Best Monoblock Car Amplifiers Class D [Subwoofer Amp]

In this article, we’ll present you with monoblock amps good enough for an average user who wants some quality and punchy bass added to its system.

But if you’re looking for something stronger like competition-grade options check our other articles: 0.5-Ohm options, 1-Ohm options, 2000-Watt options, and 3000-Watt options.

Our Recommended Monoblock Amps

Pioneer GM-D9701 Monoblock Amp

RMS: 500 Watts at 4 Ohms;
800 Watts at 2 Ohms;
1200 Watts at 1 Ohm
Max: 2,400W
Class: D

Pioneer is a leading car audio brand best known for its high-quality sound and reliable performance. Their GM-D9701 monoblock amp is no exception and is already very popular among car audio enthusiasts wanting to upgrade their systems.

Pioneer’s high-performing GM-D9701 mono amplifier has the capability of driving out up to 2,400 Watts RMS to your sound system, for that powerful bass and clear sound.

Its highly efficient class D and single-channel technologies also make sure every supportive feature suits its intended purpose.

Rated to deliver 1200 Watt RMS at 1-Ohm and 800 Watts at 2-Ohms, the versatile GM-D9701 is a very powerful option for anyone looking for something to boost its systems sound output.

With a frequency response of 10-250Hz blended into the Class D technology, the amp has a high energy efficiency with the least deviation.

Besides, you will never worry about the impedance matching on adding subs because it can handle 1-Ohm loads without breaking.

Video review

Alpine S-A60M S-Series

RMS: 330 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms;
600 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms;
Max: N/A
Class: D

Coming in at 2nd place is an updated amp that boasts some of the features that used to only be seen in the premium lineup of Alpine car amplifiers which we’ll cover throughout this review. Alpine has made a name for itself when it comes to providing affordable, yet enjoyable audio experiences.

At the beginning of this review, we mentioned that it contains features that used to only be available with Alpine’s premium lineups. This includes a protection circuit design (which ensures an uninterrupted listening experience regardless of where you’re at since it prevents thermal shutdowns) as well as an improved heatsink.

One of the best features of the Alpine S-A60M Class D mono amplifier is that it’s extremely compact in comparison to other amps of its kind. It measures just 8-inches which ensures you can put it under a seat or behind a panel without a hitch.

If you’re wanting one of the more affordable Class D amps on the market today, this is one that’s worth considering. Alpine has succeeded once again when it comes to a high-quality option at an affordable price that just about anyone can easily afford to add to their system.

Alpine S-A60M Dyno test

Sundown Audio SFB-3000D

RMS: 1140 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms;
2025 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms;
3000 watts RMS x 1 at 1 ohm;
Max: N/A
Class: D

The Sundown Audio has mechanically restored and stress-tested the amp to ensure that it works efficiently or as expected. The RMS of the SFB-3000D at 14.4V DC ranges between 1100 and 3000 watt RMS for 1-Ohm to the 4-ohm range, which is impressive, to say the least.

And if that wasn’t enough to catch your attention, then you may want to pay attention to what we tell you next: the SFB-3000D comes with a four-way protection circuit and you can expect distortion-free sounds in your car thanks to this amp’s frequency response range of 10Hz-20 kHz, Signal-to-Noise Ratio of 86d, and variable low pass and high pass filters of 12 dB/Octave reading.

To top it off, a smart cooler built into the amp ensures thermal management, keeping the amp cool and free from damage. Overall, we are very much satisfied with the features and performance of the SFB-3000D; it is a top 3000W amp that you would want in your car.

Rockford Fosgate T1500-1bdCP

RMS: 1000 Watts x 1 @ 4-Ohm;
1500 Watts x 1 @ 2-Ohm;
1500 Watts x 1 @ 1-Ohm
Max: 1500 watts
Class: D

The 1500-1bdCP is a high-end mono amp that provides up to 25% greater power than the competition. The T1500-frequency 1bdCP’s response is the perfect monoblock amp for your vehicle as it is built specifically for use with car and truck subwoofers.

The listening experience of the 1500-1bdCP is second to none. This monster can run on any demo vehicle competing in Sound Pressure Level at 1,500 watts. Additionally, it can drive a 1-ohm load, allowing you to enjoy great bass from a variety of system configurations. The 24/dB per octave variable crossover allows this mono amp to produce a more natural-sounding changeover from your speakers to your subwoofer.

