A good subwoofer is a great addition to your home theater or your surround sound system. A subwoofer lets you feel the effect of the bass and other low-frequency sounds in your movie or music. For the home theater system owners who want to have a feel of the cinema, a great subwoofer will help you with the reverberating production of sounds that will make you feel like you are physically present in the scene you are viewing. It helps you feel the thumping sounds and explosions in your movies like you are right in the middle of it all.

If you happen to listen to music, the subwoofer is the part of your home theater that will let you feel the music in your soul by bringing out low-frequency sounds from instruments such as the bass guitar, the kick drum, or the pipe organ. A subwoofer lets you feel the sound in ways the regular speaker can not.

However, if you don't watch action movies or listen to rap, a subwoofer is still of great use to you. It helps lighten the load on the speakers in your setup. Hence, you get a sound system that is generally better.

The Definitive Technology ProSub 800 comes with an 8-inch subwoofer that has a polymer cone attached to the infrasonic radiator. The amplifier produces 300 watts of continuous output and comes with the Discrete MOSFET output devices. The design of the radiator makes it possible to cover a 27% more radiating area that a 10-inch subwoofer would. The subwoofer is front-mounted direct-radiating, and it is attached to an 8-inch low bass radiator. Another perk of the physical design of the Definitive Technology ProSub 800 is the adjustable rubber feet. The feet make it possible to place it properly in places with uneven grounds. The integrated feet also let you adjust the height of your subwoofer to a certain extent. There are line-level plus speaker level input and output options that can be used to connect it with a home theater or surround sound system. These include the two pairs of high-level inputs, two pairs of high-level outputs, and one LFE input.

This subwoofer is compact, measuring just 12.9 inches in height, 10.4 inches depth, and 13.8 inches width. It has a signal sensing 'auto on and off' feature, which means you will not find a switch at the back to suit this purpose and have to rely on your receiver. When you use the high pass crossover, you are going to get a non-variable 6 dB at the rate of 80Hz. However, when you use the low pass crossover, you can expect 24 dB ranging from 40Hz to 150 Hz. However, you should note that while you can get the high pass crossover from both high-level inputs and outputs, you can only get the low pass crossover from high-level inputs.

Key Features
  • Powered subwoofer
  • Advanced MOSFET amplifier
  • Polymer cone component for woofer
  • Front-mounted direct-radiating woofer
Pros
  • Available in both white and black colors
  • Double surround system
  • LFE (low frequency effect)
  • Non-resonant cabinet
Cons
  • Might be unsuitable for very large rooms
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Definitive Technology ProSub 800
Premium pick

2. SVS SB16-Ultra Subwoofer

8.60 / 10
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The SVS SB16-Ultra Subwoofer is a deep bass subwoofer that comes with a 16-inch ultra bass driver. The subwoofer comes in a piano gloss black version and a black oak veneer version. Hence, you get to choose whatever physical design best suits your taste. You can also choose to buy a single unit or a pair to match your needs and audio taste. The SVS SB16-Ultra comes with an 8-inch edge voice coil that provides reverberating bass and other low-frequency sounds whenever it is being used. It also comes with the new Sledge 1500D Amplifier that provides 1500 watt continuous MOSFET output and 5000 watts peak output.

Another feature that makes this subwoofer desirable is the ability to control it via the remote controller or the smartphone app. With the smartphone app, you can use and store custom presets, control the volume, use the parametric EQ, a low pass filter, and much more. The app also uses the Bluetooth connection to give you realtime updates about the subwoofer; this connection also allows you to make adjustments to your settings even when you are not in the same room with your subwoofer.

Apart from the infrared remote control and the smartphone app, you can control your subwoofer with the interface designed into the frontal part of the body. This interface also features a screen that gives you information regarding the status of your subwoofer. The body is also designed to be sturdy and thick enough to provide adequate housing and support for the driver.

Key Features
  • New Sledge 1500D Amplifier
  • Discrete MOSFET output
  • 8-inch voice coil
  • DSP smartphone app
Pros
  • Great bass performance
  • Minimal sound distortion
  • Nice aesthetics
  • Can be controlled with a smartphone
Cons
  • Heavy weight
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SVS SB16-Ultra Subwoofer
Best value

3. Polk Audio PSW10

9.40 / 10
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The Polk Audio PSW10 is a subwoofer that you can add to your existing audio system to upgrade the bass. It comes with a 10-inch dynamic balance system for audiophiles. The woofer is capable of producing sounds without distortion even at low frequencies. This is achievable because of the laser-based Klippel measurement technology it ships with. This optimizes the subwoofer's physical qualities to provide great performance. The inbuilt 50-watt RMS amplifier makes it possible to get up to 100 watts of power from the Polk Audio PSW10. The resonance-free driver that comes with this subwoofer makes it well-suited for use over extended periods. This is a woofer you can use as an addition to an already existing system or use as a standalone subwoofer. You can easily connect it with your already installed monitor series or T-series speakers. It comes with a detachable grille on the front side that you can choose to either leave or remove to match the aesthetics of your location.

