The Best Car Amps Under 200 & 225 Dollars – Five Fantastic Buys!

Shopping for great sound but want something that’s actually worthwhile?

Over the years I spent hundreds of hours shopping for amplifiers, often only to find later there was a “catch” or that I couldn’t afford the ones I thought I wanted. I’ve learned a bit since then as both an installer and an engineer.

Whether you’re looking to upgrade from an existing amp or start fresh it’s important to get an amp with:

• Sufficient power
• Good sound quality
• Affordability
• The features you need
• Good value overall

Below are 5 of the best car amps for under $200 & $225 along with some helpful information if you’d like to learn more.

What are class A/B and class D car amps?

Audio power amplifier classes are a general category to describe the type of technology an amp uses to boost an audio signal and drive speakers.

All car amps fall under one of several basic types or some combination of them.

Class A/B

Above: The internal view of a budget but good sounding Crunch PD1000.4 class A/B 4-channel amp. It uses traditional transistor design technology to get good sound at a lower price point.

Class A/B is an old design technology that has been around for decades. Some of the first modern amplifiers, produced for home stereo use, were sold using them when the transistor became more common.

Today’s car amps using A/B are often medium price range models that deliver very good sound for the price. More refined (and expensive models) produce even better sound quality.

Class A/B amps work by using transistors to reproduce and boost the input signal and drive a higher-power output to car speakers. Unlike class D amps, however, they keep the transistors used to do so on almost entirely the entire time when a music signal is present.

While they’re less expensive, they’re less efficient with around 65% efficiency. The rest is wasted and turned to heat which means they’re usually larger (and heavier) as they need a bigger chassis than class D amps.

Class D amps explained

Diagram showing a simplified explanation of how class D amps work. The input signal (from a radio) is turned into a series of square waveforms or “modulated.” These waveforms then drive output transistors and the output signal is restored to a smooth waveform before being sent to a speaker. Because the waveforms aren’t on 100% of the time, they use less electrical current and produce less heat.

Class D amps work by changing an analog (smooth) signal into a series of on/off pulses which drive output transistors. The amplified output waveforms are then smoothed before driving speakers.

The science behind electrical signals and switching transistors off very fast means the amp is actually drawing power less often than traditional designs.

As this happens, less power is wasted and some amps can get up to a whopping 90% efficiency rating! Because of this, they waste very little energy as heat, meaning they can be less bulky and made smaller too.

They do have some drawbacks, however. Lesser quality class D amplifiers tend to color the sound a bit unlike other types.

When shopping for this type of amp it’s important to pick a well-rated brand and model as they’re designed more carefully with sound quality in mind.

How much power do you need?

Here are some general suggestions when shopping (note that the recommended models I’ve listed here fit these rules of thumb fine).

For full-range speakers like front and rear (typically smaller speakers) 50W per channel is often enough to give you great sound with good volume. To drive a single or dual subwoofer setup for a fair amount of enjoyable bass, 150W-200W or higher is a good bet.

For better volume and a system with fantastic ability, aim for 75W per channel or higher for the front or rear sections and 350W or more for the bass channel(s).

Don’t forget that 4-channel amps can be bridged to drive main speakers with more power or to drive subwoofers.

It’s also very important to drive an amplifier with a stereo with a good signal output, whether it’s a factory stereo or aftermarket.

★ 5 of the best car amps under $200 & $225 ★

Our top picks for the money

Amp reviews, details, and pros/cons

1. Alpine MRV-F300 – An excellent value with 4 channels of great sound. Don’t pass it up!

I’ve been a big fan of Alpine products for years and I still am. Not to be outdone by lower cost competitors, the company has produced one of the best sounding, most compact, and most affordable amps on the market today.

The fantastic compact but powerful MRV-F300 is a fantastic example of amplifier technology that proves sometimes affordable can be excellent.

One of the smallest 4-channel amps available, the MRV-F300 puts lower-quality and lesser-designed competitors to shame. You’ll get a sleek-looking and classy brushed metallic finish that looks great.

A cool blue backlit power-on indicator makes a great touch when installed and your system is powered up. It’s a nice little addition I think looks very nice.

The Alpine amp also includes optional end caps to hide wiring connections for a smoother looking installation. For no extra charge, you’ll get a pro-looking install you’ll be proud to show off!

For about $175 or you’ll get some very nice features:

• 50W RMS x 4 @ 4 ohms power
• 75W RMS x 4 @ 2 ohms
• 150W RMS x 2 @ 2 ohms bridged

The MRV-F300 is one of the best small amps of its kind I’ve been able to get my hands on. What’s especially cool is that it’s small enough to fit under the seat in many vehicles. Additionally, it works well with factory systems, as speaker level inputs are provided. Don’t forget that you’ll also get a bass EQ feature for channels 3/4.

Because it’s so compact and efficient (measuring only 7 7/8″ W x 6.5″ D x 2 3/16″ H) it makes it possible to install it in many more places amps couldn’t fit in before.

The MRV-F300 uses Alpine’s proprietary design version of class D amplifier technology to produce a super-efficient design that runs amazingly cool and still produces great sound.

