Taking into account that Rockford Fosgate P3 12 is a powerful subwoofer, you will have to use a powerful amplifier able to provide more than 600 watts to the Rockford Fosgate P3 12 so as to get a lot of bass from it. In addition, adding an amplifier to the Rockford Fosgate, p3 12, will help prevent the subwoofer from overdriving, preventing it from being damaged.

When the Rockford Fosgate P3 12 subwoofer is powered by an amplifier, you will experience an improved sound quality because the P3 12 will receive a consistent signal, producing smoother, richer bass while riding.

Our amplifiers for Rockford Fosgate P3 12 are all within a $200 to $400 price range, and all are worth in this range, so you don’t have to worry about your budget. Those of you who are not audio experts and don’t know how to buy an amp for the Rockford Fosgate P3 12, take a look at our buying guide, which tells you what you need to know before you buy an amp and which are the best amplifier models we have properly tested in a lab for the Rockford Fosgate P3 12.

Top Recommendations

Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1 Amplifier Prime Series Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1 Amplifier Read More See On Amazon
Boss AR3000D Amplifier Famous Choice Boss AR3000D Amplifier Read More See On Amazon
Skar Audio RP-350.1D Amplifier Best Value For Rockford Fosgate Subwoofer Skar Audio RP-350.1D Amplifier Read More See On Amazon
NVX VAD10001 Amplifier Best Marine Certified Amp NVX VAD10001 Amplifier Read More See On Amazon
Rockford Fosgate R500X1D Amp Best Budget Amp Rockford Fosgate R500X1D Amp Read More See On Amazon
Hifonics BG-1900.1D Brutus Gamma Amp Best Super D-Class Amp Hifonics BG-1900.1D Brutus Gamma Amp Read More See On Amazon

Lets Go!

Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1 Amplifier (Image credit: Amazon)

Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1 Amplifier

Prime Series

The first amplifier I tested in the lab was the Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1 which is a powerful and stylish audio amplifier that you can get under the $200 range. The  Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1 comes in a sleek black design, adorned with the iconic Rockford Fosgate logo on the front, enhancing its appeal, and on the front of the amplifier, it features several indicators, including a Power/Protect indicator, as well as C.L.E.A.N. out and C.L.E.A.N. in indicators which assuring optimal gain settings for the amplifier and monitoring its performance.

The body of the R2-250X1 amplifier is designed with various inputs and outputs to adapt to various audio setups, and these include high-level inputs, R.L.C. inputs, and a sub-pass-through for both left and right channels.

On the front of the R2-250X1 amplifier, a number of controls are available for fine-tuning your audio experience, which includes include an auto remote turn-on feature, Punch Eq with adjustable levels, a frequency Hz knob (ranging from 50 Hz to 250 Hz), an infra-sonic control (ranging from 50 Hz to 40 Hz), and gain control (ranging from 1 to 11) so bass tuning and sound output can be adjusted precisely using these controls.

The Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1 utilizes class D technology for offering a full spectrum of power, and Rockford Fosgate has engineered this R2-250X1 amp to work well with any vehicle’s electrical system. You will find Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1 particularly suited for powering the rockford fosgate p3 12 subwoofer, which makes it an ideal choice for bass enthusiasts.

A noteworthy feature of the R2-250X1 is its variable infrasonic filter which enables customizable low-frequency response and specifies your preferences. You will find the R2-250X1 design for remote level control, so by avoiding direct access to the amplifier, convenient adjustments can be made using this feature. With basic tools, the R2-250X1 amplifier can be easily installed, and to prevent vibration, you have to mount it at a secure location in your car.

The Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1 amplifier incorporates its own crossover, eliminating the need for a separate crossover unit, and it features a 12dB/octave Butterworth crossover slope and a crossover frequency range of 50 Hz to 250 Hz. The Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1 also includes an L.P. infrasonic filter that allows precise control of lower frequency ranges between 15 Hz and 50 Hz.

As protection is the first priority so Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1 ensures reliable operation and protection as there is cast aluminum heatsink is installed by the company for efficient heat dissipation, and there is also short circuit protection mechanism providing protection for the amplifier and connected components. So the Rockford Fosgate P3 12 will easily be powered by a Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1 amp, and as this one is a budget-friendly amplifier so you can get it quickly.

Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1 RMS Rating

  • 150 Watts x 1 @ 4Ω
  • 250 Watts x 1 @ 2Ω

Boss AR3000D Amplifier (Image credit: Amazon)

Boss AR3000D Amplifier

Famous Choice

After the Rockford Fosgate R500X1D, I tested the Boss AR3000D amp with Rockford Fosgate p3 12, and I found this amp to be a remarkable piece. Under again $200, this Boss AR3000D amp falls in the budget range category as other amps like R500X1D, RP-350.1D, and  BG-1900.1D amp models are coming.

