For car audio enthusiasts and music lovers who crave powerful bass without sacrificing valuable cargo space, spare tire subwoofers offer an innovative solution. These compact yet potent audio devices are designed to fit snugly in your vehicle’s spare tire well, providing an impressive low-end punch while maintaining the practicality of your trunk or cargo area.
Spare tire subwoofers have gained popularity in recent years due to their space-efficient design and increasingly impressive sound quality. They cater to a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to SUVs, offering a balance between performance and convenience that traditional subwoofer setups often struggle to achieve.
These specialized subwoofers come in various sizes and configurations, typically ranging from 8 to 12 inches in diameter. Many models feature built-in amplifiers, simplifying installation and ensuring optimal power matching. Advanced options may include adjustable crossovers, remote bass controls, and even smartphone app integration for precise audio tuning.
While spare tire subwoofers may not match the raw power of larger, custom-installed systems, they offer a compelling compromise for those seeking to enhance their vehicle’s audio without major modifications or loss of storage space. As technology continues to advance, these compact powerhouses are delivering increasingly impressive bass response, making them a worthy consideration for anyone looking to upgrade their car’s sound system.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top spare tire subwoofers on the market, delving into their features, performance, and value to help you make an informed decision for your automotive audio needs.
Table of Contents
JBL Basspro Hub – 11″ powered subwoofer system
- Deep, powerful bass with power output of 200W RMS with Bass Boost ranging...
- Dimensions (D x H): 14-3/16" x 6-1/2" (D360mm x H165mm)
- Frequency Response 30Hz – 150Hz
You can’t go wrong with the JBL BassPro Hub if you love bass as much as you love your automobile. If you have the money to invest a little bit more than you would for a typical spare tire subwoofer and amp. Your needs will be met by the BassPro Hub’s powerful, clear bass. without occupying any room. It is made to provide a strong punch without the risk of overheating by using a Class D amplifier.
One of the original spare tire subwoofers on the market, the JBL Basspro Hub Spare Tire Sub comes from one of the most reputable audio brands. For reasons you’ll soon learn, it’s also among the best. The 11-inch subwoofer has a fibreglass cone and a robust rubber surround, which ensures good performance and a long lifespan. Additionally, it includes a 200-watt Class D amplifier. Given that they compliment one another and that the subwoofer has an RMS power of 700 watts, you can anticipate it to break some glasses—sometimes quite literally.
With a maximum power output of 300 watts, this subwoofer is perfect for use with aftermarket head units or stock stereos. Additionally, a wired remote control is provided, making it simple to modify the bass volume from your dash. Your music will sound fantastic and get an extra lift from this subwoofer. This system also comes with a wiring kit and all the installation-related components for added ease during installation process.
Your automobile audio system can benefit from more bass thanks to the JBL BassPro Hub. The BassPro Hub is tuned to deliver low frequencies and up to 300 watts of power from the spare tire area on your car. An 11″ subwoofer with an integrated amplifier, a high-performance woofer cone, a robust steel basket, and an injection-molded polypropylene cone surround are all included with the BassPro Hub.
The JBL Basspro Hub’s ability to dip down to 30Hz further enhances its performance value by enabling it to deliver realistic and distinct bass notes that really bring out the detail in your music. Additionally, it aids in removing noise abnormalities and interference. This is one of the greatest options available right now for people with little space. Use the connected remote to customise your audio experience. It has a one-year manufacturer’s guarantee, but given how well-reviewed this subwoofer is, you probably won’t even use it. We always advise purchasing extended protection when it is available for the best defence. This is the Best Spare Tire Subwoofer in 2024.
Rockville RockGhost V2
- Includes: RockGhost V2 subwoofer. Wiring Kit. Remote. Mounting hardware
- Rockville RockGhost V2 Powered 11" 800w Car Subwoofer Fits Inside Spare...
- New and improved shallow mounting depth to fit perfectly in any spare tire....
The Rockville RockGhost V2 is an ingeniously designed spare tire subwoofer that seamlessly integrates into your vehicle’s spare tire well, delivering exceptional bass performance without compromising valuable trunk space.
