If you are looking for a way to magnify your music for a powerful, smooth-sounding experience, the typical setup for powering subwoofers is installing a monoblock amplifier in your car audio unit.
These amplifiers have been built to produce low-frequency sounds such as deep bass and generally offer various features like boosting the bass, which is explicit for subwoofers.
Monoblock amplifiers are some of the most highly regarded types of amplifiers. They offer superior power amplification, and since they have a single channel, all its power is dedicated to that particular channel.
Purchasing a single channel amplifier can get a little complicated due to the full range of marketing angles, configurations, and technical details.
It is essential to pick the right amp for your audio system by analyzing and comparing a variety of them. This will simplify the process of choosing the right amp that will satisfy the sound system’s needs.
Here is a list of some of the best monoblock amplifiers in the market today!
What Exactly Is a Monoblock Amplifier?
A monoblock amplifier is a one-channel amp that offers power to single-channel speaker systems. Hence, they are typically used for powering subwoofers. If you want to power your speakers, look for 4 or 5 channel amplifiers.
The mono amplifiers have been built to provide a single power indicator that is ideal for a low-frequency sound like deep bass, along with boosting specific features of the subwoofer.
They are useful when there is an increase in power demand because of their stabilizing capacity while maintaining electric current resistance.
12 Best Monoblock Amplifiers in 2020
1. Rockford Fosgate R500X1D
Features
- Max Power: 500 Watts
- RMS Power: 500 watts at 2 Ohms; 300 watts at 4 Ohms
- Frequency Response: 20- 250 Hz
- On-board Punch Equalization (PEQ) delivers 18 dB at 45 Hz
- Crossover of 12 dB/ octave slope
- Cast aluminum heatsink
About This Product
The Rockford Fosgate R5001XD Prime is an amplifier produced by one of the leading companies in the audio system field.
It offers a wide range of features that improve the audio output. It is a reasonably priced amp that comprises of an aluminum heatsink and circuitry protection that promotes safe operation.
This amp features a low-pass filter and punches boost, which enables it to deliver great sounding bass. The tri-stage power system, aluminum heatsink, and ground connectors lower the risk of overheating, short-circuiting, or overvoltage cases.
What We Think About It
The Rockford Fosgate R500X1D mono amplifier is easily one of the best amplifiers on our list. It does not occupy too much space and is also lightweight. It can be easily trusted as it is manufactured by a reputed audio company, Rockford Fosgate.
The moboblock amplifier has a small, slim design, which makes it easy to fit in small spaces. This amp has a high-efficiency model that decreases current consumption due to the MOSFET power supply and gives you more flexibility regarding the kind of music you wish to enjoy.
2. BOSS Audio R2400 D Monoblock Amplifier- For A High-End Amp
Features
- Max Power: 2400 watts at 1 Ohm x 1 Channel; 1200 watts at 2 Ohm x 1 Channel; 600 watts at 4 Ohm x 1 Channel
- RMS Power: 1800 watts at 1 Ohm; 900 watts at 2 Ohms; 450 watts at 4 Ohms; 3600 watts Strapped Bridged Power at 2 Ohms
About This Product
It is quite surprising that the Boss Audio R2400 D mono amp is capable of pushing out the kind of power output it does at such a budget-friendly price. This amp is capable of automatically switching its input mode when it detects high-level signals.
There is no need to worry about high or low impedance matching when it comes to this amp. It also has the capacity to accommodate one more R2400D amp to double its performance.
The remarkable thermal protection circuit prevents overheating and short circuits. It has also had a variety of customization and a subwoofer level control, which allows you to tweak the bass and frequencies.
What We Think About It
While the Boss Audio Riot 2400 W mono amp is a great choice, it is also a little more expensive than other amp models.
Regardless, you will find extra ease in controlling adjustments and enable you to enjoy a powerful bass from your sub.
3. Planet Audio AC1500.1M Monoblock Car Amplifier
Features
- Max Power: 1500 watts at 2 Ohms; 750 watts at 4 Ohms
- RMS Power: 1125 watts at 2 Ohms; 563 watts at 4 Ohms
About This Product
The Planet Audio AC1500.1M Mono Amplifier is exclusively built for those who want to enhance their experience while driving.