The body is designed to have a classic wooden look. At the back, you have a panel that provides access to various features such as the volume control, low-pass filter, phase toggle switch, power switch, RCA line inputs, and speaker level inputs and outputs. This is a subwoofer that can reverberate in a small room and does not cost an arm to purchase. You simply have to ensure you set it well. It is a great choice for those who want a subwoofer of good quality without breaking the bank.

Key Features
  • In-built 50-watt amplifier
  • Single unit subwoofer
  • Klippel measurement technology
  • Resonance-free driver
Pros
  • Loud and clear sounds
  • Detachable grills
  • Can be integrated with other systems
  • Easy to connect
Cons
  • No LFE input
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Polk Audio PSW10

The Klipsch Synergy Black Label Sub-100 Subwoofer provides a frequency response between 32Hz and 120Hz +/-3dB and has a maximum acoustic output of 112dB. This subwoofer puts out 150 watts on a continuous mode and up to 300 watts of dynamic power. It also comes with an all-digital amplifier and a 10-inch bass driver. The driver is also high excursion and is made with IMG - Injection Molded Graphite. The IMG allows it to be comparably lightweight while still being rigid enough to provide you with qualitative sound and clean bass.

The enclosure is a bass-reflex enclosure made of MDF. It has line-level inputs as well as LFE and RCA jacks. It is just 14 inches high and 12.5 inches wide. The depth is 15.7 inches without the grille. However, if you attach the front grille, the depth goes up to 16.4 inches. You can connect it with other speakers, however, you will need a receiver in order to achieve this. However, this should not be a cause for concern as the Klipsch Synergy Black Label Sub-100 Subwoofer is compatible with almost any receiver.

When it comes to aesthetics, it has black and copper accents that provide it with a sleek and sophisticated look. It will add to the beauty of your room with its modern and classy black ash vinyl finish. It also has a 90 x 90 dispersion pattern that makes it possible for you to place it almost anywhere in your room and still enjoy the bass sounds it produces. The Klipsch Synergy Black Label Sub-100 Subwoofer gets its own independent power. It is a decent subwoofer for its price range and provides great value for money when used in a room.

Key Features
  • IMG woofers
  • Front-firing driver
  • Up to 300 watts dynamic power
  • Black and copper accents for better aesthetics
Pros
  • LED power indicator
  • Standby mode
  • Complementary aesthetics
  • Minimized distortion
Cons
  • Does not support 220V
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Klipsch Synergy Black Label Sub-100 Subwoofer

The BIC Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer is suitable for use in a room of medium to large size. It has a front-firing 12-inch long-throw powered subwoofer. The internal amplifier and the fact that it powers itself makes it possible to enjoy great low-frequency sounds regardless of the output wattage of your receiver. This BIC Acoustech also comes with a state-of-the-art BASH amplifier that can provide a 250 watts continuous output. However, it is a great choice considering that it peaks at 1000 watts of output.

The frequency response ranges from 22Hz to 200Hz. The back panel also lets you adjust the volume and the range. You will also find input and output ports for connecting it with a receiver on the back panel. It can also be powered on, off, or put on 'auto-power' mode with the switch at the back of the speaker. The sensitivity is measured at 110dB at 30Hz. The internal circuit board is compatible with both 110v and 220v power supplies. Hence, no matter your location, if you desire this subwoofer, it can work for you. The subwoofer is large and heavy to carry, and this is one of the reasons why it might not be a good fit for small rooms.

Your receiver plays a good role in how well you will enjoy the BIC Acoustech PL-200 II. If your receiver has an LFE output port, then you might want to use it to set the low-frequency starting point. However, if your receiver doesn't, you should turn the crossover knob to a very high point.

Key Features
  • Long-throw powered subwoofer
  • BASH amplifier
  • 22 - 200Hz frequency response
  • 110dB sensitivity
Pros
  • Can work with any receiver regardless of their output wattage
  • Supports both 110v and 220v
  • 1000 watts peak power
  • For medium to large size rooms
Cons
  • Large and heavy
Buy This Product
BIC Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer

The Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer comes with a front-firing 12-inch high excursion spun-copper IMG woofer. Having an Injection Molded Granite woofer cone makes the Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer light and weighing 30 pounds while still being rigid and sturdy. IMG also ensures a splendid low-frequency response and minimal cone breakup and distortion. Hence, you get to enjoy great and clean bass from this subwoofer. The frequency range is between 29Hz and 120Hz. It also boasts of an inbuilt digital amplifier. The amplifier's output is 200 watts RMS continuous, and it peaks at 400 watts.

