10 Best Powered Subwoofers
Are you searching for the best powered subwoofers, but so far have not had any luck looking in today’s market? In this buyer’s guide you’ll be introduced to some of the best choices that are available. We have searched all over the internet and found 10 powerful subwoofers that are reasonably priced and have excellent audio output.
In addition, we will share the range of features that should be considered when buying a subwoofer. This includes features such as the frequency response, average RMS, build quality, and connectivity. So if you’ve never bought a subwoofer before then read this part of the buyer’s guide with your full attention.
Moreover, we have categorized the 10 subwoofers into 3 price categories so that it will make it easier for you to find what you need. Depending on your budget you can quickly navigate to the section that is of interest to you. Once you have finished reading this buyer’s guide we hope you’ll make the right decision when it comes to buying powered subwoofers.
Budget |
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Fluance DB10 |
4.9/5.0 |
Weight: 24.7 Pounds |
RMS: 45 Watts |
Great for small homes/rooms and has many different designs. |
Check Amazon |
Best Value |
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Yamaha Subwoofer |
4.8/5.0 |
Weight: 18.7 Pounds |
RMS: 50 Watts |
Great for home theaters, lightweight design, fast to setup. |
Check Amazon |
Top Pick |
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SVS SB16-Ultra Subwoofer |
5.0/5.0 |
Weight: 140 Pounds |
RMS: 1500 Watts |
This is ultra-loud and no distortion can be heard. |
Check Amazon |
Buying considerations
Audio output
Build quality
Brand
Connection method
Items by price:
Powered Subwoofers Comparison Table
Make and Model | Weight | RMS | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Fluance DB10 10-inch Low Frequency Powered Subwoofer | 24.7 Pounds | 45 Watts | Check Price |
Theater Solutions SUB15DM Down Firing Powered Subwoofer | 46 Pounds | 600 Watts | Check Price |
Yamaha Subwoofer | 18.7 Pounds | 50 Watts | Check Price |
Rockford Fosgate P300-12 Punch Subwoofer | 29.6 Pounds | 300 Watts | Check Price |
Polk Audio Subwoofer | 49.9 Pounds | 400 Watts | Check Price |
PRORECK CLUB Subwoofer | 48.8 Pounds | 750 Watts | Check Price |
JBL Sub 260P Subwoofer | 40 Pounds | 300 Watts | Check Price |
SVS SB16-Ultra Subwoofer | 140 Pounds | 1500 Watts | Check Price |
SVS PC-2000 Subwoofer | 50 Pounds | 500 Watts | Check Price |
Klipsch R-12SW Subwoofer | 33.1 Pounds | 400 Watts | Check Price |
Best Powered Subwoofer Under $200
The under $200 price category features some of the best budget options the market has offer. These subwoofers provide excellent audio quality and can easily make a room shake from the bass. Just because they are budget options doesn’t mean they are lower in quality. In fact some options have features that premium subwoofers do not have.
1. Best Budget: Fluance DB10 10-inch Low Frequency Powered Subwoofer
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5
The Fluance DB10 Subwoofer offers room shaking bass for a truly immersive experience, which makes movies and music come to life. The 10 inch long throw driver provides controlled, precise, and detailed audio reproduction. However, if you feel like you need more bass then you can purchase the bigger 12 inch driver, but it will cost a touch more.
The frequency response is wider than most subwoofers at 40 Hz – 180 Hz, allowing it produce better sounding and more accurate audio. Also, the RMS is 45 watts and the max peak output is 120 watts, so when listening to music or watching movies you’ll be able to feel the room vibrate.
Moreover, the design of the subwoofer is extremely nice and well built. The speaker stands on 4 legs that don’t scratch floors, which means you can place it on any surface. Also, setting up the subwoofer is extremely fast and only requires a few input wires. However, if you’ve never setup a speaker to a stereo then consider watching a tutorial first as it can be tricky.
The Fluance DB10 Subwoofer is great for small homes as the average RMS is not that great compared to the other options on this list. Also, there is no gain control so you can’t customize that part of the audio.
