Subs are not just for heavy-metal fans!

No matter what type of music you like, no matter what volume level you prefer - a subwoofer in your car will enhance your listening experience. From the thundering bass of Bach's organ works to the powerful beat of Snoop Dogg, a subwoofer adds an intensity and excitement to your music that smaller speakers just can't provide.

What kind of box should I choose?

If you prefer a cleaner sound (more suitable to jazz, classical, pop, etc.), subwoofers in sealed boxes tend to produce a tight bass sound - allowing you to more of the sharp, punchy edges that define each note. If you like rap, reggae, alternative, or heavy metal, you'll probably want a looser, boomier sound. You'll get this type of sound from a subwoofer loaded in a ported enclosure.

Sealed boxes: For deep, precise bass A sealed box is best for any music that demands tight, accurate bass. Expect flat response, deep bass extension and excellent power handling. Because a sealed box tends to need more power than a ported box, you'll need to use an amplifier with plenty of watts to get the most bass out of your sealed enclosure. Some sealed systems can give you great bass from a relatively tiny box, which helps you save space for luggage.
Ported boxes: For forceful bass Ported boxes use a vent (called a port) to reinforce low bass response. You get more output than you would from a sealed box at any given amplifier wattage. Some people prefer the sound of ported boxes for rock, heavy metal, or any hard-driving music.
Free-air subwoofers A free-air system consists of woofers mounted to a board attached to the rear parcel shelf or placed in the boot against the rear seat. The boot of the car acts as an enclosure which houses the subwoofer. Free-air systems save space and have flat frequency response. The woofer must be specifically designed for free-air use.

Choosing the correct subwoofer

Once you decide what type of enclosure best suits your musical tastes, the next step is to consider which type of subwoofer system matches the level of installation complexity you're prepared for. Basically, there are three different options:

• Powered subwoofer system: For the easiest installation, choose a ready-made subwoofer system with a built-in amplifier - all you have to do is run power and signal cables to the unit, and you're ready to go.

• Subwoofer/Box Combo: Another option is to choose a 'chassis' subwoofer driver and mate it with a ready made box, or either the sealed or ported type.

• Build Your Own Box: For those of you who enjoy the satisfaction and economy of a do-it-yourself project, try this third option: Build your own box to go with the driver of your choice. Before you grab the saw and start cutting consider reading a book about sub box-building. You'll build a better box.

Do you have enough room?

Before you place your order, make sure that what you want will fit in your vehicle. Measure the area you have in mind for the enclosure, then compare your measurements to the dimensions for the enclosure you want.

Keep an eye out for obstacles that might get in the way of your box: wheel wells, an overly small boot opening, the travel of the boot hinges, or the angle of the seat back or hatchback.

Make sure you have enough power

Bass notes need a lot more amplification power than the high frequency information in your music. To produce the low bass you can feel as well as hear, you need plenty of amplifier power driving your sub. If you're in the market for an amplifier, take a look here for our comprehensive Kenwood range.

Each Kenwood subwoofer you find on our website will have a recommended power range specification listed. Be sure to compare this spec to the peak power output of the amplifier you plan to use.  Be sure to read our amplifier buying and installing guides first.

Crossovers are essential

Woofers sound great when they're fed a continuous stream of low-frequency information. You'll need a low-pass crossover to keep high frequencies away from your subs. Most Kenwood amplifiers have built-in crossovers that make this task as simple as pressing a button. However, if you're setting up a multi-amp system, you'll likely prefer using a separate electronic crossover to direct different frequency bands to the appropriate amplifiers and speakers.

We hope this page helps you as you strive to add more fullness and impact to your music. For more information, check out the individual subwoofer product pages, as well as our subwoofer key features guide.