Bass Tube Vs Underseat Subwoofer: 7 Tips to Help You Choose
Choosing between a bass tube and an underseat subwoofer gets confusing when looking for the best sound system.
There aren’t too many differences between the two subwoofers. Moreover, they are both brilliant options.
Looking at the features of the bass tube and underseat subwoofers will help us decide which is the best option.
So, I did the dirty work and gathered information about the two subwoofers. At the end of this article, it should be easier to squash the bass tube and under-seat subwoofer battle.
Here’s the Difference Between Bass Tube and Underseat Subwoofers:
So, in the subwoofer world, what differentiates the many types of subs is their features.
In this case, bass tubes are cylindrical (with some flat sides). The speaker driver faces one of these flat sides. The rest of the tube enhances sound production. On the other hand, underseat subwoofers are made flat. The whole purpose is to get them to fit under the seats of every car.
Pros of a Bass Tube
There are many benefits to purchasing and owning a bass tube.
Let’s have a look at three perks associated with bass tubes:
1. Integrated Amp
Other subwoofers need an external amplifier. However, bass tubes have an in-built amp. Bass tubes are active subwoofers because of the internal amp.
This feature makes bass tubes cheaper and less complicated to set up. We have to choose among many components, with other subwoofers. But with this one, the bass tube is all you need.
2. Good Size
Bass tubes are not too big. Therefore, they can easily fit in the trunk and between the rear seat and boot area.
This perfect sizing makes bass tubes excellent for smaller-sized cars. You don’t have to struggle with fitting a bass tube in your car.
3. Impeccable Bass
Bass tubes are known to have a boomy bass. Since bass tubes are enclosed and sealed, they prevent bass or low frequencies from escaping.
So, if you are more into getting a tighter bass, bass tubes are excellent.
4. Affordability
Unlike box subwoofers, bass tubes are made from cheaper materials like plastic and prefab. So, unlike box subwoofers, bass tubes are cost-friendly.
Therefore, the favorable price makes bass tubes excellent if you are on a tight budget.
Cons of Bass Tubes
We have listed the positives, and they are enough to push you in the bass tube direction. Still, it’s essential to find out the downfalls to make an unbiased choice:
- Bass tubes produce excellent bass or low frequencies. However, anyone who likes a more refined sound won’t appreciate the quality.
The bass tube designs alter the sound quality. However, it is important to note that they are not terrible at the output. It just means you won’t enjoy sound refinement as you would with some box subwoofers.
Pros of Underseat Subwoofers:
In this battle of the subwoofers, it only makes sense to look at the features of bass tubes and underseat subwoofers.
Since we’re done with bass tubes, here are the pros of underseat subwoofers:
1. Saving on Space
Underseat subwoofers utilize space in the car that is not useable for anything else. Therefore, storing the sub under the seat saves on space.
Subwoofers tend to be large and occupy a lot of unnecessary space. As a result, we either have to move things around or store the sub in the trunk. Honestly, some of our smaller cars cannot accommodate some box subwoofers.
2. Hassle-free Installation
When I was buying my subwoofer, I kept asking if the installation was hard for every product I saw. Why? I’m not good with wires and complicated connections.
Fortunately, underseat subwoofers are specially designed to go under the seat, so there’s not much we need to do.
Still, I understand some people prefer getting a professional to handle it, which is totally fine.
3. Low Power Consumption
Unlike other subwoofers, underseat subs do not need a lot of power to get them going. In fact, most don’t need external amplifiers to improve the sound quality.
Underseat subwoofers are excellent since some come with integrated amplifiers.
4. Impeccable Audio Profile
Underseat subwoofers improve the car’s audio profile. They produce a unique low-frequency bass only created by kick drums and bass guitars.
If you pair underseat subwoofers with other speakers, you’ll get higher frequencies, thus better sound output.
5. Compact and Lightweight
Since these subs are meant to fit in tight spaces, manufacturers make them smaller than ordinary subs. You can remove them from under the seat at any point without needing much help.
Cons of Underseat Subwoofers
Like many other products, underseat subwoofers have a few downfalls.
Here are the main cons of underseat subs:
- Due to their small and compact sizes, underseat subs are limited in sound quality. The overall performance cannot match that of box subwoofers.
- If you opt for a chunky underseat subwoofer, it may limit comfort for your passengers. These subs take up the passenger’s legroom.
- Because they need to be compact, underseat subwoofers lack safety features such as extra rubber on the edges and covers. This makes them less durable since they are susceptible to damage.
Also, underseat subs tend to have a shorter lifespan due to constant stresses and shocks.
So Which is Better, A Bass Tube or an Underseat Subwoofer?
Choosing between a bass tube and an underseat subwoofer depends on your tastes and preferences, too.
Of course, each has its brilliant features, making it different or even better than the other. However, everyone’s needs are different.
Bass tubes are the best for people on a budget. On the other hand, underseat subwoofers are the best for tight spaces. So, both are perfect in different conditions.
Before purchasing either, it is best to keenly evaluate their best features and choose based on that. Your needs matter most, so don’t buy the sub because someone you know bought it too!
Top Bass Tube Brands
I have narrowed it down to two top bass tube brands to make it easier for you.
BOSS Audio Systems Tube
Boss is a renowned brand. It is well known for its portable audio devices. This one, in particular, is excellent for use in your car.
This speaker is waterproof and only requires a Bluetooth connection. So, say goodbye to multiple wire connections and complicated setups.
Apart from music support, the Boss speaker also accommodates calls. Nothing beats this since you get a hands-free experience while driving.
The battery supports up to eight hours of battery backup. In addition, the speaker has 32GB of storage space.
Pyle Subwoofer Tube
This bass tube has exciting features, exquisite design, and construction. It also has good power output and frequency range.
The Pyle subwoofer tube supports between 30 to 700 Hz. Combining that with the easy installation feature makes this speaker worth the purchase.
Since we’ve mentioned top bass tubes, it is only right that we also talk about top underseat subwoofers.
Top Underseat Subwoofers
Here are the top three underseat subwoofer brands to weigh against bass tube subs:
The Kicker 11HS8 Powered Subwoofer
Kicker subs have been around since 1973. This particular one is a perfect Kicker sub. It has impeccable design, perfect for tight spaces. After all, it’s only eight inches, which is perfect to work with.
The manufacturer ensured the speaker has the best features to assist in operations since it goes under the car seat.
Kenwood 250W Max (150W RMS)
Kenwood is a respected brand name. It has a slim and sleek design, perfect for putting under your car seat.
In addition, it comes with a wired remote for easier navigation. The subwoofer produces optimum range, crisp and clean sound between 38 and 150 Hz.
Summary
Both bass tubes and underseat subwoofers are good at sound production. However, before purchasing, think about the space available, the features you want, and your budget. Don’t forget to consider what appeals to you the most. You don’t want to be stuck with a subwoofer you don’t love.
Resources
Subwoofer Bass Tube Vs. Bass Box