Introducing the 8 Best Subwoofer For Home Theater. Are you putting together a home theater system? Don’t forget to include a subwoofer. The right subwoofer rounds out your audio experience. It can add dimension, depth, and feeling to what you hear with its low-frequency tones.
You’ll find designs that deliver impressive bass while also looking good enough to show off on this list of the best subwoofers for a home theater today. From small models and large units to wireless technology and simple setup, you’ve come to the right place to compare the best of the best.
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TOP 8 BEST SUBWOOFERS FOR HOME THEATER
Check out our list of the best home theater subwoofers. We have a variety of models with unique features to suit a wide range of budgets.
1. POLK AUDIO HTS 12 SUBWOOFER
- HIGH EFFICIENCY SUB-WOOFER FOR SMALL TO MEDIUM-SIZED ROOMS - The HTS 12 features a 12" front-firing long-throw woofer with Polk's proprietary Dynamic Balance Technology designed to fill your room with immersive, three-dimensional sound in great clarity
- YOUR BEST BET WITH MODERN LOOKS & THUNDEROUS PERFORMANCE – The sleek rounded corners are a highlight, but this sub will surely take your movie & music experience up a notch with its deep rumbling bass from the in-built 200-watt amplifier (400W at peak)
- POLK'S PATENTED POWER PORT TECHNOLOGY delivers deeper bass response with its turbulence-smoothing diffuser that transitions air flow from the speaker into your listening area minimizing any kind of distortion & delivering rich full-range sound everywhere
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY & VERSATILITY – The sub comes with LFE & stereo line level inputs. Pair it with any of Polk’s Signature series 2-channel stereo speakers or create a complete home theater with S60 tower, S20 bookshelf & S35 center channel speakers
- ALL CONTROLS ON THE REAR PANEL – Controls for volume, low pass filter and phase toggle for optimum bass levels (0 to 180 degree) are in close reach - right on the back of the subwoofer. The front has a clean rich look with detachable grille
Polk Audio is a brand that is synonymous with high-quality audio. It’s been around since the 1970s, and it’s a favorite at community block parties hosted by the local DJ. It’s a brand known for producing low-cost, high-quality speakers. The Polk Audio HTS 12 subwoofer continues the legacy of making great sound accessible to all. In terms of value, functionality, and compatibility, it’s a no-brainer.
This model is a 12-inch long-throw front-firing subwoofer. While sound purists debate whether a long throw subwoofer is possible, the main takeaway here is that it’s intended to immerse the listener in sound rather than clobber them.
Key Features
- Powered 12-inch subwoofer
- 200/400W Class D amplifier
- Front-firing
- Universal compatibility Auto on/off switch
- Dynamic balance driver
- Line level/LFE inputs
- Power Port technology
Pros
- Beautiful, black washed matte finish
- Universal compatibility with most home theater systems
- Simple, easy to access back panel controls
Cons
- Auto-on function is hit or miss
- Amplifier may need replacement over time
- Not ideal for very large rooms
2. KLIPSCH R-100SW SUBWOOFER
- 10" front-firing spun-copper IMG woofer
- All-digital amplifier with 300 watts peak power
- Volume low pass crossover and phase control
- Line level LFE RCA inputs for maximum receiver compatibility
- Dimensions 14 5" x 12 5" x 16 4"
In the late 1930s, Paul W. Klipsch designed his first speaker. He was selling speakers out of a tin shed in Hope, Arkansas, by 1945. Today, the family-owned business sells sound equipment all over the United States.
The Klipsch R-100SW front-firing subwoofer continues a more than 75-year tradition of thoughtful, intelligent design. For starters, it features Klipsch’s signature spun copper design. Aesthetically, it may be a hit or miss depending on your preferences. Aside from appearances, the copper injection-molded graphite woofer cones deliver a clean, deep bass that you can feel.
It has a powerful digital amplifier with a continuous output of 150 watts and a peak output of 300 watts. You can customize the output to achieve the desired level of bass in your home theater. The line-level/LFE RCA inputs ensure compatibility with a wide range of home theater receivers and systems.