The Dynamic Thermal Management system regulates the temperature of internal parts by evenly distributing heat for improved efficiency and less distortion. Finally, the innovative heat sink helps heat to escape more quickly, keeping the high-power output diodes cooler and longer-lasting.

MTX JackHammer JH15001

RMS: 650 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms
Max: 1,650 watts
Class: D

With its high-efficiency Class D architecture, the JH15001 is ideal for people who love bass. This mono amp, which can provide up to 1500 watts at a 1-ohm load, will make your woofers thump, shake your windows, and let others know you’re using MTX power.

The layout is straightforward and elegant, which ensures a classy look to the JH15001 while allowing easy access to the amp. If you want to adjust the bass boost, gain, subsonic filter, and low pass filter, you can easily do that from the front panel.

The JH15001 also scores highly in terms of performance; it has been designed by MTX to power any subwoofers you connect it to. It has a maximum power of 1,650 watts and can handle loads as low as one ohm. High-quality RCAs are all inputs available for connectivity to aftermarket processors or head units.

However, you can use the JH15001with factory radios that don’t have RCA ports as well; it is because the Input Level setting is either Pre or Spk In. Finally, the Auto Turn-On feature is adjustable, allowing the device to turn on when it detects a signal, obviating the need for a remote wire, or it may be switched on manually your choice. Overall, it is a great value for money monoblock car amp.

Orion HCCA3000.1DSPLX Class D Monoblock Amp

RMS: @ 4 Ohms MONO @ 0.5% THD+N: 1350 Watts
@ 2 Ohms MONO @ 0.5% THD+N: 2100 Watts
@ 1 Ohms MONO @ 0.5% THD+N: 3000 Watts
Nominal Power output 1 Ohm (Watts): 6000 Watts
Max: 12,000W
Class: D

Orion has had some great years in the car audio industry, with some high-end models under their name.

The HCCA series is among the most popular models and Orion HCCA3000.1DSPLX is just here to prove the company’s rich history and heritage. For most people, this might just be the last subwoofer amp they’d wanted for the longest time.

The HCCA3000.1DSPLX is one large, heavy amp that makes perfect sense if you understand its capabilities. The amp has got 4 high-current toroids for power supply, implying it’s designed for high-current orientation and can easily drive one-ohm loads throughout the day.

The amplifier’s extreme power and technology excellence, combined with great efficiency makes it an ideal sound machine for competition uses.

Since the energy storage and power supply are controlled by 16 2,200-F capacitors with the rails using 12 1500-F 200-volt caps, the output stage is backed up with 12 high-current MOSFETs with 16 more for power supply.

This means the amp is capable of providing 1350 RMS at 4 Ohm, 2100 RMS at 2 Ohm, 3000 RMS at 1 Ohm (which hits a maximum power rating of 12,000 Watts ), with a variable frequency response of 15 Hz to 250Hz.

The bass boost adjustment also hits up to 18dB of boost at 45Hz, which lets users customize the sound output along with available control options for gain and variable phase control.

Rockville dB14

RMS: @2 Ohm: 2000 Watts x 1 Channel
@4 Ohm: 1200 Watts x 1 Channel
Max: @2 Ohm: 4000 Watts
@ 4 Ohm: 2400 Watts
Class: D

There’s no doubt that the dB13 3000-watt mono amp is one of the top-performing amplifiers from Rockville. This class D amp of the dB monotype series is capable of loading 2 ohms without stretching its limits for great sound output.

Rockville dB13 is popular among audiophiles for its 4000 Watts Max Power and 2000 Watts RMS rating which makes it an ideal class D monoblock amp capable of producing a loud, clear, and clean sound.

With a less than 1% sound distortion assurance, the dB14 is designed for 2000 Watts RMS at 2-ohms and 1200 Watts RMS at 4-ohms which translates to 3000 Watts at 2-ohms and 2400 Watts at 4-ohm in terms of Max Power.

Also, CEA Compliant Power Ratings are 1000 Watts at 2-ohms and 600 watts at 4-ohms. This rating means the amp is CEA compliant and designed to drive most systems.

The class D technology is also supported with a high-speed MOSFET power supply for a fully adjustable 12dB bass EQ, Octave Crossover with differential circuitry.

