Best Subs For Extended Cab Truck: Unleash the Bass in Your Ride

Best Subs For Extended Cab Truck: Unleash the Bass in Your Ride Besttrucks.Truckstrend.com

An extended cab truck offers a unique blend of passenger space and cargo utility. However, that compromise often comes at the expense of optimal audio performance, particularly in the low-frequency range. Adding a subwoofer is the perfect solution to fill out the soundscape and experience music the way it was meant to be heard – with deep, resonating bass. But with limited space and unique acoustic challenges, choosing the right subwoofer for your extended cab truck requires careful consideration. This comprehensive guide will explore the best subwoofer options, installation tips, and important factors to consider so you can transform your truck's audio system into a mobile concert hall.

Why Add a Subwoofer to Your Extended Cab Truck?

Best Subs For Extended Cab Truck: Unleash the Bass in Your Ride

Before diving into specific models, let's understand why a subwoofer is essential for an extended cab truck:

• Compensates for Poor Bass Response: Factory car audio systems often lack the power and frequency response needed to reproduce low-end frequencies accurately. Subwoofers are designed to handle these frequencies, adding depth and impact to your music.
• Fills the Acoustic Void: The extended cab's cabin size can create acoustic challenges. Low frequencies are particularly prone to cancellation or uneven distribution, resulting in a "thin" sound. A subwoofer combats this by providing a dedicated source for bass reproduction.
• Enhances the Overall Listening Experience: A well-integrated subwoofer elevates the entire listening experience, making music more immersive and enjoyable. You'll hear details and nuances in your favorite tracks that were previously buried.
• Adds Resale Value: While subjective, a professionally installed and well-chosen audio system can be a selling point for your truck.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Subwoofer

Before you start browsing, consider these critical factors:

• Space Constraints: Extended cabs offer limited space, especially behind the rear seats. Measure the available area carefully to ensure the subwoofer enclosure will fit comfortably.
• Enclosure Type: Different enclosure types (sealed, ported, bandpass) produce varying sound characteristics. Sealed enclosures are compact and offer accurate, tight bass, while ported enclosures are more efficient and deliver louder, deeper bass. Bandpass enclosures offer a compromise between the two.
• Subwoofer Size: Subwoofers range from 8 inches to 15 inches or larger. Smaller subwoofers (8-10 inches) are generally better suited for tight spaces, while larger subwoofers (12-15 inches) can produce more powerful bass.

• Power Handling: Match the subwoofer's RMS (Root Mean Square) power handling to the amplifier's output power. Underpowering a subwoofer can lead to distortion, while overpowering can damage the speaker.
• Impedance: Subwoofers typically come in 2-ohm or 4-ohm impedance. Choose an impedance that is compatible with your amplifier.
• Sensitivity: Sensitivity measures how efficiently a subwoofer converts power into sound. Higher sensitivity ratings mean the subwoofer will produce louder sound with less power.
• Sound Preferences: Consider your personal listening preferences. Do you prefer tight, accurate bass for genres like rock and jazz, or do you want deep, powerful bass for hip-hop and electronic music?
• Budget: Subwoofers range in price from affordable to high-end. Set a budget before you start shopping to avoid overspending.

Best Subwoofer Options for Extended Cab Trucks

Here are some of the best subwoofer options for extended cab trucks, categorized by type:

1. Under-Seat Subwoofers (Powered):

• Pros: Compact, easy to install, self-contained (includes amplifier), space-saving.
• Cons: Limited power compared to dedicated subwoofers and amplifiers, may not produce the deepest bass.
• Examples:
  • Rockford Fosgate PS-8: A popular choice for its compact size and decent bass output.
  • Kenwood KSC-PSW8: Another excellent option with a slim profile that fits easily under most seats.
  • Alpine PWE-S8: Known for its clean and accurate bass response.

2. Shallow Mount Subwoofers:

• Pros: Designed for shallow enclosures, good compromise between size and performance, can be mounted in tight spaces.
• Cons: May require custom enclosure fabrication, can be more expensive than standard subwoofers.
• Examples:
  • Pioneer TS-SW2002D2/D4: Delivers impressive bass from a shallow enclosure.
  • Rockford Fosgate P3SD2-8/P3SD4-8: A powerful shallow mount option with good power handling.
  • Kicker 44CWCS84: Offers a good balance of performance and affordability.

3. Truck-Specific Subwoofer Enclosures:

• Pros: Designed to fit perfectly in specific truck models, often pre-loaded with subwoofers, simplifies installation.
• Cons: Can be more expensive than universal enclosures, may limit subwoofer choices.
• Examples:
  • JL Audio Stealthbox: Premium option designed to integrate seamlessly into your truck's interior.
  • MTX ThunderForm: Custom-molded enclosures that fit perfectly under or behind seats.
  • Atrend Bbox: A more affordable option that still offers a good fit and decent sound quality.

