Top 16 Best Home Theater Subwoofers (Tested & Reviewed by Experts in 2023)

The subwoofer is the heart and soul of your home theater setup.

Without a high-quality subwoofer, you won’t be able to enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows, and music playback tracks in their full glory.

A good subwoofer can help improve your music listening routine by providing extra bass in the lower frequencies. It gives the illusion of the thundering bass, making watching movies and TV feel like a big-budget blockbuster.

But choosing the best home theater subwoofer is not easy as it sounds. From the type of subwoofer to size and budget, there is a lot more to think through when making the purchase.

 So, our top picks would be a perfect fit for your existing system, and the variety of subwoofers can assist you in choosing the one that best aligns with your needs.

1. Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer

When listening to any music genre, what would an audiophile want? Loud volume, heavy bass, and accurate lyrics, right? So, that’s what this solid subwoofer offers with its compelling built-in driver and an eye-catching look.

Unboxing the Beast – What You Will Get in the Box?

After waiting patiently for almost 2 weeks, we received a big brown box, and we knew it was the most popular Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer that had arrived. This subwoofer is a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful and affordable option to boost the sound quality in a home.

After unpacking the big box, we saw the subwoofer itself, smartly and safely packed. Klipsch has included all the necessary hardware for mounting the subwoofer or setting it in an enclosure. Following that is the power cord and a quick start guide.

That’s everything you need to get started with the Klipsch R-120SW subwoofer. 

Design

The Klipsch R-120SW instantly blends in with your home décor with its MDF cabinet and black wood vinyl texture that complements your existing home theatre setup. The removable grille also adds charm to the overall appearance while shielding the driver.

Built-in Driver

Klipsch R-120SW has a 12-inch built-in woofer made of a high excursion spun-copper that keeps it durable and intact despite heavy punishment. Also, the material is quite lightweight, so despite the 12-inches size, it won’t break in when needed to handle the high power.

Additionally, considering the high-power handling capacity, it provides rich bass tones that will make your music sound better than ever. The woofer ensures clear, powerful, and loud sound in any venue. 

Subwoofer Size – How Much Bigger is Bigger?

However, the subwoofer is relatively heavy, at 31 pounds of weight, yet with the rubber feet, it is easy to move around in the room. It will also not consume much space on the floor as it measures 19.2 x 14 x 16.5 inches, which is nothing unusual for a subwoofer.

Power Output and Performance

Moreover, the 12-inch home theater subwoofer is always considered high-end, especially regarding power consumption and audio output. The Klipsch subwoofer never disappoints with extreme volume levels, crystal clear sound, and deep bass. While rated at 400W peak power, it will keep the tradition.

The tuning, thumps, and treble are also improved, and the sound output is pretty balanced for streaming movies, podcasts, and gaming. Additionally, you can push the subwoofer to perform beyond its capabilities while protecting it from any sort of damage, and with 200W RMS power, it is also possible.

Frequency Response Range

However, the frequency response of 29 Hz to 120 Hz isn’t what we expected from this huge home theater subwoofer. If you hear music with bass notes below 29 Hz, you won’t notice them at all.

Inputs and Controls

About placement, setup and controls, it justifies its price by offering RCA LFE input that makes it compatible with any receiver. Several controls to customize the sound and bass you would like to hear, including low pass, phase switch, gain controls, etc.

The limited connectivity options may restrict you from using the subwoofer except indoors. Still, this wired home theater subwoofer would compensate by providing loud, thrilling, deep, and punchy bass to fill the room.

With its easy setup, plug-and-play profile, and multiple controls, this 12-inch subwoofer from Klipsch will fill up the space with entertainment and provide high-quality surrounding sound. 

Klipsch R-120SW Verdict

The Klipsch R-120SW subwoofer is a great addition to any home theater system, providing deep, powerful bass that brings movies and music to life.

Its compact size can be placed anywhere in your room, as it has caught the space in our list of the best home theater subwoofers in 2023. Also, compared to the high-end subs in the market, it is easy to use with different controls to adjust the bass according to your preferences.

So, whether you’re looking to upgrade the entertainment system or starting to create one from scratch, Klipsch R-120SW is the one.

2. Polk Audio HTS 10 Powered Subwoofer

Polk Audio subwoofers are an excellent choice for those who want to get the most out of their music streaming. Whether you’re watching movies or streaming your favorite tracks from Spotify, this subwoofer will help make them sound just as good as they do in the studio.

What You Will Get in the Box? (Unboxing)

We were surprised to see the huge brown package directly from Polk Audio, as it is the signature series of the brand, so it came with protocol accordingly.

We quickly unpacked it, but the box had all the details about what was inside. It had the subwoofer, a detachable grill, a power cord, and a manual for basic instructions.

The subwoofer was well-protected in good quality packaging material, along with the 16.6 x 15 x 16.7-inch box, so we were satisfied with the final product’s safe arrival. The box had all the other information too, but we will discuss that in detail in the following review.

Design

We were surprised to see its aesthetically pleasing exterior with rounded bends and how it sits confidently on the power base. This compact profile will adjust anywhere in the room, from tight spaces to massive cinema rooms, and highlight the space.

The aesthetic design has all the points. The woofer seems to be hanging, and there is a significant space between the woofer cone and the bottom surface. It creates a stylish vibe, and the front’s detachable grill also seems to kick some style in the house. 

Kick-Off Feature

The idea of not bothering to power it off when not in use excites us because the automatic powered-off feature turns the woofer off after some time of not using it. The home theater subwoofer for music has everything one would need to kick off their day. 

Performance with a Box

Also, the bass-reflex ported enclosure not only makes the speakers look better, but it also gives the bass a strong boost, making it clearer and more accurate when listening to jazz, pop, or any other type of music.

Subwoofer Size

However, unlike other 10-inch home theater subwoofers from rivals like Klipsch, it is quite heavy and consumes more space. The subwoofer measures 15.5 x 15.1 x 16.1 inches (HWD) and weighs 37.8 pounds, so you’ll have an idea why this is a concerning point.

Built-in Driver

On the plus side, the enclosure is made of MDF, which makes it durable and keeps the sound quality the same in different environments. Under the case is a dynamic cone driver made of polypropylene that is 10 inches in diameter and is powered by a class-D amplifier.

Power Output

The powered home theater subwoofer performs at 200W peak power and 100W RMS, minimizing distortions and pushing the woofer to perform at its full potential with strong bass note output regardless of extreme volume.

While watching movies or TV shows or playing games, the 200W power should be enough to give you a thundering, dramatic, and deep sound performance. It also allows you to manage bass with its built-in controls.

Frequency Response Range

The soundbar has a frequency response range of 30 Hz to 120 Hz, which means the frequencies below 30 Hz would be hard to manage by the subwoofer. Yet it delivers high-definition sound with clean and clear bass for creating cinematic vibes.

It covers the need for an external subwoofer in a complete sound system, blends with the other speakers, and aligns the frequencies accordingly.

Sound and Bass Performance

Polk Audio HTS-10 offers more than just aesthetic looks, like the deep and loud bass that hits right on the spot where it’s needed. The sound quality is pleasing to the ears while watching movies, listening to podcasts or music, or even gaming.