This makes the volume and bass levels dynamic for full control and better audio performance. The fuse cut protector is also available to let you concentrate when driving in crowded and risky places.

With a subsonic filter of 15Hz – 55Hz, low pass filter of 50Hz – 250Hz, remote dashboard subwoofer control, mute-and-delay soft-start system, full IC-Controlled protection circuitry, and an RCA pre-amp line output, you’ll have authoritative control over your system. The special freedom to customize every detail in line with your preferences.

Rockville dB14 Dyno test

Kicker CXA400.1

RMS: 150 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms;
300 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms;
400 watts RMS x 1 at 1 ohm;
Max: 800W
Class: D

Coming from one of the most recognized brands in the world is a simple amplifier that works best for powering your subwoofer. It’s not as advanced as some of the others we’ve reviewed here but it gets the job done and it does it rather well (as we explain in the full Kicker CXA400.1 review).

Its 3-second on/off delay helps ensure that you don’t have to embrace interference when turning it off and on. Another great feature is that it’s made in a way that allows you to fine-tune the sound level at the turn of a knob.

As far as compatibility is concerned, it works with just about every stereo system on the planet. Of course, you’ll want to get a wiring kit to get the most from this amp. Especially if you want to turn up in an attempt to let your vibrations be felt as you stroll through the block.

Kicker CXA400.1 Dyno test

Everything else we recommend

Hifonics ZRX2416.1D Monoblock Amp

RMS: 650 Watts at 4 Ohm;
1200 Watts at 2 Ohms;
2400 Watts at 1 Ohm
Max: 2,400 watts
Class: D

The Hifonics ZRX2416.1D is a reliable option for anyone looking for an amp that is capable of powering the most demanding subwoofer kits for either personal or competitive use.

It features an inbuilt boost EQ and electronic crossover for a brilliant and reliable performance. The bass remote is also included, to customize bass levels in every music you play.

With the capability to push out up to 2400 Watts max power at 1-ohm, 1200 Watts at 2-ohms, and 650 Watts t 4-ohms (which can be translated to 1200 Watt RMS at 1-ohm, 600 Watts RMS at 2-Ohms, and 325 Watts RMS at 4-ohms), this amp has got the necessary power output you need for the best sound quality.

The military-grade PCB body construction comes with a stylish silver finish that adds to its compact design, which is perfect for small cars.

This class D monoblock amp is also equipped with a soft start-sound function that makes the start-up process easier by reducing the initial loading.

Then there’s the four-way protection circuitry which includes thermal, overload, and speaker short protection. It has a bass boost between 0 to 10dB at 45 Hz and produces powerful sound.

Rockford Fosgate R1200-1D Prime Class D Mono Amp

RMS: 400 Watts at 4 Ohms;
800 Watts at 2 Ohms;
1,200 Watts at 1 Ohm
Max: 1400 W
Class: D

If you’re looking for a mono amp that can comfortably handle a 1-Ohm load at 1200 Watts without any breaks or overheating, then you may want to check out the Rockford Fosgate R1200-1D Prime.

This Rockford monoblock amp is clearly designed for powering your 10-inch subwoofers to produced load and clean sound.

Rockford Fosgate’s signatures Punch Bass Boost is designed to work with the subsonic and low-pass filters to let you tune and adjust your system for maximum performance.

The speaker-level inputs are designed for universal compatibility, while the phase switch is meant to get your subwoofers playing along with other speakers for maximum impact.

With an RMS rating of 1200 Watts, 800 Watts, and 400 Watts at 1, 2, and 4 ohms respectively, Rockford Fosgate has designed this leading amp to provide enough power to give it the capacity of accommodating every task you throw at it.

It also features an RCA connector, muted power-on and an input signal, which makes sure you don’t damage the speakers at high volume. The MOSFET power supply is in place to ensure it handles anything you throw its way.

AudioControl ACM Series ACM-1.300

RMS: 175 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms;
300 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms;
Max: N/A
Class: D

One thing that has changed over time is how compact cars have become, and this has created a demand for car audio solutions that can fit in the most compact spaces to exist. While some car audio manufacturers have overlooked this, AudioControl was all over it.

For those who don’t know, AudioControl has invested a ton of time developing new processors and amplifier to lead them to 2018, when they announced their new series of micro-sized amplifiers that provides one of the most space-efficient solutions on the market.

