Car amplifiers are part of the picture if you want your music to be loud. Also, because subwoofers require significantly more power than aftermarket or factory-installed receivers can provide, a separate amp is a necessity.
External car amplifiers are categorized by the number of channels. In other terms, the number of speakers they can power simultaneously. There are multi-channel and mono channel amps. For this article, we'll be reviewing a few of the best monoblock amps on the market.
Unlike multi-channel amplifiers that can power an entire audio system, monoblock amps are designed primarily for subwoofers. Many mono-channel car amps use class D circuitry, which makes them energy and heat-efficient. Class D amplifiers tend to distort at high frequencies, but this is not usually an issue when they are used to power subwoofers.
So Let's look at the Best Monoblock amplifier out there in the market.
Top 10 Best Monoblock Amplifiers
Unlike multi-channel amplifiers that can power an entire audio system, monoblock amps are designed primarily for subwoofers. Many mono-channel car amps use class D circuitry, which makes them energy and heat-efficient. Class D amplifiers tend to distort at high frequencies, but this is not usually an issue when they are used to power subwoofers.
So what are the Best Monoblock Amplifier out there? Read on to find out.
Rockford Fosgate car amplifiers seem to hit the sweet spot for a lot of guys, probably because they are in more of a low-mid price range. RF amps are no joke and are highly recommended to those looking for great quality equipment at an affordable price.
The R750-1D is one of the best mono channel amplifiers that Rockford Fosgate has to offer. This class D amplifier has plenty of power to offer despite its relatively small size.
It can put out 250 watts RMS to a 4-ohm sub, but will crank out more than 750 watts RMS when it's running a 1-ohm subwoofer setup. It's optimized for subwoofers with the implementation of an infrasonic filter to filter out and keep the inaudible ultra-low frequencies from damaging your subwoofers.
Additionally, its low-pass and subsonic filters, along with Rockford Fosgate's famous Punch bass boost, let you tune your subs for maximum performance.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Number of Channels : 1
- Class : Class D
- Rated Power
- 4-Ohm : 250 watts RMS x 1
- 2-Ohm : 500 watts RMS x 1
- 1-Ohm : 750 watts RMS x 1
- Frequency response : 20 - 250 Hz
- Features
- Variable low-pass filter (50-250 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
- Subsonic filter (15-40 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
- Variable Punch bass boost (0-18 dB at 45 Hz)
- Preamp-level inputs and outputs
- Tri-stage protection covers thermal, over-current and short circuits.
- On-board PEQ (Punch Equalization) with 18 dB of boost at 45Hz
- Variable crossover 12dB/octave slopes
- Infrasonic filter. Low-Pass: Variable 50Hz - 500Hz at 12dB/Octave
- Optional Remote PEQ (Level control)
This is another great monoblock amplifier by Rockford fosgate. It's the top performing mono amp in RF's Punch series.
This beast can put out up to 1000 watts at 1 ohm, which is a ton of wattage to power your subs and turn your ride into a rolling thunderstorm of bass that shakes the ground.
Even at 4 ohms, this amplifier can still put out up to 300 watts RMS.
The P1000X1BD mono channel amp comes with a low-pass and subsonic filters. It also comes with Punch bass boost so you can easily add some of that boom into the mix whenever you feel it's needed.
Rockford Fosgate went a step ahead and packed this amplifier with their exclusive C.L.E.A.N. technology (Calibrated Level Eliminates Audible Noise) — which is in its simplest form a LED indicator system that ensures your music sounds as clean and powerful as possible.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Number of Channels : 1
- Class : BD
- Rated Power
- 4-Ohm : 300 watts RMS x 1
- 2-Ohm : 600 watts RMS x 1
- 1-Ohm : 1000 watts RMS x 1
- Frequency response : 20-250 Hz
- Features
- Variable low-pass filter filter (50-250 Hz, 12 dB/octave)
- Selectable subsonic filter (28Hz, 12 dB/octave)
- Variable PEQ2 bass boost (0-18 dB at 45 Hz)
- Preamp inputs and outputs
- Speaker-level inputs
- The Punch P1000X1bd is a full chassis (2.38” x 7.76” x 13.28”) mono amplifier optimized for subwoofers only, that pumps out a whopping 1,000 Watts into a 1-Ohm load
- Class-BD technology produces bass more efficiently over traditional amps (RMS Power Output: 300 Watts x 1 @ 4-Ohm OR 500 Watts x 1 @ 2-Ohm OR 1000 Watts x 1 @ 1-Ohm)
- RCA inputs can accept both Hi and Low level audio signals without the need of a signal converter
- Featuring RCA pass-thru outputs, on-board Punch EQ with +18dB boost @ 45Hz, variable 12 dB/Oct Butterworth crossovers, and C.L.E.A.N. Set-up
- Famous Rockford Fosgate build quality with a full 1-year warranty when purchased from an authorized Rockford Fosgate reseller
The GM-D9601 is one of the best mono channel amps that Pioneer has to offer. It can send up to 1200 watts RMS to your subs, which is plenty of power to get you and your car rocking.
