The subwoofer of a speaker defines its sound quality and can take your system from average to awesome. The best home subwoofers can make a huge difference to your movie-watching or music-listening experience. A subwoofer can give you an excellent cinematic experience while watching a film or add some bass to the music you are listening to. Picking the best subwoofer can be quite a challenge since there are several designs and models in the market. However, doing adequate research and knowing the features you should consider when buying one can help you make a more informed decision. Keep reading as we list some of the best subwoofers and tell you what to look for in a subwoofer to help you bring the right subwoofer home.
Types of Subwoofers
Ported Subwoofers
A ported subwoofer or a bass reflex speaker has an extra port or hole for air to escape, usually through a tube. This boosts the bass level of the subwoofer and gives a thick, rich bass sound..
Sealed Cabinet
A unit which does not have a port or passive radiator is a sealed cabinet. In this type, the bass has only one route to leave the cabinet and so what may be lost in depth is made up for with a more well-rounded sound, with fewer booms and peaks.
Passive Radiator
This kind of subwoofer replaces the port with 2 passive radiators that are not wired to the amp. This has a greater range of frequencies though the sound escapes the speaker in a similar way to a port. This is great for cars where people want audio with huge bass frequencies.
Front and Down Firing Types of Subwoofers
Front and down firing refers to the placement of the internal speakers within the unit of the subwoofer. Front-firing models usually have a speaker pointing forward and the sound will radiate to the front and sides of the unit. Down-firing models point the sound toward the front and ground which is useful if the speakers are placed on a stand or used as bookshelf speakers.
Bandpass Subwoofers
This type is commonly used in professional live sound equipment used in large arenas. It is also used in subwoofer cabinets designed for car audio. These subwoofers have a more complex design and allow for a clean and natural bass output within the given frequency ranges. They allow you to specify the levels of bass you want through the speakers with great precision.
Horn Loaded Subwoofer
Horn-loaded speakers tend to sound louder than other types. Their sound is also more directional in the higher frequency bands as the sound that would otherwise have leaked and spread in various directions is channelled through a longhorn speaker. They are typically used in large venues where sound needs to go farther and more precisely.
13 Best Home Subwoofers
1. Best Durable:Polk Audio PSW10 10” Powered Subwoofer
This top-rated subwoofer has a traditional wooden look in a titanium baffle design. Its ten-inch front-firing dynamic balance polymer composite driver and uniquely configured directed port provide precise bass with added depth and bring music and movies alive. The high-roll foam surrounds provide longer excursion and make the audio even better. It has a specially tuned and directed port for maximum bass impact, and its unique configuration keeps it stable even at high volumes. This subwoofer blends perfectly with other Polk audio speakers, and you can enjoy a rich, deep sound, even at low frequencies. A phase toggle switch for multiple subwoofers makes this compact subwoofer cohesive and complete. If you want to know more about the benefits of this product, check out this quick review video. Pros
Zero distortion at high volumes Clearly marked back panel Resonance-free technology Suitable for small- to mid-sized rooms. Long-lasting quality
Cons
Bass may not be deep enough for some Auto power function may not be sensitive enough
2. Best Elegant:Goldwood Acoustic Audio PSW-12 12” Down Firing Powered Subwoofer
This home theater subwoofer has standard RCA inputs, which easily connect to the dedicated subwoofer output of your home theater’s receiver. It has a signal-sensing auto on/off feature that saves on power bills. Acoustic Audio’s audiophile subwoofer, which is barely a cubic foot, features internal bracing and a 24Hz to 250Hz frequency response, which adds impact to the action of fast-paced movies and sports. The MDF bass-reflex enclosure delivers thumping bass, and its elegant black ash finish adds to the style element. The subwoofer features a high-current 500-watt amp, which ensures that the down-firing 12″ subwoofer produces dynamic low-frequency effects. The woofer utilizes a long excursion cone for deep, accurate response and comes with a dual RCA six-foot cable, one RCA “Y” adapter, and an instruction manual. Here’s an honest review of the product. Pros
Marked back panel Deep and clean bass with vibration-absorbing feet Easy to adjust the sensitivity No distortion at high volumes Flexible high and low inputs
Cons
Auto on/off function may not be highly effective May not be suitable for large rooms
3. Best Compact Design:Sony SACS9 10” Active Subwoofer
