The best subwoofers for home

No speaker can produce the same sound as a subwoofer. The main purpose of such a device is to deliver clean, powerful bass without annoying rattling. The acoustics market offers many imported and domestic manufacturers, models for every taste and budget. And only the best subwoofers for the home, identified by the experts in the field, guarantee the buyer a truly velvety bass. A group of criteria for the correct assessment, as well as a list of reliable companies, will simplify the search for the optimal model. Real user reviews have identified the advantages and disadvantages of active, passive devices included in the top rating of 2024.

Which company subwoofer is better for home

The niche of acoustics manufacturers in the world market has long ago identified its leaders. These are giants who have won the trust of specialists in this field and ordinary buyers. The best subwoofers for home were presented by the following companies:

• Sony Is a Japanese multinational corporation founded in 1946. Much of the work is aimed at creating amateur and professional electronics, various game consoles and consoles. Sony is considered one of the largest media conglomerates in the world, as it has its own recording brands and film studios.
• Onkyo Is a consumer electronics manufacturer founded in Japan since 1946. Engaged in the production and sale of audio equipment, home theater systems. The name "onkyo" literally translates as "sound acoustics" or "sound harmony". The company is remembered for being one of the first to release a system of separate audio components.
• Yamaha Is a Japanese multinational company founded in 1887. It is the largest manufacturer of acoustic systems, musical instruments, sound equipment. Closer to the 60s of the last century, the range was supplemented by Hi-Fi products, as well as professional sports equipment.
• Jamo Is a world famous brand of acoustics, which began its history in Denmark since 1966. By the 30th anniversary of the company's activity, the presented products began to be sold with tremendous success in more than 80 countries of the world. Today this name is associated with high quality materials, unique design, and innovative technologies.
• Heco Is a German company with a rich history specializing in the production of acoustic systems. Founded in 1949. The brand got its name from Hennel & Co. In the last century, many loudspeaker models were recognized as the best of the time. Today this name is loud in the world market, as it is among the leaders of its industry.
• JBL Is an American audio and acoustics company since 1946. It is part of the Harman International Industries association, where many well-known manufacturers in this industry are located. It was possible to gain tremendous experience, the trust of all countries due to the fact that the manufacturer was at the origins of the creation of audio equipment.
• Paradigm Is a Canadian company and also one of the most respected acoustic manufacturers in the world. The entire production process has been concentrated in Canada from 1982 to the present day. Scientific knowledge and advanced equipment help to create high-tech and unique devices.
• Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) - a private British company, named after the founders of John Bowers, Roy Wilkins. Founded in 1966.With nearly 50 years of research experience behind it, each new model is a true engineering masterpiece. Today, the market within this industry offers a wide range of Hi-Fi speakers from mid-range to high-end.
• APart Is a Belgian company behind a series of innovations in the audio industry. Founded in 1993. The audio equipment offered today is notable for its affordability, functionality, and reliability. The company uses innovative digital technologies, high-tech materials, cutting-edge hardware components.
• Wharfedale Is a British company founded in 1932. She confidently entered the history of the Hi-Fi industry, as one of the first creators of Hi-Fi audio. Since the end of the twentieth century, another division was founded - Wharfedale Pro, which creates professional sound equipment.
• American audio Is a well-known company that produces special equipment for DJs and musicians. Founded in 1985, then it was a tiny company, and today it is a huge corporation. Currently, there are 5 divisions open - American DJ lighting installations and equipment, Elation Professional software, Acclaim Lighting equipment for special effects, Duratruss accessories for concerts, ADJ speakers, turntables, mixers and accessories.

Home subwoofer rating

There are innumerable varieties and models of subwoofers, which significantly complicates the choice of an ordinary buyer. And only experts know for sure by what criteria to evaluate goods. The reputation of the manufacturer alone will not be enough, since there are many leaders and world giants with a huge assortment. Therefore, applicants for the top list were considered for the following characteristics:

• View - closed or bass reflex, active or passive;
• Power - sound power, volume;
• Operating frequency range - the frame between the high and low frequencies;
• Cone diameter - the higher it is, the more powerful the bass (8-12 inches);
• Service area - relationship between speaker diameter and room size;
• Installation method - floor, desktop, wall;
• Design - exterior, wood finish, matte or glossy surface;
• Useful functions - backlight, control panel, wireless communication, anti-slip;
• Sound - technologies for improving sound, the presence of adjustments, auto on / off. and etc.;
• Dimensions - compactness, weight, dimensions.