In summary, the Fluance DB10 Subwoofer is a good option that doesn’t cost a lot of money. The speaker stands on 4 legs that don’t scratch so you can place it on any surface. In addition, the average RMS is 45, which is great for watching movies or listening to music at home.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 24.7 Pounds |
Frequency Response: 38 Hz – 180 Hz |
RMS: 45 watts |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
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Great for small homes/rooms |
Doesn’t scratch when placed on any surface |
Multiple designs to choose from |
The Cons |
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Low RMS compared to the other options in this list |
No gain control |
2. Theater Solutions SUB15DM Down Firing Powered Subwoofer
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
The Theater Solutions SUB15DM Down Firing Powered Subwoofer is made from mahogany wood, which gives the speaker a unique look that goes well with many decors. You get the option to choose between an 8 inch slim version or the full 15 inch subwoofer. Both versions are great, but if you need a lot of bass then going for the bigger version is ideal.
Moreover, the peak power of the subwoofer is 600 watts, which is enough to make the room shake. Using a wide frequency response of 23 Hz – 150 Hz the audio device can deliver accurate lows that sound incredible when watching a movie or listening to music.
In addition, you can tune the audio by turning the switches, so if you enjoy more bass to your beat then this feature is a must. Once you finish using the subwoofer it automatically turns off so don’t worry about forgetting to hit the turn off switch.
The small compact size means that the bass won’t be as violent as other subwoofers, but for home use it definitely does its job. Also, the design of the speaker may not be stylish for all people.
In summary, the Theater Solutions SUB15DM Down Firing Powered Subwoofer is a great home speaker that can deliver room shaking bass. Using a wide frequency response and powerful drivers the sound output from this subwoofer is excellent and makes movies/songs come to life. In addition, you can pick between a slim version and a full version, thus offering you more personalization.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 46 Pounds |
Frequency Response: 23 Hz – 150 Hz |
RMS: 600 watts |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
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Unique wooden design |
Option to choose from a slim and full version |
Great price |
The Cons |
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Small size means it can’t output as loud bass as other subwoofers |
Frequency response could be wider |
3. Best Value: Yamaha Subwoofer
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
The Yamaha Subwoofer uses a frequency response of 28 Hz to 200 Hz, which is wider than most subwoofers. That’s beneficial because audio will sound deeper and therefore create a better listening experience. Also, using an 8 inch driver cone the power output is around 50 watts, which is more than enough for most home subwoofers.
In addition, the brand of the subwoofer is Yamaha, which is one of the best audio companies today. Purchasing from them is a guarantee that you’ll end up with a premium quality product. Also, they use their own technology that helps provide clearer and tighter bass.
The size of the subwoofer isn’t too big so transporting it is extremely easy and it only weights 18.7 lbs. The style of the speaker looks neat and goes well with any black setup. Setting up the device is extremely fast too so you don’t have to fuss about with the wiring.
The black design can be basic for some people so if you’re looking for something a little more interesting consider the other subwoofers in this list. Also, the compact size of the speaker means it can’t produce thunderous bass like other options.
To summarize, the Yamaha subwoofer is a great home choice, because of its small lightweight design. The bass sounds great and can fill up a room due to its 8 inch speaker driver. Also, the brand of the subwoofer is extremely reliable and you are guaranteed to get a high quality product.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 18.7 Pounds |
Frequency Response: 28 Hz – 200 Hz |
RMS: 50 watts |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
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Great for home theaters |
Lightweight design |
Fast to setup |
The Cons |
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Black design looks basic |
Due to small size it can’t output bass like other subwoofers |
4. Rockford Fosgate P300-12 Punch Subwoofer
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
The Rockford Fosgate P300-12 Punch Subwoofer comes with a remote that can be used to control the bass levels and other aspects of the audio. The subwoofer comes with multiple advanced technologies such as thermal and voltage protection, which prevents the subwoofer from getting damaged.
In addition, don’t worry if you forget to turn the speaker off as it has intelligent auto on/off function. The total power of this subwoofer is 300 watts, which is very good and can easily make a room shake with bass.
Moreover, the speaker is extremely fast to setup as it only has a few outputs and inputs. You can connect multiple speakers to the subwoofer as it has a built-in amplifier. Also, upon purchasing this subwoofer you will get a 1 year warranty for free.
