers on the market.
• The Skar Audio EVL-8 D2 is a relatively new product, so there may not be as many customer reviews available compared to other subwoofers.

The Skar Audio EVL-8 D2 is a powerful and dynamic subwoofer that can deliver incredible bass in your car. With its high power handling capabilities and advanced features, it’s a great choice for car audio enthusiasts who want to take their listening experience to the next level.

The subwoofer is designed with a high roll foam surround stitched to a competition grade pressed paper cone, ensuring that it can withstand high power and deliver exceptional sound quality. The subwoofer also features a dual 2-ohm voice coil that allows for flexible wiring options and easy setup.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Skar Audio EVL-8 D2 is designed for car use only, so it may not be suitable for other audio setups. Additionally, the subwoofer is priced higher than some other 8-inch subwoofers on the market, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality 8-inch subwoofer for your car and don’t mind paying a little extra for advanced features and powerful performance, the Skar Audio EVL-8 D2 is definitely worth considering.

Skar Audio Single 8″ Complete 700 Watt SDR Series Subwoofer Bass Package

If you’re looking for an affordable, all-in-one package for your car’s audio system, the Skar Audio Single 8″ Complete 700 Watt SDR Series Subwoofer Bass Package is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Comes with a complete amplifier wiring kit
• High-performance aftermarket subwoofer system
• Easy to install

Cons

• Some customers reported issues with the subwoofer upon delivery
• May struggle with low notes due to its size
• Limited to RCA connectivity technology

The Skar Audio Single 8″ Complete 700 Watt SDR Series Subwoofer Bass Package is an all-in-one complete bass package that includes a single 8″ loaded 700 watt vented subwoofer enclosure and a 4 gauge complete amplifier wiring kit. It’s an excellent option for those who want to upgrade their car’s audio system without breaking the bank.

The package includes a high-performance aftermarket subwoofer system that delivers great sound quality. It’s also easy to install, so you won’t have to spend hours trying to figure out how to set it up.

However, some customers have reported issues with the subwoofer upon delivery, and it may struggle with low notes due to its size. Additionally, it’s limited to RCA connectivity technology, which may be a dealbreaker for some.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable, easy-to-install, and high-performance subwoofer system for your car, the Skar Audio Single 8″ Complete 700 Watt SDR Series Subwoofer Bass Package is definitely worth considering.

Planet Audio AC8D 8 Inch Car Subwoofer

If you’re looking for a durable and budget-friendly subwoofer, the Planet Audio AC8D might be a good option for you.

Pros

• Made from resilient polypropylene material for long-lasting use
• Voice coils can withstand high temperatures for longer play times
• Foam surround provides higher efficiency and better excursion

Cons

• May require extra wiring for installation
• Some users reported it doesn’t fit in their existing subwoofer box
• Sound quality may not be as good as higher-end subwoofers

The Planet Audio AC8D is a solid choice if you’re on a budget and looking for a reliable subwoofer. Made from tough polypropylene material, this subwoofer is built to last. The voice coils can withstand high temperatures, which means you can enjoy longer play times without worrying about damage. The foam surround provides higher efficiency and better excursion, resulting in better sound quality.

However, some users reported that the subwoofer doesn’t fit in their existing subwoofer box, and may require extra wiring for installation. Additionally, while the sound quality is good for a budget subwoofer, it may not be as good as higher-end options. Overall, the Planet Audio AC8D is a great choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly subwoofer that can still deliver decent sound quality.

BOSS Audio Systems CXX8 8 Inch Car Subwoofer

If you’re looking for an affordable 8-inch subwoofer that delivers decent sound quality, the BOSS Audio Systems CXX8 may be worth considering.

Pros

• Made from Polypropylene, the CXX8 is a durable and resilient material that offers great sound quality and a long-lasting subwoofer.
• The rubber surround complements the whole structure of the speaker by allowing constant abuse where it is most needed without the wear and tear.
• The stamped basket can absorb and transfer much of the energy produced by the speaker, making it corrosion-resistant, mechanically sound, and able to retain its strength at high temperatures.

Cons

• It may not be the best option for those who are looking for a high-end, premium subwoofer with exceptional sound quality.
• The CXX8 may not be as efficient as some other subwoofers in its class, meaning it may require more power to produce the same level of sound.
• Some users have reported that the CXX8 may not be as durable as other subwoofers in its class, and that it may not last as long as they had hoped.

The BOSS Audio Systems CXX8 is an affordable 8-inch subwoofer that delivers decent sound quality and is made from durable and resilient materials. While it may not be the best option for those who are looking for a high-end, premium subwoofer with exceptional sound quality, it is a good choice for those who are looking for an affordable, reliable subwoofer that can deliver decent sound quality and last for a reasonable amount of time. If you’re looking for an affordable 8-inch subwoofer that can deliver decent sound quality, the BOSS Audio Systems CXX8 may be worth considering.

