When it comes to upgrading your audio system, nothing transforms the listening experience quite like adding a subwoofer. Subwoofers bring out the deep, low-end frequencies that smaller speakers just can’t handle - whether it’s the thump of a bassline or the rumble of drums.
But not all subwoofers are built the same. You’ve probably seen two types: regular (full-depth) subwoofers and shallow subwoofers. At NOAM Audio, we designed our NSUB shallow subwoofer specifically for off-road riders who demand big bass without sacrificing space or durability.
Let’s break down the differences and why shallow is often the smarter choice for UTVs, ATVs, and boats.
Size & Space Requirements
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Regular Subwoofers:
Traditional subwoofers are bulky, often requiring large, deep enclosures. They work well in cars or trucks where there’s plenty of trunk or cabin space, but in a side-by-side or golf cart, space is a luxury you don’t have. -
Shallow Subwoofers:
A shallow sub is designed with a slimmer profile, allowing it to fit into tight spaces without compromising performance. The NSUB, for example, can be mounted under seats or in compact areas of your vehicle, so you get powerful bass without losing valuable legroom or storage.
Winner: Shallow (NSUB) – especially when every inch counts.
Weight & Efficiency
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Regular Subwoofers:
Heavier cones and larger magnets make traditional subs powerful but also add unnecessary weight to your ride. On an off-road vehicle, extra pounds can affect handling and efficiency. -
Shallow Subwoofers:
Built with lighter, low-profile components, shallow subs deliver efficient performance without weighing you down. The NSUB is engineered to give you the punch you need while keeping your vehicle agile.
Winner: Shallow (NSUB) – less bulk, more balance.
Sound Quality
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Regular Subwoofers:
Full-size subs can deliver slightly deeper bass in ideal conditions, but they need a perfectly tuned, large enclosure to shine. That makes them less practical for rugged, outdoor use. -
Shallow Subwoofers:
Modern shallow designs, like the NSUB, close the gap on sound quality. With innovative engineering, they produce tight, responsive bass that’s perfect for open-air environments. Instead of muddying your sound, the NSUB adds clarity and punch - exactly what you want when your music is competing with wind, engine, and trail noise.
Winner: Shallow (NSUB) – engineered for real-world listening, not just lab specs.
Durability & Off-Road Performance
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Regular Subwoofers:
Many are designed for indoor or in-car use, which doesn’t translate well to dust, mud, water, or vibration. -
Shallow Subwoofers:
The NSUB was designed from the ground up for powersports. It’s waterproof, dustproof, and built to handle the shock and vibration of rugged terrain. You don’t just get bass - you get bass that survives the ride.
Winner: Shallow (NSUB) – built tough for outdoor adventure.
Final Verdict: Go Shallow with the NSUB
For off-road riders, boaters, and anyone who needs great sound in a compact, rugged setup, shallow subwoofers are the clear winner. They save space, cut weight, and deliver bass that’s perfectly tuned for open environments.
The Noam NSUB takes all these advantages and pushes them further with powersports-grade durability, weatherproof construction, and smart engineering for maximum impact in minimal space.
So if you’re ready to feel the ride as much as you hear it, the choice is simple:
👉 Go shallow. Go NSUB.