The speaker has many features, but portability is not one of them. Weighing around 30 pounds this subwoofer is not that easy to transport room to room. Setting up the device is fast, however if you don’t know what you’re doing it can be a struggle.
To summarize, the Rockford Fosgate P300-12 Punch Subwoofer is an excellent choice, because it features auto off/on technology. Also, the speaker is extremely durable and comes with thermal and over voltage protection.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 29.6 Pounds |
Frequency Response: 35 Hz – 150 Hz |
RMS: 300 watts |
Warranty: 1 Year |
The Pros |
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Can connect multiple speakers to this subwoofer |
Fast to setup |
Comes with thermal and over voltage protection |
The Cons |
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If you’ve never setup a speaker to a subwoofer before it can be tricky |
Not easily portable |
Best Powered Subwoofer Under $500
The under $500 price category features mid ranged subwoofers that are not quite premium, but produce excellent sounding audio. The audio quality with these speakers is a lot better than the budget category and the total wattage is a lot higher. Also, you can tune these subwoofers as they come with built-in EQs, so if you love bass you now have the option to enhance it.
5. Polk Audio 12 Inches 400 Watts Home Theater Subwoofer
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5
The Polk Audio Subwoofer uses a wide frequency of 28 Hz – 120 Hz, which means it can output vibrant lows that are earth shaking. The front firing long throw 12 inch dynamic driver produces a balanced beat that uses technology which provides deeper bass and reduced port noise.
The subwoofer has a total output of 400 watts, so it can produce extremely loud audio that gives life to a beat or makes watching films more immersive. The subwoofer comes in a 10 inch size or 12 inch size, so it’s up to you how much space you have and the power you want. Also, the speaker comes in three different colors, therefore offering a more personalized product.
In addition, you can customize the audio by setting up the low pass filer and phase from 0 to 180 degrees. Also, Polk is a premium brand so buying from them is a no-brainer as you’ll going to receive a good quality product.
The size of the speaker is quite small, but it’s heavy so carrying it around is not ideal. Also, the subwoofer is classed as D, which is certainly not the best. However, this doesn’t mean the subwoofer isn’t good, just that it doesn’t compare well to other premium options.
To conclude, the Polk Audio Subwoofer is an excellent audio device that can deliver lows extremely well. You can adjust the low pass filter and phase from 0 to 180 degrees. Also, the wide frequency range means you can play music in deeper and clearer quality than ever before.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 49.9 Pounds |
Frequency Response: 28 Hz – 120 Hz |
RMS: 400 watts |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
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Small size, but loud audio output |
Multiple designs to choose from |
High quality brand |
The Cons |
---|
Classed as D grade |
Heavy design |
6. PRORECK CLUB Subwoofer
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
The PRORECK CLUB Subwoofer is one of the best performance speakers in the market today. It utilizes a 40 Hz – 20k Hz frequency response, which makes the audio sound a lot more vibrant and clearer. Also, the peak power is 3,000 watts and the average RMS is 750 watts so jaw dropping bass is guaranteed.
In addition, the subwoofer is compatible with almost all devices and can be connected in numerous ways. You can use your smartphone to play music as the speaker has built-in Bluetooth, but if you don’t want to use smartphone battery then you can connect via AUX cable. However, you can go a different route and use a USB stick or SD card, which allows you to store thousands of songs depending on the storage.
Moreover, you can easily tune this wireless subwoofer by rotating the cogs located on the back of the device. Rotating these cogs will change the bass, treble, and effect, so before tuning the speaker make sure you know what you are doing.
Tuning the subwoofer the wrong way can ruin the overall experience so make sure to check out a few guides first before trying yourself. Also, when connecting with an AUX cable make sure to use a high quality wire, because otherwise the music won’t sound as good.