We tested the subwoofer in different environments with different content at our lab. Despite the average frequency response, we were surprised at how well it responded to the low-end frequencies.

Controls

A lowpass filter of 40 Hz to 160 Hz for the dial-in crossover, a variable volume knob, and phase switch control give you full control over the sub. Furthermore, the floor-firing port is the distinguishing feature that makes it an excellent home theater subwoofer under $500.

Polk Audio HTS-10 Verdict

If you are interested in buying a quality subwoofer for your home, you need to know what you are getting into. Polk Audio’s HTS-10 answers all your high-definition bass with loud sound quality concerns to provide immersive listening.

Compared to other models at this price, we find this unit more appealing, powerful, and user-friendly for a home setup.

3. BIC F12 12-Inch Front Firing Powered Subwoofer

Since the 1970s, BIC America has been in the market. It has become a huge name in the music equipment industry for top-quality manufacturing subwoofers within a tight budget, and the F12 subwoofer is no exception in taking up its reputation.

What You Will Get in the Box? (Unboxing)

When we heard about the possibility of getting our hands on the BIC America F12, a favorite and best-selling in the market, we decided to invite it to our testing lab and do some real-time checks.

Fortunately, it arrived earlier than expected, but it was huge enough that it demanded some time to settle. Also, it is not a product that one person can handle because it is heavy as it incorporates a 12-inch woofer. Also, the package has a woofer itself, power cable, RCA, warranty card, and a guide to get it started.

Whether you’re upgrading or creating a system from scratch, that is pretty much everything you need to kick off the subwoofer.

Subwoofer Size

With the measurements of 21 x 19 x 22 inches (HWD) and around 42.70 pounds, the sound bar is not consumed or comes with a space-saving profile, so you need space and help to move it around.

Design

The exterior has little to offer; the MDF enclosure with black laminate adds points to the style that blends with any living room décor. The rubber feet keep it intact when it gets wild while delivering the blasting bass that shakes the entire space.

Also, test at several places and find the sweet spot where it can confidently perform. This sub’s placement is critical; one wrong edge and the sound quality can be compromised.

Power Output

If you want to feel the bass kick in, this is the track for you! The subwoofer has been designed to give you the ultimate bass performance from its front-firing driver, which functions at 475W dynamic power.

Inputs and Controls

Like any other subwoofer, all the ports and adjustment controls are at the back panel. High-level inputs and crossover control, volume control, and a phase switch would add value to the sub. 

However, its compatibility with Dolby Pro Logic, Dolby Digital, and DTS, as well as gold-plated terminals to protect the speaker, distinguishes it from competitors. This is quite surprising for the home theater subwoofer under 300.

Performance

When watching movies or shows or streaming to podcasts, the F12 can produce low bass notes incredibly well, and the clarity is fantastic. The sound level is also well-balanced, and the tuning doesn’t need modifications.

Frequency Response Range

The front-firing powered subwoofer can get pretty loud without causing any notable distortions, so we enjoyed every bit of it while listening to our favorite tracks. Also, compared to Polk HTS 10, its frequency response is better, featuring 25 Hz to 200 Hz.

Though we aren’t concerned about boosting the frequencies above 120 Hz, listening to the low-end frequencies of up to 25 Hz with such clarity and depth was a treat to our ears. F12 has passed all our listening tests with flying colors.

BIC America F12 Verdict

Reenergize your home theater system with the BIC America F12, which has a load capacity of 475W. It is definitely the best you can get in this price range, as it is a 12-inch woofer that offers professional-grade bass performance.

The woofer is built with a heavy-duty steel frame and high-quality polymer materials, which ensures years of reliable use while keeping it lightweight for optimum performance. Also, the built-in amp provides enough power to handle the most demanding venues.

4. Audioengine S8 250W Powered Subwoofer

You are actually missing out if you have not heard much about the AudioEngine subwoofers. The American company has made its name in sound system equipment while raising the need to get the most compelling, solid, and space-saving subwoofers.

Many people think that while watching movies and TV shows, there is no need for a subwoofer because there will be no bassy sound. Well, that’s not the case. The Audioengine S8 powered subwoofer delivers high-definition bass projection and improves the overall sound quality.

What You Will Get in the Box (Unboxing)

We never knew the waiting could be as hard as it was for this compact Audioengine S8 subwoofer. When we heard about its low-profile but heavy punchy bass output, we couldn’t resist testing it for users with space limitations.

It is actually pretty compact, lightweight, and has a classy design. The matte appearance attracted everyone in our testing lab right after the unboxing. Also, when we were putting it on the floor to begin testing, we noticed the high-quality rubber feet, which is a valuable add-on for safe placement.

Though it comes in white and black, we chose the black one as it looks more stunning. When we opened the big brown box from Audioengine, we found a subwoofer itself, one power cable, one 2m RCA cable, two Microfiber and cable bags, one 2m 3.5mm audio cable, and a setup guide.

You can also ask for the warranty card if it doesn’t come along, as their customer service is also incredible. You will get one product line brochure, though, in the box. 

Size and Design

Audioengine S8 comes in a traditional box design with four feet for easy floorstanding. The sub measuring 11.25 by 11.25 by 11.25 inches would consume much space on the floor, and 30 pounds weight should get hard on you while moving it.

But I have to say that the subwoofer stayed put in the room even though it was playing at high volumes and blasting heavy, thundering bass. It hints at the solid construction and powerful built-in speaker.

Inputs and Controls

Like other budget subwoofers, it also has a front-ported design, and all the controls, including a power button, sit at the back. The controls include a crossover and volume control and a phase switch. Then there’s a USB charging port, 3.5mm jack input, stereo RCA, and LFE inputs.

So, unlike other inexpensive subwoofers we’ve tested, this one has more ways to connect and can be charged. Usage is also pretty straightforward, and automatic power on/off features make it smoother.

Power output and performance

If it doesn’t stand out in your living room with its design, it surely will with its outstanding sound quality with thrilling bass. The integrated 8-inch down-firing woofer with a 250W power output produces intense bass at such a room-filling volume that you’ll feel the windows rattling and vibrations in your hands.

Moreover, we customized the bass and volume when tested with gaming, music, and shows; it was easier than we imagined. We kept the volume slightly lower when watching movies and increased the bass when gaming because the combination of high bass and loud volume on gaming was too much.

Frequency Response Range

This compact subwoofer gives a real punch of bass with a frequency response of 27 Hz to 180 Hz, which is surprisingly fascinating from its low profile. Besides, the MDF construction of the enclosure also strives to enhance accuracy and ensure intense depth to the bass.

Versatile Subwoofer

Another good thing that can excite you is its versatility, which makes it flexible to work with any sound setup. You will also see some features for wireless connection expansion using the W3 Audioengine. 

Audioengine S8 Verdict

Audioengine S8 is a powerful, compact 250-watt subwoofer that delivers plenty of low-end punch. It has an 8-inch woofer with a high excursion and a powerful amplifier that produce deep and accurate bass.

Compared to other low-profile compact subwoofers for home theater, Audioengine has become our favorite for its contribution with multiple stable connections, an attractive profile, and standby mode for power saving.