Installation flexibility is great, too. The features to know are:

• 50-400Hz high/low pass adjustable cutoff frequency
• 12dB/octave multi-stage crossover design
• Front and rear crossovers are independent
• Bass EQ boost feature for Ch. 3/4.

It’s a great sounding little amp and I’ve enjoyed testing & using it. I have to say that while some higher-priced competitors can out-power it and offer a bit more, for the price you pay it’s really hard to beat.

In my opinion, it’s a great compromise between price, power, sound quality, and system flexibility. If you’re looking for a 4-channel (or 2-channel, in bridged mode) amp that won’t break the bank, this is it.

Because it’s such a well-rounded overall great winner and performer, I’ve awarded it my Editor’s Choice best buy award.

Get started enjoying a great-sounding system today!

Be sure to check out the great buyer reviews and current low price at Amazon.

2. Pioneer GM-D8601 – A mono bass amp that’s low on cost but high on performance.

When it comes to some getting some serious power for your money No products found. is one of the best you’ll find.

Hands down the Watts-per-dollar value you’ll get is great!

If you’re wanting to upgrade your existing system or just add some low-end and great-sounding bass it’s got what you need. The Pioneer uses size and power-efficient class D design with great sound quality and bass impact.

Power ratings are some of the best in its price class:

• 300W RMS x 1 @ 4 ohms
• 500W RMS x 1 @ 2 ohms
• 800W RMS x 1 @ 1 ohm

Yes, it can drive 1 ohm subwoofer loads!

Top: The GM-D8601 features an adjustable low-pass crossover, gain, and includes RCA pass-through jacks for system expansion. The included bass remote simply plugs in and allows you great bass level control from your dashboard. Bottom: The 4 gauge-capable terminals provide reliable connections that are solid. You’ll also get 2 pairs of speaker terminals instead of only one.

Additionally the amp includes a wired remote control to allow adjusting the bass level as you drive. It’s a great feature I like and I’m sure you’ll find it just as handy, too.

There’s a 19-foot length remote cable included that makes setup simple as it just plugs in.

Got a factory system? Not a problem. The included RCA adapters also mean you can connect the amp to speaker-level inputs if needed, too.

At only 11″ W x 2-3/8″ H x 7-7/8″ D in size, it’s one of the most powerful amps at this size on the market. It’s simply too much of a great value for me to not awarded my Editor’s Choice badge.

It’s also one of the best-rated bass amps on the market today.

Don’t put off enjoying great bass any longer! Be sure to No products found.

3. Pioneer GM-D9705 5 channel class D amp – A great-sounding and affordable way to power a whole system.

Normally power an entire sound system in your ride is really costly! Few amps with front, rear, and a subwoofer channel are affordable except for the lower-end competitors.

However, the Pioneer GM-D9705 5-channel class D amp sets a new standard for affordable quality. It provides 4 channels of full-range (adjustable) sound and a dedicated mono subwoofer channel (low-pass only).

For near $200 you’ll get some fantastic power and sound:

• 75W RMS x 4 @ 4 Ohms + 350W RMS x 1 @ 4 Ohms
• 100W RMS x 4 @ 2 Ohms + 600W RMS x 1 @ 2 Ohms
• 200W RMS x 2 @ 4 Ohms bridged + 600W RMS x 1 @ 2 Ohms

…enough to run a high-end system all from one cool-running and efficient compact amp!

The GM-D9705 also includes a handy bass remote useful for adjusting the bass from up front. The included installation cable is nice and long at 19′ in length. It’s also really easy to install and use, as it simply clicks into connectors on both ends.

You’ll also get a really convenient way to adjust the dedicated high-power subwoofer channel – an adjustable bass remote is included.

Top: All channels have adjustable high or low-pass crossovers (except for the mono channel, which is low-pass only) with an adjustable cutoff of up to 500Hz. 12dB or 24dB adjustable crossover slopes can be selected, too. For added flexibility, you can use a dedicated subwoofer input signal or simply flick a switch to derive it from channels A and B (front and rear). Bottom: 4 gauge capable power terminals round out a great-looking and well-designed power hookup.

Additionally, speaker-level inputs are built-in as well for working with a factory stereo or factory amplified signal source.

4 gauge power terminals are ready for power-hungry demands when you’re really driving some serious volume. However, it’s so efficient you’ll rarely feel it heat up much.

Adjustable crossovers are useable for all channels and allow up to a 500Hz cutoff frequency (note that the subwoofer output is low-pass only). Selectable crossover slopes of 12dB or 24dB per octave are provided as well.

Don’t have a head unit with a dedicated subwoofer channel signal output? You’re covered there, too!

Just switch the sub channel’s selector to derive a bass channel signal from the main inputs. It’s that easy.

Not only this, but all this power and system driving ability fits into a package only 12-7/16″ W x 2-3/8″ H x 7-7/8″ D in size.

My thoughts? After getting my hands on the GM-D9705, I think it’s a winner!

It’s hard to beat the value and quality (and especially the power) in an amp that you can fit in more places.

Be sure to check it out! You can find No products found.