On the front of the Boss AR3000D, the company has proudly displayed the iconic Boss audio system logo, which looks good technically; the AR3000D also has a Class D car amplifier that is capable of a maximum power output of 3000 watts and features a MOSFET power supply powers P3 subwoofer stability.

You will find low-level inputs, RCA preamp outputs, and a variable low pass crossover on the Boss AR3000D amp, which helps you to get designed audio settings for better bass tuning; there are variable bass boosts and a variable subsonic filter available.

The Boss AR3000D also gives you a remote subwoofer control function; while being controlling the amp through the driving seat, you will find yourself secure as the AR3000D features an automatic shut-off mechanism, so enjoy long rides. With Boss AR3000D switchable input sensitivity, various audio sources can optimioze amplification performance. The Boss AR3000D does not give you a built-in crossover, so purchase external crossovers if you want it.

Boss AR3000D Amplifier RMS Rating

  • 2250 W X 1 RMS @ 1 ohm
  • 1125 W X 1 RMS @ 2 ohm
  • 563 W X 1 RMS @ 4 ohm
  • 4500 W X 1 RMS @ 2 ohm (Strapped Bridged Power)

Skar Audio RP-350.1D Amplifier (Image credit: Amazon)

Skar Audio RP-350.1D Amplifier

Best Value For Rockford Fosgate Subwoofer

After Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1, here is Skar Audio RP-350.1D Amplifier, which is also featuring high-quality monoblock Class D MOSFET technology and efficient performance. Under the $200 range, the Skar Audio RP-350.1D can be easily purchasable and has a shiny black exterior which makes your car look sophisticated but amp bit on the larger side, so always ensure availability of enough space in your car before mounting Skar Audio RP-350.

The RP-350.1D belongs to Skar Audio’s RP series amplifiers and is specifically designed to be 1-ohm stable and matches with rockford fosgate p3 12 spec. You will find a high-speed MOSFET power supply built into the RP-350.1D as well as premium internal components, and its advanced PCB board layout will efficiently prevent electrical problems. 

The Skar Audio RP-350.1D can reach a maximum power output of 388 watts and features  8-gauge power and ground terminals maintaining maximum current flow. The  Skar Audio RP-350.1D comes with an excellent built-in user control panel on which you can make lots of adjustments you will find to fine-tune audio coming from rockford fosgate p3 12 like bass EQ switch with settings of 0, +6, and +12dB, variable gain level adjustment enables and low-pass filter and subsonic filter to Optimize your subwoofer setup.

As compared with Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1, you will also find remote subwoofer level control on Skar Audio RP-350.1D to make adjustments to the subwoofer’s volume from the driver’s seat. Overall, despite its power, the RP-350.1D has a normal size and a small footprint. So overall, the Skar Audio RP-350.1D is the Best amp for rockford fosgate p3 12 subs at an affordable price.

NVX VAD10001 Amplifier (Image credit: Amazon)

NVX VAD10001 Amplifier

Best Marine Certified Amp

After the Boss AR3000D amp, I will review NVX VAD10001 amplifiers which have unique features and are certified by marine certification standards, so without worries, use NVX VAD10001 for any marine applications as it incorporates a marine-grade circuit board.

You will find NVX VAD10001 equipped with a variable bass boost, and with its range of 0 to +12 dB at 45 Hz, you can enhance the bass impact. The NVX VAD10001 will better protect your audio system as it utilizes 3-way protection circuitry, so these enhanced features will safeguard against thermal overload, overvoltage, and speaker short circuits so you are always protected.

The NVX VAD10001 amp features a heavy-duty aluminum alloy heat sink for effective heat dissipation, so while prolonged use, the NVX VAD10001 amplifier remains cool. The NVX VAD10001 offers 12 AWG speaker outputs and 4 AWG power inputs for robust power connection, and similar to other listed amplifiers, you will find a bunch of functions like bass input, filter, input controls, and  RCA inputs and outputs that facilitate for easily integrated audio components.

One more great thing is that with the NVX VAD10001 amplifier, you will get a bass knob which is included so the bass output can be adjusted without accessing the amplifier directly. One more thing to note is that the NVX VAD10001 Amplifier is not limited to marine applications alone also you will find it compatible with cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, UTVs/ATVs, and various other vehicles, and also it is the best amp for rockford fosgate p3 12.

NVX VAD10001 RMS Rating

  • 4 ohms: 420W x 1 channel
  • 2 ohms: 760W x 1 channel
  • 2 ohms: 760W x 1 channel

Rockford Fosgate R500X1D Amp (Image credit: Amazon)

Rockford Fosgate R500X1D Amp

Best Budget Amp

After Hifonics BG-1900.1D, here is  Rockford Fosgate R500X1D, which is a reliable and powerful mono subwoofer amplifier. The R500X1D by Rockford Fosgate is designed with a heavy-cast aluminum chassis which increases its durability and dissipates heat efficiently for prolonged use.

