Mono Subwoofer Amplifiers Compared: Kicker, Rockford Fosgate, Pioneer and JBL

For multi-sub builds, the Kicker LX 51LX3000.1 and Warhorse 49WXA3600.1 go up to 3,000 and 3,600 watts at 1 ohm. Match the amp to your sub's impedance and power.

Why a mono amp for subs

A mono amp, also called a monoblock, puts all its power into one channel made for a subwoofer. Most have a low-pass filter, a subsonic filter and bass boost, and many take speaker-level signal so they work with a factory radio.

Every amp here is on our listings. We install amps in our own bay at 22025 S Avalon Blvd Ste A.

Side by side

This table is built only from our own product listings. Where a listing does not state a spec, the cell says so instead of guessing.

A mono amp makes more power at lower impedance. How the sub's voice coils are wired decides which column applies, so match the amp to the sub before you buy.

Mono subwoofer amplifiers compared, from our product listings. RMS power as each maker rates it. "Not in our listing" means our product page does not state that spec, so ask us before you count on it.

ModelRMS at 4 ohmsRMS at 2 ohmsRMS at 1 ohmSpeaker-level inputNotes
Kicker CX 46CXA400.1150 W300 W400 WYes25 Hz subsonic filter, KickEQ
Rockford Fosgate R2-500X1300 W500 WNot in our listingYesPunch EQ, remote included
Kicker KEY 47KEY500.1150 W300 W500 WYesAutomatic sound processor that restores missing bass
JBL Club A600350 W600 WNot in our listingYesLow profile
Kicker LX 51LX850.1300 W500 W850 WYes, 1 to 40 VLXRC remote included
Pioneer GM-DX971500 W800 W1,200 WYesBass remote
Kicker CX 46CXA1200.1600 W1,200 WNot in our listingYes, up to 40 V1-ohm stable
Kicker CX 46CXA1800.1T900 W1,800 W1,800 WYes, up to 40 V25 Hz subsonic filter
Kicker LX 51LX3000.11,100 W2,000 W3,000 WYes, up to 40 VRGB LED lighting, remote included
Kicker Warhorse 49WXA3600.11,400 W2,500 W3,600 WNot in our listingCompetition mode; plan a battery and charging upgrade with it

The 600 to 1,200-watt range

The JBL Club A600 make 600 W at 2 ohms, is an IP66 pack at 300 W for open vehicles.

Big multi-sub builds

The Kicker LX 51LX3000.1 makes 3,000 W at 1 ohm with FIT+ inputs up to 40 volts and RGB lighting.

The Kicker Warhorse 49WXA3600.1 is the biggest at 3,600 W at 1 ohm, with a competition mode. Its listing notes an amp at this level needs a battery and charging upgrade planned with it, and we quote that together.

How to choose, and how to get one

Start with the sub: its RMS power and how its voice coils can be wired. Then pick an amp that makes about that much power at the final impedance. Our powered subwoofer comparison covers subs with the amp already built in, and the car subwoofer enclosure buying guide covers boxes.

Everything is bought and installed or picked up at the shop at 22025 S Avalon Blvd Ste A in Carson, and you can ask about our Payment Plan.Stock moves, so call us or text us to confirm the amp is on the shelf before you drive over.

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Questions on Mono Subwoofer Amplifiers Compared: Kicker, Rockford Fosgate, Pioneer and JBL

How much power does my subwoofer need?

Match the amp to the sub's RMS rating at the impedance you wire it to. A mono amp makes more power at lower impedance, so check the 4, 2 and 1-ohm columns in our table.

Can I add a sub amp to a factory radio?

Yes, with speaker-level inputs.

Do I need a bigger battery for a big amp?

For the largest amps, plan for it. The Kicker Warhorse 49WXA3600.1 listing notes it needs a battery and charging upgrade planned with it, and we quote that together.

Can you install it the same day?

Often, yes. Call or text first so we can set aside time in the bay and confirm the amp and wiring kit are on the shelf.

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