5. Sony SACS9 10-Inch Active Subwoofer

If you’re looking for an active subwoofer for home theater to power up your audio setup, the Sony SACS9 is a fantastic and punchy device that will satisfy all of your music listening needs.

After headphones and a top-notch TV collection, Sony has made its name in the subwoofer industry by manufacturing durable, reliable, and well-priced subwoofers. Once you get your hands on SACS9, there is no going back.

What You Will Get in the Box? (Unboxing)

At our testing lab, we are always excited to get our hands on the latest and upgraded products, and unboxing the Sony has always been fun for us because of its attractive and thoughtful packaging and included tools for quick setup.

After nearly a month, we finally received the package containing our Sony SACS9. It already had our hearts in the box, but after unpacking it and placing it on the floor, it satisfied the sore eyes.

The black color looked great in the lighting, and the box had a power cord and user manual to start the fun in no time. However, we used the RCA from the lab as it was not included in the kit.

Design

Sony has always been mysterious, and this plain black box proves the claim. The low-key profile is still attractive enough to add charm to your room, and the grille at the front fills up the edges. Grille is smartly covering the built-in woofer, featuring a navy blue cone, a signature statement of Sony subs.

Built-in Driver

Sony ensured its durability after it performed at its full potential; the driver is made with woven fibre, which is better than plastic. The high-quality woofer cone moves full of potential and delivers clean and accurate bass with next-level depth.

Subwoofer Size

Moreover, the subwoofer is perfect for small spaces and weighs only 25 lbs. 5 oz., so it shouldn’t be heavy to move around on floors. It instantly made room in our lab, and we could easily slide it around to test its performance in different environments.

Inputs and Controls

Moving on, the connectivity and subwoofer controls are available at the back, including a power button, RCA input, volume knob, and low pass frequency control. This lineup makes the sub flexible for working with entry-level to high-end devices.

Frequency Response Range

Surprisingly, from the budget-friendly collection, its sound output, bass quality, and frequency response range of 50Hz to 200Hz are too good to be true. It delivers blasting bass with a loud sound that fills the room in no time, sounds exciting and is worth the investment.

Power Output

Additionally, the automatic power-saving mode complements the usage and wouldn’t make you think twice before using it. Besides, the built-in amplifier with an RMS rating of 155W paired with a 28-200Hz frequency ensures incredible sound quality circuit, that absorbs the sound waves while stifling the vibrations, resulting in clean and clear sound output.

Sony SACS9 Verdict

While shopping for subs, your best bet is to head over to Sony, as the brand has been at the forefront of high-quality audio products for years now, and they know their stuff when it comes to subs.

SACS9 is no exception when we talk about the best subwoofer for home theater systems. It can easily handle the most demanding sounds, as we tested it with a diversity of music tracks at different volume levels. It produces a booming sound with tight bass to get you for entertainment.

6. SVS SB-1000 Compact Sealed Subwoofer

Upgrade your home theater setup with this classic, high-end, but compact subwoofer that is perfect to use in smaller spaces for heavy and accurate sound.

No matter what you are listening to or streaming, it will improve your experience by adding a real bass punch without noticeable distortions at any volume. We also tested this unit during gaming, and it blew our minds with the accurate sound of gunshots and explosions. 

What You Will Get in the Box (Unboxing)

We have had the SVS SB-1000 Pro in our lab for more than a day, but we couldn’t manage time to unbox or review this beast. But when we did, we were not disappointed.

It came in a brown box from Amazon, and the opening was smooth. After opening one corner, I turned the box upside down, and here it was—another box from SVS. It had all the information about my order, brand, and product. Opening the box was also easy, and then we finally had the subwoofer in hand.

At first, it didn’t seem huge as we thought it could be, neither heavy to not hold it in hand. It came with a 6ft power cord packed in silicon packaging and a user manual.

Enclosure

This 12-inches huge subwoofer comes in a premium wooden texture box with a rigid grille at the front, fixed with four pins on each side. Under the grille, a huge 12-inch woofer sitting confidently consumes the entire space for itself to perform at its full potential.

Design

The exterior is quite vintage and looks incredible in homes or studios. The rubber feet help it stand without unnecessary movements while performing at extreme levels. There is also an LED light indicator that keeps you updated about the woofer functionality.

Controls

The subwoofer has all the magic, like necessary controls, including volume, crossover, and phase switch adjustments. It helps with sound and bass customization according to your preference and playing content.

We tested the subwoofer on different volume levels while adjusting the phase and crossover control at 80Hz, and got the best, tight, and most precise bass at a low level. You will also come across the auto-mode at the back that automatically turns on when getting audio signals and turn-off when not in use for some time.

Inputs

The connectivity options are pretty limited, but you get the important ones, like in and outline levels. The power button is also somewhere near the input ports. Considering the price, it may seem less than you could be expected, but it makes the unit versatile for PCs, home theater setups, laptops, speakers, etc.

Power Output

On the upside, you cannot find the powerful class-D amplifier on any powered subwoofer at this price. Its power rating is 300W with a peak power output of 720W, clearly indicating to what extent it can deliver thundering and classic bass.

Performance

The sealed subwoofer works to our advantage by enhancing the frequency volume and making the bass sound precise, tight, and clean. When we played the music, the bass was much better. The 27 pounds cabinet produces a pleasant voice that is perfect for watching movies, playing games, and listening to hi-fi music. 

SVS SB-1000 Verdict

SVS SB-1000 has ended the journey of finding a reliable and durable subwoofer that can handle the high power output and transform the space into the cinema, making it the perfect addition to any home theater system.

Testing the subwoofer was one quiet experience as it packs a serious punch with its 12-inch woofer and 300W continuous power capacity. It instantly fills the room with surrounding sound while aligning the notes with upper and mid-range.

7. Acoustic Audio PSW-15 Down Firing Powered Subwoofer

Acoustic Audio PSW-15 is a 15-inch subwoofer that provides amazing and bulky bass for your home theater. It is a versatile, powerful piece of equipment that will blend with your décor, featuring the black ash wood finish.

What You Will Get in the Box (Unboxing)

We were so excited to test the very famous Acoustic Audio PSW-15, so waiting for over a week wasn’t a problem for us. But when it came, we couldn’t help but unbox it instantly.

It came in a brown box right from the brand as it has all the necessary information about the product. After unboxing, we could see the PSW-15 subwoofer, 6ft dual RCA,  RCA Y adapter, and user manual.

RCA cable with adapter was a substantial addition, as many other subwoofers we tested didn’t pass it along. So, let’s get started on how it looks and why we were excited to have it.

Subwoofer Size

The 15-inch home theater subwoofer is huge, measuring 14.6 by 16.5 by 18.5 inches, so you need to make massive space for it. It produces deep and rich bass when it consumes space, and the built-in amplifier fuels the power.

Built-in Driver

The 15-inches woofer is highly rigid with a PVA cone, so it won’t break easily despite how much you push it to satisfy your music-listening cravings. Internal bracing encourages a thumpy punch, and feet deal with vibrations.

