This blog makes mention to the best monoblock car amplifiers currently available. More specifically these amps all have an RMS power rating of 1200 watts. I love bass and a monoblock amplifier is what you are going to use to feed clean power to your subwoofer(s).

These amplifiers are powerful and enhance sound quality. Clean power allows for cleaner sound. When constructing your aftermarket car audio system, there are many things to consider. One of the most important contributions will be your amp; so never cheap out.

First thing to consider when pairing an amplifier and a subwoofer is the RMS power. Ensure the power handling of the subwoofer matches the power rating of your amplifier or is within the appropriate range. For more details regarding the appropriate range, check out this blog. Next be sure if you are wiring multiple subwoofers to the same monoblock amp they are identical, meaning impedance and coil type. If you are going to run different subwoofers in your system you will need multiple monoblock amplifiers.

1. JL Audio HD1200.1

jl audio hd1200.1

JL Audio’s HD1200.1 is the number one monoblock amplifier available in the market right now for a variety of reasons. This flagship piece offers unmatched performance from an ultra compact chassis. This amplifier require less power while generating minimal heat. Essentially this amp is extremely efficient and capable of powering high output competition grade systems.

Specifications

  • 1.5, 2, 3 and 4 ohm impedance: 1200 watts x 1 channel
  • R.I.P.S. Technology- Regulated, Intelligent Power Supply
  • Single Cycle Control™ – high-fidelity, full-range class D
  • Compact, stackable chassis design
  • Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.03% @ 4Ω (Average at 1kHz)

A unique feature found in this series is the regulated intelligent power supply (RIPS). This technology regulates the amplifier’s output with any speaker load from 1.5-4 ohms even with fluctuating voltage. In addition JL Audio’s advanced rollback protection circuit monitors the amplifier thermal conditions and adjusts amplifier operation to eliminate amplifier shutdown.

The Single-Cycle Control™ delivers 1200w RMS of clean power at any impedance between 4 and 1.5 ohms. These types of innovations distinguish the HD1200.1 from the rest. If I had to choose one amp to utilize in my system it would be the HD1200.1.

You’ll hear music like never before. This class D amp uses less power and takes up less space. If you have the financial means, this is the amplifier you want in your system.

2. NVX JAD1200.1

nvx jad 1200.1

Although the JAD1200.1 by NVX comes in at second, in my opinion this is the best buy because the HD1200.1 costs about 4.5x the amount of the JAD1200.1. Realistically that is not in everyone’s budget. NVX offers affordability, clean power and an abundance of features to customize your system.

Specifications

  • Sonic Electronix Certified Power Rating:
    • 4 ohms: 662 watts x 1 channel
    • 2 ohms: 1037 watts x 1 channel
    • 1 ohm: 1384 watts x 1 channel
  • Total Harmonic Distortion: <1.0%
  • Signal to Noise Ratio: 111 dB

There are many benefits to adding an NVX monoblock amp to your system. The small footprint, high output capabilities are some of my favorite. Highly efficient and CEA certified, NVX uses high quality parts. Also with high and low pass filters, pre-amp outputs, and gain level control you are put in control.

This unit even comes with an illuminated badge, wired remote bass knob, and a ground gauge adapter converting 8 gauge inputs in 1/0 gauge inputs. Tested in house, at 1 ohm this amp outputs 1,647w RMS. This product is so well manufactured NVX underrates the power rating and the results speak for themselves.

I always prefer to use brands I can trust. NVX is committed to quality, performance, and usability which is best exemplified with the JAD series amplifier. The pronounced audio reproduction is complemented by the striking minimalist design of the ultra-compact chassis.

3. Alpine PDX-M12

Alpine PDX-M12

Calling all bassheads, Alpine’s line of PDX amplifiers are compact and ideal for stacking. No matter the demands of your system the PDX-M12 can be stacked and will run cool. Fear for overheating is a thing of the past and this amp will fit into almost any application no matter how limited space might be.

Specifications

  • RMS Power Rating (@ 14.4V):
    • 4 ohms: 1200 watts x 1 channel
    • 2 ohms: 1200 watts x 1 channel
  • CEA-2006 compliant amplifier
  • Input sensitivity: 0.1-8 V with input level

What’s unique about this product is the front mount controls were designed for easy setting control post installation. With removable speaker wires, this truly is the most versatile amplifier when it comes to installation requirements. Superior materials like golf plated RCA level inputs resist corrosion and signal degradation.

The entire line of PDX amplifiers, was the recipient of the 2010 CES Innovations honors award. This award recognizes the most innovative consumer electronics products and it is no surprise Alpine’s PDX line took home the honor. And some 7 years later this is still one of the best car monoblock amplifiers available in the market.

4. Kicker CXA1200.1

Kicker CXA1200.1

The sound quality of your system starts with a good amplifier. The CX series monoblock amp by Kicker is here to fulfill that obligation. The CX amp reaches massive power levels thanks to an optimized circuit layout with the highest grade internal components available. Sleek, simple styling and installation flexibility make this an all round great amplifier.

Specifications

  • RMS Power Rating:
    • 4 ohms: 600 watts x 1 channel
    • 2 ohms: 1200 watts x 1 channel
  • Fixed Subsonic Filter @ 25hz, 24db/octave
  • Variable Bass Boost: 0 to +12 dB bass boost at 40 Hz
  • Variable Low-Pass Crossover: 50 – 200Hz 12dB/octave

The most prominent feature is the fixed subsonic filter which eliminates extreme resonances causing distortion. Also Kicker’s Fail-Safe Integration (FIT™) ensures a cool running amp with no fear of distortion.

Built with failsafe integration technology aka FIT. Giving the user the ability to send any audio source directly to the amplifier without line output converter. Can be installed vertically expanding mounting application. Get the bass remote CXARC.

5. Rockford Fosgate Prime R1200-1D

Rockford Fosgate Prime 1200-1D

Rockford Fosgate designed this piece to respond instantaneously to peak power demands. You can control your systems settings with low-pass filters, subsonic filters, punch EQ, and of course bass boost enabling you maximize performance.

Specifications

  • RMS Power Rating:
    • 4 ohms: 400 watts x 1 channel
    • 2 ohms: 800 watts x 1 channel
    • 1 ohm: 1200 watts x 1 channel
  • CEA-2006 Compliant Amplifier
  • Subsonic (infrasonic) filter: 15 – 40 Hz , 12 dB/octave
  • Variable low-pass filter: 50 – 250 Hz, 12 dB/octave

It’s always recommend you install a remote knob at the drivers seat s you can have control over your bass. Designed for competitions this amp will have your bass sounding clean and powerful. Luckily this amp features a heavy duty cast allumium heat sink, for heat dissipation ensuring this unit stays cool.

With simple top mounted controls, users are able to customize their system however they please post installation without any hassle. The heavy duty, nickel plated set screw terminals can be tightened or loosened with a 3mm Allen wrench. This amplifier is easy to use and will have your system sounding amazing.