It uses class D technology, which makes it highly efficient both in terms of power and heat dissipation.
This beast can handle a 1-ohm load without breaking a sweat. It comes with an adjustable LPF (low-pass filter) that you can use to fine tune audio frequencies to better match the characteristics of your subwoofer and listening preferences.
It also comes with a wired bass boost remote control for optimal bass level adjustment.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Number of Channels : 1
- Class : D
- Rated Power
- 4-Ohm : 500 watts RMS x 1
- 2-Ohm : 800 watts RMS x 1
- 1-Ohm : 1200 watts RMS x 1
- Frequency response : 10 - 240 Hz
- Features
- Variable low-pass filter (40-240 Hz, 12 dB per octave)
- Wired remote control adjusts variable bass boost (0-18 dB at 50 Hz)
- Preamp inputs and outputs and Speaker-level inputs
- RMS Power Rating: 4 ohms: 500 watts x 1 chan. / 2 ohms: 800 watts x 1 chan. / 1 ohm: 1200 watts x 1 chan.
- Pulse Width Modulated MOSFET power supply Wired remote bass level control included
- Preamp RCA outputs to daisy chain multiple amps 3-way protection circuitry (thermal, overload, and speaker short protection)
- Heavy duty aluminum alloy heat-sink for extreme heat dissipation Nickel-plated RCA level inputs Nickel-plated screw terminals
- Variable low-pass filter (40-240 Hz, 24 dB/octave) / Frequency response: 10-240 Hz / Dimensions: 12-3/8"W x 7-7/8"D x 2-3/8"H
If you don't want neither to sacrifice your available cargo space, nor to shell out hundreds of dollars for a mono channel amp, then the Kenwood KAC-M3001 is for you. It's one of the best monoblock amps under $100.
The Kenwood KAC-M3001 is one of the best, yet reasonably priced compact mono channel amps out there.
This versatile monoblock amplifier can fit even the most limited installation areas. It's designed to withstand harsh outdoor environment, which is makes it a great choice for not only cars, but also for boats, AVTs, and motorcycles.
This multi-application amplifier uses a conformal coated main PCB (printed circuit boards) which offer extra layers of protection to help prevent moisture or damp air from damaging its internal components.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Number of Channels : 1
- Class : D
- Rated Power
- 4-Ohm : 200 watts RMS x 1
- 2-Ohm : 300 watts RMS x 1
- Frequency response : 20 - 200Hz
- Features
- Variable low-pass filter (50-200 Hz, 24 dB/octave)
- Preamp and speaker-level inputs
- Compact Series Monoblock Class D Car / Marine Amplifier
- RMS Power Rating: 4 ohms: 200 watts x 1 chan. / 2 ohms: 300 watts x 1 channel
- Max power output: 600 watts x 1 channel
- Pulse Width Modulated MOSFET power supply
- LED power (green) and protect (red) indicators: Soft start turn-on
This monoblock amplifier comes from one of the pioneers of the industry which ensures its superior quality and performance.
The JL Audio HD 1200/1 is a beast of an amplifier despite its tiny size. It is capable of putting out a steady 1200 watts RMS from 1.5 Ohms to 4 Ohms; something that it has managed to do due to its intelligent and energy-efficient power supply.
It has a heavy-duty aluminum alloy heatsink for optimal heat dissipation, preventing it from overheating and allowing it to optimize its performance.
The only downside with the JL Audio HD 1200/1 is that it’s much more expensive compared to the other ones on this list. Nevertheless, despite its higher price tag, its ability to deliver crisp clear sounds with such immense power is why it is part of our top 7 best monoblock amplifier reviews.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Number of Channels: 1
- Class: D
- Rated Power
- 4 Ohms: 1200 watts x 1
- 3 Ohms: 1200 watts x 1
- 2 Ohms: 1200 watts x 1
- 1.5 Ohms: 1200 watts x 1
- Frequency Response: 50 – 500 Hz
- Features:
- Adjustable high-pass filter ( 50 – 500Hz, at 24dB per octave)
- Adjustable low-pass filter ( 50 – 500Hz, at 24dB per octave)
- Preamp outputs and inputs
Comparable to the amps made by Rockford Fosgate and Kicker, the Rockville dB14 is designed to be 2-ohm stable-- it’s capable of producing more power without any problems. It has a capacity of putting out 2000 watts RMS at 2 Ohms and 1200 watts RMS at 4 Ohms.