Power Output & Enclosure

The MDF enclosure also enhances the bass production, and the feet absorb the vibration, leading to less distraction when playing. The 600W of peak dynamic power ensures thorough punishment without breaking.

Frequency Response Range

The frequency response range of 22Hz – 250Hz might give you goosebumps, making it an ideal choice for bass-heavy music. Thus massive subwoofer produces massive sound, rating 99dB sensitivity level for your next parties and music listening sessions.

Inputs

Additionally, the 15-inch driver delivers a punchy, tight sound that’s perfect for movies and music, and the RCA cable connection makes it open to pairing with any application. The driver placement is at the bottom, so it will be harsh on the floor while filling up the entire space in no time.

Controls

The backside has all the controls, including gain level, phase control switch, and variable low pass frequency. It also features an auto-sensing on/off feature that makes it functional when getting an audio signal and turns it off when not in use.

So, if you have space to fit this blasting device, you wouldn’t get an alternative home theater subwoofer under 200 that can compete with its sound quality, deep bass performance, and functions. However, we thought adding wireless connectivity or an additional set of line-level inputs wouldn’t harm it.

Acoustic Audio PSW-15 Verdict

When it comes to bass, few things are as thundering as a good subwoofer. And we haven’t seen it as powerful and thundering as this Acoustic Audio PSW-15 15-inch subwoofer with a dynamic power of 600W.

There is no comparison of its bass and sound quality as the massive woofer easily handled the power of home theater systems and performed accordingly. It fills the room with booming sound with great and precise bass touch, especially with gaming.

8. Klipsch R-10SW 10″ Powered Subwoofer

Klipsch Reference R-10SW is an ideal compact subwoofer that easily gets along with your home theater setup. With its powerful bass, you can feel your floor shaking when you listen to your favorite music at home.

What You Will Get in the Box (Unboxing)

We didn’t realize unboxing a subwoofer could be relaxing or fun until we had this compact Klipsch R-10SW in our home.

It came in dual packaging for immense safety. The plain brown box had another box from the Klipsch brand that was housing the woofer. It weighs around 25.6 to 26 lbs, so handling it wasn’t challenging.

When we opened the black box from Klipsch, a detachable black grill was safely packed in a reasonable material. Then there was a subwoofer itself, with a user manual and a power cord.

Design

The Klipsch R-10SW has a compact design, but it knows how to balance size and power output for an uncompromised bass performance. The exterior is no different than that of other Klipsch subwoofers, featuring a smoky black texture and a removable grille at the front.

Subwoofer Size

The subwoofer measures about 14 x 12.5 x 15.7 inches (HWD) and weighs around 25 pounds; you wouldn’t face hassle moving it around to find its sweet spot, and it wouldn’t consume much floor or wall space.

LED for Sub Status

Unlike many other subwoofers at this price, R-10SW has funky LED light indicators that would show the subwoofer’s function status for your convenience. All the other controls are available at the backside.

Built-in Driver

Under the grille, the subwoofer gives home to a powerful 10-inches woofer and a 150W amplifier that provides enough power signals of up to 300W to the woofer to make it bang the doors with its incredible sound quality.

Power Output

It will be a classic addition to your system as it can throw some serious low notes while not compromising much of the clarity, despite the volume levels. With a peak power of 300W, a copper-spun woofer will fill the room with thundering and deep bass in no time.

Frequency Response Range

However, when we talk about the frequency response range of this powerful sub, which is undoubtedly questionable, we feel a little disappointed. Since the sub’s job is to focus on the low-end frequencies only to lower the burden of other speakers, this unit focuses on 32 to 120Hz only.

It indicates frequencies below 32Hz are not its concern, and you wouldn’t feel anything when you stream the content with such low frequencies. Besides, the 40 to 160Hz is the frequency crossover, which is not appealing to us.

Performance

Klipsch is a name when we talk about loud sound and deep bass, and this is what R-10SW Keeps us hooked. It can add incredibly intense bass to the 5.1 system and prove how dramatic it can become when performing in different genres.

Controls

Also, you can always use the control knobs to adjust the weaker effects and make it sound exactly how you want. The audiophiles will love the crossover and phase controls that gave us great control over the subwoofer and its performance. 

Klipsch Reference R-10SW Verdict

Whether you are looking to add extra power to your music or improve your home theater experience, the Klipsch R-10SW is an excellent choice. It is a 10-inch professional-grade woofer that delivers loud, clear and thundering bass.

Compared to other Klipsch products, it is more compact and packs a tight and heavy bass punch for homes and studios. It covers your bass needs when movies, games, and bass-heavy content. It is worth having a product at this price and size. 

9. Bose Bass Module 700 Compact Subwoofer

The Bose Bass Module has a sleek and modern design with a stunning black finish on the front and sides and a glossy finish with glass on the top. It has a premium appearance for a fantastic home theater subwoofer under $1,000.

What You Will Get in the Box (Unboxing)

We had to test and order this monstrous wild subwoofer after receiving numerous requests to do so. It took time to arrive, but we didn’t waste a second unboxing it when it came.

It came in a plain brown box with only the order details on it. Then there was a brand box inside with all of the packaging material that kept the subwoofer safe. It took us hardly 15 minutes to completely unbox the woofer and clean the packaging mess

The box had a pretty subwoofer, a power cord, and a user manual. We didn’t get the cables for wired connections.

Design

It features control in the center of the faceplate that allows you to adjust the volume and bass/treble levels and manage the input selections. It also features a strip of lights that lights up when you perform certain tasks, like input selection, output level, and mic status.  

Enclosure

In addition, the bass module 700 subwoofer is made out of plastic, but it feels sturdy enough that it’s unlikely to break easily. The power button is located on the back side near its port for pairing an amplifier.

Connectivity

Other input sources include one digital audio output and Ethernet, but the Bluetooth and WiFi connection wouldn’t make you need that. With great range and excellent stability, it works really well with smart setups. Apple AirPlay and Chromecast are also valuable addition for music lovers.

Easy Setup

The compact subwoofer packs a lot of punch for its size. Also, it is relatively easy to hook up if you’re already into tech and subwoofers. Otherwise, beginners may struggle with setup. However, it is designed to pair with Bose soundbar 700 as it ensures paralleled home theater experience with that.

Performance

The bass quality of 30 pounds subwoofer is also dynamic, rich, and heavy. It offers compelling sound with excellent clarity; the vibrating bass highlights the most. The 10-inches woofer will surprise you when playing different content, and the room correction feature offers it help.  

Kick-Off Feature

It can go for longer than its rival, and there are no noticeable distortions at any volume. Bass and treble adjustments give you full control over the performance, and the voice assistants let you control the device with your voice commands.

Frequency Response Range

Also, the stereo frequency response is the out-of-the-box feature that ensures a precise, natural, crisp, and clean sound. It is capable of playing low frequencies while still being able to reproduce higher frequencies with clarity as well-without breaking. 

Bose Bass Module 700 Verdict

When it comes to audio equipment, few companies are more popular than Bose. It is known for its high-quality products, and the 700 Module is no exception. This model is designed to enhance the bass output from your home theater systems, making it more powerful and accurate.

It is dead simple to set up and connect within the system with a wireless connection, and it gives us a chance to enjoy high-definition bass with a wide frequency response range.

