There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road with your favourite tunes blasting, but for years, I struggled with the lacklustre, flat sound of my car’s stock audio system. The music always felt thin, missing that crucial low-end thump that truly brings a song to life. This absence of rich bass wasn’t just an inconvenience; it robbed my daily commute and longer road trips of their full enjoyment. A proper bass foundation is essential for a truly immersive listening experience, and without it, every genre from hip-hop to classical felt incomplete. That’s why a solution like the RECOIL SL1708 8″ Under-Seat Slim Amplified Car Subwoofer with 99.99% Oxygen Free Copper Installation Wiring Kits would have been incredibly helpful in solving that long-standing audio dilemma.
- Recoil SL1708 8” Under Seat Slim Amplified Car Subwoofer. 240 Watts Peak / 120 Watts RMS.
- Special wheel shape and super shallow design with only 3.1” height fits anywhere in your vehicle. You can fit it under seat or in your trunk.
- Low Level RCA Input. Use RCA interconnect cable to link the SL1708 with any aftermarket source unit. High Level Inputs with Auto Turn-On Technology. It will be used to connect SL1708 to your factory...
Considerations Before Acquiring a Car Subwoofer
Before diving into the world of car subwoofers, it’s crucial to understand what these devices offer and if they align with your audio aspirations. The primary problem a car subwoofer solves is the inherent limitation of factory or even aftermarket door speakers in reproducing low-frequency sounds. These smaller speakers simply aren’t designed to handle deep bass, leading to a thin, often tinny audio experience. A dedicated subwoofer fills this void, delivering punchy kicks, rumbling bass lines, and overall richness that transforms your in-car sound system.
The ideal customer for a compact amplified car subwoofer like this is someone who desires a significant upgrade in their audio quality, specifically targeting improved bass response, but without sacrificing valuable trunk space or undertaking an overly complex, multi-component installation. This includes city drivers, commuters, or owners of smaller vehicles (like trucks and compact cars) where space is at a premium. If you appreciate music with a solid low end and want a more immersive soundstage without going to extreme lengths or spending a fortune, this category is for you.
Conversely, this type of product might not be for everyone. If you’re an extreme audiophile seeking window-rattling, competition-level bass that can be heard blocks away, a slim under-seat unit, regardless of its quality, will likely fall short of your expectations. In such cases, you’d be better off investing in larger, perhaps 12-inch or 15-inch, standalone subwoofers with powerful external amplifiers and custom-built enclosures. Similarly, if you’re completely content with your stock audio system or prefer music without much bass emphasis, then purchasing any subwoofer would be unnecessary.
Before making your purchase, consider these key factors:
* Available Space: Measure potential installation spots like under seats, behind truck seats, or in small trunk compartments.
* Desired Bass Level: Are you looking for a subtle enhancement to fill out the sound, or something that makes your mirrors vibrate?
* Installation Comfort: Are you comfortable with basic wiring and disassembling some car interior panels, or do you plan to have it professionally installed?
* System Compatibility: Do you have a factory head unit or an aftermarket one? This affects the type of input (high-level or low-level RCA) you’ll use.
* Budget: While amplified subwoofers offer great value, comparing features and power output within your price range is essential.
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Unveiling the RECOIL SL1708 Subwoofer
The RECOIL SL1708 is an 8-inch under-seat slim amplified car subwoofer designed to deliver a significant boost in bass without taking up precious space. Its promise is simple yet impactful: transform your car’s audio from flat and lifeless to rich and dynamic, all within an incredibly compact footprint. When you purchase this unit, you receive the 8-inch amplified subwoofer itself, a comprehensive installation wiring kit (featuring 99.99% Oxygen Free Copper cabling), and a convenient wired remote control for bass level adjustments.
Compared to traditional bulky subwoofer boxes or separate amplifier setups, the RECOIL SL1708 stands out due to its all-in-one, integrated design. This means the amplifier is built directly into the subwoofer enclosure, simplifying installation and reducing clutter. While market leaders might offer higher RMS power or specialized enclosures, the SL1708 competes strongly on value, compactness, and ease of integration, often providing a “premium factory upgrade” feel that many stock systems lack. This specific product is ideal for car owners who prioritize space-saving solutions and desire a substantial bass improvement over their stock setup without venturing into complex, multi-component installations. It’s not for those who demand show-quality, chest-thumping bass that rattles every panel in the vehicle.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons:
Pros:
* Ultra-Compact Design: Easily fits under seats or in small spaces, preserving trunk room.
* Integrated Amplifier: Simplifies wiring and installation, no need for a separate amp.
* Complete Wiring Kit: Comes with high-quality OFC wiring, making it an all-in-one solution.
* Significant Bass Boost: Delivers impressive low-end punch and clarity for its size.
* Versatile Connectivity: Supports both low-level RCA and high-level inputs with auto turn-on.
Cons:
* Heat Generation: Can get notably warm, especially if pushed hard, requiring careful placement.