It also features a professional peak limiter circuitry that allows for music playback free from distortion on every level.
In addition to these, the Rockville dB14 features a mute and delay soft start technology which protects your speakers and amplifier from the effects of inrush currents. It also has a phase control switch that ensures the bass from your subwoofer doesn’t cancel out the bass from your speakers.
Additional features include a protective mode that protects both the subs and amp from overheating, especially when used with an incompatible set-up. While this can be useful, it also requires more mindfulness on the user’s part.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Number of Channels:1
- Class: D
- Rated Power
- 4 Ohms: 1200 watts x 1
- 2 Ohms: 2000 watts x 1
- Frequency Response: 15Hz – 250Hz
- Features:
- Low-pass filter ( 50 – 250Hz)
- Subsonic filter ( 15 – 55Hz)
- Includes: Amplifier. Bass Remote. Birth sheet with tested power. Owner’s manual. Mounting Screws. Warranty.
- Rockville dB14 4000 Watt Peak/1000 Watt Dyno-Certified RMS Mono 2 Ohm Amplifier Car Audio Amp. Dyno Certified RMS Power Ratings: (Certified Dyno Test / Less than 1 % THD) (Use these ratings when comparing with top brands such as Kicker, Rockford Fosgate, etc). - 2 Ohm: 1000 Watts x 1 Channel <1% THD+N. - 4 Ohm: 600 Watts x 1 Channel <1% THD+N.
- Peak: (Use these ratings when comparing with the top budget brands such as Boss, Power Acoustik, etc). - 2 Ohm: 4000 Watts x 1 Channel. - 4 Ohm: 2400 Watts x 1 Channel. High-Speed MOSFET Power Supply. Optical Coupler Class “D” Technology. Fully Adjustable 12dB / Octave Crossover with Differential Circuitry. Low Pass Filter: 50Hz - 250Hz.
- Subsonic Filter: 15Hz - 55Hz. Phase Control Switch. Full IC-Controlled Protection Circuitry. Remote Dashboard Subwoofer Control. Fully Adjustable 12dB Bass Equalizer. Mute and Delay Soft Start System. RCA Preamp Line Output. 8 Volt Preamp Circuitry. Status Mode LED Indicator. Minimum THD at Rated Power: <0.1%. S / N Ratio: >90dB. Under Voltage Protection at 10V. Over Voltage Protection at 16V.
- Frequency Response: 15Hz - 250Hz. Damping Factor: >150 @ 100Hz. 100 Amp Maxi Fuse. Dimensions: (W x H x L) 9" x 2.4" x 15.5"
With its capacity to produce a maximum of 2400 watts or 1200 watts RMS at 1 Ohm, the Hifonics ZRX2416.1D is perfect for powering even the most challenging subwoofers. Not only does it deliver power, but it also delivers superior sound quality as well.
In addition, it has a 4-way protection circuitry: thermal, speaker short, DC, and power overload protection.
It also includes a remote bass control, allowing users to change bass levels even while on the go. The combination of its military-grade PCB construction and aluminum alloy heat sink allows for heavy-duty usage.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Number of Channels: 1
- Class: D
- Rated Power
- 4 Ohms: 325 watts x 1
- 2 Ohms: 650 watts x 1
- 1 Ohm: 1200 watts x 1
- Frequency Response: 15Hz – 250Hz
- Features:
- Low-pass filter (40Hz-300Hz, at 24 dB per octave)
- Subsonic filter (10 Hz - 40Hz, at 24dB)
- 2400 watt mono block D class amplifier
- 1 x 800 @ 4 Ohms, 1 x 1600 @ 2 Ohms, 1 x 3200 watts @ 1 Ohm
- Old school Hedonics heat sink for superior heat dissipation
- Military grade PCB
- PWM MOSFET power supply for maximum current levels
The JL Audio Slash Series 1200/1v3 mono-channel amplifier can reach up to 600 watts RMS and is compatible with a wide variety of systems. But, what really sets this amplifier apart is what JL Audio refers to as the “Regulated Intelligent Power Supply” technology that allows the amplifier to maintain its power output consistently regardless of its battery voltage and load impedance.
