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Are you a bass lover on a budget? Look no further because we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’re going to unleash the power of bass with our carefully curated list of the top 10 subwoofers under $500. With these affordable options, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy deep, rich sound.
Whether you’re a music enthusiast or a movie buff, a high-quality subwoofer can take your audio experience to the next level. From explosive movie scenes to heart-pounding beats, these subwoofers will thoroughly enhance your audio setup without emptying your wallet.
We’ve done the research, so you don’t have to. Our list includes reputable brands known for their exceptional sound quality and durability.
So, whether you’re setting up a surround sound system in your living room or upgrading your car audio, you can trust that these subwoofers will deliver the bass you crave.
Get ready to feel the rumble without breaking your budget. Discover the top 10 subwoofers under $500 and elevate your audio experience like never before.
If you want great quality bass on a budget then you’ve come to the right place. Additionally, if you are interested in the best wireless subwoofers then check out this article!
Alternatively, check out this article if you’re trying to set up an LG subwoofer with a soundbar.
Let’s get reviewing! Here’s a short overview of our top 10 and we’ll go into further detail shortly…
Focus on models that offer a powerful and deep low-end response while staying within your budget constraints.
Consider the room size and acoustic properties to match the subwoofer’s capabilities to your space.
Look for additional features like adjustable settings and connectivity options that enhance customization.
Our List of 10 Best Subwoofers Under $500
We have reviewed many subwoofers under the price of $500 so we could select the best ones for you and here is a quick overview of our choices and why…
| Product Name | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| 1. JBL Professional LSR310S | • Slip streamed port • Gets impressively low • Really good value | • Larger • Rattles things in your room so careful placement is needed |
| 2. Polk Audio PSW10 10″ | • Versatile with music, movies & games • Includes both speaker level & line level inputs • Compatible with any speaker setup | • No LFE input • Bandwidth can only go down to 40hz • Better for a computer set-up with satellite speakers |
| 3. Bose Bass Module 500 | • Wireless • ADAPTiQ Audio Room Calibration • Powerful bass that fills the room | • Only compatible with Bose soundbars 300, 500, 700, and 900 • Designed for a smaller space • Only supports Dolby Digital |
| 4. Yamaha HS8 Studio Subwoofer | • Includes a phase switch • Impressive engineering • More functionality than other subs • Compatible with any speakers | • More suited to music producing • More appropriate for a moderate-sized garage studio • Lower frequencies can be underwhelming |
| 5. Definitive Technology Descend DN8 8″ | • Compact 8″ but sounds like 10″ • Tight, accurate & controlled bass • Two bass radiators to get the best of both sealed and ported subs. | • Ground-shaking bass • Limited controls – no phase switch |
| 6. Klipsch R-12SW 12″ | • Compatible with any brand of speakers • Wireless • Very good value | • Careful placement is needed as it does rattle surrounding furniture • Designed for larger spaces |
| 7. SVS SB-1000 Subwoofer | • 12″ driver • Compatible with other branded speakers • tight controlled music bass | • Better for movies, not too great for music • Not room-shaking bass • Large sub |
| 8. Sony SACS9 10-Inch | • Good value for its price • Easy tuning process • Receives low frequencies well | • Lower power output • Only powerful enough for bookshelf/desktop speakers. |
| 9. Q Acoustics 3070 Active Subwoofer | • Two woofers • Cables come through the bottom • Gets decent lows | • Nice simple design • Good Customization • Wireless add-on option |
| 10. Audioengine S8 250W | • Nice simple design • Good Customization • Wireless add-on option | • Only works with Audioengine speakers • Sometimes sound not clean • Not super compatible with Audioengine HD6s |
Why is the JBL Professional LSR310S rated the best?
Why You Need a Subwoofer for Your Audio System
When it comes to audio systems, the bass is what adds depth and impact to your listening experience. While regular speakers can produce sound across a wide frequency range, they cannot often reproduce low-frequency sounds with accuracy and power.
