The Best Subwoofers For Home Theater In 2024

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Polk Audio PSW10 10" Powered Subwoofer for Home Theater
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Polk Audio PSW10 10" Powered Subwoofer for Home Theater

Designed to deliver deep, rich bass from any audio system, Polk Audio PSW10 10" Powered Subwoofer for Home Theater is equipped with a robust, 100-watts-per-channel amplifier delivering more than enough power to fill your room with big sound. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Klipsch R-12SW 12" 400W Subwoofer

The all-digital amplifier delivers 400 watts of dynamic power, providing crisp and responsive bass for music and movies. Equally impressive with music and movies, this subwoofer features a brushed black polymer veneer cabinet with a satin painted plinth. Read Review

3. Best Realiable: Monoprice 60-Watt Powered Subwoofer - 8 Inch For Home Theater

Add a little oomph to your audio system with the Monoprice 60-Watt Powered Subwoofer. With multiple input options, you can rest assured that this subwoofer will work with any existing stereo or 5.1 amplifier system. Read Review

4. Best Vivid Sound: Klipsch Reference R-10SW 10" 300w Powered Subwoofer

Klipsch Reference R-10SW 10" 300w Powered Subwoofer brings the full Klipsch sound home. Equally impressive with music and movies, this powerful subwoofer features a copper spun front-firing woofer with an all-digital amplifier that delivers 300 watts of dynamic power. Read Review

Before you start shopping for subwoofers, know what you’re getting into. Installing a home theater is serious business. It’s not something to take lightly. If you think a simple pair of speakers and a small subwoofer will do, think again. A good home theater has to be designed and installed with care and precision to get the best audio experience possible. It’s not just a plug-and-play kind of thing.

Fortunately, there are some great subwoofers out there that won’t leave your wallet crying for mercy. You get to choose from compact subs to give you tight bass response in limited space or larger units that offer more low-end grunts but also have their unique benefits. Here are the best subwoofers for home theaters we recommend.