As its sibling Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1 in  R500X1D, you will find many similar features like utilization of Class-D amplifier technology, but in FQ, both are different as R500X1D has a frequency response of 20 Hz to 250 Hz for accurate and dynamic bass reproduction.

This Rockford Fosgate R500X1D amplifier is capable of driving the subwoofer with up to 500 watts RMS, and there is also a remote turn-on terminal that enables you to control the amplifier conveniently from a remote location so as result installation gets more convenient.

You will find nickel-plated speaker terminals featured by Rockford Fosgate R500X1D, which you can use to make reliable connections so there will be less signal loss and optimal signal transfer; on the other hand, there are RCA input jacks available so you can use them for connecting it to various sources. For performance optimization for bass, you will find a low-pass filter option in R500X1D, and also, there is a phase switch available.

For added convenience, the amplifier offers speaker-level inputs, allowing you to connect it directly to the speaker outputs of your car stereo system. This eliminates the need for a separate line-level converter, simplifying the installation process. This Rockford Fosgate R500X1D operates within safe parameters due to its Built-in sensors for power supply temperatures and current output, and more, there is a wired remote Punch Level Control for convenience.

When you connect and power the Rockford Fosgate p3 12 subs with Rockford Fosgate R500X1D then in results your sub will give you distortion-free audio reproduction as this amplifier has a THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) rating of 1% at the rated RMS power and has a signal-to-noise ratio of 80 dB ensures a high-quality and low-noise audio signal.

If, in some situation, the amplifier overheats or causes short circuits, then the R500X1D amp will auto-turn off, and LED power/protect indicator will turn red (Red light sign for a short circuit), and the LED light indicator will turn blue color when you normally turn on the amp so keep in mind these color signs indications of R500X1D.

Rockford Fosgate R500X1D RMS Rating

  • 300 watts RMS x 1 at 4 ohms
  • 500 watts RMS x 1 at 2 ohms

Hifonics BG-1900.1D Brutus Gamma Amp (Image credit: Amazon)

Hifonics BG-1900.1D Brutus Gamma Amp

Best Super D-Class Amp

Now after Skar Audio RP-350.1D, here is Hifonics BG-1900.1D, which is also an efficient amplifier in the range under $200. The Hifonics BG-1900.1D features a stylish combination of blue and silver that matches most vehicles' interiors and is equipped with Super Class D technology, so as a result, maximum efficiency and power delivery are achieved ( powerful audio with minimal distortion).

In Hifonics BG-1900.1D amp, there is an efficient cooling system you will find to prevent overheating, so while long drives during extended listening sessions, optimal performance is possible. The Hifonics BG-1900.1D comes with the amplifier’s frequency response ranging from 10 Hz to 500 Hz, so it ensures accurate reproduction of bass frequencies.

You will find a control panel on the Hifonics BG-1900.1D body which contains high/low-level inputs and LPF (Low Pass Filter), so use them to get well-rounded sound output. To eliminate low-frequency noise (Inaudible to humans), the Hifonics BG-1900.1D comes with a subsonic filter for giving you cleaner and more precise bass reproduction, and for phase alignment adjustment, there is a phase control available on the amplifier so you can do phase alignment between P3 subwoofer and RP-350.1D amp to get accurate sound imaging and coherence.

The Hifonics BG-1900.1D comes with bass EQ on the control panel, so by using it, you can make Bass response adjustments as you like and additionally, as compared to Skar Audio RP-350.1D, the Hifonics BG-1900.1D also features a remote control for comfort controlling the amp.  The Hifonics BG-1900.1D also doesn’t give built-in crossover features, so you have to purchase a separate one. So overall, you can connect Rockford Fosgate p3 12 with Hifonics BG-1900.1D Amplifier without worries.

Hifonics BG-1900.1D Rating

  • 1,900 watts max
  • 950 watts x 1 at 2 ohms
  • 475 watts x 1 at 4 ohms

How We Tested

A great deal of effort was put into testing each amplifier separately in the lab with the Rockford Fosgate P3 12, and it took a week to select all our amps for Rockford Fosgate P3 12. In order to test the subwoofer, the necessary equipment, including a multimeter, power supply, and speakers, was used. As part of the test, we used a multimeter to read the voltage reading and an oscilloscope to check the sine wave signal after connecting it to the amplifier’s output terminals.

Next, we increased/decreased the voltage to the battery to monitor whether the amplifier was overheating, and then connected the Rockford Fosgate P3 12 to one amplifier and turned it on. Thus, our listed amplifier won’t disappoint you and will provide you with a top music experience for your rockford fosgate p3 12 subwoofer.