This is where a subwoofer comes in. A subwoofer is a specialized speaker that focuses on reproducing low-frequency sounds, commonly referred to as bass. By adding a subwoofer to your audio setup, you can transform the way you listen to music, watch movies, and even play games.
The benefits of a subwoofer in your audio setup are undeniable. Firstly, a subwoofer enhances the overall sound quality by providing a more balanced and immersive listening experience.
It allows you to hear and feel the deep, rumbling bass that is often missing from regular speakers. In addition, a subwoofer can help to reduce the strain on your main speakers, allowing them to focus on reproducing mid-range and high-frequency sounds more accurately. This not only improves the sound quality but also extends the lifespan of your speakers.
Furthermore, a subwoofer can greatly enhance your movie-watching experience. Explosions, car chases, and intense action scenes are brought to life with a powerful subwoofer, making you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action.
Similarly, for music enthusiasts, a subwoofer can add depth and richness to your favorite songs, allowing you to hear every beat and note with precision. Whether you’re a casual listener or an audiophile, a subwoofer is valuable to any home or car audio system.
Understanding Subwoofer Specifications and Terminology
When shopping for a subwoofer under $500, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you get the best value for your money. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
1. Sound Quality
The most important factor to consider is the sound quality. Look for subwoofers that offer accurate and powerful bass reproduction without distortion. Read reviews and listen to demos if possible to gauge the sound quality before making a purchase.
2. Build Quality
A subwoofer should be built to last, especially if you plan on using it for years to come. Look for subwoofers made from high-quality materials and with solid construction. This will ensure durability and longevity.
3. Compatibility
Check the compatibility of the subwoofer with your existing audio setup. Ensure that it has the necessary inputs and outputs to connect to your amplifier or receiver. Additionally, consider the size and weight of the subwoofer to ensure it fits in your desired location.
4. Room Size
Consider the size of the room where the subwoofer will be placed. Larger rooms may require more powerful subwoofers to fill the space with deep bass. Smaller rooms may benefit from compact subwoofers that still deliver a punch.
5. Warranty and Customer Support
Look for subwoofers that come with a warranty and reliable customer support. This will provide peace of mind knowing that you’re covered in case of any issues or defects.
By considering these factors, you’ll be able to narrow down your options and find the perfect subwoofer that fits your budget and audio needs.
Under $500 Subwoofer Buyer’s Guide
Here we will go into a little more detail about the subwoofers we have chosen to be on our list today and some of the pros and cons they have!
1. JBL Professional LSR310S 10-inch
Product Dimensions: 17.65 x 15.65 x 15 inches
Item Weight: 34.3 pounds
Manufacturer: JBL Professional
Speaker Type: Subwoofer
Connectivity: 2 x XLR, 2 x TRS Balanced
Special Feature: Built-in microphone
We thought the JBL Professional LR310S 10″ was the best budget subwoofer for under $500.
It’s a total bargain given all its features, making this a great subwoofer for under $500.
Its capacity to get down as low as 27 hertz is impressive. The subwoofer also establishes the highs and lows well.
We like its simple and effective design, It’s versatile and can fit in with the room style nicely.
Take a look at this short JBL Professional LR310S 10″ review.
Features
This is a ported sub which is unusual for lower-budget models. This means it can get surprisingly low and deliver awesome sound effects during movies and gaming.
It is also down-firing which means the woofer is facing the bottom. This allows the sound waves to ripple along the floor, creating a more immersive experience.
Additionally, it has a feature JBL called ‘XLF mode’ which gives added depth to bass placement to simulate a club environment. This feature is good for music producers and DJs who want to test what their music would sound like before live performances.
You can connect with other branded speakers if you already have some – making this an even better budget option. But, the subwoofer is designed to pair with the LSR305 studio monitors for a better audio experience.
You can buy these on Amazon with the subwoofer, Taking the overall budget a little over $500. But, it is worth it to get the full listening experience.