However, after investing many hours, we've come up with a name that's worthy of your requirement: Polk Audio PSW10 10" Powered Subwoofer for Home Theater. If you desire extra features not included in this model, you might look into another one, Klipsch R-12SW 12" 400W Subwoofer. It could better suit your needs.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Polk Audio PSW10 10" Powered Subwoofer for Home Theater
Our Score:
9.7
Polk Audio
  • EASY TO INTEGRATE WITH EXISTING SYSTEMS – Hook up this sub to the receiver and upgrade your music sound instantly. Features continuously variable 80-160 Hz crossover and 40-160 Hz (-3dB) frequency response
  • LOUDER CLEARER SOUND EVEN AT HIGH VOLUME – Enjoy a thrilling yet balanced music experience with rich, deep sound, even at low frequencies. BLENDS EASILY WITH ANY SPEAKER and plays the most demanding nodes effortlessly without any distortion
  • POWERED SUBWOOFER FOR EXTRA BASS & PUNCH – A 10-inch Dynamic Balance woofer & a uniquely configured directed port provides accurate bass with added depth that brings your music and movies alive. A perfect solution for your small-to-mid size room
  • DOUBLE THE AMPLIFIER POWER TO 100 Watts of Dynamic Power with its in-built 50-watt RMS amp. Sophisticated engineering with best in class resonance-free driver materials make this sub highly durable and FIT FOR EXTENDED USE
  • A sleek detachable grille on the front, speaker and line-level inputs as well as speaker-level outputs on the back, and a Phase Toggle Switch for multiple subwoofers, make this sub cohesive and complete
TOP Choice #2 Klipsch R-12SW 12" 400W Subwoofer
Our Score:
9.5
Klipsch
  • Equally impressive with music and movies; Brushed black polymer veneer cabinet with satin painted plinth
  • Line/LFE inputs for compatibility with most receivers
  • Low pass crossover and phase control
  • Powerful 12" copper-spun front-firing woofer
  • All-digital amplifier delivers 400 watts of dynamic power
  • This is an 8" powered subwoofer capable of producing 60 watts (RMS) output. The subwoofer has a frequency response range of 50 to 250 Hz with a lowpass crossover filter, which can be adjusted from 50 to 150 Hz. Gain and frequency knobs on the control panel allow you to adjust the crossover filter and the power output for the optimum blend and balance of bass output with your stereo or surround speakers.
  • High-level inputs accept a full-range signal from the amplifier's stereo speaker outputs. When connecting the unit as part of a 5.1 system, these would be taken off the Front Left and Front Right outputs in parallel to the standard pair of front speakers. The subwoofer provides its own power and includes impedance matching circuitry, so this will not reduce the power output to the front speakers or affect the overall impedance load on the amplifier.
  • The subwoofer is housed in an attractive black wood cabinet that measures 13.75" x 11.75" x 11.75" (H x W x D). The driver and a 2 3/4" sound port are located on the front, covered by a black cloth speaker grill.
  • The subwoofer has multiple input options, which allow it to be used with any existing stereo or 5.1 (or greater) amplifier system. For each input there is a corresponding output.
  • Additionally, the subwoofer has a set of right/left Line Level inputs. If using a standard stereo system, without a special subwoofer output, you can connect these to the left and right line level outputs on the amp. The subwoofer will then combine the signals to process the mono bass signal it needs to drive the speaker. If you are using an amplifier with a single mono subwoofer line level output, simply use an RCA "Y" cable to split the output and send it to the two line level inputs on the subwoofer.
  • Equally impressive with music and movies
  • All-digital amplifier delivers 300 watts of dynamic power
  • Low pass crossover and phase control,Dimensions:14(H) x 12.5(W) x 15.7(D) Inches
  • Line/LFE inputs for compatibility with most receivers
  • Powerful 10" copper-spun front-firing woofer
5 Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer, Black
Our Score:
9.1
Klipsch
  • 29 hertz – 120 hertz +/- 3 dB
  • 400 watt
  • Output wattage: 200 watts
  • Max acoustic output 116dB
  • Bass-reflex via rear firing port. Amplifier power (control/peak): 200 watts/400 watts
  • Included components: Manual; Grill; Power cord
  • 12" high excursion spun-copper Imp woofer
  • Stylish addition to any room
  • New twisted flare port contributes to clear and tight bass
  • Advanced YST II (Yamaha Active Servo Technology II)
  • 10” cone woofer
  • What’s in the box: (1) Sub-100 Subwoofer and power cord - connection wires not included
  • Contemporary finish to integrate with any decor with ease
  • Spun copper front-firing Cerametallic woofers
  • Place your subwoofer in a corner for optimal performance
  • Dimensions: 14” H x 12.5” W x 15.7” D
  • Strong, flexible, removable grille
  • 150 watts continuous, 300 watts dynamic power
  • 10-inch, front-firing driver
  • All digital amplifier for high-efficiency and true-to-source sound accuracy
  • Must be connected to AV Receiver, processor, or pre-amp
  • Lfe & Line Inputs For Compatibility With Most Receivers& Bookshelf Speakers– Hook a subwoofer cable (not supplied) between subwoofer out port on the receiver/ bookshelf speakers and LFE input RCA port on the sub.
  • Connect To Laptop And Soundbar- Hook the Stereo RCA to 3.5mm audio cable in the box between line inputs on the subwoofer and headphone jack on your laptop, then connect to sound bar from aux out on sub to aux in on soundbar with 3.5mm audio cable (not supplied).
  • 6.5 Inch Side Firing Woofer-Long throw woofer with high rigidity PVA Treated cone, side slotted port, Bass Reflex cabinet design with vibration absorbing feet, high quality MDF with added internal bracing and black ash finish.
  • 100% Satisfaction Service- Bestisan offers lifetime technical support. Any questions or suggestions, pls freely email us for help. We absolutely give you a satisfied solution.
  • Powered Subwoofer For Extra Bass & Punch- The 6.5" powered subwoofer features continuously variable 60-250hz crossover and 40-250hz frequency response. The enclosure is built with the perfect air space to maximize sound quality and punch.
  • POWERED SUBWOOFER FOR ROOM-SHAKING BASS- This sub has a frequency response range of 40 to 250 Hz with a low-pass crossover filter, which can be adjusted through the full range, pumps dynamic theater-quality bass into your bedroom and apartment.
  • CONNECT TO LAPTOP AND SOUNDBAR- Hook the Stereo RCA to 3.5mm audio cable in the box between line inputs on the subwoofer and headphone jack on your laptop, then connect to sound bar from aux out on sub to aux in on soundbar with 3.5mm audio cable (not supplied).
  • 6.5 INCH DOWN FIRING WOOFER - Long throw woofer with high rigidity PVA Treated cone, bottom slotted port, Bass Reflex cabinet design with vibration absorbing feet, high quality MDF with added internal bracing and black ash finish.
  • LFE & LINE INPUTS FOR COMPATIBILITY WITH MOST RECEIVERS& BOOKSHELF SPEAKERS– Hook a subwoofer cable (not supplied) between subwoofer out port on the receiver/ bookshelf speakers and LFE input RCA port on the sub.
  • 100% SATISFACTION SERVICE- Bestisan offers lifetime technical support. Any questions or suggestions, pls freely email us for help. We will give you back within 24 hours.
  • ADJUSTABLE VOLUME AND LOW-FREQUENCY- Independent volume and low-frequency bandwidth adjustment knob located on the back panel of the subwoofer allows you to adjust the volume and low-frequency bandwidth according to your preference.
  • Powered Down Firing Woofer-Sw65C- A Down-Firing Subwoofer,   Designed To Fill Your Room With Immersive, Surround Sound In Low Tight And Smooth Bass
  • Work With Speakers, Turntable, Tvs With An Analog Output, Cd And Dvd Players, Video Game Consoles And All Products With 1/8" Mini-Jack Or Rca Outputs. Pls Kindly Note That The Function Of The Sub Is To Enlarge The Bass Only, We Recommend You To Pair It With Your Speakers
  • Be Compatible With Your Tv-If Your Tv Supports Sound Output Option Of Tv And External Speaker, You Can Connect The Subwoofer To Your Tv Directly. If Your Tv Doesn'T Support This Sound Output Option, We Recommend You To Pair The Subwoofer With Another Speakers/ Soundbar First, Then Connect It To Tv
  • Compact Design But Powerful Subwoofer-This Powered Subwoofer Is Suit For Your Room, It Completes The System By Adding The Deeper Notes Of Music That Has Deeper Notes Recorded. For Music Reproduction Is Does A Great Job
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What Does Our Expert Advice You To Consider For Selecting best subwoofers for home theater?