You can experiment with placement, but you’ll find that it can deliver the bass you want regardless of where it sits. There’s a reason Klipsch is the official sound provider for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Try it out for yourself at home.
Key Features
- Powered 10-inch subwoofer
- 150/300W digital amplifier
- Front-firing
- Universal compatibility Auto on feature
- Spun copper IMG woofer cones
- Line level/LFE RCA inputs
Pros
- Enhances audio for movies
- Integrates nicely with most home theater setups
Cons
- Does not emit ultra-low frequencies
- Copper cones can be easily dented
3. MONOPRICE SUBWOOFER
- 100 watts RMS, 200 watts peak power output
- 8" paper cone driver with rubber surround
- Three input options: dedicated LFE, line level stereo, and speaker level stereo
- Adjustable low-pass filter, volume, and phase controls
- Small footprint - only 10.6" x 12.8"
Looking for full-circle sound for your home theater on a budget? Examine the Monoprice 60-watt subwoofer carefully. It has a simple design but a surprising amount of bass for its small size.
The 8-inch wired subwoofer has a frequency range of 50 to 150 Hz. It has an adjustable crossover filter that allows you to dial in the perfect amount of bass into the overall sound. It’s a good addition to a stereo system, but it can also be used in a five-channel (5.1) home theater speaker setup.
Key Features
- Powered 8-inch subwoofer
- 60W RMS output
- Universal compatibility
- Multiple input options
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Responsive customer service
- Compatible with most sound systems
- Good for small spaces
Cons
- Quality control could be better
- Auto-on feature not consistent
- Distorts at full blast
- Might emit a background hum
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4. SVS SB-3000 SUBWOOFER
- FEA-optimized motor for low distortion
- Long-throw suspension for high output at deep frequencies
- High-power voice coil for excellent thermal management
- Lightweight 12" cone for enhanced sensitivity and transient response
- Rubber surround for durability and long life
The SVS SB-3000 subwoofer is an excellent addition to any home theater system. However, there are a few caveats. This is a strong subwoofer. This is not suitable for small spaces. This is appropriate for medium to large rooms that have a dedicated home theater space.
It produces 800 watts of continuous power. At 2,500 watts of peak power, it delivers soul-thumping bass. It has a Sledge DSP amplifier and a 13-inch high excursion SVS driver. For its small size, all of these components produce deep bass and high output.
This is also not a cheap purchase. Nonetheless, its glossy black appearance, Bluetooth connectivity for in-app management, and detailed control panel may make it worthwhile to splurge. This is the subwoofer to consider if you want a clean, yet textured bass sound.
Key Features
- Powered 13-inch high excursion driver
- 800/2,500W Sledge STA-800D2 DSP Class D amplifier Aluminum vented cone
- Multiple DSP functions
- Universal compatibility
- Bluetooth connectivity
Pros
- Ground shaking bass for a home theater
- Excellent frequency range (18 to 270 Hz)
- Responsive customer service
- Sturdy steel mesh grill
Cons
- Price
5. YAMAHA NS-SW050 SUBWOOFER
- New twisted flare port contributes to clear and tight bass
- Advanced YST II (Yamaha Active Servo Technology II)
- 8” cone woofer
- Stylish addition to any room
- Dynamic Power: 100W (5 ohms)
Yamaha is a well-known brand of audio equipment. The company used its expertise in acoustics and digital technology to create an affordable powered subwoofer for small to medium-sized rooms.
If you add this 8-inch Yamaha subwoofer to your home theater system, you will get well-rounded sound. It employs Advanced YST II, a proprietary technology that masterfully controls subwoofer motion and impedance. The twisted flare port also contributes to its tight, clean-sounding bass, as the design creates a smooth airflow to eliminate extra noise and distortion even at higher levels of sound.