Things to Consider…
This subwoofer sounds better when placed in a bigger room, due to its power alone. We are still amazed that a sub for this price can deliver this kind of quality and the ability to reach very low bass.
With this being said, if you have a much smaller room you were thinking of placing a subwoofer, this could be overpowering.
The JBL Professional LSR310S is a 10-inch woofer but the actual product dimensions are 17.65 x 15.65 x 15 so it is a large model.
This means it would need a relatively large area to fit comfortably.
As it’s ported and down-firing the best placement for it would be on the floor with plenty of space around it.
You can’t cover the port as air needs to be able to move around the tunnel freely.
You can watch movies, games… etc with this sub but it is primarily for a studio setup for music and producing. In saying that, we did find it works well for both areas.
Lastly, the placement of the subwoofer needs to be away from anything fragile as it does deliver that room-rattling bass, it does shake things.
2. Polk Audio PSW10 10″
Product Dimensions: 16.2 x 14 x 14.4 inches
Item Weight: 26 pounds
Manufacturer: Polk Audio
Speaker Type: Subwoofer
Connectivity: RCA
We’ve chosen to rank the Polk Audio PSW10 at #2.
We thought this model had good features and was impressive for the under $500 price tag.
Some of those features include the model being versatile for movies, gaming, and music. This is good for those looking to add a subwoofer to their setup for various things.
Features
The PSW10 is compatible with any brand of speaker setup, making it a very budget-friendly subwoofer.
The front-firing sub has a silver face which comes with a black mesh grill you can add to it if you wish.
Moreover, because this is a front-firing design you can place it on a bookcase, table or cabinet…etc.
Having the sub placed a little higher will allow the sound waves to travel straight to your ears without obstruction. This allows more clarity.
It’s a classic design with a control panel located on the back but it does have an auto-on/off feature. This is set to automatically come on when in use and power off after 15 minutes of inactivity.
The control panel does have speaker-level & line-level inputs but unfortunately no LFE input.
We’ve often seen with Polk you can turn their subwoofers very loud without distortion or compromise to the accuracy of the bass.
This is because they use laser-based Klippel Distortion which is used with this one.
Things to Consider…
This subwoofer is more suited to smaller rooms and apartments. If placed in a larger room it does run the risk of being underwhelming.
The design is quite outdated but as mentioned does come with a grill so could easily be disguised.
It can reach loud volumes without distortion, but the bandwidth can only go as low as 40 hertz. But, this can be expected for the price range.
This model will work with most speaker types however it can perform its best with a computer set-up with satellite speakers.
Lastly, if you have high-quality speakers this subwoofer won’t dramatically enhance them. This subwoofer is a good addition for moderate speakers, in a smaller space.
If you want more insight into the specifications of this sub then visit the Polk subwoofer model page on the Polk website.
3. Bose Bass Module 500
Product Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 9.5 inches
Item Weight: 11 pounds
Manufacturer: Bose
Speaker Type: Subwoofer
Connectivity: Wireless
Special Feature: Wireless connectivity, 30 feet range, compact, powerful premium bass
We loved the design of the Bose Bass Module 500 and super compact weighing in at 11 pounds.
It is also a nice 10″ cube making it portable and easy to fit in smaller spaces. We would go as far as to say this is the best small subwoofer on our list!
Features
This is our first wireless subwoofer on this list and it comes with all the perks of being wireless such as hassle-free setup and no wires on show.
We found it very powerful for its size and the bass fills the room. It helps that it has ADAPTiQ Audio Room Calibration which allows you to adjust the bass to suit the room acoustics. This allows the speakers and the sub to work in harmony.
This subwoofer is an ‘active subwoofer’ so does have a built-in amplifier. This means it uses an integrated power supply, providing a more intense sound with increased impact.
We thought this Bose model was versatile for both movies and music. Its ported feature enhanced those explosion scenes to an awesome chest-rumbling level!
It does have a voice-controlled feature which is a nice touch but can also be muted if you don’t want this feature. The Bose sub and speaker setup can all be controlled via the Bose app.