To summarize, the PRORECK CLUB Subwoofer is an excellent choice, because it features wireless connectivity. On the back of the speaker are many cogs that you can rotate to tune the subwoofer to your preferences. Also, this speaker is extremely loud as it has an average RMS of 750 watts and a peak of 3000 watts.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 48.4 Pounds |
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20k Hz |
RMS: 750 watts |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
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Wireless connectivity |
Ultra-loud audio output |
Can be connected with an AUX cable |
The Cons |
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Can be tricky to tune if you don’t know what you’re doing |
Must use a high quality AUX cable, as otherwise the audio will dip in quality |
7. JBL Sub 260P 12-Inch 300-Watt Powered Subwoofer
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
The JBL 260P Subwoofer is a compact speaker that can output vibrant lows that are room shaking. The size of the subwoofer makes it easy to transport and compared to most subs this one is extremely light only weighing 38Lb.
Moreover, the subwoofer uses a precise frequency response of 29 Hz – 150 Hz, which lets it play lows in unbelievable quality. You can adjust the bass yourself, thus giving you the option to tune the music to your preferences. Also, the speaker has an average RMS of 300 watts and a peak of 600 watts.
In addition, purchasing from JBL is an excellent choice, because they are a high quality brand so the product will have a good build quality. JBL is known for producing some of the best bass focused speakers in the market and the JBL 260P Subwoofer isn’t any different, it can easily fill a room with audio while keeping distortion to a minimum.
However, when buying from a well-known brand their prices are usually a lot higher. You can find cheaper options, but you will be taking a risk since there is no guarantee of good quality. Also, the subwoofer comes in a compact size, therefore the bass doesn’t compare to some of the other options on this list.
To summarize, the JBL 260P Subwoofer is a brilliant choice, because it is easily portable and produces room shaking bass. The average RMS is 300 watts, which is a lot better than most smaller subwoofers. In addition, the brand of the subwoofer is one of the best, therefore guaranteeing the product will be of competitive quality.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 40 Pounds |
Frequency Response: 29 Hz – 150 Hz |
RMS: 300 watts |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
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Premium brand |
Compact size that is easily portable |
Lightweight |
The Cons |
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Smaller than most subwoofers so therefore it won’t produce loud beats |
Due to it being made by a premium brand the price will be a lot higher than most subwoofers |
Best Powered Subwoofer Under $2000
The under $2000 price category features the best of the best. All the options in this category are premium and you can’t go wrong buying any one of them. The bass produced by these subwoofers sound incredible and literally shakes the room with music. Also, when watching movies with these subwoofers it gives the film life and enhances certain aspects of action scenes.
8. Top Pick: SVS SB16-Ultra Subwoofer
Editor’s Rating: 5/5
The massive 16 inch ultra-driver with unprecedented 8 inch edge wound voice coil ensures room shaking bass that sounds incredible. The newly developed driver allows it to play low frequencies with absolutely zero distortion. Also, the total power of the subwoofer is 1500 watts, which means it can play beats extremely loud.
In addition, the subwoofer comes with a smartphone app that works with both Android and IOS. The smartphone application unleashes the full power of the SVS SB16-Ultra Subwoofer as you can customize the settings to better suit the audio. However, if you’re unfamiliar with all the customizable settings then SVS provides you with multiple presets.
The frequency response is ultra-wide at 16 Hz – 460 Hz, which is a lot deeper than most average subwoofers. This means the SVS SB16 can output bass at an unbelievable accurate level with no dip in quality. Moreover, the subwoofer features an LED screen that helps navigate the settings more easily.
The sound output by this subwoofer is nothing short of excellent, but it does come at a cost. So if you don’t have a huge budget then consider some of the other options on this list. Also, the design of the subwoofer is pretty basic. However, this shouldn’t be an issue as you are buying the device for the audio and not for its looks.
To summarize, the SVS SB16-Ultra Subwoofer is the best option on this list, because it features an ultra-wide frequency response. You can customize the settings with your smartphone as it SVS and an audio tuning app that works for IOS and Android smartphones. Also, the average RMS output is 1500 watts, which means the audio will be extremely loud.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 140 Pounds |
Frequency Response: 16 Hz – 460 Hz |
RMS: 1500 watts |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
---|
Can be tuned by SVS audio application |
Ultra-loud |
No distortion can be heard |
The Cons |
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Extremely heavy |
Not a budget option |
9. SVS PC-2000 Subwoofer
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5
The high excursion 12 inch driver produces room shaking bass with excellent accuracy. This subwoofer is an excellent foundation for a home theatre as it brings life to the audio when listening to music or watching a movie. Also, the size of the subwoofer isn’t too big (20.9” (H) x 17.3” (W) x 23.2” (D)) so you can place it anywhere in your room.