10. Sonos Sub (Gen 3) Deep Bass Subwoofer

Sonos Sub Gen 3 is a stylish subwoofer that is designed to be seen and heard with its bomb combination of iconic profile and heavy bass. It comes in an unusual shape that makes it different from other traditional-made subwoofers.

What You Will Get in the Box (Unboxing)

Sonos Subs always surprises us with stylish shapes and great color selections, and here we are unboxing the Gen 3 module.

Obviously, it was heavy, so we were unboxing it with extra care to avoid mishaps. However, we appreciate the great packaging material inside and outside the box.

We got a couple of power cables in different colors when we opened the box. Then, we had some documentation involving a warranty card and a user manual. Then at the bottom, there was a powerful sub sitting patiently.

Design

It has an attractive design in a Matte white color with a black center side that looks stunning for a subwoofer. It comes in black and white colors, and both look astonishing in their respective shapes.

There is a Sonos logo at the bottom, but we could barely see it as it was engraved with a similar color. There is a status light at the side with a power button for easy reach, making it functional. All the controls and inputs are at the back.

Additionally, a floor-standing subwoofer with this shape and color will charm your home theater and room décor, so better place it where it should be noticeable.

Easy Setup

Its gloss finish profile wasn’t enough to stand out, so it offered wireless connectivity to quickly make it functional while ensuring smooth compatibility with the latest applications. Using an app, you can quickly add a subwoofer to a home theater setup.

Versatile Profile

Another catching element of the hollow subwoofer is its placement flexibility. Its slim and modern body fits anywhere in the room, so make it sit where it can perform with full potential, fills the room instantly, and surprise you with quality bass.

Wireless Connection

Next is the WiFi compatibility that complements the placement because the wide range can give you enough space to place it anywhere and enjoy the wireless music streaming using the app. It is more like a plug-and-play device for bass-heavy sound streaming.

Subwoofer Size

Moreover, it is a notable upgrade from the Sonos Sub Gen 2. Although it is a relatively heavy 36-pound weight, it is creating noise in the market with deep and breathtaking bass with loud sound playback tracks.

Frequency Response Range

The thin cabinet construction also compliments the volume, but the frequency response range is worth admiring. Sonos knows perfectly to produce low bass notes and thus can go down to 25Hz to reproduce bass with more depth and clarity.

Built-in Driver and Amp

 The built-in digital amplifier fuels the woofer’s power to produce hard-hitting bass at different volume levels. Also, the force-canceling drivers fight with the buzz or distortions that are usually the case when listening to music at extreme listening levels.

Controls

At last, it allows you to play with frequencies to adjust it however you like to listen with the Trueplay Tuning technology. So, enjoy the lower lows and higher highs with this fascinating, eye-catching, and feature-packed home theater subwoofer.

Sonos Sub (Gen 3) Verdict

You’ll first want to make sure your home theater system has enough power to support the Sonos Sub (Gen 3). Also, unlike other types of subwoofers, it doesn’t require any extra installation or wiring work.

Simply attach the cable from the module to your home entertainment setup and enjoy the precise bass that goes down to 25 Hz to create stunning listening and digital streaming vibes.

11. Polk Audio PSW10 10-Inch Powered Subwoofer

Polk Audio is a familiar name in the sound equipment industry that has improved product quality and prices over the years. Polk Audio PSW10 is just another product in its massive lineup that is ready to fuel the fun by pairing it with your home theater.

What You Will Get in the Box? (Unboxing)

The Polk Audio PSW10 parcel was a long due, but it came right on time, just after our soundbar. So, we didn’t have a reason to hold unboxing, so I got into it instantly.

It came in a medium-sized brown box with all the information about my order, the product, and the sender. Right after I opened the box, there were some documents, including the user manual and an online registration card. We don’t need it, as we are pretty much familiar with the subwoofer setup.

There is a lot of packaging material in the box to keep the powered subwoofer safe throughout shipping. Then I brought out the woofer, which was quite heavy for me. The box had a grill and a power cord to get it started.

Design

PSW10 has a modern, classy, clean look with its shiny black finish and angled front grille. It is compact yet still includes powerful bass and clear mids and highs for a premium listening experience.

Subwoofer Size

The subwoofer is just 14.5 inches tall, 14 inches wide, and 15 inches deep, and the MDF enclosure cabinet combines to make it only 26 pounds. It may sound bulky, but we could easily move it around to find the sweet spot for its performance.

Built-in Driver

Unfortunately, it is only available in vinyl or black color, but its elegant look brightens the room. Under the grille are a 10-inches woofer and 50W amplifier that combines to produce heavy bass sound with great clarity.

Inputs and Controls

The connectivity is pretty basic and limited to speaker-level outputs and inputs and RCA line-level input collection. Like any other mid-range subwoofer, the controls are located at the backside, including volume control, phase switch, low pass crossover at 80 to 160Hz, and power toggle.

However, lacking LFE inputs for direct connections and magnetic shields raises some questions. While placed near other components or TV, it may cause some electrical interference. Fortunately, we weren’t bothered by the sound quality.

Power Output

Furthermore, the bass quality is surprisingly unbelievable, fueling the amp up to 100W of dynamic power for the deep, rich, and tight bass. The frequency response is not impressive, but 40 to 160Hz at -3dB can give you the intense sound upgrade you’re looking for.

Performance

The subwoofer performs radically for different kinds of content, especially bass-heavy content. The 100W power output is enough to fill the small room with staggering and low-distortion sound.

It performed amazingly with movies, games, and music, and the low-end frequencies were hitting right to create cinematic vibes. Besides, we tested it on different volume levels, and it didn’t disappoint us with its clear, clean, and loud bass.

Versatile Profile

The variable crossover control lets you adjust the frequency level from 40 – 160Hz, so you get the preferred sound and bass quality according to the content. It is designed to pair with any existing system for movies, shows, and hi-fi music streaming.

Polk Audio PSW10 Verdict

 If you’re in the market for a powerful subwoofer to add some bass response to your home theater or music listening experience, the Polk Audio PSW10 should definitely be on your radar.

Unlike other subwoofers at this price, it is designed with high-quality performance in mind, and its power and versatility make it an excellent choice for a variety of applications. Plus, its attractive price point makes it great value too.

12. Monoprice 108248 Powered Subwoofer

The 60W Monoprice powered subwoofer is incredible for your home theater system. This subwoofer comes with all the features you could ask for besides the super compact and catchy design.

What You Will Get in the Box?

This product results from the unlimited demands we got from you, so after waiting patiently for us to drop the prices a little, we had to test it. It is a basic, compact woofer, and its packaging is like that.

We received two boxes, one with the woofer and the other with a power cable and adapter. So without making myself wait, I started unboxing, and to my surprise, there was another box to keep the woofer safe and secure throughout the shipping.

But when we opened the woofer box, we got the user manual, and there was a woofer that looked big than the pictures we saw online. It is actually a great-looking and performing subwoofer at this price.

Design

Talking about the design, it’s quite a simple solid box with a black cloth on top and bottom that looks like it should be hiding something. But it doesn’t because there is nothing to hide except a compelling, evolving 8-inch woofer.