We think this model is excellent value for money and does include more features than most for its price.
Things to consider…
The Bose Bass Module 500 is unfortunately only compatible with the Bose soundbar 500, Bose soundbar 700, and SoundTouch 300.
As the subwoofer itself is pricey if you don’t already have one of the listed soundbars… it can be expensive to buy the full setup.
It does only support Dolby Digital as far as surround sound audio goes but it is awesome for watching movies and performs well.
The large model Bose Bass Module 700 does bring more bass compared to the 500. This makes the 500 more suited for smaller spaces.
The 700 model can also deliver more refined bass for a heftier price tag. However, if you want a subwoofer within a $500 budget that is more suitable for a smaller space then you are in luck!
4. Yamaha HS8 Studio Subwoofer
Product Dimensions: 16 x 18 x 18.5 inches
Item Weight: 33.6 pounds
Manufacturer: YAMAHA
Speaker Type: Subwoofer
Connectivity: XLR
This is a powerful, compact subwoofer and we thought it deserved its place on our list.
It’s great value and suited to a studio setup. This subwoofer is portable due to its size and is easy to set up anywhere.
This is a great choice if you want a subwoofer for music only.
Features
The Yamaha HS8 is compatible with any speaker setup, making it a good option if you only want an accessory to current speakers.
We are impressed with the compact engineering and its ability to deliver tight bass with its down-firing subwoofer.
This sub can deliver high-end bass well too, ranging overall 80-100hz.
It has more functionality than other subwoofers in this price range. These are features like a phase switch which can be set to 0 – 180 degrees.
This helps the sub integrate with your chosen speakers more by adding a delay to the signal.
It also has good stereo imaging to create space for the listener and add depth within a 180-degree stereo field. This feature makes it awesome for music production and listening.
The Yamaha Hs5 desktop speakers work well with this sub for a full studio setup but as mentioned, they are compatible with other speakers.
Things to Consider…
As mentioned before, this sub is more suited to a studio setup. Moreover, because of its size, we would recommend it for a moderate-sized/garage-style studio.
It is also best suited for music production. So this means if you want to use it for movies and gaming we suggest taking a look at our other subwoofers on the list.
This model has JUST made it to our list for a total of $499, a dollar under our benchmark! However, it does include some kick-ass features that make it worth it.
It does list a 22Hz – 150Hz frequency response but unfortunately, we could only get it down to around 80Hz. This makes the lower frequencies a little underwhelming at times.
5. Definitive Technology Descend DN8 8″
Product Dimensions: 12.8 x 12 x 13.1 inches
Item Weight: 32.1 pounds
Manufacturer: Definitive Technology
Speaker Type: Subwoofer
Connectivity: RCA
This is a great small subwoofer for under $500. The Definitive Technology Descend DN8 8” deserves its place at #5 for good reason.
If you’re looking for something to fit just about anywhere and blend in with the decor, this could be the one for you!
Features
It has tight, accurate, and controlled bass. This is a front-firing subwoofer. This means plenty of placement options are available…
You could even place it on a bookshelf or cabinet so the sound waves travel straight to your ear to give you a great sound experience.
This subwoofer offers the best of both worlds with its two bass radiators on either side of the woofer. This allows it to have a good frequency response like sealed subs, whilst being able to get low and loud like a ported sub.
For an 8″ subwoofer this is very powerful and the boom gives the illusion it’s bigger than it is.
This sub is suitable for both movies and music and even on lower volumes, it delivers an impressive kick without distortion.
Additionally, it’s a good subwoofer for an audiophile as it plays on a two-channel system. This means when you play audio you can hear a nice depth to it you wouldn’t get from a one-channel mono.
This model is also available in white if you want a more modern touch to your sound setup.
Things to Consider…
It does offer ground-shaking bass so be aware of putting it next to anything delicate or fragile.
Unfortunately, the sub offers limited controls. There is no phase switch and doesn’t accept stereo pre-amplifier input.