Each nominee demonstrates a good balance of functionality, reliability and price. The review included the most purchased devices for household use, gaining the highest percentage of approving reviews from experts in the industry and ordinary buyers.

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Best active subwoofers for home

If earlier acoustic systems were in demand only in a professional environment, today they are equipped with computers and cinemas at home. The main difference between an active device and a passive device is the location of the amplifier. In the first case, it is built into the body, so there is no need for fine tuning of all components. If you want to buy an inexpensive active subwoofer for your home with a reliable design and good sound, the experts have prepared several worthy proposals.

Sony SA-CS9

The best offer among budget devices from branded manufacturers. Engineers have taken care of a decent filling, thanks to which the Sony SA-CS9 with a bass-reflex design conveys all the depth and power of music and sound effects. The price has been reduced due to the simplified finish - medium quality plastic. Low frequencies are transmitted from about 28 Hz to 200 Hz through 10-inch drivers. The total power reaches 115 watts. The user is provided with all the necessary settings - cutoff frequency, volume. A low-pass filter is provided for a velvety feel. The total weight is 11.5 kg, dimensions - 29.5 × 34.5 × 40 cm. The manufacturer recommends using it for watching movies, playing games on a PC. Approximate service area - 20-30 m².

Advantages

• Large diffuser;
• Adjustments for customization;
• Auto power on / auto power off;
• Built-in crossover;
• Volume headroom;
• Inexpensive.

disadvantages

• Smell from plastic during the first time of operation;
• Complaints about the quality and dynamics of sound from audiophiles.

According to most buyers, this inexpensive, simple sub is perfect for connecting to a home theater. There will be no bass that vibrates throughout the body, so this model is not made for audiophiles. But the manufacturer has provided all the necessary options - auto-on, sufficient diffuser size, soft sound, compactness.

Onkyo SKW-770

Another popular bass reflex subwoofer with a floor-standing installation method from the budget segment. The maximum power reaches 150 W, which allows reproduction of frequencies in the range from 25 to 200 Hz by speakers with a diameter of 10 inches. Serviced area - up to 30 m². Small dimensions 50.7x41.1x27.5 cm and weight 11.6 kg allow you to embed and install Onkyo SKW-770 in any convenient place. An adjustable crossover is built in, allowing multiple speakers to match the sound. Unlike the previous nominee, there is an additional option here - Standby mode, which reduces energy consumption by switching to standby mode.

Advantages

• Powerful sound;
• Deep bottoms;
• Standby mode;
• Compactness;
• Built-in crossover;
• Inexpensive.

disadvantages

• Marked glossy plastic;
• Lack of cutoff frequency.

The Onkyo SKW-770 is also great for playing computer games to watch movies. Despite the deep powerful sound, decent low end, experienced music lovers complain about the lack of cutoff frequency, which requires the use of an amplifier. The presence of the power-saving mode Onkyo SKW-770 justifies the flaw. For this price, this is a decent offer in the budget lineup.

Yamaha YST-FSW100

Japanese model of a closed type from budget lines. This speaker shape combines assembly reliability with leak-free clarity. The power ranges from 80 to 130 W, which will be quite enough to service a room with an area of ​​20 m². Here you can see monopolar radiation, that is, the sound will scatter in the direction in which the speaker will be. Sensitivity and volume will depend not only on the owner's settings, but also on positioning. The cutoff frequency ranges from 30 to 200 Hz, which is enough for deep bass, listening to music or watching a movie. The woofer diameter is 6 inches. Dimensions 40x15.7x37.5 cm, 9 kg. Magnetic protection prevents distortion in case of close proximity to the monitor, TV. Floor-standing installation is initially provided.