Kick-Off Feature

Its automatic power on/off feature is valuable, it makes it functional as soon as it receives an audio signal and saves a huge chunk of your utility bills by turning it off when not in use. It adds value to the system long-term, so we really liked the feature.

Subwoofer Size

That said, the subwoofer size is perfect for use in a home theater system or anywhere else you want some extra bass but don’t want to be overboard with space. It measures just over 4 inches tall and around 6 inches wide, so that it might suit well in offices, studios, gyms, etc.

The frequency response range is 50 to 250Hz, with a low pass crossover filter at 50 to 150Hz. There are also a couple of control levels, including volume, a frequency knob, gain level control, and crossover filter to balance the bass with your speakers and stereo.

Frequency Response Range

However, the bass is not tight or precise, and we didn’t expect much from a budget home theater subwoofer. It is still heavy and loud enough to be a fun addition to any system, and you can power it up to add some bass boost.

Performance

The subwoofer produces high-quality, thrilling bass, which is unusual for a compact subwoofer. It was enough to fill our room with a tight bass punch that we could feel in our chests, and the sound quality wasn’t compromised at all.

The bass notes were adjusting smartly according to the sound level and quality, and we realized it after testing it with gaming and shows. But the sound was next-level when we played the bass-heavy content on Spotify.

Inputs

On the upside, multiple input options, including high-level inputs with corresponding output, make it versatile for any existing stereo. Using a standard system, you can connect to the left/right line level, and the subwoofer will combine the signals to drive the woofer. 

60W Monoprice Verdict

 Monoprice 60W subwoofer is a powerful extension of your listening experience. This versatile product is designed to deliver bass performance that meets the needs of most music enthusiasts like us, even those with small spaces.

Compared to other 8-inch products we tested, we found it more thrilling, loud, and smart with producing customized bass notes. So, if you are looking for a way to get the most out of your stereo system, it’s time to upgrade your bass speakers with a Monoprice 60W subwoofer.

13. Klipsch R-12SW 12-Inch Subwoofer

Klipsch is a massive name in the subwoofer industry, with an extensive lineup of powerful active and passive subwoofers designed for home theater setups. This particular unit, Klipsch R-12SW, is another device that throws boosting bass from the front.

What You Will Get in the Box (Unboxing)

Unboxing Klipsch products has always been fun because they are easy to handle, and we can kickstart it in no time. Here we have this R-12SW unit from the brand that came within two weeks after ordering, and we appreciate its early arrival to make our entertainment lives lively.

Like other products from the brand, it came in a Klipsch box with all the information already written. When we opened the box, we found packaging material with a user manual and power cord at the top and the woofer underneath safely sitting.

Design

Klipsch R-12SW is a cost-effective powered subwoofer with a solid profile, necessary controls, and an easy setup to give you a sigh of relief. It comes in a traditional cabinet design, and the copper-spun construction gives it a minimal yet appealing look to blend in any environment.

Subwoofer Size

Like its other sibling, Klipsch R-120SW, it is also quite heavy, weighing around 33 pounds, but the setup, placement, and movement are surprisingly smooth with the rubber feet at the bottom.

The front panel has a removable foam grill that gives a fashion statement while making it look expensive. The solid MDF construction makes it durable, and the black polymer finish makes it trendy for homes.

Built-in Driver

Behind the grille is a 120-inches driver that does all the magic and delivers intense, deep, and clear bass despite the volume levels and music genres. The low distortion rate makes it filter the precise low notes and deliver them with great intensity.

Performance

Klipsch never compromised the sound’s clarity, and we tested this unit with different sound outputs, but there were no noticeable distortions. Also, with the lowpass filter control, you can enjoy deep low-end frequencies while deciding how much will pass through the sub.

Power Output

Since we are trying to cover every aspect of the subwoofer, we cannot forget the power rating of this 12-inch device. Klipsch R-12SW is rated at 400W dynamic power and 200W RMS. It should be enough to produce heavy, deep, and precise bass while pushing it more to do beyond that.

Built-in Driver and Amp

The built-in digital amplifier is also powerful enough to generate enough power to occupy the listeners with a high-quality loud sound. The front-firing woofer also makes the device versatile enough in terms of placement.

Controls

Additionally, it also features the gain and phase switch control that allows you to adjust the audio signals from the receiver and electrical delays. So, it is a well-designed subwoofer for any home theater setup.

Frequency Response Range

The subwoofer’s frequency response is not bad, but not impressive either; with 29 Hz to 120 Hz, you will focus on specific frequencies and emphasize it more with the control levels.

Wireless Connection with a Kit  

Now it’s time to highlight the product feature which differentiates it from its siblings and competitors. Yes, despite the affordable price and limited features, the Klipsch R-12SW offers a wireless connection option with the included kit.

What is lacking?

Despite all the impressive features and imposing profile, the lack of a remote for easy controlling and customizing the subwoofer is disturbing us. A basic remote for volume adjustment and Bluetooth support wouldn’t be harmful.

Klipsch R-12SW Verdict 

Klipsch R-12SW subwoofer is a high-performing loudspeaker with a powerful bass punch with 400W peak dynamic power. It is an ideal speaker to connect with your home theater systems and vehicles to get a thrilling, distortion-free, and loud sound.

14. Acoustic Audio PSW-10 Down Firing Powered Subwoofer

The PSW-10 is a 400W subwoofer specifically designed to handle the needs of bass-heavy music, movies, and games. It comes in a traditional wooden textured design, but the quality is outstanding, made to last long with your home theater setup.

What You Will Get in the Box? (Unboxing)

The Acoustic Audio PSW-10 subwoofer arrived well-packaged and in great condition. When we received the PSW-10, we unpacked it and set it up in our basement. First, we noted how small it was compared to other subwoofers we have used, which were claimed to be compact and lightweight.

It’s about the size of a large coffee table, and it’s very easy to move around. The next thing we did was connect it to my home theater system. To do this, we plugged it into an input on my receiver, and thankfully, it came in the box. There was also a long, high-quality power cord with a user manual for beginners.

Size and Design

The compact size of the sub fits anywhere (except under the furniture), but it is large enough to throw intense bass notes when playing music. Apparently, it comes with two sets of adjustable feet, so you can adjust its position according to your needs and preferences.

Built-in Driver

The box hosts a 10-inches woofer made of high-density polymer, which means it has a highly rigid structure and can take a lot of punishment without breaking. The box also has a large enough surface area, making it more efficient at moving air than other subwoofers.

Frequency Response Range

Additionally, the frequency response of 20-200Hz makes it flexible to handle most types of music without distorting it in any way. Its tight bass output is due to the 10-inch powerful driver and voice coils, which work together to provide the best possible sound quality for your money.

Power Output

The 400W of power output at 8-ohms and 97dB sensitivity hint at the quality of bass at high volumes despite the content you are watching. It is well-preferred for music, gaming, movies, and shows.

Built-in Amp

The built-in amplifier makes it versatile, so you can easily connect to any receiver with a compatible connection source. The digital amplifier is fully optimized for power and easy controls and also features gain level adjustment and variable low pass frequency for quick customizations.