It is on the top end of the $500 budget but it is worth it. It can work with any brand of sound setup which still makes it a good value option.
6. Klipsch R-12SW 12″
Product Dimensions: 14 x 18.5 x 16 inches
Item Weight: 33 pounds
Manufacturer: Klipsch
Speaker Type: Subwoofer
Connectivity: Wireless
Special Feature: Bass Boost, Built-In Microphone
Our second wireless model on the list is the Klipsch R-12SW 12″! We love a good wireless model, especially one as stylish as this one.
The copper woofer makes it eye-catching and unique to the Klipsch brand. let’s get started on showing you the features!
Features
It provides a low-frequency response you can listen to your audio with minimal distortion.
The MDF casing is built to withstand the vibrations making the woofer light and rigid.
This sub is a larger 12″ model. It weighs in at 33lbs and is wireless so you can move it around without getting tangled.
it also comes with an optional metal grill which you can have on or off.
We would consider the setup very hassle-free, instantly connecting to the speakers via the receiver wirelessly.
It is compatible with any brand of speakers so you can mix and match. This makes it helpful and cost-effective if you want to add a sub to an existing setup.
It does have a small LED light to show you when it is connected for simplicity.
This model has good feature controls including a phase switch, low pass crossover, and LFE input. Which some subwoofers within the 500 budget do not have.
Things to Consider…
This model is suited for larger spaces, but luckily, Klipsch has an 8″ and 10″ subwoofer in this model. So there are plenty of options if you want to place it in a smaller area.
This sub can be placed pretty much anywhere as mentioned before. However, it does rattle things around it with its bass, so it is best not to place it near anything too fragile.
The size of the sub is larger with it being 12″. This can cause some inconvenience when wanting to move it around due to its sturdy construction, making it not very portable.
If you are interested in more information about this sub, head over to read our Klipsch R-12SW sub review.
7. SVS SB-1000 Subwoofer
Product Dimensions: 14 x 13 x 13.5 inches
Item Weight: 27 pounds
Manufacturer: SVS
Speaker Type: Subwoofer
Connectivity: RCA
This is an example of a great-value subwoofer under $500.
Not only is it built for durability and long life with its rubber surround, but it also offers a 12″ driver and 325W of amplification.
But most importantly, let’s talk about why this sub has made it to the list…
Features
This is a sub with awesome bass power for its size. If you’re looking for some bass in a smaller space then this could be the one.
It is the smallest subwoofer SVS does, which makes it easy to disguise. It’s also super compact and portable.
The SVS SB-1000 comes with 2 pairs of wire inputs. This can be versatile for small home setups and home theater systems as you can set up 5-way speaker systems.
It does allow you to have greater control of the audio through its digital buttons and interface rather than the usual dial other subs provide.
There is an LED indicator on the front which shows you blue when it’s receiving signals and red for standby for simplicity. Additionally, it does have an auto on/off mode to save power.
This model is a front-firing sub which gives it a lot of placement options. Plus, being a sealed subwoofer it delivers tight, controlled bass which is ideal for delivering precision.
It is compatible with other branded speakers so this is ideal if you are looking for a subwoofer to add to a current setup.
Things to Consider…
This is a great entry-level subwoofer for anyone looking for that extra kick. However, it is better suited for a smaller room…
When placed in a larger space it can get lost and lack some bass. So a subwoofer for a larger room is what you’re looking for – we would recommend going for a more powerful or larger model.
Lastly, the control panel is located on the back so can be inconvenient to change the settings. Fortunately, there is an SVS app that lets you adjust with ease.
8. Sony SACS9 10-Inch
Product Dimensions: 18.7 x 14.8 x 17.3 inches
Item Weight: 21 pounds
Manufacturer: Sony
Speaker Type: Subwoofer, Bookshelf, Coaxial
Connectivity: Coaxial
Special Feature: Foamed-Mica Cellular Reinforced Woofer; Speaker and Line Level Inputs; Built-in Phase Switch
The Sony SAC9 10-inch is a nice addition to a sound setup, and you can buy one of these for under budget.