One of the standout features of the RockGhost V2 is its hidden installation. The subwoofer’s back plate mounts directly on top of the spare tire, making it virtually invisible to potential thieves. This space-saving design not only keeps your audio setup secure but also maintains the clean, uncluttered appearance of your vehicle’s trunk. Despite its discreet nature, the RockGhost V2 packs a serious punch. The 11-inch high-excursion subwoofer, coupled with its flexible rubber surrounds, produces extremely loud and vibrant bass that can even rattle your mirrors. The subwoofer’s advanced design ensures that the bass is not only powerful but also clean and musical, providing a truly immersive listening experience.
Rockville has paid close attention to the details, ensuring that the RockGhost V2 seamlessly integrates with your car’s audio system. The shallow mounting depth allows the subwoofer to fit perfectly in any spare tire well, while the built-in PWM MOSFET power supply amplifier, low-level RCA inputs, and reverse mounting design facilitate a straightforward plug-and-play installation.
The included wired 20-foot dash remote takes customization to the next level. This remote provides adjustable gain, bass boost, low-pass crossover filter, and phase control, allowing you to fine-tune the subwoofer’s performance to your personal preferences and the acoustics of your vehicle.
The RockGhost V2 is built to last, with a sturdy cast aluminum casing and protective circuits that guard against thermal, short, and overload issues. The subwoofer also features auto turn-on and auto turn-off functions, as well as a soft delayed remote turn-on, ensuring a seamless and refined audio experience every time you start your car.
With a frequency response of 20Hz – 150Hz and a signal-to-noise ratio greater than 90dB, the RockGhost V2 delivers exceptional sound quality. The subsonic filter, phase switch, and adjustable input sensitivity allow you to fine-tune the subwoofer’s performance to perfectly match your car’s acoustics.
Rockville RockGhost V2 is the ultimate spare tire subwoofer, combining discreet design, powerful performance, and user-friendly features. Whether you’re an audiophile seeking to elevate your car’s sound or a casual listener looking to add some extra bass, the RockGhost V2 is the perfect solution. Elevate your audio experience without sacrificing valuable trunk space – the Rockville RockGhost V2 is the subwoofer you’ve been searching for.
Cerwin-Vega VPAS12ST
- Revolutionize Your Car Audio: Upgrade with Cerwin Vega's VEGA 12" 150W RMS...
- Enhanced Bass Experience: Experience deep, resonant bass with the 12-inch...
- Plug-and-Play Operation: This powered subwoofer car audio is all about...
Looking for a subwoofer that is effective and simple to install? The CERWIN Vega Active & Passive Spare Tire Application Subwoofers Series is the only option. With its Auto Power Circuitry, Adjustable Input Sensitivity, RCA high and low-level Inputs, and Passive Radiator Design, this 12″ 4 Ohm subwoofer is made to deliver precise and tight bass.
The 12-inch low-profile subwoofer in this particular spare tire subwoofer is driven by a 250-watt fully integrated amplifier that is housed inside a cast aluminium heat sink. This gives you a considerably larger range than you’d anticipate, producing heart-pounding bass that can go as long as 20Hz (and as high as 150Hz).
Speaking of vast range, this spare tire subwoofer is simple to customise. It contains a connected remote control that you may use to change everything, including the gain, the bass boost, the low pass crossover filter, and even the phase. The fact that Cerwin Vega VPAS12ST is at the top of our list of the finest subwoofers for spare tire applications shouldn’t come as a surprise. It caused a lot of controversy when it first came out, but it has since established itself as one of the most effective subs of its kind.
Its built-in amplifier is what gives it its power. Cerwin Vega doesn’t fall short when it comes to blasting the decibels at you (or anyone nearby, for that matter). Remember that purchasing additional protection through Amazon to cover replacement should the need arise over the following few years is the best way to deal with the warranty. It does work if you put it just in your spare tire to get the optimum sound, though. You won’t notice the amazing effects, though, until you use it without the spare tire. This has also made it the perfect option for those looking for a slim subwoofer that may easily fit beneath their seat.
The Cerwin Vega VPAS12ST, which is one of the most potent spare tire subwoofers with an amplifier built in in, ultimately won us over. Being supported by one of the top companies in the sector is just the cherry on top that we all like to see. This is without a doubt the ideal course of action if you desire the finest and are willing to spend a few hundred dollars to improve your audio experience. It’s not just us saying it either; many people have shared their excellent experiences with it for you to see in a top-rated product on Amazon. This is the Best Spare Tire Subwoofers in 2024.