Controls

Moreover, its controls are quite easy to use, including two front buttons for volume control. There is also a pause button on top, which we like the most. It also gives you phase control, adjustable gain levels, and line-level inputs for connections.

Kick-Off Feature

How about saving power and getting the most out of your sound-blasting device? Yes, it is possible with this compact subwoofer for home theater that features auto-sensing on/off, which ultimately helps with power saving. 

Acoustic PSW-10 Verdict

Acoustic PSW-10 is a well-built versatile subwoofer for the home theater that comes with a built-in digital amplifier powered by 400W output power for the banging and tight bass performance.

Connecting the device is extremely convenient compared to other subwoofers I have tested. When we plugged in and connected to the system, PSW-10 smartly handled all the power my home theater could muster without distorting or producing any strange noise.

It is one of the best subwoofers we tested, and hence recommend it to all the audiophiles out there.

15. Klipsch R-100SW Deep Bass Subwoofer

Klipsch R-100SW is an ideal subwoofer for small places with the space-saving 10-inches profile, ready to bring a battering sound with great bass depth to vibrate the whole space and give you a dreamy home theater experience.

What You Will Get in the Box? (Unboxing)

Klipsch R-100SW was our spontaneous purchase, but its excellent performance and solid build quality made us added to the list of the best home theater subwoofer in 2022. It is the most user-friendly and cost-effective subwoofer we could find.

It was like a smooth chain from unpacking to assembling and connecting it to my home theater. After removing the bubble wrap, the subwoofer was housed in a well-packed brown box with a subwoofer picture on it.

After unboxing, we found a subwoofer itself with a power cable and a user manual. There was also an RCA cable and an adapter to get it started.

Subwoofer Size

Its outer profile is no different than other Klipsch home subwoofers. With the measurements of 14.5 x 12.5 x 16.4 inches, it won’t consume much space and easily fits within your existing entertainment setup.

Design

The clean texture might not add value to your home décor, but the dust-proof grille at the front may catch your attention. Its flexible profile lets you pair it with any existing setup and enjoy the powerful audio output it offers.

Built-in Driver

On the upside, the integrated copper spun woofer ensures the sound coming from the sides and front fills up the entire room in no time. The 10-inches IMF woofer may not be dreamy and top-notch, but it covers you with deep and surrounding sound.

Inputs and Controls

Moreover, the subwoofer also features some basic controls like a variable lowpass crossover that allows the low-frequencies to pass through the sub with full potential and deliver an acoustic bass.

You can also fine-tune the subwoofer volume and output with the phase switch. Additionally, the connectivity measures are basic, like other entry-level subwoofers of Klipsch, limited to LFE RCA input.

Power Output

You can link the subwoofer with any speaker system compatible with the connectivity and enjoy its high sounding levels with a power output of 300W. The built-in digital amplifier has an RMS power of 150W, which may be limited but enough to receive deep and punchy bass.

Auto On/Off

We also loved the auto power-on feature that eliminates the need to manually turn on the sub while reaching its rear side. Whenever it gets any sound signal from the surrounding, it starts performing.

Frequency Response Range

However, we can debate its price tag because the frequency response of 32 Hz to 120 Hz indicates it cannot produce frequencies lower than that, which is quite disappointing. Audiophiles who crave low-end frequencies to sound precise and deep won’t be getting much out of it.

Warranty

On the upside, the 50-year warranty of the woofer and 2-year amplifier give us hope to utilize it at its full potential without fear of damage. At last, it can be a great addition to any home theater setup that needs an intense boost at high volume while not focusing much on extremely low frequencies. 

Klipsch R-100SW Verdict

The Klipsch R-100SW is a perfect match for audiophiles and music enthusiasts who want to enjoy their favorite music tracks at loud volumes with a perfect bass punch. The subwoofer comes in a 10-inch woofer size with 300W peak power.

While testing, the bass reflex enclosure complimented the bass performance and made it rich enough to fill the space while lowering the burden of other speakers in the home theater system.

16. Yamaha NS-SW050BL 8-Inch Powered Subwoofer

Yamaha is a brand that doesn’t need an introduction, and everybody is well aware of its high-definition lineup of TVs, soundbars, and subwoofers. It perfectly balances price, quality, and performance, and NS-SW050BL is a flawless example.

What You Will Get in the Box? (Unboxing)

Yamaha is definitely a consumer brand, so the ordering and shipping process of its products was seamless. We ordered a soundbar with rear speakers and an NS-SW050BL subwoofer, and all of them came with well-packing material.

As soon as I opened the box, I was surprised to see the flawless subwoofer. At the top, there was a user manual, warranty card, and power cable, and then there was a subwoofer itself. Thankfully, it wasn’t heavy at all, so unboxing it and placing it on the floor wasn’t a hassle.

Since the power cable comes along with an adapter, we didn’t waste much time and started setting it up with the home theater setup. 

Performance

Yamaha NS-SW050bl is an 8-inch masterpiece from the brand that shockingly delivers accurate and clean bass while offering compatibility with any setup you have. Though we tested it with 3.1 setups, it blew our minds with extraordinary performance.

Subwoofer Size and Design

The 8-inch black textured subwoofer doesn’t need much space on your floor to get comfortable, and only the 18.7 lbs cabinet wouldn’t bother you during the placement. However, the exterior has nothing exciting to offer except a grille.

Frequency Response Range

The floor-standing subwoofer knows its job and can contribute to the home theater setup with low-end frequencies, with a significant focus on 28-200Hz frequency. As much as we adore the frequency response range, its ability to go loud with no distortions is fantastic.

Accurate Bass

Another contribution could be a twisted flared port at the side that deals with the air turbulence noise that helps the Yamaha sub to produce accurate, clean, and distortion-free sound and different volume levels.

Sound Quality

Speaking of sound volume, the sound quality of the Yamaha products’ low or extreme listening levels is fascinating. You can expect enjoyable mids, highs, and lows when hooking the woofer to the receiver. Ready for the goosebumps?

Additionally, the compact subwoofer integrated the advanced version of the negative impedance converter, ensuring the low-end range delivers with great accuracy, eventually powering the bass to become more punchy, thundering, and deep.

Power Output

Another bomb thrown to us was 100W dynamic power, which clearly indicates t can only produce a power output of 100W. It might sound too low, but it should be more than enough for this small cabinet box.

Controls

However, considering it is an entry-level budgeted subwoofer, it doesn’t have any advanced tuning or control options except volume control. It is more of a plug-and-play type subwoofer that can give you a real sense of bass. 

Yamaha NS-SW050BL Verdict

The Yamaha NS-SW050BL is a compact, powerful, and affordable unit with a lot of basses. The small subwoofer gives a heavy punch, but its compatibility with any home theater setup is what caught our attention.

Also, it is relatively easy to install and has a wide frequency response range, makings the woofer focus on the low-end frequencies and reproducing them with more power and thirst.

Best Home Theater Subwoofer (Ultimate Buying Guide?

With so many preferences out there, it can be tough to identify where to start when shopping for the best home theater subwoofer.