It’s suitable for all movies, gaming, and music and delivers good quality when doing so, letting Sony live up to its high-end name.
Features
It has a removable cloth black grill which when removed has a navy blue woofer which is consistent with the Sony brand.
It also features controls that allow you to get the most out of the sub, such as a phase switch and tunable crossover.
The subwoofer does get down to a decent low of 28 Hz. You can’t argue with that for the current price!
It’s part of a 5.1.2 home theater setup that is compatible with Dolby Atmos and is an active subwoofer containing an amplifier.
The sub is light for a 10″ woofer which helps with portability. This allows you to move around with ease to find the best positioning.
We liked the tuning process as it was easy to do and alter the settings you want for the most benefit, although it doesn’t have the largest power output.
Lastly, it can be paired with other speakers which lowers the cost if you already own a speaker setup to add a subwoofer to.
Things to Consider…
This model is a standard sub, currently good value for money but wouldn’t recommend paying over the odds as pricing fluctuates.
It is only powerful enough to be compatible with desktop or bookshelf speakers. We wouldn’t recommend this model for a home theater setup despite its marketing.
As far as quality goes at this price level it is good, but in comparison, we do prefer the Polk Audio PSW10 as a competing sub.
One more thing to add is it does say it’s compact but it is quite a large model. Fortunately, It is lightweight so we would still class it as portable but something you may want to consider.
9. Q ACOUSTICS 3070
Product Dimensions: 16.54 x 7.87 x 15.75 inches
Item Weight: 29.9 pounds
Manufacturer: Q Acoustics
Speaker Type: Subwoofer
The Q Acoustics 3070 subwoofer makes it to the list for good reason.
It’s got two woofers, a dual amplifier and of course, it is a subwoofer within a $500 budget. What’s not to like?
Features
As mentioned, this model has two twin woofers instead of one large one like other subs.
This creates a better depth of sound as you’ve got two woofers responding to frequencies.
With the double woofers, it also has a powerful 140-watt amplifier built-in to produce that bounce-back and tight bass. Making movies more enjoyable.
Weighing in at around 30 lbs plus having a slim width of 200mm, this sub can fit nice and snug in places a traditional cube wouldn’t.
Not only does it have a more practical design, but it also has storage for cables when they are not in use.
We liked this feature as the wires can be kept together during transportation or for other purposes.
As well as this, it has a rectangular cut-out at the rear end where wires can be fed through. This makes the appearance look tidy and uncluttered.
Overall, we liked this model’s punchy, tight, and precise bass.
It’s a great-value subwoofer. It’s also compatible with any speaker setup, although it is part of a 3000 5.1 cinema range which is a ‘home cinema choice’ award winner.
Things to Consider…
This subwoofer doesn’t provide room-shaking bass. It’s designed for a lower price point so the quality doesn’t blow us away.
This sub is better suited to small to medium-sized rooms and wouldn’t be powerful enough for a large space.
For the price, it delivers well above its pay grade and we were impressed with the quality. But the bass could do with refining which is what you would expect for an entry-level sub.
It is quite tall so not considered portable although its slim width goes in its favor.
Lastly, this sub is part of a home theater system setup but we found it more compatible with music than movies.
10. Audioengine S8 250W
Product Dimensions: 11.25 x 11.25 x 11.25 inches
Item Weight: 30 pounds
Manufacturer: Audioengine
Speaker Type: Subwoofer
Connectivity: LFE, RCA, 3.5mm Analog Input
Last on our list – is the Audioengine S8 250W. It has a simple yet effective design and is available in black or white.
It has a solid and compact build with an 8″ down-firing subwoofer. Let’s look into why this one made the list.
Features
Its ability to deliver loud-sounding bass is impressive.
We found that you didn’t need the volume very high to achieve that rumbling bass.