The AudioControl ACM-1.300 (full review) is a full-range mono amplifier capable of providing 175 watts in a 4-ohm load and 300 watts in a 2-ohm load making it one of the most powerful amps currently available. Another great advancement is that they eliminated the traditional pigtail design and included quick-release speaker connectors, as well as RCA jacks and a rather big terminal block for power. This not only makes it easier to install, but it makes it easy to swap out to another application if such a need arises.

When it comes to affordability, this is a mid-priced amp. However, it’s a great solution for those who don’t have a lot of space to work with but want to deliver excellent sound. While it may not be a well-known brand like Alpine, JL Audio, or Kicker, they have upped their game over the years.

DS18 SLC-X2250.1D

RMS: 750W at 1 Ohm RMS;
530W at 2 Ohm RMS;
300W at 4 Ohm RMS;
Max: 2250W
Class: D

For those who want an entry-level Monoblock amp that won’t have them cashing in their savings to take their car audio game to the next level. The DS18 SLC-X2250.1D is the reason that many makers of car amplifiers have tried to replicate their design.

You might be wondering why other car audio brands would try to replicate the success of one of their competitors, but it’s quite normal. Especially when you consider the fact that DS18 has been able to produce a highly powerful product while reducing their expenses. All without sacrificing quality.

As far as what applications this is good for, most car audio enthusiasts like to use it solely for their subwoofer. However, there have also been great experiences when using it to enhance the power of their door speakers. However, it might be a little bit too powerful for tweeters.

The bottom line is that if you want an affordable, yet powerful solution, this is one of the best entry-level amplifiers that comes at an affordable price.

BOSS Audio R2400D Riot Monoblock Amplifier

RMS: 1800 W X 1 RMS @ 1 ohm;
900 W X 1 RMS @ 2 ohm;
450 W X 1 RMS @ 4 ohm;
3600 W X 1 RMS Strapped Bridged Power @ 2 ohm
Max: 2400 W MAX Power @ 1 Ohm x 1 Channel;
1200 W MAX Power @ 2 Ohm x 1 Channel;
600 W MAX Power @ 4 Ohm x 1 Channel
Class: D

You will be surprised with this budget monoblock amplifier, for its capability of pushing out up to 2400 Watts Max Power at 1-Ohm, 1200 Watts Max Power at 2-Ohm, and 600 Watts at 4-Ohm, at such an affordable price.

With peak power rating also translating to 1800 Watts RMS and MOSFET power supply, you’ll still be able to adjust and customize the sound with variable bass boost, subsonic filter, low-pass crossover, and remote subwoofer control.

For cars that don’t have RCA output, this little workhorse lets you use the speaker-level inputs to fix the amp into the system. See more cheap car amps.

Using the speaker-level inputs, the amp can switch its input mode automatically whenever it detects high-level signals. You never have to worry about low/high signals or impedance matching.

Besides, it has the capability to accommodate another R2400D amplifier to double-up its performance. Its basic features make it one of the best monoblock amps for car audio beginners to add bass and improve sound and performance.

Ignite Audio R1600/1D

RMS: @ 1 Ohm: 750 Watts x 1;
@ 2 Ohms: 530 Watts x 1;
@ 4 Ohms: 300 Watts x 1
Max: 4000W
Class: D

If you love your music loud, clean, and clear then you may want to check out the Ignite Audio monoblock class D amp. This single-channel amp has the capacity of boosting the power behind your bass without compromising on its overall efficiency.

Ignite has packed this revolutionary amp with performance-focused features that adds punch and clarity to your audio systems.

The class D technology is meant to regulate the power supply to your system for better control, while the internal heatsink helps in improving the machine’s cooling system.

It has 4000 Watts maximum power, which can be broken down into an RMS power handling capacity of 300 RMS Watts at 4 Ohms, 530 Watts RMS at 2 Ohms, and 750 Watts RMS at 1 Ohm.

Not forgetting to mention the MOSFET power supply and 85 dB total harmonic distortion for better sound output.

With the variable low-pass crossover, subsonic filter, switchable phase control, and bass boost, you can customize the sound to your preferred output so your speakers sound their best. You could also use the remote subwoofer control to tweak the bass.

JL Audio JX1000/1

RMS: 500 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms;
1,000 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms;
Max: N/A
Class: D

JL Audio is one of the most renowned brands in the industry, and it has rightfully earned its spot at our list of the best monoblock car amplifiers.

