Choosing a good subwoofer is important for achieving a unique listening experience. Once you decide to add a subwoofer to your audio system, size is one of the most important first-time considerations you’ll make.
Bigger subwoofers have the capability to provide richer bass and a significant SPL (Sound Pressure Level), which equates to a louder bass. However, they tend to take up a lot of space.
That’s where smaller and compact subs come in.
6-inch subwoofers are designed to deliver impactful bass in relatively small spaces. However, they are not quite as powerful as the bigger 12-ich or 15-inch subs with larger drivers.
But, some 6-inch subwoofers produce really tight bass, and can even compete with larger 12” or 15-inch subwoofers.
In this article, we’ll be reviewing some of the best 6-inch subwoofers that you can use to enjoy affordable and clean bass.
Let’s get started!
Comparison Table of The Top 5 Best 6-Inch Subwoofers
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1. PYLE PLPW6D—Best subwoofer overall
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PYLE PLPW6D is a dedicated subwoofer that is designed with compact trucks, RV’s, and most compact cars in mind. It is a low-profile sub that delivers the performance of a full-size subwoofer without taking all your trunk space. PLPW6D comes in a pair to add a powerful, clean-cut, and versatile sound to any audio setup.
Top features of the PYLE PLPW6D
Durable construction: The bass is reproduced by a high-temperature 1.5-inch dual voice coil that is not only built to last but also resists corrosion. The 4-layer voice coil runs at a 600W maximum power (1200W as a pair), which lets you crank up the volume to the desired level. What’s more, you can wire the voice coils for a total of 4-ohm impedance, which gives you more flexible options when wiring your system.
Made to deliver the boom: The PLPW6D comes with a 30-ounce magnet that delivers great audio to enhance your listening experience. The good news is that you can run both subwoofers with a single channel amplifier and play music at a loud volume. So, whether you are looking to enhance or build a new audio system for your home theater or car audio, PYLE PLPW6D has everything you desire.
Enclosed in a strong, steel basket: These subwoofers come equipped with a specially treated foam surround that will last through years of abuse. The design also includes a non-pressed paper cone that does not flex or distort while cranking the volume. Everything is enclosed in a black steel basket with a bumped and vented motor design that keeps the components safe for a long time.
Non-fatiguing suspension : These high-performance Pyle subwoofers are enhanced with a non-fatiguing high-performance suspension to give you that huge sound that you’ve always wanted. And with a mounting depth of less than 4 inches, these little subs works great in compact enclosures, which brings Pyle powerful bass in difficult-to-fit setups.
What we liked
- Big, clean, powerful bass from small subwoofers
- Low profile design for easy installation
- Wider frequency range
- High-end performance, but at an affordable price
- Multiple installation options
What don’t like
- They don’t handle much wattage, but for the size, they are great
- Not loud enough
Our take
If you’re looking for tight bass for a small room, PYLE PLPW6D is a great option to get started. They are excellent subs, especially if you’re on a budget. In addition, they won’t disappoint when you drive them hard.
2. Bazooka BTA6100 BT Series—Best tube subwoofer
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Bazooka is a lesser-known audio brand, but it has made some really nice subwoofers over the years. The BTA6100 BT comes in a unique tube construction to make your car audio system sound great. It is also easy to integrate into any home entertainment system, making it one of the best 6-inch subwoofers for home theater. Besides, it comes in a modern look for easy integration into any vehicle.
Product highlights
Tube enclosure: Low frequencies are all about moving air. Bazooka designed this subwoofer with its propriety bass tube design that translates to maximum air pressure. The cylindrical shape also helps to add clarity that may be missing from your sound while still filling low frequencies throughout the room.
The cylindrical design also helps to minimize sound waves for improved efficiency, and accurate bass response. All you need is to find a nice spot for the subwoofer to enjoy your music.
Built-in amplifier: This compact tube is equipped with an inbuilt 100 watts amplifier to give your music impact and power. Furthermore, this amplifier has an inbuilt crossover, which helps filter the higher frequencies ensuring that you get nothing but clean bass.
Great add-ons: When it comes to installation, this subwoofer uses F.A.S.T. connectors to make setup easier. This type of installation is also available in most cars, and it is also a great way to protect both the subwoofer and your vehicle. In addition, the chrome-plated brackets offer a more secure and permanent installation.
Other accessories include the RBCM-100 remote control that allows you to adjust the volume from your seat.
Optimized for maximum bass performance: Bazooka BTA6100 BT features dual 2-ohm voice coils to enhance the power handling capacity while allowing you to get the most power out of the amplifier. What’s more, its patented tube shape is designed for “corner loading”—which means you can position your subwoofer in one corner of your truck to boost sound and bass reproduction.