It comes with sturdy screw-on rubber feet which give the down-firing subwoofer a little height to perform at its best.
The model has a nice, smooth cube design which has controls located on the back.
This is accompanied by an auto-on/off feature that powers off after 15 minutes of inactivity so great for saving power.
This is shown by an LED light on the back. It goes green when receiving a signal and red when it isn’t connected and on standby.
We are impressed by the subwoofer’s range of customization. It has a phase switch and crossover dial, allowing more control over the sound.
You can also connect a wireless adapter to the AC outlet. This makes the model wireless which helps minimize wires for a more seamless look and easier portability.
We thought the overall sleek look was a strong point as it would go nicely with modern decor. It also matches the Audioengine speaker design for a consistent-looking setup.
This subwoofer is a great addition to the Audioengine 5+ wireless speakers and is a great value option if you already own Audioengine speakers.
Things to Consider…
This subwoofer is only compatible with Audioengine speakers. So if you already own a pair this is a great value option to explore.
However, if you don’t then this option could prove costly and over our $500 limit as you would have to buy a full setup.
On the topic of speakers, out of all the Audioengine speakers, we didn’t find it compatible with HD6s. It didn’t compliment the sound well when paired with this model.
We recommend placing the sub on the floor, along a wall, and being cautious not to cover the tube. This is easy due to its compact size and performed its best under this placement.
Try not to place it near anything fragile as it does rattle with bass when pushed to near limits.
We felt sometimes the sound could do with tightening up a bit of precision in places. With that being said, it is a great option for a subwoofer under $500.
Take a look at this review of the subwoofer.
Top 10 Subwoofers Under $500 – Reviews and Comparisons
Once you’ve chosen the perfect subwoofer, it’s important to set it up and place it correctly for optimal performance. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your subwoofer:
1. Positioning: Experiment with different placements to find the best spot for your subwoofer. Ideally, it should be placed away from walls and corners to minimize any unwanted resonances. However, every room is different, so try different positions and listen for the best bass response.
2. Crossover settings: Adjust the crossover settings on your amplifier or receiver to ensure a seamless integration between your main speakers and the subwoofer. The crossover frequency determines the point at which the subwoofer takes over from the main speakers in reproducing bass frequencies. Set it to a frequency that complements your main speakers and provides a smooth transition.
3. Phase alignment: Check the phase alignment of the subwoofer with your main speakers. If the subwoofer is out of phase, it can result in cancellation and reduced bass response. Most subwoofers have a phase switch that allows you to adjust the phase. Experiment with different settings to find the best alignment.
4. Room acoustics: Consider the acoustics of your room when setting up your subwoofer. Large, open spaces may require more power or multiple subwoofers to fill the room with bass. On the other hand, smaller rooms may benefit from room treatments or bass traps to reduce any unwanted reflections or resonances.
By following these setup and placement tips, you’ll be able to maximize the performance of your subwoofer and enjoy deep, powerful bass that enhances your audio experience.
FAQs
How much should I pay for a subwoofer?
This is all relative to the size of the room you want the subwoofer in. If you have a smaller room and need an 8″ sub, then around $200 is a good starting point.
Of course, even with a smaller room you can spend more and get a greater level of quality. It does go without saying the more you spend the more features and higher quality you get.
But be cautious, some high-end subwoofers can be too powerful for a tiny room and you may not need to spend the earth to get it right! – Something to consider.
However, if the room is large, you will need to invest in a more powerful model to make a major difference.
If you’re into great sound quality and are serious about elevating bass in a large room, upwards of $700 and over is the best bet for you.
It is not unreasonable for you to spend more on your sub than the speakers as it’s a more intricate piece of equipment.
Like everything subwoofer-related, this is highly subjective. What one person thinks sounds awesome, another person won’t agree.
Our advice is to do your research, test a few different models if that’s possible, and you’ll find one perfect for you.
What subwoofer has the deepest bass?