There is a rear-firing port that helps with the bass-reflex. There is a low pass crossover control knob, a phase control knob, and a subwoofer gain knob that all work together to help you blend the low-frequency tones with your home theater or surround sound set up. You can also use the LFE RCA input to better make sure your Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer works well with your home theater receiver. No matter your location, you don't have to worry about the compatibility of this subwoofer with your country's voltage. It works with any voltage rating from 100 to 240 volts. It comes with rubber feet that can be used on both hard floors or carpet. There is also a detachable grille on the frontal area with copper pins for attachment.

The body is made of black textured wood grain vinyl and reinforced MDF to reduce the cabinet's vibration. It also comes with rubber feet that further absorb any vibration that might escape the MDF enclosure.

Key Features
  • Spun-copper Img woofer
  • 400-watt driver
  • 116dB acoustic
  • Rear bass-reflex
Pros
  • Flexible placement options
  • Can use single cable plug
  • 400-watt amplifier peak
  • Minimal cone breakup
Cons
  • Inaudible below 30hz
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Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer

The Polk Audio HTS 10 powered subwoofer is great for rooms that are small or medium in size. The driver is 10 inches in diameter and is a front-firing, long-throw woofer making use of the Dynamic Balance Technology that is proprietary to Polk. It is Klippel optimized to provide a clearer bass quality when used in small to medium-sized rooms. The HTS 10 comes with Polk's patented power port technology that helps deliver a deep bass response. This is done with the help of the diffuser that comes with turbulence-smoothing capabilities. The Polk Audio HTS 10 has an inbuilt Class D 100-watt amplifier that peaks at 200 watts. It is also compatible with virtually all stereo setups and home theater systems. The rear panel contains all the controls, such as the low pass filter, the phase toggle, and the volume control.

It has a modern look and comes with a detachable grille at the front. This look makes it possible to blend in with any modern home setup. It has a floor-firing design to bring the speaker's airflow into your room for deep and extended bass impact. This helps it achieve 3dB less noise when compared to other subwoofers of similar configurations. The subwoofer is independently powered. Hence, you get to avoid any impedance with your home theater setup. However, in order to perfectly enjoy the Polk Audio HTS 10, you have to read the instructions that come with it and get the placement right. Once you get the placement right, you will enjoy the bass quality when you hook it up with your home theater setup.

Key Features
  • Front-firing long-throw woofer
  • Power port technology
  • Detachable grille
  • Dynamic balance technology
Pros
  • Universal compatibility
  • Deep bass
  • Modern aesthetics
  • Inbuilt controls for all functions
Cons
  • Auto-on feature can be better
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Polk Audio HTS 10

The BIC America F12 comes with a front-firing 12-inch long-throw woofer. The woofer is injection-molded and comes with a BASH amplifier. The amplifier provides 150 watts of RMS continuous output and 475 watts of Dynamic Peak. It has just 8 ohms of impedance. The vent whose function is to eliminate port noise is the patented 'Venturi' by BIC. The back panel features an adjustable crossover knob, a volume control knob, and a signal sensing button auto power button. You will also find input and output ports for the speakers and receiver you might want to use the subwoofer with. The BIC America F12 can be used with various home theater and surround sound systems and also allows input for Dolby Pro Logic and Dolby Digital systems.

This subwoofer has a frequency response that ranges between 25Hz and 200Hz plus a sensitivity of 90dB. Magnetic shielding is present, as well as gold-plated terminals. You should, however, use shielded cables whenever you can to prevent the BIC America F12 from picking up interference. Like you need to do before you can get the best from any subwoofer, you need to find the optimal spot so that you can enjoy the full capacity of this BIC. For the price range, it has a great bass output, wonderful aesthetics, and a superb port design. The build is also sturdy enough for you not to worry about damage resulting from minor things. However, you should not be surprised if you find it a bit too powerful for a small-sized room. It has also been said to get hot if it's used for a long period.