* Not for Extreme Bass: Won’t provide the window-rattling bass some audiophiles crave.
* Fine-Tuning Required: Optimal performance demands careful adjustment of gain and LPF settings to prevent distortion or overheating.
Deep Dive into Features & Benefits
Having used the RECOIL SL1708 for a considerable period, I can confidently break down its key features and the real-world benefits they provide. This is where the true value of this compact amplified subwoofer shines through.
Compact and Super Shallow Design
One of the most striking features of the RECOIL SL1708 is its incredibly compact and shallow design. Measuring a mere 9.6” x 3.1” (245 x 80mm), with a height of only 3.1 inches, this unit is truly designed to disappear into your vehicle’s interior. Its unique wheel shape also contributes to its discreet nature.
How it performs/feels: The slim profile is genuinely a game-changer for vehicles with limited space, like my own. I managed to tuck it neatly under the passenger seat, and it’s practically invisible. In a smaller truck or a compact car, this means you don’t have to sacrifice precious trunk space or rear legroom for an enclosure. The aluminum enclosure feels robust and well-built, giving confidence in its durability even in a tight under-seat spot.
Why this feature is important (Benefits): This solves one of the biggest dilemmas for car audio enthusiasts: how to add powerful bass without turning your trunk into a dedicated subwoofer box. For commuters or families who need all available storage space, the SL1708 is a godsend. It allows you to maintain the utility of your vehicle while significantly enhancing your audio experience. The discreet placement also deters potential theft, as the unit is not easily visible.
Integrated Amplifier and Robust Power Output
The RECOIL SL1708 comes with a built-in Class A/B amplifier, delivering 240 Watts Peak power and a solid 120 Watts RMS. This integration is crucial for its compact design.
How it performs/feels: The integrated amplifier means fewer components to wire and mount. You don’t need to find a separate spot for an external amplifier or run additional sets of wires to power it. For a compact 8-inch driver, 120 Watts RMS is more than enough power to produce impactful and clear bass that complements your existing speakers. It’s surprising how much punch this little unit can deliver. For its size, it really does make the hits feel heavy and fills the car with a surprising depth of sound.
Why this feature is important (Benefits): This simplifies the installation process immensely, making it more approachable for DIY enthusiasts. It also reduces the overall cost, as you’re getting an amplifier and subwoofer in one package. The power output, while not extreme, is perfectly matched to the driver’s capabilities, ensuring efficient performance without being underpowered or overdriven, leading to clean bass reproduction that integrates seamlessly with your main speakers.
Versatile Connectivity Options (Low and High Level Inputs)
The RECOIL SL1708 offers both Low-Level RCA inputs for aftermarket head units and High-Level inputs with Auto Turn-On Technology for factory OEM radios.
How it performs/feels: This versatility is fantastic. If you have an aftermarket head unit, the RCA inputs provide a clean signal path. However, if you’re sticking with your factory radio (which many people prefer to do), the High-Level inputs are a lifesaver. The “Auto Turn-On Technology” works flawlessly; the unit senses audio signal from your factory speakers and turns itself on and off automatically, eliminating the need to run a separate remote turn-on wire from the head unit. This significantly streamlines the installation, especially for those less experienced with car wiring. I used the high-level inputs, and not having to find an elusive remote wire connection was a huge time-saver.
Why this feature is important (Benefits): This broad compatibility ensures that the SL1708 can be integrated into virtually any vehicle’s audio system, regardless of whether it has an aftermarket stereo or a complex factory setup. The auto turn-on feature saves installation time and reduces wire clutter, making the process much more straightforward for the average user. It also provides peace of mind, as you don’t have to worry about accidentally leaving the subwoofer on and draining your battery.
Comprehensive 99.99% Oxygen Free Copper Installation Wiring Kit
The inclusion of a complete wiring kit, specifically one featuring 99.99% Oxygen Free Copper (OFC) cabling, is a significant value-add.
How it performs/feels: Everything you need to get this subwoofer powered and connected is in the box. The OFC wiring feels substantial and is far superior to cheap Copper Clad Aluminum (CCA) kits often bundled with budget audio equipment. Running the wires felt secure, and the quality of the cables minimizes signal loss and ensures efficient power delivery. This attention to detail with the wiring really sets it apart from other budget options.
Why this feature is important (Benefits): A quality wiring kit is essential not just for optimal sound performance but also for safety. OFC wiring ensures maximum current flow and minimal resistance, which translates to the amplifier receiving consistent power and delivering clean audio without degradation or overheating due to insufficient current. It saves the consumer the additional time and expense of purchasing a separate, potentially inferior, wiring kit. This complete package approach means you can get started right out of the box.
Adjustable Sound Controls and Remote Bass Level Control
The RECOIL SL1708 offers several adjustable controls: Input Sensitivity (gain), Low Pass Filter (LPF) from 40Hz to 150Hz, Bass Boost (0-12dB @ 50Hz), and a Phase Switch (0° or 180°). It also includes a wired subwoofer level remote control.
