Powered Car Subwoofers
Why Buy From Audio Intensity
CNC-Matched Enclosures
Spec-built to your driver's Thiele-Small parameters
Advanced Support
Real techs answer your install questions
Includes Shipping
Shipping included from our Tennessee location
Shop the Lineup
FEM Audio 12" Spare Tire Subwoofer
All products loaded
What a Powered Subwoofer Is and When to Buy One
A powered subwoofer (also called an active subwoofer or all-in-one subwoofer) is a self-contained bass solution: driver, amplifier, and enclosure in one unit. The amplifier is matched to the driver at the factory, the enclosure is sized for the driver's parameters, and the buyer skips the design work that a traditional component sub install requires.
The trade-off is honest. A powered sub will not match a properly designed component system for output, accuracy, or upgrade flexibility. The amplifier is built into the unit and can't be replaced. The enclosure is fixed and can't be tuned. What it will do is deliver real bass at a price point that makes a competent component build impossible, and install in a fraction of the time. For most factory-system upgrades, daily-driver builds, and leased vehicles where a permanent install isn't an option, that trade is correct.
The Collection at a Glance
Two FEM Audio powered subwoofer systems, both at closeout pricing while supplies last.
FEM Audio USS-F10 Under-Seat Powered Subwoofer ($249.99, marked down from $299.99): A 10 inch active subwoofer engineered for under-seat truck installs. Built-in amplifier, integrated enclosure, includes a remote bass control knob for driver-seat adjustability. Plug-and-play install for vehicles with the depth to accommodate. Currently in stock.
FEM Audio STS-F1 Spare Tire Subwoofer ($349.99, marked down from $449.99): A 12 inch powered subwoofer pre-loaded into a spare-tire-shaped enclosure. Designed to drop into the spare tire well of a sedan, hatchback, or SUV without sacrificing trunk space. Built-in amplification, ready to wire and run. Currently sold out.
Both products are closeout inventory and will not be replenished. If the SKU you want is in stock, this is the time to buy.
Powered vs. Component Subwoofer Systems
A powered subwoofer is the right choice when:
The vehicle has limited space for a separate amplifier and enclosure. Under-seat truck installs, spare-tire wells, and tight cargo areas often can't accommodate a component build.
The buyer wants a quick, reversible install. Leased vehicles, daily drivers where the system needs to come out at trade-in, or builds where the buyer doesn't want to commit to the permanence of a component install.
The budget doesn't extend to a properly designed component system. A $250 powered sub delivers real bass. A $250 component sub plus a budget amp plus a budget box delivers compromise on every front.
A component subwoofer system is the right choice when output, accuracy, or future upgrade flexibility matter more than install simplicity. Browse the full sub lineup if you have the space and budget for a designed system.
Frequently Asked Powered Subwoofer Questions
What's the difference between a powered subwoofer and a regular subwoofer?
A regular (passive) subwoofer is just the driver. It needs an external amplifier and an enclosure. A powered subwoofer combines all three (driver, amplifier, enclosure) in one self-contained unit. Powered subs are easier to install but offer less flexibility to upgrade individual components later.
Will a powered subwoofer work with my factory stereo?
Yes. Most powered subwoofers include high-level (speaker-wire) inputs that tap directly into your factory speaker wiring. You don't need an aftermarket head unit. Some models also include an auto turn-on circuit that powers the sub on automatically when it senses an audio signal.
How do I install a powered subwoofer?
Three connections are required: a fused power wire from the battery, a ground wire to a clean chassis point, and an audio signal connection (speaker-level from factory wiring, or RCA from an aftermarket head unit). A remote turn-on wire is sometimes used; many powered subs handle turn-on automatically. Install time runs 1 to 2 hours for a competent installer.
Can a powered subwoofer fit under a truck seat?
Yes, this is one of the most common applications. Single-cab trucks usually fit one 8 inch or 10 inch under-seat unit. Extended and crew cab trucks routinely fit a 10 inch or 12 inch unit under the rear seat. The FEM Audio USS-F10 in this collection is built specifically for under-seat installs in vehicles with the depth to accommodate it.
What's a spare tire subwoofer?
A subwoofer pre-loaded into a spare-tire-shaped enclosure that drops into the spare tire well of a sedan, hatchback, or SUV. Lets you add bass without sacrificing trunk or cargo space. The enclosure replaces the spare tire (or sits alongside it in vehicles with extra room). The FEM Audio STS-F1 in this collection is a 12 inch spare tire system.
Will a powered subwoofer hit hard enough?
For factory-system upgrades, daily-driver listening, and most music genres at reasonable volume, yes. Powered subwoofers are designed for usable bass enhancement, not competition SPL. If you want chest-thumping output for hip-hop or competition use, a component subwoofer with a dedicated amplifier and properly tuned enclosure will significantly outperform any powered sub.