best subwoofers for home theater is chosen based on a number of parameters. Depending on the product category, the learning process differs. And so, we're here to consult, guide, and address your product-related problems.

Please keep in mind the following points before selecting best subwoofers for home theater:

Maximum SPL

A subwoofer's quality cannot be determined by a single parameter. What makes a subwoofer so capable of producing a sufficient sound pressure level to be considered excellent? Let's first examine the hearing curve of the human ear.
The curve shown in the figure illustrates that different frequencies and sensitivity levels are found within the human ear. Human hearing is identical to this up-and-down curve, which indicates a variable sound pressure level.
The sound of 80dB at 1000Hz is almost identical to 120dB when you listen at 20Hz. This difference amounts to 40dB. The threshold for hearing is 80dB at 20Hz. However, the sound itself is extremely faint and barely audible.
This is why subwoofer parameters must include the maximum sound pressure level. The human ear cannot sense low frequencies and needs to hear a higher sound pressure to feel slight differences. Mix it up if the voice of your subwoofer is too low.

Sealed Vs Ported Subwoofer

When searching for the best subwoofer guide, this is one of the most crucial questions. There are two types of subwoofers depending on whether or not the interior of the cabinet connects with the exterior. The sealed subwoofer is, like its name, a closed cabinet. Low-frequency output occurs because of the compression within the box. This subwoofer has a simple structure and a better transient response. It also provides clear, crisp hearing. Low-frequency speakers have a lower cutoff frequency than others. You will need to use a bigger cabinet, and a higher-calibre speaker if you wish to achieve a lower frequency of low-frequency diving. The speakers are also more sensitive and efficient than any other type of speaker.
The hole is accessed by the ported subwoofer, which leads the radiation wave through it. The port is generally circular in shape and has one. Some subwoofers can have multiple ports, which allows users to adjust their output energy and enhance the listening experience. A subwoofer port may even have a bar design to allow for greater integration and aesthetics.

Wired Or Wireless

A rising number of subwoofers powered by Bluetooth are capable of wireless connectivity. Wireless connectivity eliminates the requirement for long cables between subwoofers and receivers.

A wireless subwoofer is usually equipped with a transmitter that plugs into any receiver's subwoofer outputs.
Low-frequency audio signals are transmitted by the transmitter to the wireless subwoofer from the receiver connected to home theater. The wireless receiver integrated into the subwoofer powers the amplifier, which produces the low-frequency sound.

Diaphragm Material

Material refers to what is used in the manufacture of the diaphragm. The tweeter's diaphragm materials are plastic, metal, and silk. There are many diaphragm materials for the woofer, including paper, polyethylene, wool, and aluminum-magnesium alloy cones.
They have different prices and properties. It is difficult to determine who is better or worse. Choose paper or wool pots if you enjoy orchestral music. Polyethylene cones are best for metal music. Paper cones and wool cones shouldn't be used in humid environments. They absorb moisture easily and can change the sound quality.

Subwoofer Box Material

Subwoofer boxes are currently made from plastic or wood. Some high-end models will also use metal. Wood speakers used to be considered superior to plastic speakers at first, though this is not the case anymore. Some well-made speakers are better than those made from rough wood. When choosing speakers, it is important to weigh the components. A large wooden speaker will perform poorly if it is too light.