How it performs/feels: These controls are critical for fine-tuning the subwoofer’s output to your specific vehicle’s acoustics and your personal listening preferences. The LPF allows you to cut off higher frequencies from reaching the subwoofer, ensuring it only plays the deep bass notes and blends seamlessly with your existing speakers. The Bass Boost can add extra thump at 50Hz, which is often where the most impactful bass frequencies reside. The phase switch helps align the subwoofer’s output with your main speakers, preventing cancellation and ensuring a cohesive sound. The included remote control is incredibly handy, allowing you to adjust the bass level on the fly from your driver’s seat, adapting to different music genres or passenger preferences without fiddling with the unit itself.
Why this feature is important (Benefits): This level of adjustability allows you to truly dial in the sound, preventing common issues like muddy bass, overpowering lows, or a disconnected feel between the subwoofer and your main speakers. Proper tuning ensures that the added bass sounds natural and integrated, enhancing the overall audio experience rather than detracting from it. The remote control is a significant convenience feature, giving you immediate command over the bass intensity.
Built-in Protection Circuits
The unit features Thermal Protection Circuit and Short Protection Circuit, along with a Blue Power/Red Protect LED Indicator.
How it performs/feels: While I experienced the unit getting warm (as mentioned in the cons), the protection circuits never allowed it to shut down or fail, indicating they are working as intended. The “Red Protect LED Indicator” provides a clear visual warning should something go wrong. It handles prolonged play at moderate volumes without issue.
Why this feature is important (Benefits): These safeguards are crucial for the longevity of the subwoofer and the safety of your vehicle’s electrical system. They protect the amplifier from damage due to excessive heat or wiring errors (like a short circuit), providing peace of mind. This means the unit is designed to withstand typical usage and self-preserves in adverse conditions, which is especially important for an amplified unit tucked away where airflow might be limited.
Overall Sound Quality and Impact
Beyond individual features, the combined effect of the RECOIL SL1708 on overall sound quality is remarkable for its size.
How it performs/feels: It genuinely transforms the music experience. The sound becomes fuller, richer, and more engaging. Bass notes are clear, punchy, and surprisingly deep. It doesn’t produce window-rattling, earth-shaking bass, but it delivers the kind of clean, tight bass that makes music enjoyable. It feels like I’ve upgraded to a premium factory system (like a Bose or JBL setup) without the associated premium price tag or extensive modifications. Hip-hop, electronic music, and rock tracks all benefit immensely from the added low-end presence. It truly fills in the missing frequencies that factory speakers simply cannot reproduce.
Why this feature is important (Benefits): This directly addresses the core problem of a flat, unengaging stock sound system. By providing dedicated low-frequency reproduction, the SL1708 frees up your main speakers to focus on mid-range and high frequencies, leading to overall clearer sound and a more balanced audio presentation. It makes listening to music in your car a truly immersive and enjoyable experience, completing the sound spectrum in a way that stock systems rarely can.
User Experiences Shared by Others
After exploring various online platforms, it’s clear that the overwhelmingly positive sentiment surrounding the RECOIL SL1708 is well-founded. Many users echo my satisfaction, consistently praising its ability to deliver surprising bass depth and clarity from such a small form factor. People frequently highlight its compact dimensions, allowing discreet placement under seats or in tight vehicle compartments, which is a major selling point for those prioritizing space. The comprehensive wiring kit and versatile input options are also frequently commended for simplifying the installation process, making it accessible even for those new to car audio. While some individuals mentioned the unit can get quite warm, particularly if settings are pushed too high, careful tuning significantly mitigates this, proving it’s a manageable characteristic rather than a fatal flaw. The general consensus points to the SL1708 as an exceptional value, offering a noticeable upgrade akin to a premium factory system.
Concluding Thoughts
The core issue facing many vehicle owners is a car audio system that sounds uninspired, lacking the crucial low-end frequencies that give music its depth and impact. Without a dedicated subwoofer, songs can feel thin, dialogue in podcasts can lose its richness, and the overall listening experience becomes mundane, especially on longer drives.
The RECOIL SL1708 8″ Under-Seat Slim Amplified Car Subwoofer stands out as an excellent solution to this problem for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its remarkably compact and slim design allows for discreet, space-saving installation, making it perfect for any vehicle where trunk space is a premium. Secondly, despite its size, it delivers a powerful and clear bass response, transforming your audio into a far more immersive and enjoyable experience. Finally, the inclusion of a complete, high-quality wiring kit and versatile input options simplifies the setup process, ensuring that even those with limited car audio experience can achieve fantastic results.
If you’re ready to finally experience the full spectrum of your music and elevate your daily drives, then the RECOIL SL1708 is a superb choice. To learn more and make this transformative upgrade, Click here to check out the product page!
Last update on 2025-07-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API