You can adjust the various bass level settings that come with it. It has a slender and sophisticated design that makes it space-efficient and easy to fit wherever you desire.
The low pass crossover does not allow unimportant notes to get accentuated on the subwoofers. Its MOSFET power supply offers highly efficient usage of current, and the amp’s bass boost controls help optimize bass output.
What We Think About It
This model by Planet Audio makes a significant difference to your bass. It is comparatively less expensive than many other amps making great quality music affordable to all.
It is lightweight and is super easy to install. This amp is compatible with most kinds of head units, making it more versatile.
4. Pioneer GM-9701 2,400-Watt Monoblock Class D Amp
Features
- Max Power: 2,400 watts
- RMS Power: 500 Watts at 4 Ohms; 800 Watts at 2 Ohms; 1200 Watts at 1 Ohm
About This Product
This Pioneer monoblock amplifier is what you want if you wish to see your stereo system give its best! This beast of an amplifier offers unlimited power and is one of the best-selling amplifiers.
The Pioneer GM-9701 mono amplifier is an efficiently functioning amplifier that provides an enormous amount of power for a deep, smooth sound.
It is a well-built, sturdy amp and does not require a Pioneer head unit. Instead, it comprises of a wired bass boost remote controller.
What We Think About It
If you are giving your budget the priority, this is the way to go. This amp is capable of boosting the power and low frequencies without much interference. It is a dependable and straightforward option to go for.
5. Alpine MRV-M500 Mono V-Power Digital Amplifier- For A Compact Amp
Features
- Max Power: 1100 watts
- RMS Power: 500 watts at 2 Ohms; 300 watts at 4 Ohms
About This Product
Alpine audio is a company that has grown to become a household name in the car audio system game! This is the brand you are looking for if you want to buy the best monoblock amplifiers to power your subwoofers.
These amps feature an Enhanced Shutdown Performance, which prevents it from heat damage. Hence, instead of powering down, this enables amp into a safe mode that limits the possibility of overheating.
One of the major plus points about this amplifier is that it only draws a small amount of power, preventing it from draining the car out. It is lightweight, small, and is super easy to install.
What We Think About It
The Alpine MRV-M500 is the best option for you if you want a high-quality, low-end amp with lots of clarity. Alpine is a brand that you can trust and also have a robust amp that will last you long.
It also neatly fits into your car audio unit, even if you have a standard factory car stereo and is especially a better option if you have a smaller car.
6. Rockford Fosgate Prime R1200-1D
Features
- Max Power: 1400 W
- RMS: 400 Watts at 4 Ohms; 800 Watts at 2 Ohms; 1,200 Watts at 1 Ohm
About This Product
The Rockford Fosgate Prime R1200-1D mono amp is a model that lives up to the sophisticated audio technology that its brand offers.
This amplifier has some advanced features like its tri-stage protection, which guards the unit against short circuits and over-current.
The easy punch equalization (PEQ) features an 18 dB bass boost at 45 Hz and has a variable crossover of 12 dB. The infrasonic filter improves sound quality, and the amp consists of multiple ways to customize your sound.
What We Think About It
Rockford Fosgate is a car audio company that consistently produces some of the best products in the market, and the R1200- 1D satisfies all expectations and more.
It is remarkably powerful and pairs up well with many kinds of subwoofers. The trademark punch bass-boost will significantly help you with that if you want to take your experience to another level.
7. JL Audio JX1000/1D Monoblock Subwoofer Amp- For An Easy Installation
Features
- RMS Power: 500 watts at 4 Ohms; 1000 watts at 2 Ohms
- Frequency Response: 10 Hz- 150 Hz
About This Product
The JL Audio JX1000/1D Monoblock Amplifier is a best seller that comprises a variable low-pass filter that works perfectly with the onboard bass boost providing maximum flexibility.
Its remarkable build will give you plenty of services, with its efficiency marked around 80%, reducing heat escape. The MOSFET power supply is stable, and the frequency range gives a good spread of bass.
What We Think About It
The JL Audio JX1000/1D is easy to install and a perfect choice to power your subwoofer. It is highly compact but still has all the features packed to give a thump to your sub.
8. BOSS Audio Systems AR1500M Car Amplifier- For A Great Price Point
Features
- Max Power: 1500 watts
- RMS: 1125 watts at 2 Ohms, 563 watts at 4 Ohms
About This Product
If you are looking for that extra push that helps your subs reach their full potential, the Boss Audio AR1500M will not disappoint you!