Frequency Response

This is the "dive" index for the subwoofer's low frequency. This parameter indicates how low the subwoofer's output can reach. Subwoofers capable of reaching this frequency can typically be heard by humans at 20 Hz. However, subwoofers with the ability to achieve such low frequencies are more costly.
Don't worry too much about the frequency limit. It is generally acceptable to use a subwoofer at 160-200Hz. Why? Why? Because the frequency above 120Hz is where most of the midrange woofers are. This indicator can't be altered and is established when the subwoofer has been designed, manufactured and shipped to the factory.
If you are able to find a subwoofer that has a dive of around 20Hz for a reasonable price, it is difficult for consumers.
Some entry-level subwoofers with low-end features have a dive of 40Hz or less. The frequency that is too low can cause serious distortion. It is a sign that there are not enough dives. The foundation may not be reliable and all parameters will become meaningless.

Active Vs Passive Subwoofer

There are two types of subwoofers: passive and active. The active subwoofer is currently the most common in home theatres. Subwoofers require a lot power. Many receivers don't have sufficient driving power. Independent passive subwoofers can be found in professional audio more frequently. This is a rare feature in consumer audio. An active subwoofer has a built in power amplifier module. The active subwoofer is currently the most popular home theatre component.

Subwoofer Size & Number

If manufacturers don't want to disclose the maximum sound pressure, most can refer to the third parameter.
The Frequency Response element explains that subwoofers must have sufficient power to produce high frequencies and push air around enough to be heard by the ear. The maximum sound pressure that a subwoofer can achieve is directly related to its size and quantity. The unit's configuration is the best way to determine the subwoofer's strength.

FAQs

Is There A Difference Between A Woofer And A Subwoofer?

These terms are often interchangeable. A "woofer" is a term that refers to a driver with a greater frequency response than a Subwoofer. It's less focused on pure bass and will be more common to be part of speakers than an individual unit.

Where Is The Ideal Subwoofer Placement?

You have greater freedom than normal speakers which can be very directional. Your subwoofer will also fit more easily. My guide to placing home cinema speakers in the right place is a great starting point.
Subwoofers can be difficult to place in rooms. They must be near a power outlet, as powered speakers. They will also have to be connected to an AV receiver, which distributes the signal to the other speakers in the setup.
These are just some of the factors you should keep in mind when placing your subwoofer. You'll need to experiment with subwoofer positions, and listen to the sound each produces from different locations in your home.

Are Bigger Subwoofers Better?

You can. They can be. Larger woofers produce more precise, space-filling bass and a greater "shake factor" than smaller models. This is just one aspect. For example, a large, poorly built subwoofer can rattle excessively, while smaller, more powerful models may still be able to do an excellent job.

Does My Speaker System Need A Subwoofer?

This is a great idea. A subwoofer is a key component of home theater systems. The latest standards in movie audio are also applicable.

Are Wireless Subwoofers Worth It?

It's not ideal to connect a sub to an AV receiver. You may need to conceal a part of the cable, or find a shorter one to place in the right spot. Let's be honest, it's not fun to crawl on your knees and lay cables. !
There are many subwoofers that work wirelessly. However, they must still be connected to an electrical socket. This is how it works: instead of plugging in a cable to your AV receiver you attach a transmitter.
Without the need for an audio cable, the transmitter box sends the signal directly to the sub. Some manufacturers include the accessory with their subs, others make it available as an option.
You don't have to worry about it not being wireless, as you can purchase a universal wireless kits that will transform most subs into wireless units.

How Much Bass Is Enough?

Your viewing habits will determine the power you require from your subwoofer. A larger subwoofer with greater power will be needed if you watch a lot of action films and listen to music. In this case, a 12-inch sub is ideal.
If you watch sports or comedy, however, the subwoofers can be used in a smaller room. A smaller subwoofer is sufficient for a large room.

Can I Use Two Subwoofers At Once?

Although it's not common for home installations, you can. Make sure your receiver is capable of handling two subwoofer connections. To get multi-directional bass, some people like to use two smaller woofers.

What Is A Crossover?

A crossover is an electronic circuit which routes frequencies to the subwoofer at a particular point. The crossover routes all frequencies higher than that point to the subwoofer, main and center speakers, as well as surround.
Most subwoofers, as well as AV receivers, have variable crossover frequencies that allow you to adjust the sweet spot. Others are set at around 100 Hz.

Because we are product consulting professionals with much expertise, we believe the data is credible. Aside from that, the best subwoofers for home theater data is kept up to date, and you may feel confident that the information is up to date and correct.

We can help you in addition to best subwoofers for home theater. If you want to support, please don't hesitate to contact us. Thanks for reading!


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About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.