When you turn it on, you can see that their attention to detail when making this amp was at its peak. Unlike amps that have a bunch of popping and crackling on startup, it features what JL Audio refers to as a soft start turn-on, which helps it turn on gradually while eliminating unnecessary sound interference.

Of course, this is just the start of seeing what great things the JL Audio JX1000/1D has to offer. To make things even further, they’ve done what many haven’t done. They went ahead and used oversized transistors as well as rugged power supplies by MOSFET. What this does is it ensures a high-quality listening experience while boosting overall performance.

As for the cost, it is one of the most expensive amps of its kind. Is it worth it to pay more for this mono amplifier? Absolutely, and being one of the highest-rated amps of its kind by consumers provides it with the additional justification needed to ensure it’s truly a great deal for the money.

DS18 PRO-FR6000.1 Mono Amp Class D

RMS: 3,000W x 1 @ 4-ohm;
4,900W x 1 @ 2-ohm;
6,400W x 1 @ 1-ohm
Max: N/A
Class: D

DS18 series of multi-channel and monoblock amps have brought a new era in the audio community.

The DS18 PRO-FR6000.1 comes packing enough features to suit high-end user’s requirements, making it an ideal option for those looking for a solution for audiophile set-ups.

Regarding some vital features, the DS18 PRO-FR6000.1 is clearly designed for a reliable, good-sounding audio performance in all the toughest conditions.

With the frequency response ranging between 10Hz to 500 Hz (variable high) and 50Hz to 15khz (variable low) at 0 to -12dB, you’ll have a narrow band to produce a very thick band at the end of the equation.

This powerful workhorse can send up to 6400 Watts RMS from the single channels at 1-ohm and with the full-range RCA outputs, unbalanced RCA inputs, and MOSFET PSU transistors to maintain at least 2400 Watts RMS, this high-efficiency amp will power all your high-frequency subwoofer(s).

Monoblock Amp FAQ

What Is a Monoblock Amplifier?

A monoblock amplifier is a single channel amp used to provide power to single-channel speaker systems. That’s why they are the typical outfit for powering subwoofer(s) – if you need to connect the speakers you should check out 5-channel or 4-channel ones.

The mono amps are designed to produce a single power indicator that is perfectly suited for the low-frequency sounds (e.g. deep bass), besides boosting specific features in the subwoofer.

Mono amps are also useful when power demands increase as they are more stable at maintaining electrical current resistance, besides having the capacity to support two subwoofers connected to a single amp. See more FAQs on mono amps.

Can you put two subs on a mono amp?

Yes, you can. Doing this will push the subs with more power at way lower resistance.

To do this, you need to know how to cut wire, use simple tools, and follow instructions.

You will need a speaker wire, a wire cutter, and a screwdriver. The first step is to cut two lengths of speaker wire and strip the insulation off of the ends of the cables by half of an inch.

Then, you connect one end of the first wire to the speaker’s output terminals located on the amplifier.

Lastly, you join the other end terminals of the subwoofer and tighten down the terminals to ensure that both wires are secure.

Can a monoblock amp run speakers?

Yes, but it has to have a full range option. So be sure to first check that. Most mono amps support 15hz to 200hz, but can not handle anything above that. Also, this way you won’t get stereo sound.

What is a Class D monoblock amplifier?

An amplifier’s class refers to its output stage. A Class D means that certain parts of the amplifier turn on and off to create the signal instead of constantly changing the volt or current. For example, Class A is the least efficient with the highest sound fidelity, while Class D has the highest efficiency with lower fidelity. The current on a Class D amplifier only flows when it’s “on” making it run smoother and more efficiently.

Monoblock Amp Vs. 2 Channel Amp?

The main difference between a mono amp and a 2-channel amp is with the number of channels, the power signals sent to the speakers. Mono amps have got a single channel (oriented in one direction), while 2-channel amps have got 2 (left and right) power channels.

With this in mind, we’ve put together detailed product reviews on the best class D monoblock amplifiers to help you overcome the confusion that may arise from the various configurations, technical details, and marketing angles.

Last update on 2024-12-22 / Affiliate links / *Image Disclaimer: We use images/data from Amazon Product Advertising API solely on products that link to Amazon. On products with the "Price at Crutchfield" button, we use images/data from Crutchfield.com as per the partnership deal.