What we like
- Incredible tube design
- The sub adds a flashier look to your car
- Crisp and clean bass
- Perfect fit for any vehicle
- Comes with straps for more secure mounting
What don’t like
- Unlike PYLE PLPW6D, which comes in a pair, BTA6100 BT is sold individually
- Relatively expensive
Our take
You can never go wrong with this subwoofer for what it costs. Its tube/cylindrical design makes it stands out from the rest, plus it sound as good as it looks. It is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-end 6-inch subwoofer with great lows.
3. Pyramid PW677X—Top budget subwoofer
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If you are looking to upgrade your vehicle’s entertainment system without sacrificing a lot of space in your car, Pyramid PW677X is another good option to get you started. It comprises two subs whose small size and design make installation easy in almost any vehicle. Ideally, these subwoofers take the load off your speakers and produce louder bass with very minimal distortion.
Key features
Solid performance: The PW677X lives up to the heritage of Pyramid by providing powerful bass lines that you can feel. The subwoofer system delivers a substantial amount of power, so it is made to accommodate high volume levels. In addition, it lets you enjoy an immersive surround sound for your music, movies, and games.
Tough construction: Pyramid PW677X features premium components to ensure that the sub will not only deliver an impressive low-end performance but also lasts for a long time. The design also includes an injection-molded P.P cone that is housed in a special chrome finish basket for improved excursion.
And to ensure that the components are well protected, the subs are fitted with a rubber magnet boot which also adds powerful bass sounds to your car.
Reduced distortion: Pyramid designed the PW677X to deliver 86 dB at 4-ohm impedance rating, which ensures consistent bass output. In addition, this setup helps to reduce distortion to let you enjoy fuller and distortion-free audio at any volume level. This construction also compensates for the low-quality wiring found in most cars.
Exclusive magnet structure: The subwoofers feature a powerful 40 oz. magnet structure that produces accurate and powerful bass. They are also equipped with a 1″ KAPTON voice coil with exclusive cooling features, which allow for elevated operating temperatures.
Shallow mounting depth: With a diameter of 6.50″ and a mounting depth of only 2.89″, these subwoofers are designed to fit small enclosures and today’s vehicle audio system. Besides, 6 inches is a standard size, and you can use these subwoofers for upgrading your existing speaker system or when building a new stereo system.
What we like
- They perform well under heavy use
- Good punch and solid sound
- They also look good
- They perform very well even when positioned in an odd location
- Easy to mount
- For the money, this is one of the best 6-inch subwoofers for car
What we don’t like
- You may experience some vibrations when the bass is really deep
- 300 max power is on the lower side
Our take
Pyramid PW677X performs really well for a small sub and the lower frequencies are pretty solid. However, if you’re looking to build a robust audio system, then you’ll need something bigger than the PW677X.
4. Massive Audio HIPPOXL64—Most powerful subwoofer
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Massive Audio has been a key player in the industry for over two decades, thanks to its competitive audio products. Space limitations in today’s vehicles can make it hard to achieve the rumble you want. However, HIPPOXL64 is designed with small trucks and cars in mind, so you can enjoy great lower-end sounds in confined spaces.
Product highlights
All-round performance: Massive Audio HIPPOXL64 boasts of a heavy-duty 90 oz. magnet structure that enhances the bass response. In addition to this, its Nomex Spiders help to reduce the stress applied to the surround for increased control and consistent bass reproduction. On top of this, the cone features a red-stitched edge for added rigidity and to offer a classic look. A cast aluminum basket is also included to keep the cone in place.
Incredible deep bass: The HIPPOXL64 features 2-inch dual voice coils, which are specially designed to deliver incredible deep bass. Besides, its 4-ohm impedance lets you experience the best out of your sub at an affordable price.
This rating allows you to wire your subwoofer to either 2-ohm or 8-ohm load, so you’ll have multiple installation options to choose from. What’s more, it handles up to 600 watts max/ 300 watts RMS to ensure you’ll get all the bass you need.
Designed for demanding applications: Despite being a small subwoofer, HIPPOXL64 offers a wide frequency range making it a great fit for high power applications. In addition, this 6-inch dual voice coil subwoofer is a hard-hitting sub that rivals the performance of 12’s in a package that fits even under the seats. The bass is not overpowering, but you might sometimes experience rumbling in the lower end sounds.
High-quality construction: The high-quality materials used in this subwoofer translate to excellent sound reproduction with outstanding tonality. The manufacturer uses Kevlar fiber to make the cone not only durable but also lightweight. This construction generates a higher SPL and a more accurate bass response. However, the main drawback is that the sub cannot stand independently, so you’ll need to mount it on a surface.
What we like
- Compact and lightweight design
- Remarkably durable
- Straightforward installation
- It can be installed in confined spaces
- Very minimal distortion
What we don’t like
- It is sold individually
- The bass isn’t very powerful, but it is great for the size
- It needs to be mounted
Our take
Massive Audio HIPPOXL64 is an ideal choice for those who love to have realistic bass with a nice blend of powerful sounds. It packs a punch as long as you match it with a good amplifier, plus the design feels solid.