Like most things audio setup-related, this is subjective. There is not one single subwoofer model that can simply answer this question without dispute.
Usually, the standard, high street subs provide a low-frequency range between 35Hz – 80Hz, which is enough for most.
Yet, the deepest bass frequencies are anything from 16Hz – 80Hz.
Of course, the human ear can only hear down to 20Hz so anything lower becomes part of the ‘feel zone’.
There are subwoofer models out there that can go this low. These are Servo-controlled subs.
To name a few models there are JL Audio f212v2, Velodyne, and Sunfire by Carver.
They are often powerful, heavy, and large, and come at a very high cost (sometimes upwards of $6000), and are not commonly advertised.
They need a larger cone to push the air load around the room and produce more accurate bass and imperceptible sound without distortion.
Do subs get louder over time?
In some cases, this is true, often in larger models with a large driver. After a certain amount of usage, the mechanics inside will start to relax, as opposed to stiffness when the sub is brand new.
You won’t hear a huge change, frequencies may appear a little clearer than before but not louder.
This is referred to as a ‘break in’ period, it’s not clear how long this will take or when it will happen.
It’s also worth noting your sub will not break in quicker by playing audio turned up to the maximum.
You can break it in with lower volumes too. It’s about the amount of usage – high or low.
Is a 10 or 12-inch sub better?
If we’re talking about which one packs more punch, it is the 12-inch. This is because it’s more powerful and louder as a whole.
Whereas, a 10-inch delivers a tighter, punchier bass which is often more accurate.
Bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better sometimes. It’s all relative to the size of the room you want your subwoofer in.
12″ subwoofers tend to be more powerful due to having a bigger woofer to push more air around, but these can be too overbearing for small rooms.
A 10″ subwoofer would be much more effective and suited to a smaller room than a 12″.
Additionally, a single 10″ subwoofer that is placed in a larger room would get lost and not provide the power the room needs.
So, in conclusion, both are suitable for different reasons.
Are 2 subs louder than 1?
Two subwoofers would be slightly louder than one, often not as much as you would expect.
The benefit of having two subwoofers is it makes the sound more ‘whole’.
Introducing a second sub increases the sound wave radius so you can hear the bass from more areas you otherwise wouldn’t have. This helps cut any ‘dead spots’ in your sound system.
If you were going to do this, you should use the same model of sub for both. This is because the two different models have different levels of performance, often making one weaker and overworking it to keep up.
We’ve found a video that may help summarize if having 2 smaller subs is better than one larger one.
Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Subwoofer Within Your Budget
When on the hunt for a subwoofer, several critical factors should be taken into account to guarantee a satisfying purchase that aligns with your particular requirements.
Firstly, power and amplification play a pivotal role in determining the subwoofer’s ability to deliver impactful bass. Select a subwoofer that boasts sufficient power to fill your space with deep, rich bass without distortion.
Another crucial aspect is the subwoofer’s frequency response, which dictates the range of frequencies it can faithfully reproduce. A broader frequency response contributes to a more precise and detailed bass output.
Look for a subwoofer capable of a low-frequency response that extends as far down as 20Hz or even lower for an immersive experience.
Additionally, the enclosure type is a significant consideration. Subwoofers are available in various enclosure configurations, including sealed, ported, and bandpass.
Each type has its advantages and drawbacks. To make an informed choice, consider factors such as your space’s size, desired sound quality, and personal preferences when selecting the enclosure type.
Size and placement are also pivotal factors. Larger subwoofers generally deliver deeper bass, but they may overwhelm smaller spaces. Measure your available space and choose a subwoofer size that fits comfortably without overpowering the room.
Lastly, assess the subwoofer’s connectivity options to ensure seamless integration with your existing audio setup. Most subwoofers offer both wired and wireless connectivity options, simplifying the process of connecting them to various devices.
By considering these factors, you can make a well-informed choice when selecting the ideal subwoofer for your needs.
Written By Emily
If you liked this list there are plenty more on Subwoofers or different types of speakers