Rockville RockGhost Active Powered 8″ Hidden Car Subwoofer
- Features: Rockville RockGhost Powered Car Subwoofer (Amplifier built in)....
- For Full Size Spare Tire Wheel Sizes of 15"/16"/17". Extremely loud (loud...
- PWM MOSFET power supply amplifier built in. Low level RCA inputs. 8” high...
You may purchase the RockGhost subscription for less than $200 (at the time of writing). Given that a spare tire subwoofer setup may easily cost several hundred dollars, it’s a fantastic price. The drawbacks include dealing with the manufacturer directly for returns and complaints of defective items being delivered out. If you can afford to take the chance of having to return your Rockville Rock Ghost, you can save some money. However, these usually get addressed without a hitch.
Rockville takes pride in providing clear, clean sound that is backed by the essential bass without extraneous noises or vibrations. Additionally, it has an air-ported design that advances the situation more than some of the other spare tire subs could. Remember that it has a wired remote that is 20 feet long. It’s quite simple to change the sound emanating from your subwoofer. You won’t experience worn-out ears at the end of the day.
Without a question, this is the best option for a cost-effective solution. Even though it might not receive as much praise as some of the other spare tire subwoofers on our page, it is far less expensive than most of the others. Of course, you can experience some difficulties along the way, but this is to be expected when you’re attempting to go the affordable option.
This spare tire subwoofer is easily the least expensive of our suggestions and provides strong bass without burning a hole through your wallet. The fact that it accomplishes this without too many concessions is the finest part. In actuality, the 200 watts of RMS output and 800 watts of peak power are available from the 8-inch high-excursion speaker. Surprisingly, this subwoofer can reach frequencies as low as 20Hz, and thanks to a 20-foot wired dash remote, you can adjust it while sitting comfortably in your car. The device itself has overload and short circuit protection.
Seismic Audio – Hide-A-Bump88 – Hidden Dual 8 Inch Powered Car Subwoofer
- Model: Hide-A-Bump88 | Dual 8 Inch Active Hidden Car Audio Subwoofer for...
- Power Rating: Peak Power - 400 Watts | Built-In Class D Amp | Sealed...
- Dual 5x8 Aluminum Woofers | Impedance: Dual 2 Ohm | Frequency Response:...
Looking for a subwoofer for your automobile that is both effective and covert? The Seismic Audio Hide-A-Bump88 is the solution. With two 8-inch drivers and a 400-watt power rating, this subwoofer can provide a lot of thunderous bass. Additionally, it is made to accommodate 15″ /16″ / 17″ spare tires, freeing up your trunk room for other items.
This 8-inch powered subwoofer has a 400 watt peak power output and is designed to fit in your spare tire space to provide earth-shattering bass. The two 5×8 woofers deliver lots of power, and the aluminium cone and highly treated foam surround ensure precise sound reproduction. You can fine-tune the sound to your preferences using the variable crossover frequency.
The subwoofer is always ready to rumble thanks to the auto switch-on feature. Thanks to the included mounting hardware and simple to understand directions, installation is a pleasure. The Seismic Audio Hide-A-Bump88 is the ideal option if you want to add some thump to your movies or more bass to your music.
Although the woofer (8′′) is smaller than some of the other subs we have evaluated today, this shows that size doesn’t always important. It will undoubtedly provide you bass at a balance you can be proud of with to its dual 58 aluminium woofers and built-in 400W amplifier (peak power). Remember to take a deeper look at the top choices that were highlighted previously if you’re searching for a more robust solution. However, this is a solid option if you simply want some extra bass when you jam while driving.
Gravity Warzone WZ10US 10″ Pro Audio Active Compact
- 10" Compact SLIM Spare Tire Subwoofer
- Power: 1000 Watts | Frequency Response: 30Hz - 150KHz
- Phase shift to compensate for time alignment problem in the system
The 2-ohm voice coil used in the construction of this subwoofer provides more wiring possibilities when using amplifiers. The subwoofer can produce deep and reliable low-end extension from a small package with the highest level of efficiency thanks to the die-cast aluminium housing, which is made of quality high-density material. The 10 “The woofer cone is designed to provide deep bass quickly and tightly, with little distortion and almost no unwelcome second- and third-order aberrations.
