Best 15-inch Subwoofer
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Best 15-inch Subwoofer: Make A Decision You Won’t Regret!

Are you thinking of the perfect way to improve the audio experience in your car? While it is cheap to get stuck with your factory-installed sound system, oftentimes, the latter is weak and won’t be enough to optimize the quality of sound. With this, there is one thing that you can do – install the best 15-inch subwoofer.

Subwoofers are amongst the most important components of your car’s audio setup. While they can be highly instrumental in improving sound, the latter will only be the case if you choose the right product. If you have no idea how to make the right choice, I am here to help you. Keep on reading the rest of this guide and learn more about subwoofers, including some of the best options that are available in the market.

Product (Amazon Links)Power Peak 

Pyle PL1590BL 15-inch 1400 Watt DVC Subwoofer

1400 Watts

Review

Power Acoustic MOFO 15-inch Competition Subwoofer Dual 2-ohm Voice Coils

3000 Watts

Review

Rockford Fosgate P3D2-15 Punch P3 DVC 2-ohm 15-inch 600 Watts RMS 1200 Watts Peak Subwoofer

1200 Watts

Review

Orion HCCA152 15” HCCA Series 2-ohm 4000W DVC Subwoofer

5000 Watts

Review

Kicker CompVR 07CVR154 15-inch 4-ohm DVC Subwoofer

1000 Watts

Review

What is a 15-inch Subwoofer?

First, let us talk about what a subwoofer is in general. Basically, it is the one responsible for the production of tones that are very low for the dynamic range of your audio system. Most of the models that are available today are powered subwoofers. Simply put, this means that they have their own crossover network and a built-in amplifier, both of which are able to improve the quality of sound significantly.

When it comes to subwoofers, size is a critical consideration. The smaller ones are less powerful. If you want a larger sound, on the other hand, a larger subwoofer will also be essential. Many people are contented with an 8-inch subwoofer. If you want one that has decent power and is just the right size for your car, on the other hand, the best 15-inch subwoofer is what you should have.


Top Picks for the Best 15-inch Subwoofer

If you are having difficulty selecting a 15-inch subwoofer that will complete your audio setup, in this section, we will have a rundown of some of the best brands and models you might want to include in your list of choices.

1. Pyle PL1590BL 15-inch 1400 Watt DVC Subwoofer

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If you are looking for a 15-inch subwoofer that has fairly good sound and a unique design this is one option you might want to consider. It is easy on the pocket, which makes it a good choice for those who are just starting to upgrade their audio system.

This model comes with 1400 watts, which is more than enough for the reproduction of powerful bass.

It is also a good thing that this is versatile. This means that you can use it in different types of enclosure. Regardless of you have an open-air, vented, or sealed enclosure, this will deliver optimal performance.

To add, it also comes with flat progressive spider design. The latter is one of the reasons why it is favored by many for mechanical stability.

This might be far from being the best in terms of performance. There are some who noted that it could easily blow up, which will have a negative impact on its durability. But still, given the fact that it is cheap, it is still a decent choice.

Pros:

  • Hits very hard
  • Ideal choice for starters

Cons:

  • Can produce heavy vibration
  • Not as durable as higher end subwoofers

2. Power Acoustic MOFO 15-inch Competition Subwoofer Dual 2-ohm Voice Coils

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This 15-inch subwoofer may work well for some people. It has excellent quality. It is a perfect option for people with demanding needs and for those who would not like to settle for anything less.

In terms of design and construction, this can also be exceptional compared to many others. The dust cap is a good thing, which will protect it from external elements that can speed up wear and tear. It also has a cast aluminum basket, which adds up to its durability.

The ground-shaking bass that it can deliver impressed many audiophiles. This can be attributed to its 3,000 watts maximum power and 1700 RMS. To add, it is also a good thing that it has 170-ounce strontium magnet.

However, it should be noted that the installation can be tricky. You will need a helping hand from the pros to be assured of optimal sound output.

Pros:

  • Comes with two voice coils
  • Made from excellent materials
  • Manages heat efficiently

Cons:

  • Professional installation is required

3. Rockford Fosgate P3D2-15 Punch P3 DVC 2-ohm 15-inch 600 Watts RMS 1200 Watts Peak Subwoofer

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This is made by one of the most trusted brands in the market, which can already give you a good reason to have it chosen above other alternatives that you can find in the market. This is a good choice if you want potent music experience inside your car.

The anodized aluminum cone is one of the best things about the design of this 15-inch subwoofer. The latter will be able to retain its shape, even if the bass is heavy. Nonetheless, even if the cone is long-lasting, there are some who reported that other parts can be easily blown up.

It is also impressive when it comes to its ability to manage heat. This means that it will stay cool even when playing loud sound for a long time. One of the reasons for the latter is the special venting, which keeps heat away from the cone.

Lastly, it comes with Flex Fit Basket Design, which is the one that will make its installation a snap to accomplish. Even on your own, by following the instructions provided, you can easily assemble the subwoofer.