The 9.84-inch cone diaphragm of this small subwoofer moves a larger volume of air, thereby producing a powerful low-end resonance and making the bass sound rich and deep. This makes for a great home theater experience as the subwoofer reinforces low-frequency sounds in movies and music. This subwoofer has a built-in amplifier with up to 115W power output. The vibration-producing electrical circuits are located outside the cabinet, releasing high pressure within the enclosure and producing a clear and powerful bass sound. Vibrations are taken care of by acoustically absorbing waves generated from the rear pressure of the unit, thus producing accurate bass. This speaker has a smart black finish that blends with modern interiors, and the wood veneer retains its shape well, ensuring that the sound is not influenced by changes in temperature and humidity. Its compact design is perfect for installation in small spaces. Pros
Durable Mica Reinforced Cellular cone Speaker and line level inputs Built-in phase switch Four-driver speaker system Motion feedback technology prevents distortion Power-save mode
Cons
Not suitable for large spaces
4. Best Heavy Bass: JBL Stage 120 12” Subwoofer
Want to experience the thrill of a live concert in the comfort of your home? Lay your hands on the JBL Stage subwoofer. This advanced home-stereo system has a high-definition waveguide sound design with one-inch dome tweeters and eight-inch woofers. It registers signature JBL bass that delivers deep and clear sound, from high to low notes. It is available in two different shades to match your theater decor and is ideal for watching movies or listening to music, as it provides rich and realistic audio. The adjustable crossover, phase controls, and auto turn-on/off features make this powerful subwoofer easy to connect and set up. And the package includes a grill, floor spikes, and power cords for added convenience. Pros
Produces a loud crystal-clear sound No distortion even at high volumes Easy to operate Clearly marked back panel
Cons
Does not include an RCA cable
5. Best Adjustable:Definitive Technology ProSub 800 Powered Subwoofer
This high-quality subwoofer has a balanced double surround system that improves driver excursion, resulting in higher bass output. It also has a high excursion eight-inch front mounted radiating woofer pressure coupled to an eight-inch low bass radiator. Its high-definition driver produces bass with low distortion reaching down to the lowest subsonic frequencies. This subwoofer can be connected to any stereo or multi-channel audio system using a wide range of line-level and speaker-level input and output connections. Backed by Definitive Technology, its superior cinematic and musical effects make it a favorite subwoofer for many. Pros
Greater radiating area Adjustable feet and height Clearly marked back panel Wide radiating area Convenient and quick to integrate
Cons
Some may notice vibration on hard floors Auto shut-off feature may not work at times
6. Best Sleek:Klipsch Synergy Black Label Sub-100 Subwoofer
This spun copper, injection molded graphite subwoofer is designed to offer amazing sound with the latest technology. It has spun copper front-firing cerametallic woofers and a ten-inch down-firing driver. Its aluminum diaphragm compression driver produces crystal clear frequencies, and its linear travel suspension minimizes sound distortion. This subwoofer produces remarkable deep bass and is compatible with almost any receiver. It pumps out 200W of continuous and 420W of dynamic power. This subwoofer’s black and copper body accentuates its sleek and sophisticated look, and it’s designed such that it can be placed anywhere. Pros
True-to-source sound accuracy Clearly marked back panel Exceptionally light and rigid woofers Built-in elevation Strong, flexible, and removable grille Compatible with most receivers
Cons
Bass may be less deep at low frequencies
7. Best Powerful:Infinity Reference SUB R12 300W Powered Subwoofer
One of the ultimate subwoofers, this product is your new point of reference for high-quality sound. As one of the larger powered models in the subwoofer series by Infinity, the SUB R12 adds powerful bass to any entertainment system. This subwoofer for homes has a 12″ fiber-composite driver synced to the 300 Watt high-power digital amplifier. The subwoofer cabinet has a solid construction and, with its internal edge-to-edge windowpane bracing, gives a firm foundation to reinforce the dynamic deep bass required for high-resolution digital surround and modern music. The strong structure, high output digital power, and robust driver ensure the subwoofer provides a powerful and deep bass to make your music and movies come alive. The SUB R12’s slender design and elegant details blend well with any decor. Pros
Variable crossover for smooth and efficient reproduction Low-resonance enclosures Delivers rich and punchy bass Low power consumption Ceramic Metal Matrix Diaphragms
Cons
Some may find these woofers larger than expected
8. Best With Responsive Control:Kanto SUB6 6” Powered Subwoofer