Advantages

• Ergonomics;
• Stylish appearance;
• Good bass detail;
• Magnetic anti-distortion;
• Lack of third-party noise;
• Convenient control knobs.

disadvantages

• Insufficient length of the AUX cable;
• Propensity to generate standing waves.

Experts recommend this device for connection to home theater, stereo speaker system. Nice design will perfectly fit into the interior of the living room. The reviews write that the sub produces soft bass, and its compact size allows installation in any convenient place.

Jamo J 10 SUB

Entry level home active subwoofer with 10 '' speaker and aluminum front cone. It delivers rich, powerful bass with great depth. The maximum power reaches between 150 and 300 W, which is enough to complete all tasks. The model is presented in a bass-reflex type and a case made of MDF. The sound frequency ranges from 30 to 120 Hz, the cutoff frequency can be adjusted. Dimensions - 31.8x42.7x36.8 cm, weight 12 kg. Thanks to Hard Conical Cone technology, the speakers are supported by a molded graphite diaphragm. The design in a snow-white version looks colorful and modern, there are 5 colors to choose from in total.For floor installation, metal legs are provided to prevent vibration at high volume throughout the body. There is an indicator light on the front machine.

Advantages

• Reliable installation;
• High quality sound;
• 5 colors to choose from;
• Led indicator;
• Low distortion aluminum satellite
• High quality low frequencies.

disadvantages

• Price;
• Difficulty buying.

The model is suitable for synchronization with a computer or home theater, and for listening to music. At any frequency, the sound has virtually no distortion.

The compact size fits into any place for installation, and the square shape of the case looks original. Unfortunately, not every store has such a product in stock.

Heco Victa Prime Sub 252 A

An advanced model of a bass-reflex type, the power of which will be enough to service a room up to 30 m². To enhance the sound, the cabinet is made of 25 mm thick MDF with reinforcement ribs. On the front wall there is a 10-inch woofer with a closed fabric grill. Ergonomic knobs let you adjust crossover, level and cutoff frequency. Bass is produced in the range of 20-200 Hz at a power of 100-200 watts. Saturation and softness of sound is guaranteed by a well thought-out design with dimensions of 31.8x45.0x40.5 cm and a weight of 17 kg. For floor installation, support stand with rubber pad system, non-rigid joints. This reduces vibration by preventing sound vibrations.

Advantages

• High peak power;
• Realistic reproduction;
• Reliable construction;
• Artificial sound absorber;
• Overload protection system;
• Adjustable filter.

disadvantages

• Price;
• Modest equipment.

German production in absentia guarantees the reliability of the device, quality. In the reviews, users confirm the purity of the bass without overtones. The design is strict, laconic, it will fit into any interior. There are complaints about the materials used to manufacture the diffuser, which does not correspond to the price of the product.

JBL LSR310S

Originally a studio sub for use in a home studio with 10 "speakers, an active power amplifier. It can be connected to professional equipment. The main difference from the previous nominees is the Image Control Waveguide technology, which is responsible for the absence of distortion anywhere in the room. The maximum power threshold is 200 watts. Sophisticated design is easy to install, transport. The closed housing provides an accurate, legible audio frequency spectrum from 27 to 80 Hz. It is possible to adjust the crossover, parameters, phase switches, low pass filters. The professional grade model is capable of serving medium-sized premises. Dimensions - 44.8 × 38.1 × 39.8 cm, weight 15.6 kg. Installation method - floor, special legs are provided. The body is made of MDF 18 mm thick.

Advantages

• Entrances for professional equipment;
• Brand design;
• Built-in crossover;
• Convenient adjustment of settings;
• ICW technology;
• Bass reflex with 2 circuits.

disadvantages

• Price;
• Not suitable for corner installation.

The experts chose the JBL subwoofer for characteristics that are not found in many similar devices. First of all, these are high-quality components of the electronics and the design itself. Secondly, a well-thought-out system of adjustments. Magnetically shielded electronics allows you to use the model close to a computer or other equipment. Unwanted corner installation, but can be hung from the wall with special mounting brackets.