The enclosure doesn’t take up any room in the cargo compartment of your automobile. For optimum dependability, this subwoofer is built with a cast aluminium chassis, which is incredibly strong and offers great heat dissipation. You can customise the bass level by using the bass remote control that is included with the subwoofer. With this subwoofer enclosure, you can easily install an out-of-sight sound system inside the spare tyre hub.
The 10 “Bass is produced by a woofer cone made of feather-light fibreglass with a rubber surround. For more reliable low-end extension performance, the subwoofer enclosure is constructed of die-cast aluminium with exceptional density and robustness.
Best Spare Tire Sub – Buyer’s Guide
When you’re in the market for the top spare tire sub, you’re looking at a unique niche of audio equipment. Spare tire subwoofers aren’t just a gadget you pick up on a whim, they are a statement – a commitment to superior audio quality without sacrificing space.
Compatibility
Ensure the subwoofer fits your vehicle’s spare tire well. Check the dimensions and compare them to your car’s specifications. Some models are designed for specific vehicle types, so verify compatibility before purchasing.
Power Handling
Look for RMS (Root Mean Square) power ratings to determine the subwoofer’s continuous power handling capabilities. Higher RMS ratings generally mean more powerful bass output.
Sensitivity
A higher sensitivity rating (measured in dB) indicates that the subwoofer can produce more volume with less power input. This is particularly important if you have a lower-powered amplifier.
Frequency Response
Check the frequency range to ensure the subwoofer can reproduce the low bass notes you desire. A wider range, especially on the lower end, typically results in better overall bass performance.
Enclosure Type
Spare tire subs come in sealed or ported enclosures. Sealed enclosures offer tighter, more accurate bass, while ported designs provide louder output but may sacrifice some accuracy.
Connectivity
In the modern age, connectivity is key. Your spare tire subwoofer should seamlessly integrate with your existing audio system. Whether it’s through simple RCA inputs or high-level speaker inputs, ensure that the subwoofer you choose can connect easily with the equipment you already have.
3Build Quality
Your spare tire subwoofer is going to be in a place that might see a lot of movement and possibly even moisture. Look for a subwoofer with a sturdy build and materials that resist corrosion and wear. Features like rubber surrounds and treated cones add to longevity.
Built-in Amplifier
Many spare tire subs come with a built-in amplifier, simplifying installation and ensuring optimal power matching.
Adjustable Crossover
This feature allows you to fine-tune the frequencies sent to the subwoofer, helping it blend seamlessly with your existing speakers.
Remote Bass Control
A remote bass knob lets you adjust the subwoofer’s output from the driver’s seat, providing convenient control over your bass levels.
Here are some frequently asked questions about best spare tire subwoofers:
FAQ
What is a spare tire subwoofer?
A spare tire subwoofer is a compact audio device designed to fit in your vehicle’s spare tire well, providing powerful bass without taking up additional cargo space.
Can I still use my spare tire with a spare tire subwoofer installed?
Yes, most spare tire subwoofers are designed to allow access to your spare tire. However, you may need to remove the subwoofer to access the spare, which can be inconvenient in emergency situations.
Do I need an external amplifier for a spare tire subwoofer?
Many spare tire subwoofers come with a built-in amplifier, eliminating the need for an external one. However, some models may require a separate amplifier, so check the specifications before purchasing.
How difficult is it to install a spare tire subwoofer?
Installation difficulty varies depending on the model and your vehicle. While some car audio enthusiasts can handle the installation themselves, many opt for professional installation to ensure proper setup and optimal performance.
Will a spare tire subwoofer drain my car’s battery?
When properly installed, a spare tire subwoofer shouldn’t drain your battery significantly more than any other car audio component. However, extended use while the engine is off can drain the battery, just like any other electrical device in your car.
How difficult is it to install a spare tire subwoofer?
Installation difficulty varies depending on the model and your vehicle. While some car audio enthusiasts can handle the installation themselves, many opt for professional installation to ensure proper setup and optimal performance.
Will a spare tire subwoofer drain my car’s battery?
When properly installed, a spare tire subwoofer shouldn’t drain your battery significantly more than any other car audio component. However, extended use while the engine is off can drain the battery, just like any other electrical device in your car.