Hifonics BXS8D4 Brutus Shallow Mount Subwoofer

If you’re looking for a versatile subwoofer for your car audio system, the Hifonics BXS8D4 Brutus Shallow Mount Subwoofer is a great option.

Pros

• With less than 3 inches mounting depth, this car subwoofer is ideal in sealed enclosure applications and makes for one of the most versatile subwoofers for cars in areas with limited space.
• Front and rear venting allows cooler air to be exchanged in the voice coil gap which helps the sub make deep bass and extend the life of the component and your subwoofer car audio.
• Heavy gauge powder coated stamped steel basket provides a solid base for the motor system and moving parts and delivers big bass in a small space that does not consume your cargo space.

Cons

• Some users may find the volume to be lower than expected.
• The subwoofer may require minor modifications for installation in certain vehicles.
• The sound quality may not be as good as more expensive subwoofers.

The Hifonics BXS8D4 Brutus Shallow Mount Subwoofer is a great option for those looking for a compact subwoofer that doesn’t take up too much space. The shallow mount design makes it ideal for use in sealed enclosures, and the front and rear venting helps to keep the subwoofer cool and extend its lifespan. The heavy gauge powder coated stamped steel basket provides a solid base for the motor system and moving parts, delivering big bass in a small space.

However, some users may find the volume to be lower than expected, and the subwoofer may require minor modifications for installation in certain vehicles. Additionally, while the sound quality is good for the price, it may not be as good as more expensive subwoofers.

Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, compact subwoofer that still delivers quality sound, the Hifonics BXS8D4 Brutus Shallow Mount Subwoofer is a great choice.

Skar Audio SDR-8 D2 8″ Subwoofer

If you’re looking for a small but powerful subwoofer, the Skar Audio SDR-8 D2 is a great option.

Pros

• Capable of reproducing low end frequencies with authority
• High roll foam surround and competition grade paper cone produce riveting low end bass response
• Advanced air flow cooling design prevents overheating

Cons

• May not produce as much bass as larger subwoofers
• Some users report clearance issues when installing under a car seat
• Hit or miss quality control – some users report faulty units

The Skar Audio SDR-8 D2 is a versatile 8-inch woofer that can handle up to 700 watts of power. It features a 2-inch, high temperature copper voice coil and a sleek red spider system. The high roll foam surround and competition grade paper cone allow it to produce impressive low end bass response. The advanced air flow cooling design prevents overheating, making it a reliable choice for daily use.

While the Skar Audio SDR-8 D2 is a great option for those looking for a small but powerful subwoofer, it may not produce as much bass as larger subwoofers. Additionally, some users report clearance issues when installing it under a car seat. Quality control is also hit or miss, with some users reporting faulty units. Overall, if you’re looking for a small subwoofer that can still pack a punch, the Skar Audio SDR-8 D2 is worth considering.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying an 8 inch subwoofer, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Power Handling

Power handling refers to how much power the subwoofer can handle without getting damaged. It is measured in watts, and you will want to make sure the subwoofer you choose can handle the power output of your amplifier. A subwoofer with a higher power handling rating can handle more power and will generally produce louder and clearer bass.

Sensitivity

Sensitivity refers to how efficiently the subwoofer can convert power into sound. It is measured in decibels (dB), and a higher sensitivity rating means the subwoofer can produce more sound with less power. A subwoofer with a higher sensitivity rating will generally be louder than one with a lower rating, but this can also depend on other factors such as the enclosure and amplifier.

Frequency Response

Frequency response refers to the range of frequencies that the subwoofer can reproduce. The lower the frequency, the deeper the bass. You will want to choose a subwoofer with a frequency response that matches your music preferences and the type of music you listen to. A subwoofer with a lower frequency response will generally produce deeper bass, but it may not be as accurate as one with a higher frequency response.

Enclosure Type

The enclosure type can have a significant impact on the performance of the subwoofer. There are two main types of enclosures: sealed and ported. Sealed enclosures are generally more compact and produce tighter bass, while ported enclosures are larger and produce louder and deeper bass. The type of enclosure you choose will depend on your space constraints and personal preferences.

Other Features

Other features to consider when choosing an 8 inch subwoofer include the type of voice coil (single or dual), the type of cone material (paper, polypropylene, or other), and the mounting depth (how deep the subwoofer will sit in the enclosure). These features can affect the sound quality and overall performance of the subwoofer.

In summary, when choosing an 8 inch subwoofer, you will want to consider the power handling, sensitivity, frequency response, enclosure type, and other features to ensure you get the best product for your needs.