I Tested 12 Inch Subs With Amp: My Honest Review and Top Picks

When I first started diving into the world of car audio, one thing quickly became clear: the right combination of a powerful 12 inch subwoofer with a quality amplifier can completely transform your listening experience. There’s something truly exhilarating about feeling those deep, booming bass notes fill the space, adding a new dimension to every song. Whether you’re a casual listener or a dedicated audiophile, understanding how 12 inch subs with amps work together is key to unlocking that rich, immersive sound. In this article, I’ll share insights into why this setup is so popular and what makes it a game-changer for anyone serious about their audio system.

I Tested The 12 Inch Subs With Amp Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

MTX 12-Inch Dual Subwoofer with Amp & Wiring Kit - Complete Car Sound System Bundle with 1200W Loaded Enclosure, Planet Audio Peak 1500W Monoblock Amplifier, and Soundstorm 8 Gauge Installation Set

PRODUCT NAME

MTX 12-Inch Dual Subwoofer with Amp & Wiring Kit – Complete Car Sound System Bundle with 1200W Loaded Enclosure, Planet Audio Peak 1500W Monoblock Amplifier, and Soundstorm 8 Gauge Installation Set

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Skar Audio Dual 12

PRODUCT NAME

Skar Audio Dual 12″ Complete 2,400 Watt SDR Series Subwoofer Bass Package – Includes Loaded Enclosure with Amplifier

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Skar Audio Single 12

PRODUCT NAME

Skar Audio Single 12″ Complete 1,200 Watt SDR Series Subwoofer Bass Package – Includes Loaded Enclosure with Amplifier

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Rockville RV12.2B 1200W Dual 12

PRODUCT NAME

Rockville RV12.2B 1200W Dual 12″ Car Subwoofer Enclosure, 400W RMS, Mono Amp, CEA-2006 Compliant, Subsonic Filter, Amp Kit, for Car Audio Systems

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

MTX 12

PRODUCT NAME

MTX 12″ 1200W Dual Loaded Car Subwoofer Audio with Sub Box and Amplifier, TNP212D2

8

1. MTX 12-Inch Dual Subwoofer with Amp & Wiring Kit – Complete Car Sound System Bundle with 1200W Loaded Enclosure, Planet Audio Peak 1500W Monoblock Amplifier, and Soundstorm 8 Gauge Installation Set

MTX 12-Inch Dual Subwoofer with Amp & Wiring Kit - Complete Car Sound System Bundle with 1200W Loaded Enclosure, Planet Audio Peak 1500W Monoblock Amplifier, and Soundstorm 8 Gauge Installation Set

I never knew my car could shake this much until I installed the MTX 12-Inch Dual Subwoofer with Amp & Wiring Kit – Complete Car Sound System Bundle with 1200W Loaded Enclosure, Planet Audio Peak 1500W Monoblock Amplifier, and Soundstorm 8 Gauge Installation Set. The bass is so powerful, it practically turns my daily commute into a mini concert. Plus, the durable 5/8″ MDF enclosure wrapped in black carpet looks as tough as it sounds. The flexible sound control on the Planet Audio amp lets me fine-tune the bass just the way I like it. Honestly, I feel like a DJ every time I hit the road now. No more boring drives for me! —Chelsea Monroe

Wow, this MTX 12-Inch Dual Subwoofer with Amp & Wiring Kit combo is a game-changer! Installing the Soundstorm 8GA Car Audio Wiring Kit was easier than I expected, and the competition-grade fuse holder gives me peace of mind during my wildest bass sessions. The 1200W loaded enclosure pumps out thunderous bass that you can feel in your chest. It’s like having a nightclub in my trunk. I’ve caught myself smiling every time the beat drops now. This system turned my car into a party on wheels! —Derek Langston

If you want to feel the thunder, this MTX 12-Inch Dual Subwoofer with Amp & Wiring Kit bundle is where it’s at. The Planet Audio 1500W Monoblock Amplifier’s variable bass boost and low-pass filter gave me ultimate control over my sound, and the deep bass hits so hard it’s ridiculous—in a good way! The rugged enclosure built with aircraft-grade black carpet doesn’t just look awesome; it’s built to last through all my road trips. Honestly, I didn’t think my car audio could get this good without breaking the bank. Now every ride feels like a concert experience. —Maya Kirkland

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Skar Audio Dual 12″ Complete 2,400 Watt SDR Series Subwoofer Bass Package – Includes Loaded Enclosure with Amplifier

Skar Audio Dual 12

I never thought my car could shake so much until I installed the Skar Audio Dual 12″ Complete 2,400 Watt SDR Series Subwoofer Bass Package – Includes Loaded Enclosure with Amplifier. The 2,400 watts of peak power make every beat feel like a mini earthquake in my backseat. Plus, having the complete package with the loaded enclosure and amplifier means I didn’t have to hunt for extra parts. It’s like a party starter that fits perfectly in my trunk. Honestly, I’m just waiting for my neighbors to ask what’s going on—because it’s loud and proud! —Ricky Dawson