5. Yaeccc Active Car Subwoofer—Best value for money
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This Yaeccc car subwoofer is the last favorite 6-inch subwoofer, but definitely not the least. The good thing about this subwoofer is that it weighs less than 10 pounds. This means that you can fit it under the seats and other tight spaces inside your car. It is one of the most versatile and easiest to use subwoofers for cars, compact trunks, and even small rooms.
And despite its diminutive shape and size, it packs 350 watts max output power to boost the low-end sounds.
Top features
Ultra-thin box design: This Yaeccc subwoofer comes in a slim enclosure featuring a high-quality blanket fabric that is effective in reducing resonance and dampening cabinet vibrations. This design also is ideal for saving space, so you can position your subwoofer under the passenger’s seat or behind the furniture to ensure it does not get in your way.
High-quality MDF construction: The sub utilizes high-grade MDF boards to help bring out pure sounds from the subwoofer. The material is thick and dense, which means that the bass will neither resonate nor distort. Another impressive thing about this subwoofer is the inbuilt amplifier, which takes the load off your speakers. It boosts the audio signal and channels and louder bass with reduced distortions to your speakers.
Improved safety features: When it comes to safety, this subwoofer has a short circuit protector that protects the amplifiers from overheating. The woofer also comes with an ABS plastic cover which acts as a protective layer to the internal components as well as decorating your subwoofer.
Generally, this subwoofer excels in both music and movies, and it fits perfectly in narrow spaces where large subwoofers might fail to fit.
In addition, you can customize most audio settings using the included remote control.
Enhanced paper cone construction: Another great feature of this subwoofer is its unique paper cone design which offers more solid performance and stable bass output. This cone helps the sub produce warm and sharp frequency response, making it ideal for those looking to enjoy full and strong bass. The only drawback is that it has a poor moisture resistance.
What we like
- It comes with all the wiring, including speakers and RCA cables that you need for installation
- Lightweight design
- It has an inbuilt amplifier
- It also comes with a remote control that you can use to fine-tune the settings
- Minimized distortions
What don’t we like
- It is sold as a single unit—you might need to buy a second unit to supplement the bass
- It is not as compact as other units we have reviewed in our list
Our take
All things considered, this Yaeccc may not be the most powerful subwoofer out there. But it is one of the lightest and compact car subwoofers. As for installation, it is pretty straightforward, and you can get your system up and running within a few minutes
Tips for Choosing the Best 6-Inch Subwoofer
Before you decide to go with a particular subwoofer model, there are several considerations you need to keep in mind. They include;
I. Power handling
One of the most important factors that you’ll need to consider when choosing any loudspeaker is its power rating. And just like other loudspeakers, 6-inch subwoofers are rated according to their RMS watts and peak power handling capability. Generally, these subwoofers don’t need a lot of power, but it is not uncommon to find some with up to 1000 watts RMS. Ideally, the amount of power you need will depend on your existing audio system or the amount of bass you need.
II. Choosing an amplifier
The volume and quality of bass not only depend on the amount of power delivered but also the amplifier you choose to drive your subwoofer. Most 6-inch subwoofers are designed to be compatible with mono-block and one-channel amplifiers. When choosing an amp for your sub, you may want to consider one that will pack the maximum RMS watt rating in order to provide the amount of power required to reproduce the bass.
III. Impedance rating
The 6-inch subwoofers come in a range of impedance, which allows them to work with different systems. In addition, they feature either single or dual voice configuration depending on how the sub needs to be wired. The higher the impedance rating the more the amount of power the amp needs to put out, and vice versa. For this reason, you may want to match your amplifier to the choice of your sub to allow them to work together.
IV. Powered subwoofers
A powered subwoofer, also referred to as an active subwoofer, comes with an inbuilt subwoofer to provide enough bass for your home theater system. This is the complete opposite of a passive subwoofer which requires an external amplifier to reproduce bass. For most people, a powered amplifier offers an easier and convenient way to fill the living room with heart-thumping bass, without the hassle of adding an external amplifier. After placing your subwoofer, all you need to acquire are speaker wires and power cables.
V. Speaker wires
The size of your speaker wires is equally important, and it is going to determine the quality of transmitted sound. If your subwoofer is expected to deliver 1000 W or more, then you can go for a 12-gauge or 14-gauge speaker wire. However, most 6-inch subwoofers are way below this mark, so a 16-gauge wire should work for most systems.
Final Words
We hope that this guide will help you choose the best 6-inch subwoofer that will give you a great experience. These subwoofers are compact, but they pack a strong punch, and the best part is that you can fit them in tight spaces.
Whether you’re looking at space concerns or boomy bass to show off, you can rest assured that one of these compact subwoofers will address your needs.
Having said that, we now believe you have all the information you need to make an informed choice.
Please let’s know which product you’ll choose!