4. Component Subwoofers (with Separate Amplifier):

• Pros: Maximum flexibility in choosing subwoofer and amplifier, allows for customized sound, potentially the most powerful option.
• Cons: Requires more space, more complex installation, higher cost.
• Examples:
  • Sundown Audio SA Series: Known for their high power handling and deep bass output.
  • JL Audio W3v3 Series: Offers a good balance of performance and affordability.
  • Alpine Type R Series: A popular choice for its punchy bass and clean sound quality.

Installation Tips for Extended Cab Trucks

• Measure Carefully: Double-check all measurements before purchasing a subwoofer or enclosure.
• Consider Wiring: Use high-quality speaker wire and power cables to ensure optimal performance.
• Grounding: Ground the amplifier properly to prevent noise and interference.
• Sound Deadening: Apply sound deadening material to the truck's cabin to reduce vibrations and improve sound quality.
• Professional Installation: If you're not comfortable with car audio installation, consider hiring a professional.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

• Limited Space: Utilize under-seat subwoofers or shallow mount subwoofers in custom enclosures.
• Wiring Challenges: Run wires carefully and securely, using wire looms and tie wraps to prevent damage.
• Noise and Vibration: Apply sound deadening material to reduce unwanted noise and vibration.
• Matching Components: Ensure the subwoofer and amplifier are properly matched in terms of power handling and impedance.

Price Table

Subwoofer	Type	Size	Power Handling (RMS)	Price (Approximate)	Key Features
Rockford Fosgate PS-8	Under-Seat (Powered)	8 inch	150 Watts	$250 - $350	Compact, easy installation
Kenwood KSC-PSW8	Under-Seat (Powered)	8 inch	250 Watts	$200 - $300	Slim profile, fits under most seats
Alpine PWE-S8	Under-Seat (Powered)	8 inch	120 Watts	$280 - $380	Clean and accurate bass
Pioneer TS-SW2002D2/D4	Shallow Mount	8 inch	150 Watts	$150 - $250	Impressive bass from a shallow enclosure
Rockford Fosgate P3SD2-8/P3SD4-8	Shallow Mount	8 inch	300 Watts	$180 - $280	Powerful shallow mount, good power handling
Kicker 44CWCS84	Shallow Mount	8 inch	150 Watts	$100 - $180	Good balance of performance and affordability
JL Audio Stealthbox (Truck-Specific)	Truck-Specific Enclosure	Varies	Varies	$800 - $1500	Premium, seamless integration
MTX ThunderForm (Truck-Specific)	Truck-Specific Enclosure	Varies	Varies	$400 - $800	Custom-molded, fits perfectly
Atrend Bbox (Truck-Specific)	Truck-Specific Enclosure	Varies	Varies	$200 - $400	Affordable, good fit
Sundown Audio SA-8 V.3 D4	Component Subwoofer	8 inch	600 Watts	$250 - $400	High power handling, deep bass
JL Audio 10W3v3-2/4	Component Subwoofer	10 inch	500 Watts	$200 - $350	Good balance of performance and affordability
Alpine Type R 12"	Component Subwoofer	12 inch	750 Watts	$250 - $400	Punchy bass, clean sound quality

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: Can I use a regular subwoofer in my extended cab truck?
  • A: Yes, but you'll need to consider the space constraints and choose an enclosure that fits properly. Shallow mount subwoofers are often a good option.
• Q: Do I need a separate amplifier for a subwoofer?
  • A: Powered subwoofers (under-seat models) have a built-in amplifier. Component subwoofers require a separate amplifier.
• Q: How do I choose the right size subwoofer for my truck?
  • A: Consider the available space, your listening preferences, and the power of your amplifier. Smaller subwoofers (8-10 inches) are generally better for tight spaces, while larger subwoofers (12-15 inches) can produce more powerful bass.
• Q: What is the difference between sealed and ported enclosures?
  • A: Sealed enclosures are compact and offer accurate, tight bass. Ported enclosures are more efficient and deliver louder, deeper bass.
• Q: How important is sound deadening?
  • A: Sound deadening is highly recommended to reduce vibrations and improve sound quality. It can make a significant difference in the overall listening experience.
• Q: Can I install a subwoofer myself?
  • A: If you have experience with car audio installation, you can install a subwoofer yourself. However, if you're not comfortable with the process, it's best to hire a professional.

Conclusion

Adding a subwoofer to your extended cab truck can transform your audio system and elevate your listening experience. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can choose the best subwoofer option for your needs and enjoy deep, resonating bass in your ride. Remember to prioritize space constraints, enclosure type, power handling, and your personal sound preferences. With the right subwoofer and a proper installation, you can unleash the full potential of your truck's audio system and experience music like never before. So, crank up the volume and enjoy the ride!