Best Batteries for Car Audio: Top Picks to Power Your System
These top car batteries ensure that you never run out of power even with the music blasting
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BY Saeed Wazir / LAST UPDATED ON May 27, 2021
Preinstalled car batteries are designed to power the basic functions of your car and a few accessories. High-end sound systems need extra power to run efficiently without causing harm to the vehicle. A dedicated car audio battery will improve sound clarity and make sure you never run out of juice. This buying guide includes some of the top car audio battery options available.
This XS Power battery provides a high level of power that’s long-lasting. It has a sturdy design and is sealed and spill-proof.
- This battery is versatile and can be mounted in multiple positions.
- It also has low internal resistance and can work in cold weather conditions.
- The price can be expensive compared to many competitors, and at 48 pounds it is very heavy.
The Mighty Max Viper can be used to power a 600W sound system, but will also work as a starting battery in racing applications or amplifier reinforcement.
- This battery is super affordable
- Utilizes sealed AGM technology that is long-lasting and maintenance-free.
- It's not a very high-capacity battery, and two may be required for more powerful sound systems.
This battery has a reserve capacity of 120 minutes and can last approximately 300-plus discharge/charge cycles.
- The Optima battery works well in all weather conditions and is known for its high level of vibration resistance.
- This battery may fail after a couple of years of heavy use.
- It is also highly specialized and may be incompatible with some audio systems.
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Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.
If you’re looking for great overall performance, durability, and reliability, look no further than the .XS Power D3400 XS Series. This company has been making batteries that can perform reliably and durably in some of the toughest of driving conditions, including the NASCAR racing industry.
The company relies on its own in-house testing lab to ensure that this 12-volt, absorbed glass mat (AGM) battery has been rigorously tested by their accredited professionals to provide long-lasting, trusted performance. This battery is valve-regulated, vibration-resistant, sealed, and spill-proof for added safety. It features ultra low internal resistance and can be easily mounted in almost any position.
This battery is super pricey, unfortunately, but it also comes in a light 12-pound/12-volt version as well as a 30-pound/16-volt model for the ultimate in performance and power.
The Mighty Max Battery Viper VP-600 600 Watt Car Audio Battery is a 12-volt battery designed for a 600W audio system. You can use it as an amplifier reinforcement or a starting battery in racing applications because it weighs just under 12 pounds. It includes advanced sealed AGM technology and is maintenance-free.
You can mount this battery in a variety of positions, as it's designed not to leak or spill. It can tolerate vibrations and higher temperatures. Users report that this battery keeps the lights from dimming and voltage from dropping. It's a great option if you need a little more power than your starting battery provides. Overall, it performs well and is worth the investment.
There are not many complaints about this battery. However, it won't last as long if it's regularly undercharged.
The Optima Batteries 8014-045 D34/78 Dual Purpose Battery definitely deserves a spot on this list. This is a solid 12-volt, 750-amp, deep-cycling battery that weighs a whopping 43.5 pounds. It features a reserve capacity of 120 minutes to ensure constant performance. It also promises optimal and reliable starting power, even in harsh weather conditions.
It has the capability to power a lot of extra accessories for your vehicle, such as high-performance audio systems, running lights, winches, and hydraulics. It has a unique SpiralCell design that will provide a clean, strong power to your vehicle while ensuring safety for you, your car, and the environment. Thanks to its low discharge rate, this battery is ideal for seasonal use, allowing you to store your vehicle for months without having to worry about starting the season with a dead battery.
It’s maintenance-free, spill-proof, vibration resistant, and mountable in almost any orientation. It is, however, a highly specialized option, so it may not be compatible with certain audio systems. It also has a shorter lifespan than some other options.
The XS Power XP750 Special Edition 600W Battery is a 12-volt, deep cycle AGM battery designed for audio systems with 600-750 watts RMS (1,500 peak watts). It features a leak-proof design. The battery is 100 percent sealed and maintenance free with no external vents, so you can mount it in a variety of positions. It stores energy, so you won't need a capacitor, and it resists vibrations.
The battery weighs 14.5 pounds, and M6 terminal hardware is included. It measures 4.35 x 9.65 x 9.85 inches and is intended for use as an auxiliary battery in automotive and marine applications. Users report that it packs plenty of power, lights don't dim when it's in use, and it can solve minor voltage fluctuations/drops you may experience with just one battery in your vehicle.
However, this battery is not designed to be used under the hood or in extremely hot conditions. It also only accommodates a maximum system wattage of 1000 watts.
When you need plenty of power and uncompromising quality, the Kinetik HC1800 1900A High Current Power Cell Car Audio Battery is a great choice. This heavy-duty 12-volt battery can power almost any sound system around with a whopping 1,800 watts of juice. Advanced AGM technology gives this battery a long lifespan.
Because it’s AGM, this battery can be mounted in any position in your vehicle. It also boasts superior vibration- and heat-resistance, so it can fit in tighter spots that other batteries might not be able to. Ultra low ESR means less power loss, less internal heating issues, and higher overall performance.
With power capacity this big comes added weight. This battery weighs in at 55 pounds, making it one of the heaviest on our list. Be sure that where you decide to mount it will be strong enough to support it properly.
Tips
- It’s best to choose a maintenance-free battery to make your life easier. They are normally sealed and don’t require the user to add any liquid for it to work properly.
- Always ensure that your battery has enough reserve capacity to run for at least a couple of hours. This is particularly important if you intend to use your car audio without the engine running.
- Redtop batteries work well with most vehicles that don’t have high electrical loads. Yellowtop batteries are better for cars with many electrical features, including amplifiers and speakers.
- Since batteries are heavy, having a handle or loop can make it much easier to lift and install.
FAQs
Q: Why does car audio need a dedicated battery?
A: Regular batteries are designed to start the engine and other basic functions. Advanced car audio systems draw significantly more power and require a battery that will allow for the best quality sound without harming a vehicle’s electrical components.
Q: Why should the battery be vibration resistant?
A: Sophisticated car sound systems normally have a strong bass that can cause the car to vibrate. Constant vibrations can cause damage to regular batteries that aren’t built to take it
Q: Do car audio batteries have a warranty?
A: The lifespan of a car battery can vary according to the quality, or even how it has been used. Good quality batteries have a warranty of around three years to safeguard the buyer from any defects.
Final Thoughts
Our pick for the best battery for car audio is the XS Power D3400 XS Series. It provides a high level of power and is long-lasting.
For a more budget-friendly option, try theKinetik HC800.