Having the right budget can get you an amplifier that won’t disappoint. And yes, that includes a budget of $300 or less.
You’ll find a lot of high-quality amplifiers that don’t necessarily have to cost an arm and a leg. Our list of the best buy amps for cars includes nothing short of expertly crafted and precision-engineered products that are guaranteed to take your sound system to the next level.
What Are the Best Car Amps to Get On a Budget?
Check out some of the best car amplifiers under $300 that deliver high performance, unbelievable audio quality, and outstanding value.
1NVX XQA12001
The NVX XQA12001 is a high-performance monoblock amplifier built for serious power and sound clarity. It has an RMS output of 1200 watts at 1 ohm (and 800W at 2 ohms / 500W at 4 ohms), giving you the muscle to drive deep, controlled bass in demanding systems.
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s 1 ohm stable, so you get maximum power under heavier loads – perfect for aggressive subwoofer builds.
- Its X-Boost circuitry enhances low-bass response and compensates for bass roll-off.
- It leverages high-end signal chain components – variable low-pass and subsonic filters, bass-boost, adjustable phase control, input sensitivity from 0.2–10 V, and a signal-sensing turn-on.
- It offers audible performance excellence and reliability.
Why It’s Worth the Spend
If you’re serious about bass and demand both high output and fidelity in your vehicle audio setup, the XQA12001 hits both marks. You’re bound to get clean, controlled power with the flexibility and features to fine-tune your sound with an amp like this. It’s also a smart investment for anyone building a system requiring reliable competition-level output.
2Kicker 46cxa8001
The Kicker CXA8001 is a compact Class-D monoblock amplifier that delivers serious bass muscle without the bulk. With output ratings of 300W at 4 ohms, 600W at 2 ohms, and a full 800W at 1 ohm, it’s built to drive demanding subwoofers and shake your ride. Its sleek, small-footprint design also makes it easier to install in tight spaces.
Why You’ll Love It
- Achieves 800W at 1 ohm for maximum output in high-current subwoofer systems.
- Its KickEQ bass can boost up to 6dB, letting you add that extra bass punch when you want it.
- Its speaker-level inputs and FIT+ integration work seamlessly with factory radios and accept up to 40 V speaker-level input signals.
- Comes with precise tuning controls, which include variable low-pass (50-200 Hz), subsonic filter (0-25 Hz), >95 dB signal-to-noise ratio, and THD around 1 %.
Why It’s Worth the Spend
If you’re building a serious car audio system and want an amplifier that punches well above its size, the CXA8001 delivers outstanding value.
It brings robust power, professional-grade controls and integration features, and installation flexibility. You’re essentially getting a big sound and smart tuning in a single package.
3Sundown Audio SIA-1250D
Elevate your car audio system with the Sundown Audio SIA-1250D — a premium Class-D monoblock amplifier built for those who demand serious output and uncompromised fidelity.
This amp delivers robust power for large subwoofer setups, logging ratings of 1250Wx1 at 1 ohm or 2 ohms and 800Wx1 at 4 ohms.
Why You’ll Love It
- You still get 1250W of RMS power regardless of whether you’re running 1 or 2 ohms.
- Comes with advanced thermal and voltage protection features, including a heavy heatsink, 3-speed smart cooling fan, and circuitry guarding against thermal, low-voltage, speaker short, and DC offset issues.
- Ensures precise tuning flexibility with its variable 12 dB low-pass filter (40 Hz-20 kHz), high-pass filter (10 Hz-1 kHz), and up to 12 dB bass boost at 50 Hz.
- Crafted for high-fidelity bass performance with its signal-to-noise ratio of up to 108 dB and a full-bridge design.
Why It’s Worth the Spend
The SIA-1250D allows you to build a mean subwoofer system with an amplifier that delivers large-scale output and control.
You’ll get deep, authoritative bass that’s clean and reliable, with premium features that give you room to tune and refine your sound. Whether for competition or high-end mobile audio, this amp is a smart investment for anyone who won’t settle for average.
4Cerwin-Vega XED11001D
The Cerwin‑Vega XED11001D is designed for those who want to stay in control. This high-performance Class D monoblock amplifier delivers output ratings of 650W RMS at 4 ohms and a whopping 1,100W RMS at 2 ohms.
Why You’ll Love It
- It delivers high power output at 2 ohms, which is ideal when you want a strong output without going to extreme loads.
- Comes with variable tuning controls, including a low-pass crossover (35-250 Hz), subsonic filter (10-50 Hz), input gain, and up to +12 dB bass boost for customized bass response.