The unique linear circuitry design of the Boss A/B monoblock amplifiers increases the sound quality by decreasing distortion and improving overall power efficiency.
The MOSFETS enhances the efficiency of audio output. The switchable input sensitivity allows you to control the input signal to find a balance between the sound quality and power that suits you.
The automatic shut-off feature limits the possibility of electrical problems such as overheating and short circuits. The amp will shut down automatically if it gets too hot.
What We Think About It
The Boss Audio AR1500M monoblock amplifier can take your car audio to the next level when paired with the right speakers.
Just avoid subjecting the amp to long periods of high-power. Other than that, you can expect to listen to clear music that is free of distortion.
9. Ignite Audio R1600/1D, Class D Mono Block Car Amplifier
Features
- Max Power: 4000 watts
- RMS: 750 watts at 1 Ohm; 530 watts at 2 Ohms; 300 watts at 4 Ohms
- Total harmonic distortion at 85 dB
About This Product
The Ignite Audio R1600/1D Monoblock Amplifier is the perfect option if you want your music to sound loud, crystal-clear, and smooth.
This amp can boost your bass’s power and does not compromise the overall functioning. It is built with technology that can regulate the power supply for enhanced control, and the internal heatsink helps improve the machine’s cooling system.
The MOSFET power supply, along with the total harmonic distortion, makes for improved sound output.
What We Think About It
Features such as variable low-pass crossover, switchable phase control, and bass boost help you customize your music and help you achieve the audio experience that you desire.
10. BOSS Audio Systems R1100MK Monoblock Car Amplifier
Features
- Max Power: 1100 watts
- RMS: 825 watts at 2 Ohms; 413 watts at 4 Ohms
About This Product
The Boss Audio System R1100MK mono amp is a class A/b amp with a MOSFET power supply that allows electric current to pass through and remove secondary feedback circuitry. The amp is so sleek and compact that it can fit in most spaces.
It features a variable low-pass crossover, switchable bass boost, high and low-level inputs, thermal overload speakers, variable input gain control, and protection LEDs.
The remote woofer control makes operating the amp all the more convenient.
What We Think About It
Boss may not have the best reputation among car audio enthusiasts, but this particular model is a reliable product that will not be too heavy on your wallet.
The wiring installation kit that comes with it is quite beneficial as well. So for those who are on a budget and are not looking for anything too powerful, this is a great option for you to consider.
11. Kenwood KAC-9106D 2000W Monoblock Amplifier
Features
- Max Power: 2000 watts
- RMS: 1000 watts at 2 Ohms; 500 watts at 4 Ohms
About This Product
You cannot go wrong while picking the Kenwood KAC-9106D 2000W mono amp, especially because it is manufactured by a reliable brand.
This amp features switching MOSFET power supply, variable low-pass filter, speaker level output, and an infrasonic filter.
The signal sensing turn-on enables the amp to be easily operated during various applications. You can achieve the best audio experience by using the subsonic filters and onboard low pass.
What We Think About It
The Kenwood KAC-9106D mono amp is versatile and powerful that offers a great tonal impact in the bass of your music. Car audio fans can enjoy several unique advantages for loud, fulfilling music experience.
12. BOSS R1100M Monoblock Power Amplifier
Features
- Max Power: 1100 watts at 2 Ohms; 550 watts at 4 Ohms.
- RMS: 825 watts at 2 Ohms
About This Product
The BOSS R1100M mono amp is a highly rated 1-channel amp that is available at an affordable cost. It is one of the most powerful monoblock amplifiers on the market with a MOSFET power supply that accounts for the higher power capacity.
It also features an easily accessible low-pass crossover and bass boost the enables optimum sound optimization. The speaker-level inputs allow you to connect your amp to the factory car radio or other kinds of car radio without low-level inputs.
This amp is a highly versatile mono amp which works remarkably with all kinds of car audio systems.
What We Think About It
The BOSS R1100M shows no limit to its amazing performance, especially with excellent value for money. It will not fail to dazzle you with its quality features and high power capability.
What Is the Difference Between Mono and Stereo?