Paradigm DSP-3100

One of the few models that can correctly reproduce almost any musical material. Suitable for home theater installations, small bookshelf speakers. The frequency range here shows average values ​​- 35-180 Hz. The driver, namely a polypropylene cone with aramid fiber, measures 10 inches. The AVS air cooling system protects against overheating. Device type - double low turbulent high speed bass reflex.The amplifier demonstrates a power of 200-600 watts. The size of the structure is average - 41.3x31.1x42.5 cm, weight 18.2 kg. The body is made of amorphous MDF. It is possible to adjust the cutoff frequency, phase. Installation method - floor, for this there are special elements (vibration dampers and spikes) on the bottom panel.

Advantages

• High power rating;
• Large serviced area;
• Absence of any mechanical rattling;
• Excellent low end;
• Reinforced power wire;
• High-quality assembly of the structure.

disadvantages

• More weight than many similar products;
• Lack of high-level outputs.

This device delivers tight and powerful bass, which is enough for rooms up to 30 m² and even more. Compared to other products at the same price, this is the best deal in terms of power. Suitable for both home theater and music listening. Buyers consider the lack of high-level outputs and impressive weight to be a disadvantage.

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Bowers & Wilkins ASW608

The youngest model in the popular lineup, ranked for its impressive performance. The speaker is almost 8 inches in diameter and is made of Kevlar, paper and resin. This combination guarantees strength along with optimum mobility. The closed-type sub is equipped with an MDF casing with a rated power of 200 W. This will be enough to fill a large room. Heavy-duty construction minimizes playback distortion. Frequency range 23-140 Hz. Among the functions it is worth noting the adjustment of phases, volume, cutoff frequency, bass expansion, automatic switching on and switching to Standby mode. Dimensions - 26x26x33 cm, weight 9.9 kg. Installation method - floor, rubber feet are provided for this.

Advantages

• High-quality sound at low, medium frequencies;
• Compactness;
• Flexible system of settings;
• Reliable build;
• High power amplifier;
• Automatic on / off.

disadvantages

• There is no control panel;
• Price.

You can combine this sub with the smallest modest speakers, all the same, the sound will surprise you with transparency and depth of sound. Enough power for a large room. The reviews praise the many connection methods, Bowers & Wilkins ASW608 settings. The only thing missing is the remote control. Also, in the minus column, most buyers noted the price.

Best passive subwoofers for home

When choosing a passive subwoofer, it is also important to pay attention to an additional parameter - the recommended power. The device can be equipped with one or more low-frequency heads, they are connected with a cable to the amplifier. In most cases it will be a home theater subwoofer, less often they increase the power of the music to deepen the bass. They are not suitable for maximum volume, and they perform well at the initial and middle positions. Based on demand, the percentage of approving reviews, experts selected the top 4 offers of 2024.

APart CMSUB8

Recessed passive subwoofer without amplifier for ceiling mounting. The bass speaker is primarily responsible for reproduction and sound quality, with an 8-inch cone made of paper with a special protective coating against resonance. The frequency range is 50-200 Hz. Due to the presence of an input filter, it is possible to connect not only to the main acoustics, but also to a stereo amplifier. The model is designed to work together with satellite speakers. Activation possible even without ABS plastic housing. The dimensions of the structure are 24.6x10.6 cm, weight is 2.1 kg. At the same time, the installation depth is only 9.7 cm, so that the device is barely visible on the wall. The input power is 2x80 W. The set includes a white aluminum protective mesh, it is approved for installation even in a room with high humidity.

Advantages

• Compactness;
• Ease of installation;
• Good frequency range;
• Resonance protective coating;
• Hypersensitivity;
• The impedance is higher than that of analogs.

disadvantages

• Lack of adjustment options;
• For ceiling mounting only.

This model is preferred by many due to its good compatibility with other equipment. Best of all, it manifests itself in the accompaniment of a movie on a TV or computer. Also in demand among gamers. APart CMSUB8 was highly appreciated for its mounting method, compactness, improved sensitivity and impedance characteristics.

