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Best Marine Subwoofers Reviewed
Just when you think a day on the water couldn’t get better, someone comes along with a killer marine subwoofer and adds great music. A good day just became an amazing day.
If you have ever spent a day boating or fishing with your favorite music pumping, then you know how much good music cranks up the fun meter.
There is a lot to consider when shopping for the best marine subwoofer for your boat.
Along with sound quality and durability, deciding on a permanent installation or a more portable marine subwoofer is very important. Considering some of those details ahead of time will make your audio experience all the more enjoyable in the long run.
That’s why Rowing Inc brings you our top 5 marine subwoofers and an in-depth review of all their pros and cons.
To make the specifics a little more digestible, we put a lot of the highlights and details in the comparison table below. Keep reading to see the final results and which marine subwoofer reviews earned our top spots in the article below.
Top Marine Subwoofers Comparison Chart
Best Marine Subwoofers
1. Bazooka MBTA8100 Marine Amplified Tube Subwoofer
Bazooka MBTA8100 Marine Subwoofer
When possible, you might prefer to avoid hard-wired marine audio installations, or even move your marine subwoofer to other boats. This marine subwoofer from Bazooka is the perfect option for those who need a more portable subwoofer. With an on-board powered amplifier, you wont need additional amplifiers and wiring to enjoy high-quality sound.
The Bazooka MBTA8100 Marine Subwoofer is the perfect choice for you if you also need a lower power rating. Lower power ratings are well suited to those looking for casual listening on a boat, rather than big parties and events.
The low impedance on this device also allows you to double your overall levels. That might not seem like a big deal, but it opens a much larger window if you want to shape your sound via EQ adjustments. Low impedance can help tremendously with the sound quality of your music.
Speaking of that, quality is everything when you’re looking to invest in a new marine subwoofer. Aside from sound quality, durability is definitely something to consider when making your investment.
This system has full marine certification, and it is also waterproof and UV safe. These properties mean that your new boat speakers will withstand the elements, and you also won’t have to worry about this device being damaged by extreme weather, sea salt or fog in the long run.
The Bazooka MBTA8100 also has a very simple installation process; it takes no time at all to install this waterproof sub. Due to its Velcro reinforced mounting straps, fitting your new device is quick and streamlined.
For those who are style-conscious, this is a very sleek and refined marine subwoofer that just oozes class. The chrome-plated finish is particularly attractive, and it will add a certain level of sophistication to your boat.
The Bazooka MBTA8100 is a stainless steel design and will act as a capable backup to your current sound system.
Bearing in mind that this is a mid-priced device makes it very worthwhile to invest in this marine sub over other expensive devices. The features will work quite well for the vast majority of boating needs. This affordable investment is well worth it.
This video is a good overview of the Bazooka MBTA8100 Marine Subwoofer
2. Alpine SWR-M100 Marine Subwoofer
Alpine SWR-M100 Marine Subwoofer
The main feature to note on this subwoofer is the high output bass speaker. This means that your marine subwoofer has the ideal qualities for absolute maximum bass on your boat. Running with 900 W as its peak power is pretty powerful considering the very reasonable price.
Although the sound quality may not be able to entirely compete with some of the high-end front runners in this market, it is a very good alternative. All in all, this is one of the very best marine subwoofers for the money, and the powerful bass is impressive considering its 10-inch size.
This marine sub is extremely durable, and can hold its own even in the most turbulent of weather conditions. You can know that the Alpine SWR-M100 subwoofer will be a reliable source of quality sound, whether it is warm outside or there is a thunderstorm on the horizon.
We found that it takes a lot to damage the speaker, and it is definitely one of the most popular models available. The size is also ideal if you are looking for excellent bass quality without an overly heavy and weighty product, which sometimes require additional structural support to mount the subwoofer and prevent damage to your marine audio system.
With that said, you should bear in mind that this subwoofer requires installation or a sound box; this is an additional purchase you will need to make if you don’t already have one.
However you decide to install the Alpine SWR-M100, it’s excellent quality, durability, and affordability may make this investment well worthwhile.
3. BOSS ASK904B.64 Marine Amplifier and Speaker Package
BOSS ASK904B.64 Marine Audio Package
The multifunctional combination kit by BOSS ASK904B.64 includes an amplifier, two pairs of marine speakers and a handful of accessories for easy adjustments.
The BlueTooth audio streaming options also allow you to play music apps such as Spotify, Apple Music and Pandora. The weatherproof connectors will also avoid corrosion overtime and provide excellent protection against the elements.
This device comes with full marine certification, so you don’t have to worry about water damaging your device from the inside or outside of your boat.
The BOSS ASK904B.64 marine subwoofer comes with excellent sound quality and is comparable to a high-end speaker. You can expect little to no distortion is when songs are played, and there are also options to increase the bass. With a 500W power rating, you can expect high-quality sound and excellent volume for larger gatherings and parties.
This is a trustworthy, reliable and durable option if you have a larger boat and want a new marine subwoofer that can fill wide spaces with high quality sound and music.