The best brands out there strive to meet the latest quality standards by manufacturing all kinds of subwoofers with a diversity of controls, inputs, and sizes, so it might also confuse the buyer.

Therefore, we have reviewed the best subwoofers on the market and put together this detailed buying guide so you can decide which one is right for you while aligning your requirements with the best available products.

Here are some of the essential factors that we looked at when choosing our top picks:

Active Vs. Passive Subwoofer

Subwoofers are designed to maximize your home theater system’s bass output while providing lots of control over the sound quality and clarity of your movies and music. The subwoofer design is classified into two main types; active and passive.

In simpler terms, active subwoofers have amplifiers built into them, while passive ones do not. Active subs have more control over the sound they produce because of better built-in amps compatible with the woofer.

Additionally, active subwoofers typically have better bass extension and clarity than their passive counterparts, but they are quite expensive because they need more power to operate/function properly.

Passive subwoofers may sound cheap compared to active ones, but when you purchase the compatible amplifier, it should cost you almost the same. So, the decision can be made based on your usage, listening habits, power requirements, space, and budget.

Check our detailed Guide on Active VS Passive Subwoofer

Design

The subwoofer design is the most important facet of your home theater. Surprisingly subwoofers come in a variety of shapes and designs, but a box or cabinet shape is the most common one.

Sometimes the wooden cabinet has a grainy texture or some shiny finishing to make it more appealing to the eyes, but mostly the surfaces are plain to reduce the price tag. We have also seen the finger-print proof surfaces that are quite a valuable add-on.

On the other hand, when we talk about the enclosure types, there are many, including vented, bass-reflex, ported, etc.

You can get the enclosure according to your preferences and convenience. But remember, a subwoofer should be able to produce deep and rich bass without distorting the sound, and it should also provide enough output even from under the enclosure so that the connected speakers don’t have to work as hard.

Subwoofer Sizes

Like designs and enclosures, subwoofers come in different sizes and vary with their measurements. And in the world of subwoofers for home theater, size always matters.

You can find home subwoofers from 8-inches size to the 12-inches that you can choose according to your space. But remember, the quality and range of the bass will depend highly on the size of the subwoofer.

It is a simple theory. The subwoofer enclosure has a circular cone, which we call a driver or a woofer, responsible for producing sound- particularly the bass. The low-end frequencies move through the air, which consumes more energy than we could imagine, so it is safe to assume that the bigger driver can put out more energy and produce a deeper sound.

But, the big driver means the massive enclosure to make it home to stay and perform at its full potential. Therefore, the chain comes back to the buyer’s space availability. If you can host a 12-inches subwoofer that would go well with your existing entertainment setup, then we surely recommend that.

12-inches subwoofers come with a variety of control options and are not heavy at a price. On the other hand, if your room space is around 100 to 150 square feet and you own a mid-range sound setup, you can go for a 10-inches subwoofer.

Room Size

The size of your room or wherever you plan to put your subwoofer will determine how much power your subwoofer needs- and how much space it will take up on your floor and wall.

So, decide beforehand about the placement and then get the subwoofer accordingly. Remember it is a center but the most important piece of the setup, so it needs to have a place where it can stand with full confidence, offer a smooth wired connection, and let you reach to the back of it for controls.

Inputs

If you’re planning on adding a subwoofer to an existing home theater setup. In that case, you’ll probably want to connect it directly to your amplifier instead of using an external amp or receiver.

It will allow you to control your subwoofer’s volume with the same remote control that manages all of your other components in your home theater setup. So, start with some questions, like;

How many inputs does it have? Does it have a line-level input as well as an RCA input? Because these are the kinds of inputs that usually all receivers have, their availability makes the subwoofer flexible enough to pair with any receiver or sound system.

While reviewing the products, we looked for ones that at least have a line-level input to ensure extensive pairing. However, many subwoofers come with an Aux cable port, Digital audio output, Analog, Bluetooth, and WiFi to encourage smooth or stable wired and wireless connections.

Easy Setup

The home subwoofer should be easy to set up, and the controls should be easy to locate for the user’s convenience. Usually, the power button, inputs, and all the controls, including the volume adjustment knob, are presented on the subwoofer’s back side.

We have added the best subwoofers that require powering up the device, connecting it with the setup, and turning the power button on. No calibration, tuning, and controls need to adjust until necessary.

Also, many subwoofers come with a remote that allows you to manage the volume and adjust the control without messing up with confusing toggles or knobs at the back of the device.

Frequency Response Range

A subwoofer can capture the low-end frequencies from the sound and make them more compelling, while the amplifier powers the signals to produce deeper and much cleaner bass.

Even though the full-range speakers perform incredibly well, a subwoofer is only designed to lower their burden and improve the sound quality while adding the actual depth of bass.

And when you read the specs of the subwoofer, you must come across the frequency response range. It refers to those frequencies that the subwoofer picks up, filters out, and plays with them. So, the typical range of any good subwoofer is between 20Hz to 200Hz, which should do great for everyday music listening, watching movies, and gaming.

However, for professional music streaming, you can find subwoofers going below 100Hz and producing richer sounds with accurate, thundering, and blasting bass. Unfortunately, you wouldn’t find such subwoofers in our list.

Bass Quality

It’s an obvious factor to consider when choosing the right subwoofer for your home theater setup. High bass quality should be your utmost priority when spending this huge amount on extra equipment, so it should meet your expectations.

However, you must be extra careful when testing the subwoofer of your dreams. Sometimes when we play certain music, it doesn’t have the low-end frequencies that a subwoofer is supposed to filter and boost, and we misunderstand its job. Not to mention we sometimes curse our purchase.

Hence, first, you need to be clear about the music that has low-end frequencies and then utilizes the subwoofer. Second, the bass should be so loud that you feel the vibrations in your body, deep enough to get inside of your head, and accurate enough to understand.

We have seen the subwoofers that bang your windows and doors with heavy sound with no distortion and clarity compromise, but it all comes down to an individual’s listening preferences. Better check before making the decision. 

Controls

The purpose of phase switch and crossover control is to adjust the frequency response and level of low-frequency sound in your subwoofer. The frequency of a low-frequency sound is measured in Herts  (Hz), and the level of low-frequency sound is measured in decibels (dB). This can be done using a crossover control or by adjusting the phase of your sub-driver.

The main function of both controls is to separate the frequencies produced by the subwoofer into different ranges that can be amplified individually.

The low-frequency range, which produces bass notes, is sent through one channel while the higher-frequency range, which produces treble notes, is sent through another channel. This allows you to adjust how much bass and treble you want for your subwoofer without worrying about how much power it needs.

In short, the crossover control also allows you to adjust the frequency level of the subwoofer so that they match well with your main speakers. It is useful because it ensures every frequency plays harmoniously to bring out the details in your music.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Bottom Line

Undoubtedly, subwoofers are the key to a great home theater setup. Subs can make your movie-viewing experience much more fun and highlight the details in the soundtracks of whatever you stream. That’s why choosing the right sub for your setup is essential.

We have reviewed the top-class best home theater subwoofer in the market. They offer features that justify the price tag and are capable enough to turn your music-listening game.

Besides, the detailed buying guide will help you know about this ever-evolving technology-oriented product.