For an average consumer, the difference between mono and stereo can be quite confusing. Many people think one is better than the other.
These days, head units and receivers are capable of electronically choosing between mono and stereo; but this is not the case with amplifiers.
Quite honestly, there is a high chance you did not even notice a switch from stereo to mono when you were jamming to your favorite music.
This difference is mainly observed when the recording has been produced in a single channel.
Sometimes when you were watching a movie, have you ever felt like the sound was moving from one side of the room to another?
This is the surround sound making use of your stereo sound recording. If you had been listening to this on a mono system, an effect of movement would not be created.
So, this would not have made any difference if you were listening to a stereo system or a mono system because the sound would have been recorded and played back on both sides at the same level.
All the audio signals get mixed in a mono system and are then routed through a single audio channel. Therefore, even if a mono system made use of multiple speakers, there would not have been a sound difference between them.
What to Consider Before Choosing the Best Monoblock Amplifier?
Before you directly jump to buying a mono amplifier, there are certain factors that you should not overlook. You can give weightage to each of these features based on what you are expecting from your amplifier, but these are all points that you are recommended to look in.
We strongly suggest that to consult a car audio professional before you blindly invest in your amplifier.
1. Sound Quality
The sound quality may not be the most important thing for you if you are simply going for raw volume. But for all of you audiophiles, you would want to preserve the sonic equilibrium of your speakers. In which case, the sound quality is essential.
2. Frequency Range
This refers to the capacity to customize the mix of your mono amp, adjusting the decibels from your bass boost by regulating the frequency. This also modifies the tonal qualities of your reverberation and the bass notes.
3. Power
Power is a crucial feature when it comes to an amplifier. Your amplifier’s wattage predicts how much power can be relayed to the speakers. If you purchase speakers with low power capacity, your music or recordings will sound weak. It is also essential to ensure that your amp does not draw a lot of power, as this can lead to your speaker system blowing out. So, make sure your amp wattage is compatible with your speakers.
4. Impedance
This describes the amount of resistance the electric current tolerates while passing through the amplifier. The impedance of your amplifier is the direct bearing on the amount of current required to create a given degree of power
5. Price
Audio technology of high quality is rarely cheap. While it is possible to buy a decent amplifier at an affordable cost, you might enjoy better audio quality by spending a little more for a higher quality product.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Is it possible to put two subs on a mono amp?
A: Absolutely! Putting two subs will push the ones with higher power at a much lower resistance. To perform this, you will need to know how to cut wires, follow instructions, and must be able to work simple tools.
First, cut two lengths of speaker wire and remove half an inch of the insulation from the cable ends. Now, connect one end of the speaker’s output terminals with the first wire’s end. Lastly, connect the other terminal ends of the subwoofer and tighten the terminals to ensure the wires are secure.
Q: Can I use a mono amp to run my speakers?
A: You can, but it is essential to check that it has a full range option. Most mono amps can generally only handle 15 Hz to 200 Hz but cannot support anything more than that. Plus, you will not get stereo sound this way.
Q: What is the meaning of impedance ratings?
A: Amplifiers have ports with different impedances such as 2 Ohms or 3 Ohms. Keep in mind that the adaptability does not imply that the amp will work equally well with all kinds of systems. Amplifiers with various speaker impedances have a particular power rating for each of its ports.
Conclusion
Choosing the best monoblock amplifier for your car subwoofer can be tricky business. It can be a more complicated process if you have not figured out what exactly you are looking for. Our objective to create this guide for mono amplifiers was to help you make a well-informed purchase.
If you are still having trouble deciding what amplifier to buy, we recommend the Pioneer GM-9701 2,400-Watt Monoblock Class D Amp.
Pioneer is a leading company in the car audio field and is well-known for producing remarkable sound and reliable performance. Likewise, the GM-9701 mono amp lives up to every expectation and has grown to become one of the favorite amps on the market.
The 2400 watt RMS power enables the amp to deliver powerful bass and crystal-clear sound. You also do not have to worry about impedance matching if you decide to add subs as it is capable of handling a 1 Ohm load without collapsing.
We genuinely hope that we have condensed your research work and have helped you shortlist the amps that would meet your requirements.
Once you have finalized your desired budget, selecting the best monoblock amplifier for your car will be far less tiresome.
Last update on 2023-06-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API