4. MTX Audio RT8PT Universal Powered Subwoofer Enclosure
MTX Audio RT8PT Universal Powered Subwoofer
The size of this marine subwoofer is 8 inches, which makes it very easy to install in a small boat. The carpeted enclosure is also an extremely attractive quality, as this will fit in with the interior decor of your boat.
The level of the base is easily customizable, using the external crossover control on the MTX Audio subwoofer. The useful wired remote also gives you the ability to control the levels of bass and volumes quickly and simply.
If you are looking for a reputable and compact marine subwoofer that is very simple to set up this option is ideal for you. The mounting equipment allows you to fit this device securely in place anywhere in your boat.
It is worth noting that this device is not waterproof. This means that continued spray and exposure to water may damage the device over time, so protection is important with this subwoofer. With a smaller boat, this may not be more difficult, but it is definitely worth considering the long-term effects.
For larger boats protection will be easier simply by placing the subwoofer in a protected area, and there are other ways to protect the device from water as well.
This is a super popular model for good reason. Given it’s portable nature you can easily move it from your boat to your vehicle, or your friends boat as well. This is a terrific option for your boating audio system if you are looking for portability and great performance.
5. Rockville MS12LW Marine/Boat Subwoofer
Rockville MS12LW Marine/Boat Subwoofer
The impressive level of bass in the Rockville MS12LW marine subwoofer model also exceeds expectations considering it’s compact size. The quality of the sound is also excellent, considering it’s mid-sized 10-inch woofer.
This device comes with a marine certificate and is extremely simple to install. The input and output wires are also on one side, this makes the installation very simple and clean.
Once it has been installed on your boat, it also looks very clean and sophisticated, without a whole host of mounting brackets or wires scattered in different directions.
Simple connections and easy installation allows for the addition of volume controls or an equalizer which can provide customized sound settings and preferences.
It is also worth taking note that this device has thermal protection, which might be very useful for warmer climates and extended use.
Features To Look Out for in a Marine Subwoofer
When you set out to buy a new marine subwoofer. There are a number of important features to look out for. Here are some of the key elements your new marine subwoofer should possess:
Official Marine Certification and Waterproofing
Your conventional subwoofer can become damaged by water droplets and tiny particles of moisture circulating in the air. This means that your new device needs to be marine certified and waterproof.
Installing your subwoofer inside the boat may help to protect it in some ways, but it might not be enough to protect it from long-term damage. Choosing a waterproof and marine certified subwoofer will expand its lifespan so you won’t need to worry about replacing it for many years.
When you buy your new marine subwoofer, make sure it clearly specifies that it has official waterproofing and marine certification. This will avoid disappointment if it does come into contact with water whilst you are on the boat.
Optimum Size for Your Boat
Choosing a new marine subwoofer according to its size, is extremely effective. You don’t want to invest in a brand-new subwoofer that is too weighty otherwise it may be too heavy for the structure that it is installed upon. Over time this can cause significant damage to your boat, especially if you have a small boat.
However, you need to strike a clear balance between weight and size. Investing in a new marine subwoofer that is too small in size, will have a huge impact on the quality of sound that it produces. You want your subwoofer to have high quality audio, which means that a slightly larger subwoofer is definitely a more worthwhile investment.
Typically a marine so but should be around the 10-inch mark. This size of the marine subwoofer will make sure that it is lightweight enough to protect the surface it is installed upon, but it still is able to produce excellent sound. Sound quality is absolutely everything when it comes to investing in a brand-new marine subwoofer, so make sure you take this into consideration.
Effective Electrical Resistance
Electrical resistance or impedance simply refers to the way in which electrical currents are passed through the inner wires of your marine subwoofer. If this impedance is relatively low, it means your sound quality will be stronger and significantly more powerful.
Ideally, you want to choose a new marine subwoofer that has an impedance of around four ohms. It would be ideal if you could find a new marine subwoofer that had a lower impedance, but this will work just fine if your new investment possesses these qualities.
A High Power Rating Suited to Your Needs
When you invest in a new marine subwoofer, you want to know that the volume is high and effective for your needs. The volume of your new marine will completely depend on the power rating that it has been given by the manufacturer. It completely depends on what you are looking for in your marine subwoofer.
Those who are planning a large party or need to fill the entire boat area with loud music and sound will need a marine subwoofer with a very high power rating. However, many boat owners are simply looking for a marine subwoofer that allows them to enjoy casual listening whilst out on the water.
For a large party, you should look for a system that has a rating of around 400W; if you can find a new marine subwoofer that has a higher rating that is even better. For more laid-back or casual listening, your new marine subwoofer would work perfectly with 100W as its power rating.
Final Thoughts On Boat Subwoofers
So when you are browsing online for your new marine subwoofer, you need to keep all of these features and factors at the forefront of your mind. All in all, it completely depends on the size of your boat and how you want to listen to music. There are a whole host of options to choose from, so it all comes down to your unique needs and preferences. Finding a balance of all the best qualities of a marine subwoofer will ensure that you make the right decision for you.