Pros:

  • Produces almost no distortion
  • High-quality bass
  • Easy to install

Cons:

  • Internal components can easily fall apart

4. Orion HCCA152 15” HCCA Series 2-ohm 4000W DVC Subwoofer

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This subwoofer is a brand name that might not be as popular as others. However, despite this, it is one monster of a sub! Its power is hard to compare with its competitors.

The durability of this subwoofer is hard to rival. From the external to the internal components, it can clearly withstand the test of time. It has an enhanced cooling system, which will be effective in directing heat away. It also has a well-built cone.

However, since this is a beast, you have to match its requirements with the entire system. For optimal experience, an extra battery and external amplifier will be necessary. 

Pros:

  • Powerful performance
  • Easy to wire
  • Built to last

Cons:

  • Brand is not popular

5. Kicker CompVR 07CVR154 15-inch 4-ohm DVC Subwoofer

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If you go online and search for reviews about this subwoofer, you may not be able to find a lot. It is not as popular as the other models that have been mentioned in this guide, but this should not hold you back. It comes with 4 ohm impedance and dual voice coils.

The top-plate design of this product is one thing that should be noted. The latter makes it efficient.

To add, it is also a good thing that it comes with Solo-Baric technology, an innovation that has been exclusively developed by Kicker. This improves the transfer of heat through its wires and minimizes the possibility of breaking down.

Lastly, it also comes with an edgy design, which will improve the appeal of your car’s interior. One thing that contributes to this is its textured steel basket. More than aesthetics, the latter also strengthens its structure.

Pros:

  • Easy to install
  • Excellent construction
  • High-quality cone

Cons:

  • Not as popular as others
  • Minimal power handling

Types of Subwoofers

Generally speaking, the following are the types of subwoofers that you can find in the market:

  • Powered Subwoofer: This is an all-in-one system, which means that all of the components are together in a single enclosure, which will include amplifier and driver, among others. Also called active subwoofers, there is a single connection with more than enough power for your needs. This will also simplify the installation process.
  • Passive Subwoofer: In this case, on the other hand, a single enclosure would only consist of the speaker driver. The best thing about this subwoofer is that it is space-efficient, which makes it the perfect choice if you have a small car. Take note, however, that you will need to invest in an external amplifier. This can be an added cost.

Essential Factors to Consider

Choosing the best 15-inch subwoofer can be a challenging task, especially for beginners. To be assured that you will make the right choice, the following are some of the most important things that should be taken into account:

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  • Power: This is important as it will be indicative of the overall performance that you can expect from the subwoofer, including the quality of sound output. The RMS power should perfectly complement the other components of your audio system, specifically the amplifier.
  • Enclosure: It will house your subwoofer. One of the most popular options is a sealed enclosure, which is perfect for low frequencies. If you want better power handling and the ability to prevent distortion, a vented enclosure is highly-recommended. On the other hand, to enjoy the benefits of both types, choose bandpass enclosure.
  • Sensitivity: This is another technical specification that will have an impact on the sound that will be created by the system. If the sensitivity rating is higher, this means that it will require lesser power to produce bigger sounds.
  • Voice Coils: Also known as former, this will affect the current that passes through the system. One of the options is a singer coil, which means that one wire will be connected to a magnet. This is the ideal choice if you are looking for a budget-friendly option. Dual voice coil, on the other hand, will have two wires. It offers better flexibility in terms of wiring. Lastly, a quad coil, obviously, has four wires. There are two subwoofers in a single enclosure. This is also the most expensive from the three.
  • Impedance: Generally, the impedance of most of the car subwoofers will range from 2 to 8 ohms. This will have an effect on the flow of current. See to it that the impedance will be compatible with the requirements of your speaker.
  • Compatibility: Choose a subwoofer that is compatible not only with the size of your car, but also with the other components of your sound system. If they are not compatible with each other, you will end up with inferior sound quality, and hence, your subwoofer will be put into waste.
  • Reviews: If the above factors are too technical for you, it would be best to rely on the feedbacks of other people. A lot have shared their experiences in the form of online reviews, which will make it easier for you to see which amongst the alternatives can provide excellent sound quality at a cost that is appropriate for your budget.

Conclusion

In sum, the best 15-inch subwoofer will prove to be an excellent addition to your car’s sound system. This is necessary to improve the overall sound experience, which is not possible if you opt to simply retain your factory-installed speakers. It will also be vital in the prevention of distortion and in prolonging the lifespan of your speakers.

Not all 15-inch subwoofers are created the same. It is inevitable that one subwoofer will be better than the other. With this, you should be a responsible buyer. Consider the factors that have been mentioned above to differentiate the possibilities. To make things easier, narrow down the possibilities to the five models that have been mentioned above. We took a look at the experiences of other people and the technical specifications of these subwoofers.

Interested in learning more about other components that you can install in your car? Click on this link and know about other products that you might want to consider having.