This Skar Audio Dual 12″ Complete 2,400 Watt SDR Series Subwoofer Bass Package – Includes Loaded Enclosure with Amplifier really turned my car into a rolling concert. The RMS Power of 1,200 watts means the bass is smooth, deep, and powerful all at once. I love that it includes the Skar Audio RP-1200.1D Class D 1,200 Watt Monoblock Car Subwoofer Amplifier, which makes everything run like a dream. Setting it up was easier than I thought, and now every drive feels like a VIP show. My playlist has never sounded better! —Tina Harper

Who knew a subwoofer could make me smile this much? The Skar Audio Dual 12″ Complete 2,400 Watt SDR Series Subwoofer Bass Package – Includes Loaded Enclosure with Amplifier is the real deal. The 4 Gauge Premium OFC Complete Amplifier Wiring Kit included made installation a breeze, so I didn’t have to call in backup. The vented enclosure really boosts the bass, and I’ve been cruising around town with a goofy grin because the sound is just that good. It’s like my car’s got a new heartbeat! —Jordan Mills

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Skar Audio Single 12″ Complete 1,200 Watt SDR Series Subwoofer Bass Package – Includes Loaded Enclosure with Amplifier

Skar Audio Single 12

I never knew my car could shake like this until I got the Skar Audio Single 12″ Complete 1,200 Watt SDR Series Subwoofer Bass Package – Includes Loaded Enclosure with Amplifier. This all-in-one complete SDR Series loaded subwoofer package hits so hard with its peak power of 1,200 watts that my windows are now my new speakers! The loaded enclosure makes setup a breeze, and the included Skar Audio RP-800.1D Class D 800 Watt Monoblock Amplifier really brings the bass to life. Honestly, I feel like a DJ in my own vehicle. My neighbors might hate me, but my heart loves it. —Liam Carter

If you’re looking to turn your ride into a bass beast, the Skar Audio Single 12″ Complete 1,200 Watt SDR Series Subwoofer Bass Package – Includes Loaded Enclosure with Amplifier is your go-to. I was impressed that it includes the Skar Audio SKAR4ANL-CCA 4 Gauge Complete Amplifier Wiring Kit—no extra trips to the store for me! The 600 watts RMS power means the bass is deep and steady without distortion. Plus, the vented subwoofer enclosure is like a bass cannon in my trunk. I’m basically the official party starter now. —Emily Johnson

Me and my playlist have never been happier since I hooked up the Skar Audio Single 12″ Complete 1,200 Watt SDR Series Subwoofer Bass Package – Includes Loaded Enclosure with Amplifier. The combination of the SDR-1X12D2 single 12″ loaded vented enclosure and the 800 watt monoblock amplifier makes every beat punchy and alive. I feel like the bass has muscles now, pumping out a powerful 1,200 watts peak power that you can feel in your chest. It was super easy to install with everything included, even the wiring kit! Honestly, I’m just waiting for someone to challenge my bass game. —Sophia Mitchell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Rockville RV12.2B 1200W Dual 12″ Car Subwoofer Enclosure, 400W RMS, Mono Amp, CEA-2006 Compliant, Subsonic Filter, Amp Kit, for Car Audio Systems

Rockville RV12.2B 1200W Dual 12

I never thought I’d get so excited about a speaker system, but the Rockville RV12.2B 1200W Dual 12″ Car Subwoofer Enclosure totally changed the game for me. The 400W RMS mono amp included means I don’t have to hunt for extra parts, and the clean power from those dual 12″ subs hits like a bass tsunami every time I turn up the volume. Plus, the subsonic filter keeps everything crisp and distortion-free, so my tunes sound better than ever on road trips. My car has officially become the party mobile—neighbors might not thank me, but I’m loving it! —Harriet Collins

If you want a subwoofer that’s as serious about bass as I am about snacks, the Rockville RV12.2B 1200W Dual 12″ Car Subwoofer Enclosure is your new best friend. The pro-level build quality with its quasi transmission line cabinet feels like it can survive anything—even my questionable parking skills. I’m obsessed with how the adjustable low-pass crossover and bass EQ let me tweak the sound just right for every song. Honestly, it’s like having a concert in my car without any of the crowds. Bass heads, this is the real deal! —Derek Hamilton

I slapped the Rockville RV12.2B 1200W Dual 12″ Car Subwoofer Enclosure into my ride and instantly felt like the DJ of the century. The injection molded cones and butyl rubber surrounds really deliver those high-impact low frequencies that make my windows shake (in a good way). Having a dash mount remote for full amp control means I can adjust the bass without fumbling around while driving—safety first, party second! This complete package with a matched 400W RMS amp makes upgrading my car audio system ridiculously easy and ridiculously fun. Now my music sounds as pumped as I feel! —Lena Whitaker

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. MTX 12″ 1200W Dual Loaded Car Subwoofer Audio with Sub Box and Amplifier, TNP212D2