Key Features
  • BIC 'Venturi' vent
  • Automatic signal sensing
  • BASH technology
  • Long-throw woofer
Pros
  • Compatible with Dolby Pro Logic and Dolby Digital
  • Great bass output
  • Sturdy physical build
  • RCA input
Cons
  • Can become hot when used for extended periods
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BIC America F12

The Monoprice 109723 is a great subwoofer for those on a tight budget. It comes with a 21-inch high-performance bass driver that produces great bass quality at low volumes. This subwoofer is capable of 150 watts RMS, and it peaks at 200 watts. The frequency response ranges from 50 to 250 Hz, and it has a low-pass crossover filter. It comes with various input and output options that can be found at the back panel. Those options make it possible for you to use the Monoprice 109723 as an additional unit to an existing audio system. The back panel also features the level and crossover controls as well as the Hi-level in and out. The crossover control helps you regulate the frequency at which the subwoofer works. The level control, on the other hand, lets you regulate the subwoofer's level to match the volume of your main speakers.

The power switch is located at the back, and the subwoofer comes with an 'auto-on' control for those that don't want to toggle the power switch every single time they want to enjoy the low-frequency sound the subwoofer offers. When you activate this 'auto-on' feature, your subwoofer will also automatically go into a power-saving mode whenever it has not been used for a period of time, hence helping you conserve your power usage and ultimately reducing your power bill. However, if you disable this feature, your subwoofer will always be on whenever you power it, whether it is in use or not. There is also a fuse at the back to help protect your system in the event of a power overload.

Key Features
  • 12-inch bass driver
  • 10-meter audio splitter range
  • 150-watt RMS
  • Frontal cloth grill
Pros
  • Multiple input options
  • Compact size
  • Relatively cheap
  • Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
  • No phase switch
Buy This Product
Monoprice 12 Inch 150 Watt Powered Subwoofer

The Acoustic Audio PSW500-12 comes with a 12-inch front-firing long-throw subwoofer that is independently powered. It has a 200 watts continuous output and peaks at 5o0 watts. Also, the frequency response ranges from 24hz to 250hz. The efficiency is 98dB, while there is an impedance of 8ohm. This subwoofer comes with a high-efficiency amplifier that is made with a high rigidity PVA Treated Cone. You can also adjust the gain and the crossover with the controls at the back panel of the Acoustic Audio PSW500-12. The subwoofer also has an auto-off capability, a bottom bass port, an LFE input, a phase control switch, RCA low and speaker level inputs, and a variable low pass frequency crossover control. This is a subwoofer you can use with any home theater or surround sound system and expect to improve your bass sound quality.

The enclosure is made of black ash high-density MDF. You also have a removable acoustically transparent grille on the front side of this subwoofer. The body is made to meet the patterns of an advanced rfl bass reflex. This subwoofer won't bring your roof down. However, if you apply the instructions that come with the package while setting it up, you will get a decent quality of low frequency sounds coming from it. You should also take note that you need to balance the power switch between the on and off to take advantage of the auto power option. This option will let your subwoofer come on and power off along with your receiver.

Key Features
  • 24 -250hz frequency
  • 98dB efficiency with 8ohm impedance
  • 12-inch front firing long throw subwoofer
  • High density MDF enclosure
Pros
  • Auto on
  • High Efficiency Power Amplifier
  • Bass reflex design
  • Bottom slotted port
Cons
  • LFE can be better
Buy This Product
Acoustic Audio PSW500-12

Before you buy your subwoofer, there are various factors you want to consider. These factors will determine whether you, as an individual, will enjoy your purchase and be able to use it for the intended purpose.

Size And Budget

 

The size of the woofer plays a large role in the functionality. Generally, the larger the size, the deeper the bass sound. However, you also want to consider the size of your room before you make any purchase. If you place a smaller subwoofer in a large room, you will most likely not feel the effect of the bass well enough. Also, if you place a larger subwoofer in a small room, you might encounter various issues. One of the issues is the case of space, in which you need to place your subwoofer. Another issue is that of the sound not diffusing well enough because of the small surface area of the room. Hence, you should consider the size of your room before making a choice.

This is an important factor when it comes to buying your subwoofer. You want the best subwoofer that will not cost above your price range. You can always get a good subwoofer for less than $300. However, you should not expect that such will outperform the best subwoofer in the $2,000 range. So, the proverbial cutting your coat according to your cloth might have to come in play here.

Placement And Amplifier

 

The part of the room where you intend to place your subwoofer should also be considered. This is because we have front-firing and down-firing subwoofers with each of them having optimal use in separate locations. A front-firing subwoofer performs optimally when placed near other speakers. However, if you will be placing it near the wall or in a corner, a down-firing woofer is a great choice for you. You also want to take note of the presence of a port or bass reflex as this helps produce better quality bass by forcing air out.

The amplifier influences the performance of your subwoofer and works with the drivers to deliver the 'boom' to your environment. A powered subwoofer comes with its amplifier, while a passive one relies on an external amplifier. One of the advantages of powered subwoofers is that they can be controlled on their own. You can influence factors such as the volume. They require their own power connection, but on the bright side, they help you take the power load off your receiver.