Of course, this amplifier isn’t for everybody. The price pretty much guarantees that.
Then again, this is a list of the best monoblock amplifiers today, which means that our recommendations are for those who aren’t willing to settle for less.
If you’re a car audio enthusiast looking for premium sound quality and top-of-the-line features, then this is for you.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Number of Channels: 1
- Class: D
- Rated Power :
- 4 Ohms: 1200 watts x 1
- 2 Ohms: 1200 watts x 1
- 1 Ohm: 1200 watts x 1
- Frequency Response: 40Hz – 200Hz
- Features:
- 4-gauge power and ground leads and a 100-amp fuse recommended
- Parametric EQ bass boost (0-15 dB at 20-80 Hz)
Built specifically for those earth-shattering subwoofers, the Rockford Fosgate R500XD is for bass heads.
The sound quality of the R500XD is phenomenal and paired with its unique look, it’s the sort of amplifier that you won’t hesitate to show off if necessary.
You definitely won’t be hearing much distortion or clipping with the R500XD if any at all.
Plus, because it has a cast-aluminium heat sink on top of its thermal sensing technology, this amplifier won’t run too hot at all.
Save for Rockford Fosgate’s decision to angle the wiring screws in a weird way, making tight installations difficult, the R500XD is virtually perfect.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Number of Channels: 1
- Class: D
- Rated Power :
- 2 Ohms: 500 watts x 1
- 1 Ohm: 300 watts x 1
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 250Hz
- Features:
- Onboard 12dB/octave LP/HP/AP crossover & Infrasonic filter
- On-board Punch EQ with +18dB boost at 45Hz
- 300 Watts x 1 @ 4-Ohms, 500 Watts x 1 @ 2-Ohms, Frequency 20Hz to 250Hz +/-1dB
- Onboard 12dB/octave LP/HP/AP crossover & Infrasonic filter. Power Wire Gauge- 4 AWG. Power Input Connector-Screw Terminal. Suggested Alternator-75 A
- On-board Punch EQ with +18dB boost at 45Hz. Input Sensitivity: 150 mV to 4 V
- Cast Aluminum Heatsink with Stealth top mounted control panel
- Includes wired remote (Punch Level Control). High efficiency amplifier design that reduces current consumption from the charging system
Arguably the best entry-level monoblock amplifier on our list, the Planet Audio Pulse PL1500.1M costs only around half or even less than what the others on our list sell for and comes with 1500 watts of power with class A/B sound quality and efficiency.
Featuring both high-level and low-level inputs, the PL1500.1M also has a variable low-pass crossover and a switchable bass boost and variable gain control.
While the PL1500.1M isn’t exactly compact by any means, it’s also not obnoxiously large either. This makes it an easy fit for all but the tightest and most cramped spaces.
To top it all off, it’s backed by a 6-year platinum online dealer warranty if purchased via Amazon. That’s a pretty solid guarantee right there all things considered.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Number of Channels: 1
- Class: A/B
- Rated Power
- 2 Ohms: 1500 watts x 1
- 4 Ohms: 750 watts x 1
- Frequency Response: 35Hz – 160Hz
- Features:
- Class A/B Topology
- Low & High Level Inputs
- Switchable bass boost
- power: max power output of 1500 watts at 2 ohms into one channel. maximum power output of 750 watts at 4 ohms into one channel. this amplifier is designed to run your subwoofer(s) giving them the power that they need to perform as they were meant to
- high level inputs: speaker level inputs are commonly referred to as high-level inputs. this input will be used to connect the ac1500.1m to your factory radio or aftermarket radio that does not have low-level (rca) inputs
- low level inputs: line level inputs, also known as rca inputs or low-level inputs, use rca interconnect cables to link the ac1500.1m with the source unit. most aftermarket radios have multiple pairs of rca outputs that can connect to multiple amplifiers
- low-pass crossover: a low-pass filter is an electronic circuit that removes all the notes below the filter's frequency setting. a low-pass filter will primarily keep high notes out of your subwoofer(s)
- variable bass boost: variable bass boost allows you to adjust the low bass within the boost range to just the way you like it
Conclusion
It’s not easy to buy a car amplifier. Even seasoned car audio enthusiasts have a hard time doing it. It also certainly doesn’t help that any given manufacturer could have at least a dozen or so of amplifiers, each of which look like they’re worthy of purchasing.
With that said, we’re hoping that we were able to clear things up with our article.
If, after reading this, you’re still unsure of what to buy, you at least know by now what monoblock amplifiers are good and which ones aren’t. Happy shopping!
Last update on 2021-12-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
