10 Best Shallow Mount Subwoofers

The Earthquake Sound i82SWS is an 8-inch shallow-mount subwoofer designed for tight spaces like under car seats, thanks to its very slim 2-1/8 inch mounting depth. This makes it ideal for vehicles where space is limited but quality bass is desired. It handles 150 Watts RMS power (300 Watts max) at 2 Ohms impedance, which delivers punchy bass without requiring a huge amplifier. The inverted cone design and patented spider assembly enable good speaker movement in a compact form, helping maintain solid bass response in a small package. It is best paired with a sealed enclosure to achieve the most satisfying bass experience.

The kit includes two subwoofers and gaskets, making it ready for under-the-seat setups. It is particularly compatible with some BMW and Toyota Supra models but is also suited for universal car audio upgrades. On the downside, it is not waterproof and lacks wireless connectivity, so it is purely wired and more suited for indoor car environments. It may not satisfy those looking for very deep, booming bass since it is designed more for compact spaces and punch rather than extreme low-end output.

This subwoofer is a solid choice if a shallow, easy-to-install unit that delivers reliable bass without taking up much room is needed.

The Kicker CDF104 is a 10-inch down-firing shallow-mount subwoofer enclosure designed to deliver strong bass without taking up much space in your vehicle, making it a great choice if you want powerful sound but have limited cargo room. Its total depth is about 17.9 cm, which is relatively shallow, helping with installation in tight spots like trunks or cargo areas. It handles up to 150 watts RMS power and can peak at around 300 watts, which is enough to produce clear, punchy bass for everyday listening without distortion at moderate volumes. The 4-ohm impedance is standard and compatible with many car amplifiers. Though the exact sensitivity rating isn't specified, Kicker’s design with a stiff injection-molded cone and full perimeter venting suggests efficient bass output.

The enclosure is made from thick MDF with strong internal bracing, making it durable enough to support cargo stacked on top without damaging the subwoofer. This toughness is a definite plus if you need a rugged setup. However, it doesn't come with waterproofing, so it’s best kept dry. Also, while it includes an amplifier, this isn’t a self-powered subwoofer, so you’ll need to connect it to a compatible car audio system. Its stereo audio output and auxiliary connectivity support a range of devices like smartphones and tablets, but it’s primarily meant for vehicle use rather than home audio.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly shallow-mount subwoofer enclosure that offers reliable bass and space-saving design, the Kicker CDF104 is a solid choice, especially for users who want durability and decent power without complicated installation.

The Kicker CompRT 8" subwoofer is designed to fit in tight spaces, making it an excellent shallow-mount option for vehicles, especially trucks. Despite its slim profile, it delivers a respectable 600 watts peak power, providing strong bass without needing a deep enclosure. Its 8-inch diameter is compact and fits well in smaller compartments. The subwoofer features dual voice coils with a 4-ohm impedance, offering flexibility in wiring setups to match different amplifiers.

One standout feature is its advanced heat management system, including a high-mass pole piece and forced-air cooling, which helps keep the subwoofer 20% cooler than typical models, enhancing reliability during extended use. It comes loaded in a sealed enclosure, suitable for tight spaces and delivering tight, punchy bass rather than booming lows. The frequency response starts at 500 Hz, which is higher compared to some subs that reach lower frequencies, so the deepest bass notes may not be achieved.

While the subwoofer is waterproof and built with durable materials, it is primarily intended for car use and might not be ideal for home audio setups. If you want a powerful, reliable shallow-mount subwoofer that fits where space is limited and provides clear bass for your vehicle, the Kicker CompRT 8" is a solid choice, though it will not produce the deepest bass that larger, deeper subs can deliver.