Moreover, the SVS PC-2000 Subwoofer can produce extremely loud lows as the average RMS is 500 watts and the total peak is around 1100+ watts. The subwoofer has been custom tuned to produce distortion free audio. However, you can tune the speaker yourself by using various EQ apps, but this isn’t recommended as SVS has done a great job setting up the subwoofer themselves.
Purchasing this subwoofer is a bargain as it uses SVS technology that usually is reserved for subwoofers that are 2-3 times the price. You also get the option to buy 2 subwoofers at once to create a symmetrical sound system, which costs twice as much, but the audio output is incredible and is close to sounding like a cinema.
The price of this subwoofer is not cheap so make sure you have the capital to invest. Also, the weight of the speaker is around 50 pounds, which can make it difficult to transport from room to room.
To summarize, the SVS PC-2000 Subwoofer is an excellent audio device that produces room shaking bass. The average RMS is 500 watts, which means the lower frequencies produced by the speaker sound excellent. Also, with this subwoofer you get technologies that only come with speakers that cost 2-3 times more, so you’re actually getting a bargain if you purchase this audio device.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 50 Pounds |
Frequency Response: 16 Hz – 260 Hz |
RMS: 500 watts |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
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Produce excellent sounding bass |
Comes with technologies that only subwoofers that cost 2-3 times more have |
No distortion can be heard |
The Cons |
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Heavy to carry room to room |
Expensive |
10. Klipsch R-12SW Subwoofer
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5
The Klipsch R-12SW Subwoofer can produce excellent sounding bass thanks to the 12 inch front firing woofer. The total RMS power of the speaker is 400 watts, which means it can produce excellent sounding bass all day long. Also, there is a low pass crossover and phase control included so you can customize the audio.
In addition, setting up the speaker is extremely fast and easy, because it includes old and new receivers. The design of the speaker is made to be rigid while still being extremely light so you can carry it around from room to room.
Moreover, the built-in digital amplifier delivers ample power with high efficiency and produces accurate sounding audio reproduction. Also, the subwoofer uses an extremely wide frequency response of 29 Hz – 120 Hz.
The overall look of the speaker isn’t anything extraordinary and is pretty basic. Also, the subwoofer isn’t that big so the sound output won’t be as loud as other speakers. When tuning the subwoofer make sure you know what you’re doing because otherwise the music will sound inaccurate. You can look at various tutorials online or use presets so the music will sound better.
To summarize, the Klipsch R-12SW Subwoofer is an excellent option for a home theater, because of its compact size and loud audio output. The device uses a wide frequency response, which leads to better sounding audio experience as it can play more accurate beats. Also, the subwoofer is compatible with old stereos as it uses new and old receivers.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 33.1 Pounds |
Frequency Response: 29 Hz – 120 Hz |
RMS: 400 watts |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
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Vibrant bass |
Can be used with older stereos |
No distortion can be heard |
The Cons |
---|
Small compact size means it won’t be as loud as other options |
Looks basic |
Contents
- Buying considerations
- Audio output
- Build quality
- Brand
- Connection method
- Items by price:
- Powered Subwoofers Comparison Table
- Best Powered Subwoofer Under $200
- 1. Best Budget: Fluance DB10 10-inch Low Frequency Powered Subwoofer
- 2. Theater Solutions SUB15DM Down Firing Powered Subwoofer
- 3. Best Value: Yamaha Subwoofer
- 4. Rockford Fosgate P300-12 Punch Subwoofer
- Best Powered Subwoofer Under $500
- 5. Polk Audio 12 Inches 400 Watts Home Theater Subwoofer
- 6. PRORECK CLUB Subwoofer
- 7. JBL Sub 260P 12-Inch 300-Watt Powered Subwoofer
- Best Powered Subwoofer Under $2000
- 8. Top Pick: SVS SB16-Ultra Subwoofer
- 9. SVS PC-2000 Subwoofer
- 10. Klipsch R-12SW Subwoofer