SUB6 is a sealed box, front-firing subwoofer that offers 200W of powerful bass extension and a perfect balance to your favorite soundtracks. Its precise low pass filter makes it a perfect match for any Kanto speaker. The woofer has a six-inch paper cone driver that produces true sub-bass with depth. It takes into account the fact that every space is different, and its precise dials for volume and cut-off frequency offer exact, responsive control that lets you shape your bass to fit the unique character of your room. A grille protects the six-inch paper cone driver from dust and impact while allowing sound to travel with minimum distortion. The added features of phase switch adjustment and full L/R line level input round up this compact subwoofer. Pros
Acoustically engineered MDF enclosure Cuts off undesired resonance Solid rubber feet Power-saving auto turn-off function Clearly marked back panel Easy to integrate with existing systems
Cons
Auto on/off switch mechanism may be quite loud
9. Best Compatible:Elac SUB1010 Powered Subwoofer
Nothing makes recorded sound more real than a rich, deep, and authoritative bass, and the rich, powerful bottom octaves are an important feature when it comes to music and movie soundtracks and in reproducing the full spectrum of instruments and sound effects. This modern subwoofer has a bass reflex enclosure and a class AB amplifier. The amplifier power is 60 Watts RMS and 120 Watts at its peak. Its frequency response is 38Hz-200Hz, and the crossover frequency ranges from 40Hz-200Hz. This ten-inch powered subwoofer also features a low-throw dynamic woofer with L/R/LFE/speaker-level inputs. Pros
Compact design Easy to connect and integrate Delivers clear sound with rich bass Produces balancing sound Sturdy and well built
Cons
May produce a slight noise on high volume May not deliver powerful bass in large spaces
10. Best Fire-Resistant:Rockville Rock Shaker Home Theater Subwoofer
The Rock Shaker home theater subwoofer is an all-in-one eight-inch and 400W subwoofer perfect for any home theater system or studio application. Its high-grade vinyl enclosure covering not only looks good but is also perfect for maximizing sound quality. The enclosure is filled with fire-resistant poly cotton and a detachable foam grill. It has a highly efficient class D amplifier that is perfectly matched with the enclosure and woofer, which adds to the sound experience. The rear-firing port delivers good bass response and disburses the sound equally throughout the room. The woofer is of top quality with foam surrounding and paper cone and features a 1.5-inch four-layer voice coil and Y30 grade magnet. This small subwoofer has RCA inputs and outputs as well as high-level speaker inputs and outputs to support any setup. Pros
High-quality MDF wood enclosure Delivers clear sound Rich and deep bass Clearly marked back panel Long-lasting quality Detachable foam grill
Cons
Power cord may be shorter than expected May produce a humming sound at high volume
11. Best Versatile:Theater Solutions SUB8S Slim Powered Active Subwoofer
This home theater subwoofer is designed keeping in mind consumers who desire extra powerful bass for their home theater experience. It has a sophisticated design and black wood finish, and its slim 6.5-inch height ensures it can fit anywhere. Computer-designed software has been used to design this powered subwoofer to achieve an optimal balance and interface between components. The built-in cabinet amplifier has efficient left/right spring terminal inputs, and the 24dB per octave crossover is continuously variable and can go from 50 to 150Hz. Moreover, the design of the ports allows air to flow in and out of the cabinet, reducing port noise, increasing linearity, lowering distortion, and providing an increased output that can go as high as 2-3dB. Pros
Volume and crossover frequency dials Made with high-grade and moisture-resistant material Built-in auto shut-off feature Compact subwoofer Includes a stand Vibration-absorbing feet Wall-mountable
Cons
Bass may not be great for large rooms
12. Best Long-Lasting:Monoprice 60-Watt Powered Subwoofer
This eight-inch powered subwoofer is capable of producing 60W (RMS) output. The subwoofer has a frequency response range of 50 to 250 Hz with a low pass crossover filter, which can be adjusted from 50 to 150 Hz. Its gain and frequency knobs allow you to adjust the crossover filter and the power output for the optimum bass output with your stereo or surround speakers. The subwoofer has several input options and can be used with any existing stereo or 5.1 amplifier system. It has its own power and includes impedance matching circuitry, which prevents the reduction of power output to the front speakers and doesn’t affect the overall impedance load on the amplifier. Additionally, the subwoofer has two right/left line level inputs. It is housed in an elegant black wood cabinet. The driver and two 3/4-Inch sound ports are located in the front and are covered by a black cloth speaker grill. Pros
Easy to integrate with existing systems Clearly marked back panel Auto-on feature Delivers clear bass and quality sound Occupies minimum space