Buying Guide

Following our buying guide below will help you choose the right amplifier for your Rockford Fosgate p3 12:

Power

Since the Rockford Fosgate P3 12 can take 600 watts of power, always choose an amplifier that can supply 600 watts of power to the subwoofer so that this subwoofer will have its full potential.

Impedance

As the Rockford Fosgate p3 12 has dual 2-ohm voice coils, you should purchase an amplifier with matching impedance, as you will need a 1-ohm load for subwoofer wiring in parallel and a 4-ohm load for wiring in series.

Some Features

You must always check which features are included in each amplifier in order to get high-quality sound, which may include bass boost, crossover, time alignment, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), THD+N).

Budget

Getting an amplifier to work with Rockford Fosgate P3 12 requires considering your budget, as some amplifier models can be found in the $200 to $400 range, so if you want to get an amplifier like Boss AR3000D for your Rockford Fosgate P3, you need at least $200 in your budget.

In A Nutshell

In our list, we have listed all the best amplifiers for the Rockford Fosgate P3 12, and they will provide you with high amplifier performance, so you will get the sound quality that you desire. Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1 is the first option if your budget is under $200. It is easy to install, gives an amazing performance, and also offers crossover features, so you do not have to buy separate units.

A second amplifier that falls under the $200 range is the Skar Audio RP-350.1D, which features an easy installation and good performance but is a bit larger in size and does not feature a built-in crossover. Another budget amplifier in the $200 range is the Hifonics BG-1900.1D. It has a 1 ohm stable and powerful amplifier, but it is bigger in size and also doesn’t have a built-in crossover, and the Boss AR3000D and NVX VAD10001 are also affordable amplifiers, but the NVX VAD10001 is a marine grade amplifiers at this price point, which is a plus. As the only amplifier under $300 on our list, Rockford Fosgate R500X1D is capable of long-term play and can be easily connected to your Rockford Fosgate P312.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Choose a Subwoofer Enclosure For Rockford Fosgate P3 12 Subwoofer?

An excellent subwoofer enclosure starts with the right size. There are pre-made enclosures available on the market that will fit your Rockford Fosgate P3 12, and you can also choose a custom-made enclosure if you prefer. It is important to consider the material with which the Subwoofer enclosure is constructed. It must be made from a sturdy material such as MDF that can easily withstand vibrations. Ensure that the subwoofer enclosure you are considering has a port option, as a port helps improve the sound quality of subwoofers such as the Rockford Fosgate P312.

How to connect Rockford Fosgate P3 12 with amplifier?

To install any amplifier with Rockford Fosgate P3 12, you have to follow the steps below:

What you Need: It is a good idea to gather all the tools and materials you need, which include:

  • Amplifier
  • Rockford Fosgate p3 12 subwoofer
  • Speaker wire
  • Wiring kit
  • Multimeter
  • Socket wrench

Note:

  • For your security, the first step is disconnecting the battery negative terminal so that a result safe installation process will be done without any accidental shorts.
  • The location you are going to mount the amplifier does not contain moisture or heat.

Steps To Follow:

  • Secure the amplifier to a secure surface.
  • Battery-wire the amplifier by using a wiring kit.
  • Now Wire the amplifier to the rockford fosgate p3 12 subwoofer.
  • Connect the amplifier to the head unit (Use RCA cable)
  • Check amp is working accurately.

Do RMS power and peak power both equal?

The answer is NO! Peak power is different from RMS power. Amp continuously supplies RMS power without deteriorating where In short-term mode, peak power refers to how much power an amplifier can produce at a given time, and Peak Power output measurements are not always accurate.

What Are the Best Models Of Amplifiers For Rockford Fosgate P3 12 Sub?

It is recommended that you use Rockford Fosgate R2-250X1, Skar Audio RP-350.1D, Rockford Fosgate R500X1D, Hifonics BG-1900.1D, Boss AR3000D, and NVX VAD10001 amplifiers with the Rockford Fosgate P3 12 subwoofer. In addition to giving you great power with these top models, they will also be affordable for you to buy.

William
William is technical editor of Wooster Audio, an audio enthusiast passionate about cutting-edge technologies. He has been working with us for three years, meticulously reviewing and evaluating wireless (speakers & soundbars), hi-fi, and home cinema equipment, and has covered 1000+ audio products. His background is based in Audio engineering and he has an ardent passion for building home theater systems and audio systems and loves audio mixing, editing and sound designing. This allows William to share this knowledge on Wooster audio site. He provides the most comprehensive audio information available by tapping into his expertise and keen insights. He can guide you to audio excellence on Wooster Audio with his discerning ear and commitment to quality. Contact William for any question (william@woosteraudio.com)