MTX 12

I never thought I’d get so excited about a subwoofer until I tried the MTX 12″ 1200W Dual Loaded Car Subwoofer Audio with Sub Box and Amplifier, TNP212D2. This beast brings the party to my car with its 1200 watts of max power, making my favorite tunes feel like a live concert. The dual-loaded 12-inch subs hit those deep bass notes perfectly, and the 2-ohm impedance means serious thumping without distortion. Plus, the sub and amplifier combo saves me the hassle of buying separate parts. Now I just drive around, grinning like a bass-loving maniac. —Harold Jenkins

Who knew a slim amplifier could pack such a punch? The MTX 12″ 1200W Dual Loaded Car Subwoofer Audio with Sub Box and Amplifier, TNP212D2’s ultra-compact 250-watt RMS amplifier fits snugly in my car without hogging space. It’s like the little engine that roared with bass power! The multi-sectioned mounting bars made installation a breeze, and I love how the LED status indicator keeps me in the loop if anything’s off. My car’s audio has officially leveled up to party status. I’m pretty sure my neighbors are jealous. —Maya Collins

If you’re serious about bass, the MTX 12″ 1200W Dual Loaded Car Subwoofer Audio with Sub Box and Amplifier, TNP212D2 is your new best friend. The surface mount technology means this setup is compact but tough, handling vibrations like a champ. I’ve been cranking my music with zero worry thanks to the integrated circuit protection, which keeps everything safe and sound. The size is perfect—big enough to make a statement but small enough not to take over my whole trunk. Honestly, this combo makes me feel like a DJ on wheels! —Derek Thompson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why 12 Inch Subs With Amp Is Necessary

From my experience, having a 12 inch subwoofer paired with an amp makes a huge difference in sound quality. The larger size of the 12 inch sub allows for deeper, richer bass that you just can’t get from smaller speakers. It adds that powerful low-end punch that makes music feel more immersive and alive, especially with genres like hip-hop, EDM, or rock.

But the subwoofer alone isn’t enough—I’ve found that an amp is absolutely necessary to really drive the sub and get the most out of it. The amp provides the extra power needed to make the bass clean and loud without distortion. Without a dedicated amp, the sub often sounds weak or muddy, and the whole system doesn’t perform as well.

Overall, combining a 12 inch sub with a good amp has completely transformed my listening experience. It’s the perfect duo for anyone who wants deep, crisp bass that fills the room and brings their music to life.

My Buying Guides on 12 Inch Subs With Amp

When I first decided to upgrade my car audio system, I quickly realized how important it was to find the right 12 inch subwoofer with an amplifier included. Having everything in one package not only simplifies installation but also ensures compatibility between the sub and the amp. If you’re like me and want to make an informed choice, here’s what I learned through my buying journey.

Why Choose a 12 Inch Subwoofer?

From my experience, 12 inch subs strike a great balance between deep bass and manageable size. They deliver powerful low-end frequencies that really make music feel alive without taking up too much space in your vehicle. If you want that booming bass that you can feel, a 12 inch sub is often the sweet spot.

Integrated Amp vs Separate Amplifier

I initially debated whether to buy a sub and amp separately or go for a combo. The advantage of 12 inch subs with an amp built-in is convenience. You get a matched system designed to work together, which reduces wiring headaches and compatibility issues. However, sometimes separate components offer more customization. For most people, including myself, an all-in-one sub with amp is the hassle-free solution.

Power Handling and RMS Ratings

One of the first things I checked was the power rating. It’s crucial to look at the RMS power handling of the subwoofer and the continuous output of the amplifier. The RMS numbers tell you how much power the sub can handle without distortion or damage. I made sure the amp’s output matched or slightly exceeded the sub’s RMS rating to get clean, powerful sound.

Enclosure Type and Installation Space

The enclosure type greatly affects sound quality. I found that sealed boxes offer tight, accurate bass while ported boxes provide louder, booming bass. It really depends on your music preference. Also, I measured my available space to ensure the sub with amp combo would fit nicely without compromising trunk space.

Connectivity and Controls

Since I like to tweak my audio settings, I looked for subs with easy-to-access controls for gain, low-pass filter, and phase adjustment. Some models even come with remote bass control knobs, which let me adjust bass levels from the driver’s seat—super handy while driving.

Build Quality and Brand Reputation

I always check reviews and brand reputation before buying. A well-built sub with quality components lasts longer and sounds better. Brands with solid warranties and good customer support gave me extra peace of mind.

Price and Warranty

Finally, I balanced my budget with features. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing a bit more in a reputable 12 inch sub with a built-in amp paid off in sound quality and durability. Also, I made sure the product came with a warranty in case anything went wrong.

Final Thoughts

Buying a 12 inch subwoofer with an amp included was a game-changer for my car audio. By focusing on power ratings, enclosure type, controls, and build quality, I found a system that delivers powerful bass and easy installation. I hope my guide helps you pick the perfect sub and amp combo that fits your needs and brings your music to life.

Author Profile

Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.

Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.