4. Alpine KTP-445U Ultra-compact – Great sound and power for those hard or special installations.

If you’ve got a vehicle that’s a tough installation challenge you simply want to avoid having the muss and fuss of a custom install, here’s the best choice. The KTP-445U universal ultra-compact amp is hands-down the best choice for your money.

It’s a fantastic installation option for both aftermarket or factory stereo head units for everything from car and trucks to boats or motorcycles.

Perfect for driving mids and highs with clean, high-efficiency power, it’s truly a stand-out marvel of modern Alpine design technology.

As seen in my detailed review of the KTP-445U here, it’s an example of some of the best engineering and sound quality you’ll get in a super-small package.

Measuring a tiny 7 7/16 x 1.5 x 2.5″ (189 x 38.2 x 64.5 mm), I’m almost in shock at how something so small can deliver so much. Despite the incredible size advantage you’ll get plenty of power.

The KTP-445U can deliver:

• 45W RMS x 4 @ 4 or 2 Ohms
• 90W RMS x 2 @ 2 Ohms

Despite that, it runs perfectly cool and draws nearly 1/2 as much electrical current as traditional amps. The modern class D design (with Alpine’s own proprietary touches) is one of the most efficient and best-sounding in its size and price class.

It’s so efficient that for many installations you can connect it directly to existing radio power wiring instead of installing a separate amp power wire!

Unlike other class D mini-amps you can drive 2 Ohm speakers as well.

One of the smallest car amps in the world today, the KTP-445U is in a league of its own. At only 7 7/16 x 1.5 x 2.5″ (189 x 38.2 x 64.5 mm) in size, it delivers impressive sound and power that you won’t get from most competitors. It’s so small it’s about the size of a laptop power converter, yet delivers enough power & flexibility to drive mids and highs for a whole system!

One feature I really like is that it’s “universal” and designed to be easy to install. Both RCA and speaker-level inputs are provided, making it a great match for factory systems too.

Don’t have front and rear RCA outputs on your head unit? No problem. Use the 2/4 channel input switch to take advantage of the built-in adapter and get 2 more channels immediately.

Alpine uses proprietary design and electronics technology to minimize noise levels and maximize sound quality that delivers a crisp, lively sound that’s good to the ear.

Despite being so small, I think it’s a great-sounding amplifier you’ll love and I really appreciate how much easier it makes installation.

At near $150 or so, it’s not the absolute cheapest out there, but for the sound quality, installation ease, flexibility, and enjoyment it’s great and definitely worth the money!

I highly recommend this one if you want an amp that can fit nearly anywhere.

Have a look to see why no other ultra-compact amp at Amazon can compare.

5. Boss Audio Riot R1100M – A great starter bass amp! One of the best-selling budget mono amps today.

When it comes to affordable power you’ve got lots of options to choose from. But why not choose one of the best-selling budget bass amps today?

The Boss Audio Riot R1100M is a class A/B amp monoblock single-channel subwoofer amp and a great way to get slamming bass on a budget.

While advertised at “1,100W max”, it’s the RMS power that counts. Lab-tested power output is:

• 129W RMS x 1 @ 4 ohms
• 212W RMS x 1 @ 2 ohms

…plenty for a good basic subwoofer system on the cheap.

At only 9.13″W x 10.44″L x 2.25″H in size it’s also a great fit for trucks, not just cars. Think of all the installation options a compact amp like this can make possible!

While you might be thinking it’s short on features for below $65, it’s not!

Check out what you’ll get:

• Wired remote bass level control with cable
• Soft turn-on (anti-thump)
• Speaker level inputs for factory stereos
• 3-way protection (thermal, overload, and speaker shorts)
• 102dB SNR (at rated power)
• Adjustable low-pass filter (35-160Hz cutoff)
• 0-18dB bass boost

The R1100M features great controls and speaker level inputs as well. You can select full-range or low-pass sound, adjust the gain, and add +18dB of bass boost to bring your subwoofers up to slamming bass levels. Plugin in the optional bass remote for an easy to adjust bass output while driving.

Unlike many competitors, it’s great for adding a subwoofer to factory stereos as it features direct speaker-level inputs.

Install the included bass remote control (which uses the included telephone cable, easy to hook up) and you can control bass output without hassle any time! Unlike many competing amps there’s no need to spend extra money on one.

One thing that’s especially interesting is that it’s one of the few monoblock amps today that can also be used for full-range sound. Just switch the crossover control to “full” and drive your favorite mono speakers with tremendous power.

As they’re so affordable, you can use 2 of the amps for incredible power if you need a stereo setup. Sound quality is quite nice, with great bass thumb and accurate, crisp sound production when used in full-range mode as well.

I don’t often recommend lower-priced amps – however, Boss has definitely proven that sometimes there are exceptions when it comes to power vs price. It’s a good one.

Is it “competition quality”? Of course not! But you’re getting an exceptionally great value that does what it’s supposed to and does it well.

You won’t get 1,100W watts of usable power. However, you’ll a lot for your money: good, basic bass that gets the job done until you’re ready to spend more.

Head over now to check out why it's one of best-selling amps you'll find at Amazon.