- Features speaker-level inputs and signal-sensing remote turn-on that make it compatible with factory radios and upgraded builds.
- Its Class D efficiency keeps things cooler, and the aluminum chassis with an ambient back-lit logo adds style and strength.
Why It’s Worth the Spend
The XED11001D packs big sound and flexibility, delivering professional-grade output, precise tuning options, and easy integration—all in a manageable form factor. It’s a smart investment for anyone building a high-impact subwoofer system without compromising on quality.
5Deaf Bonce Apocalypse 1300.1 Pro
It’s impossible to leave out the Deaf Bonce Apocalypse 1300.1 Pro when talking about high-impact car audio. Another Class D monoblock amplifier on the list, it’s engineered to deliver serious power and control.
With output ratings of 490 W at 4 ohms, 780W at 2 ohms, and a full 1300W at 1 ohm, this amplifier is built to handle deep-bass setups and subwoofers that demand high current.
Why You’ll Love It
- Gives you maximum performance when loading down to your subwoofers’ lowest impedance.
- Includes variable low-pass filter (40–250 Hz), high-pass/subsonic controls (10–50 Hz), and a bass boost from 0–12 dB for fine-tuning your system.
- The small footprint (approx 7″ × 5.5″ × 2.1″) means easier installation in tight vehicle spaces, without sacrificing output.
- Setup is convenient for both aftermarket and factory systems, and the wired remote gives you dynamic control right from your dash.
Why It’s Worth the Spend
With the Apocalypse 1300.1, you get real RMS numbers, professional-grade tuning controls, and space-saving design—all at a strong value point. Whether you’re upgrading for bass performance or competition-level output, this amplifier gives you the muscle and the flexibility to make it happen.
6Kicker KEY500.1
Crank up your ride’s audio system with a smart, compact, Class D monoblock amplifier designed to deliver a serious bass punch without hogging space. With an RMS output of 500W at 1 ohm, 300W at 2 ohms, and 150W at 4 ohms, the Kicker KEY500.1 gives you the flexibility to power subwoofers of nearly any size.
Why You’ll Love It
- The amp features AI-driven digital signal processing that analyzes your system and automatically corrects frequency response for a clean and even bass.
- It’s ideal for tight installs behind seats, under consoles, or in trunk corners.
- Can work seamlessly with factory or aftermarket stereos with its universal integration capability via FIT+ inputs.
- Includes variable low-pass (40-160 Hz), subsonic/high-pass (10-40 Hz), and bass-boost of up to 6 dB at 40 Hz.
Why It’s Worth the Spend
The KEY500.1 couples high-performance power with smart tuning and broad compatibility, resulting in a deep, clean bass that fits virtually any install.
The KEY500.1 is built for those who want a streamlined and powerful upgrade that plays clean and tunes easily.
7Alpine MRV-M500
Drive your subwoofer hard while maintaining clarity with the Alpine MRV-M500. This monoblock amp is designed to deliver a clean and powerful sound from a compact package, featuring an RMS rating of 300W×1 at 4 ohms and 500W×1 at 2 ohms.
Why You’ll Love It
- Thanks to Alpine’s V-Power Series tech, it runs at around 80% efficiency, meaning less power wasted as heat and more stable performance even during heavy bass demands.
- The MRV-M500 has a much smaller physical size compared to older models, making it a great choice when space is limited in your vehicle.
- It supports speaker-level inputs for integration with factory systems, has two pairs of pre-amp outputs, and features a wired remote bass level control option.
- You get a variable low-pass filter (50-400 Hz), bass boost (0-12 dB), and robust protection (over-current, over-voltage, under-voltage, thermal) to keep your system safe and customized.
Why It’s Worth the Spend
The MRV-M500 provides clean, high-quality bass output, integrates easily with both aftermarket and factory systems, and handles demanding loads with confidence.
For anyone wanting a powerful bass without wrestling with bulky hardware or compromised sound, this amplifier is definitely worth considering.
About The Authors
Christine F.
Christine is a dedicated content writer covering a variety of automotive and car audio topics, turning technical knowledge into compelling and easy-to-understand articles. Creating content that educates, empowers, and inspires drivers and audio enthusiasts is at the heart of her work.
Allyn R.
Our team of subject matter experts at Sonic Electronix ensures that all blog content is technically accurate, comprehensive, and aligned with industry best practices. With years of experience in all things related to car audio, our tech review team helps our readers make confident, informed decisions about products, installations, and system designs with their expertise.