Key Features
- Powered 8-inch subwoofer
- 100W of dynamic power
- Advanced Yamaha Active Servo Technology II (YST II)
- Twisted flare port
- Universal compatibility
Pros
- A good option on a tight budget
- Surprisingly good bass sound
- Easy setup
Cons
- Not for large home theater rooms
- No frequency control, only volume
- No built-in amplifier
6. ROCKVILLE ROCK SHAKER 10 SUBWOOFER
- Features: Rockville Rock Shaker 10 Wood 600 Watt Powered 10" Home Theater Subwoofer, 600 Watts Peak / 300 Watts RMS, Built-in Class D Amplifier, Enclosure is made of top quality MDF wood. (MDF wood sounds better and lasts longer than particle board), High-grade vinyl enclosure covering with a beautiful finish, The enclosure is built with the perfect air space to maximize sound quality and punch, The rear firing port is engineered for optimal sound
- Class “D” Amplifier Circuitry with Auto-Switching Power Supply, High-grade woofer with foam surround and paper cone, Woofer has a Y30 grade magnet, and 1.5” 4-layer voice coil, Distortion-Free Playback Even at Max Volume Listening! Very Clean Sound!, Enclosure is filled with fire resistant poly cotton, Detachable foam grill
- Inputs / Outputs / Controls: RCA line input, RCA line output, Speaker High level inputs, Speaker High level outputs, Volume control, Phase switch (0°-180°), Crossover Frequency control, Power switch, Standard IEC power cable included
- Specifications: Amplifier: Class D, Woofer Impedance: 4 Ohm, Signal to noise ratio: 85 dB (Maximum output with THD+1<1%, A-weight), THD: 1%, INPUT sensitivity: 88dB +/- 2dB, Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 200 Hz, 600 Watts peak output, 300 Watts RMS output, Voltage: 110-240V, Product Dimensions in Inches: (WxHxD): 12.6'' x 15.5'' x 16.5'', Shipping Dimensions in Inches: (WxHxD): 15.7" x 19.7'' x 18.5'', Unit Weight: 20 LBS, Shipping Weight: 24.5 LBS, Color: Classic Wood
- Rear side of the subwoofer: Subwoofer (LINE) Jack in, Subwoofer (LINE) Jack out, Volume Control, Phase switch (0° - 180°), Frequency control, Power switch, Speaker high level in, Speaker high level out
The Rockville Rock Shaker subwoofer is a 10-inch subwoofer that can take your home theater setup to the next level. It has a peak power output of 600 watts and a rear-firing port to maximize bass delivery. It includes a built-in class D amplifier with auto-on/off control for maximum efficiency and convenience.
There’s no need to turn it on and off; it detects the sound system and adjusts accordingly. The control panel is quite robust, with volume, phase switching, and crossover frequency adjustments available. This allows you to produce just the right amount of bass for your home theater.
Key Features
- Powered 10-inch subwoofer
- 300/600W RMS
- Class D amplifier
- Multiple inputs/outputs for universal compatibility
- 4-layer voice coil
- Y30 grade magnet
Pros
- Affordable
- Compatible with a variety of home theater system receivers
- Sturdy build
Cons
- Controls could use an upgrade
7. BIC ACOUSTECH PL-200 II SUBWOOFER
- Built-in BASH amp
- output: 1,000 watts peak/250 watts RMS
- 12-in. front-firing, long-throw, heavy-duty poly-injected woofer with high-power magnet and long excursion surround
- dual flared front ports provide positioning versatility
- Frequency response: 21 Hz to 200 HZ (±3 dB)
The BIC Acoustech PL-200 II subwoofer has a high-end appearance and dynamic output for a reasonable price. It’s a 12-inch front-firing, long-throw subwoofer with a very low-frequency response and a lot of power.
It makes use of a BASH amplifier capable of producing up to 1000 watts of dynamic outpeak power at its peak. This is advantageous for home theater setups because it delivers deep, even bass through dual flared ports. The improved design from the original (BIC Acoustech PL-200) has wider ports that eliminate noise.
