Taramps Big Boss 3 Bass Amp Review: Power & RGB Verdict
One Amazon buyer put it bluntly: “This thing hits harder than anything I’ve run at 3k watts.” As an instant crowd-pleaser for bass enthusiasts, the Taramps The Big Boss 3 Bass Amplifier Monoblock earns a solid 8.5/10 — praised for raw low-frequency power and flashy RGB effects, but tempered by high electrical demands.
Quick Verdict: Conditional — buy if you have a robust electrical system and value aesthetics.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Powerful 3000W RMS across 0.5–2 ohms | Requires heavy-duty wiring & electrical upgrade |
| Multi-impedance versatility | Limited full-range capability |
| RGB LED effects enhance visuals | Potential overheating in poor installs |
| Strong build and compact footprint | Price premium over Smart 3 Bass |
| Integrated protection systems | Some report inconsistent real-world wattage |
| Tunable HPF/LPF & bass boost | May draw up to 278A under load |
| Compatible with Taramps level remote |
Claims vs Reality
Marketing boasts that the Big Boss 3 Bass is “much more than an amplifier… [it] transforms your car into an audiovisual spectacle” with 108 RGB LED effects. While visually striking, a verified Amazon buyer noted: “It lights up the whole trunk — fun at shows, but it’s the bass that makes people stare.” The LEDs do sync to music, but several users found them more of a show feature than a functional aid.
Another headline claim is the multi-impedance operation from 0.5 to 2 ohms without sacrificing output. Official specs list 3000W RMS consistently across these loads. However, one Reddit audio builder cautioned: “At 2 ohm you’re fine, but at 0.5 ohm you better have a serious alternator. It will pull everything it can.” This implies the spec sheet’s equal power rating under different loads may not reflect real-world draw and efficiency.
Finally, Taramps hypes its durability with talk of “robust and resistant product” design. While construction quality drew praise — “feels solid for a Brazilian amp” per an Amazon user — some warned that poor ventilation or undersized cabling negates the built-in smart cooler’s benefits.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Amazon, Reddit, and Trustpilot, power output and bass control top the praise list. The adjustable bass boost (35Hz–60Hz) and variable HPF/LPF filters let system tuners sculpt low-end punch. A verified buyer on Amazon enthused: “The 35Hz boost makes my subs’ sweet spot hit harder without muddying.” This tunability proves valuable for SPL competitors and daily drivers alike.
The multi-impedance capability is a lifesaver for those swapping setups. Reddit user u/BassObsessed*** explained: “I started at 1 ohm, then rebuilt my box series-wired to 2 ohms. No need to swap amps — same volume, no drama.” This flexibility eliminates some upgrade costs.
And the RGB effects—while divisive—are adored in show car circles. One Trustpilot reviewer quipped: “People think I’ve got a full light rig in the trunk. Makes night meets a blast.”
Common Complaints
Electrical stress is the number one gripe. Multiple users warned of high current draw — up to 278A on sine wave tests. “My stock electrical couldn’t hang; the lights dimmed hard,” admitted an Amazon buyer. This means most buyers will need upgraded alternators, batteries, and big gauge wiring to see intended output.
Heat buildup also surfaces in complaints. While the “smart cooler” mitigates thermal shutoffs, poor installs or inadequate ventilation can lead to overheating. Reddit user u/SubGuy87*** shared: “Mounted under the seat and it’d thermal after 20 min of hard play.”
Some skepticism appears around full-range usability. Despite specs showing frequency response to 200Hz, many users felt it’s best kept strictly for subwoofer duty. “It’s tuned to low-end, mids sound off,” noted one buyer after experimental testing.
Divisive Features
The RGB lighting creates split camps — some see it as pure gimmick, others as event-worthy flair. Similarly, the multi-impedance function is invaluable to system experimenters but irrelevant to those with fixed builds.
While marketed at equal RMS across 0.5–2 ohms, power junkies report better headroom with lower impedance — contradicting the claim of uniform output. “You can feel the extra slam at 0.5 ohm — but your voltage will dip if unprepared,” said an Amazon review.
Trust & Reliability
Durability gets cautious approval. Reports of amps running 6+ months under daily use without failure emerged on Reddit. The protective circuitry—short, voltage, and thermal—has saved systems from catastrophic damage during wiring mishaps. “Accidentally grounded a wire, amp shut down instantly. Saved my subs,” wrote a Reddit user.
On Trustpilot, no widespread scam indicators appear; buyers receive advertised products. However, community consensus advises buying only from authorized dealers or reputable marketplaces to safeguard warranty claims.
Alternatives
From within Taramps’ own stable, the Smart 3 Bass is a leaner priced alternative at ~$277, offering similar multi-impedance power but without the RGB glam. Those solely chasing SPL numbers often jump to the Big Boss 5 Bass or Big Boss 8 Bass models, trading higher RMS for steeper electrical requirements. As Reddit user u/DbChaser*** said: “If you don’t care about lights, Smart 3 will slam the same with less wallet damage.”
Price & Value
Market prices on eBay hit about $339 shipped, with bulk deals lowering per-unit cost. Taramps’ direct price hovers near $310, while some outlets run modest sales at ~$290. Community tips favor waiting for Black Friday or retailer-specific audio sales to grab sub-$280 pricing.
Resale value holds decently in the show car niche thanks to unique RGB features; bass competitors may opt for higher wattage models, limiting broader resale appeal.
FAQ
Q: Can the Big Boss 3 Bass run daily at 0.5 ohm?
A: Yes, but only with a heavily upgraded electrical system. Multiple users report voltage drops with stock alternators, so dual batteries and big gauge wiring are recommended.
Q: Is it full range or strictly for subs?
A: Primarily for subwoofer duty. While it technically covers up to 200Hz, most owners use it for low-frequency applications for best sound quality.
Q: Do the RGB effects drain extra power?
A: Minimal additional draw compared to audio load. Users note they have negligible impact on system performance.
Q: Will it fit under a car seat?
A: Its compact size allows under-seat mounting, but adequate ventilation is critical to prevent thermal shutoff during extended play.
Q: Is it worth upgrading from Smart 3 Bass?
A: Only if you value the aesthetic RGB effects or want the “Big Boss” branding. Power output is similar for most real-world setups.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re a bass lover with a strong electrical upgrade and enjoy visual flair in your system. Avoid if you’re running stock power or need full-range flexibility. Pro tip from the community: “Install it with proper ventilation and wiring, and it’ll pound reliably for years.”
Slug: taramps-big-boss-3-bass-amplifier-monoblock-review