Cons
May produce a humming sound at high volume
13. Best Portable:Bestisan Powered Subwoofer
This 6.5-inch powered compact subwoofer features continuously variable between 60 and 250Hz and frequency response of 40-250Hz. Its enclosure is built with the perfect and ideal air space to maximize sound quality and punch. The standard RCA and Bluetooth allow this small subwoofer to blend its low-frequency tones with other speakers and devices. The driver in the powered compact subwoofer pumps out deep and smooth bass with minimum distortion. It has a built-in amp that combines both delicate and thunderous sounds for the ultimate home theater effect. This subwoofer has a stunning black finish with curved edges, which gives it a visually appealing look that fits in with any home decor. Pros
Convenient LED color display Compact and slim design Easy to pair and integrate with other devices High-quality MDF Vibration-absorbing feet
Cons
Some may find the RCA inputs fragile Some may find the bass less powerful than expected
How To Choose The Right Subwoofers For Home
Upgradable
If you have a wired subwoofer with a single RCA connector, chances are you can upgrade your subwoofer. This could be part of an HTIB, a real 5.1 system, or even a soundbar with a wired subwoofer. Wireless subwoofers that come with sound bars or HTIBs generally can’t be upgraded, as they are proprietary. In conclusion, it is recommended you buy an upgradable subwoofer.
Watts
Subwoofers involve a very important aspect— power. The watt rating gives you a rough idea as to how loud a subwoofer might be able to play, but it doesn’t have to be louder just because it has a higher wattage. In fact, a 1,000-watt subwoofer may sound better at a normal room volume than a 100-watt subwoofer. Thanks to digital amplification, 300, 500, and higher wattage subwoofers are quite affordable. Wattage by itself is not a complete judge of a subwoofer’s performance. They are just one aspect of it and there are other factors to be considered as well.
Driver size
Generally speaking, subwoofers are boxes inside which is a fairly large driver (and usually the amp that powers it). For best performance, a driver should have some space in the cabinet behind it. So ideally, a 12-inch driver will have a bigger sized box, while an 8-inch driver would have a smaller box. The driver has to work hard to produce the long bass waves in volumes you can hear. One way to do this is with a bigger driver, 12 inches being the most common size, but you can get 15-inch models as well. Some models have multiple drivers. This does not mean that 2 6-inch drivers are equivalent to a 12-inch driver, but they’ll definitely perform better than a single 6-inch driver. The other way to produce bass waves is with lots and lots of power. As the driver and cabinet size go down, the power needs to go up to compensate for that. So, an 8-inch subwoofer in a small box can sound similar to a 12-inch subwoofer in a big box if it has significantly more power.
Location
Placing the subwoofer against the wall will add a little bit to the volume, as will putting it in the corner. Either place isn’t strictly the most accurate bass response but it will get you more volume if that’s what you’re looking for. Multiple subs placed in different locations interact with the room differently because of where they are placed.
EQ
Certain subwoofers have room EQ processing, which plays test tones through your speakers and subwoofer and generates an equalizer setting specific to your room. These can do a lot, like helping to minimize over-accentuated notes.
Size of room
In a small room, a small subwoofer (minimum 100W, 10 or 12-inch sub) will work just fine. In larger rooms, you will need a bigger subwoofer. If your room has open walls, you’ll need even more power or a larger sub as the bass sound will need to fill the entire space. If you have the space and the budget, multiple subwoofers are a good option, as they often perform better than a single subwoofer. Placement is crucial, and the right position can greatly enhance the bass sound quality.
Good bass vs. more bass
Most people equate subwoofers with volume which is at the expense of quality. A quality subwoofer, placed correctly in a room, can produce a deep realistic bass. The idea of any good speaker system is to accurately recreate all the frequencies in the audio spectrum equally. So, the best subwoofers don’t make a booming sound, but just have a stronger bass than is possible with small speakers.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Wedetso Chirhah is our in-house product writer and editor with experience in reviewing electronic appliances. He relies on in-depth surveys and analyses to choose the most reliable products with amazing features. Here, he brings you a collection of the best subwoofers for your sound system that will surely enhance your listening and movie-viewing experiences. To help make your selection process easier, Wedetso also shares a detailed buying guide.