The cabinets are designed to reduce vibration and produce a tight, clean sound. The back panel allows for fine-tuned settings and compatibility with the majority of sound systems. If you prefer a different look, the front grill can be removed to reveal the gold plating.
Pros
- High-end sophisticated look
- Good price for the value
- Delivers low frequencies well
Cons
- Large footprint
- Not for small spaces
8. THEATER SOLUTIONS SUB8S SUBWOOFER
- SLIM HOME THEATER POWERED SUBWOOFER - Standard RCA inputs easily connect to your home theater receivers dedicated Subwoofer Output. Save power with the added Signal Sensing Auto ON/OFF feature, slim 4.75" height fits under or behind most furniture
- 250 WATTS PEAK POWER - Integrated high efficiency power amplifier, 35 - 150 Hz at 8ohm with 24dB per Octave Crossover, Auto ON/OFF and 0 - 180 degree Phase control switches, Gain and 40 - 150 Hz Crossover control knobs
- 8 INCH DOWN FIRING WOOFER - High efficiency Low Frequency 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
- SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS - Standard US 110V grounded wall plug, any home theater receiver with dual or single RCA dedicated Subwoofer passive output, home receiver or stereo with raw wire outputs. Use for home theater and surround sound systems
- WHAT'S IN THE BOX - Theater Solutions by SUB8S powered subwoofer, 6 foot dual RCA cable, RCA "Y" adapter, stand mounts, wall mount with hardware, instruction manual - Standing sub with feet size is (H x W x D) 4.75" × 25" × 16" - NOT LFE Compatible
The Theater Solutions SUB8S connects to the majority of discrete home theater sound systems with ease. It has a frequency response range of 35 to 150 Hz and controls for phase, gain, and crossover.
With a height of only 4.75 inches, it can be hidden under or behind furniture if you prefer your bass to be delivered quietly. It also includes mounting hardware if you want to hang it on the wall. The enclosure is made of tough MDF wood with internal bracing to keep vibrations from muffling the sound.
This is an excellent match for home theater receivers with dual or single RCA or raw wire outputs. It is a simple process to get started. An RCA Y adapter is included for your convenience.
Pros
- Slim footprint
- Easy setup with most home theater receivers
- Auto on/off feature saves energy
- Comes with mounting hardware
Cons
- Not compatible with LFE
- Not for large home theaters
- Auto on/off switch doesn’t always function consistently
HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE SUBWOOFER?
One of the first things to consider is the size of the sub. In general, the larger the surface area of the woofer, the deeper it will play — this is indicated by the frequency response of the sub, which is measured in hertz.
It may be tempting to choose the largest sub available. However, bigger is not always better. To create an immersive listening experience, your subwoofer should blend in seamlessly with your other speakers.
If your system consists of compact satellite or bookshelf speakers, an 8″ or 10″ subwoofer will complement them nicely. A 12″ subwoofer, on the other hand, is a better sonic match if you have large floor-standing speakers and a large center channel.
CONCLUSION
Adding a subwoofer to your home theater this year means elevating your sound profile to new heights. If you like what you hear from a soundbar or multi-channel speaker system, you’ll love what you hear from the right subwoofer.
On the market, there are numerous subwoofers to choose from. They are available in a variety of sizes and with a variety of control options, designs, and technological features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which size subwoofer is best for home?
If your system consists of compact satellite or bookshelf speakers, an 8″ or 10″ subwoofer will complement them nicely. A 12″ subwoofer, on the other hand, is a better sonic match if you have large floor-standing speakers and a large center channel.
What size subwoofer should I get?
A large sub with a lot of power is the safest bet. If you want the best sound, multiple subs in different locations in a room (or even just in the corners) almost always sound better and more realistic than a single sub at “4”.
Do 10″ subs sound better than 12″ subs?
The only correct answer is that the 12′′ is larger. It is a myth that 10″ subs are “tighter” than 12″ subs. In real-world applications, smaller subwoofers tend to be slightly more accurate, while larger subwoofers tend to be slightly louder.
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