Wharfedale Pro Delta 15B

High quality passive sub is suitable for constant transportation. It includes a 15-inch low-distortion woofer in a custom die-cast frame. A 4-inch voice coil is also provided, delivering power from 700 to 2800 watts. The frequency range is 42–150 Hz, with one gain line. All these characteristics are satisfactory for the operation of the device in musical projects demanding in the low-frequency range. Externally, the structure is made of 15 mm thick plywood with a durable textured coating using Rhino Rock technology. A front steel grill protects from various external stimuli. Overall dimensions 47.1x47.1x60 cm, weight 31.5 kg.

Advantages

• Design;
• Good compatibility with technology;
• Modern generation;
• Rihno Rock protective coating;
• Titanium driver;
• Moisture resistance of the case.

disadvantages

• Price;
• Heavy weight.

The model was developed based on the experience of using the equipment by rental companies. It has enhanced protection, reliability, durability of the case, added the necessary connectors for synchronization, the use of modern technologies to increase power, reduce noise. The buyers noted the disadvantages of the price, as well as the heaviness of the device.

American Audio Sense 18B

A low-frequency speaker system that has precisely separated and tuned passive points for optimum sound quality. The model is designed for mobile and stationary applications, with flexibility to meet different requirements. The voice coil is fitted in an aluminum basket. Above, there is a protective steel grill, covered with an acoustic porous material. The speaker diameter is 18 inches. Sound power can vary from 600 to 2400 watts at maximum, the total demonstrates the limits of 400-800 watts. The frequency range can compete with many nominees in the review - 36-250 Hz. Handles are installed on the sides for easy transportation. Also, the package includes a special bracket so that the device can be mounted on a tripod. With a weight of 33 kg, the structure has dimensions of 52x65x60 cm.

Advantages

• New LSM control system;
• Functionality;
• Compactness;
• Asymmetrical design of HF cabinets;
• Latest version amplifier technology;
• Large speaker diameter.

disadvantages

• Price;
• Heavy weight.

A powerful device with great potential and modern capabilities for connoisseurs of high-tech devices. The manufacturer offers to evaluate a multifunctional model with a modern amplifier, asymmetric design, and improved control system. The only drawbacks buyers noted were price and weight.

JBL JRX218S

This model offers the highest power, which will be enough to synchronize with a concert music audio system. The bass reflex case is made of MDF 19 mm thick, it will surprise you with natural sounding even at the lowest frequencies without distortion. The power indicator starts at 350 and ends at 1400 watts at its very peak. The frequency range is 34-250 Hz. The speaker diameter is 18 inches. The diffuser is protected by a steel grill from damage during transport. On the side of the case there are handles for convenience, and on the bottom panel there are rubberized feet for a firm fix. The size of the apparatus is 50.8 × 60.5 × 55.1 cm, weight is 32 kg. A Speakon connector is provided for connection to an amplifier. Additional options include magnetic protection, digital crossover, increased sensitivity and power.

Advantages

• Wide frequency range;
• Powerful bass
• Durable connectors;
• Large speaker diameter;
• Steel grill;
• Ergonomic body.

disadvantages

• Price;
• Heavy weight.

In the reviews they write that this is the best offer for performances due to the increased power, the ability to withstand heavy loads.It can be connected to an amplifier up to 700 watts.

In fact, the bass demonstrates natural, good articulation. The minus is the price, the heaviness of the structure.

Which subwoofer for your home is better to buy

All 12 nominees in the survey demonstrate state-of-the-art capabilities to meet the needs of different buyers. Based on the reviews, the indicated advantages, disadvantages, it is easier to choose which subwoofer is better and what to buy. The specified models can be connected to PC, home theater, music equipment. The comparative analysis showed the following results of the comparative analysis:

• Yamaha YST-FSW100 - Best Budget Closed Model;
• Jamo J 10 SUB - high-quality assembly, 5 colors to choose from;
• Onkyo SKW-770 - Affordable Standby Mode for Power Saving;
• Sony SA-CS9 - the best deal for the home with good sound quality;
• Heco Victa Prime Sub 252 A - advanced miniature sub with overload protection;
• APart CMSUB8 - miniature ceiling recessed model;
• Wharfedale Pro Delta 15B - high protection that can withstand transportation;
• American Audio Sense 18B - great potential, modern features;
• JBL JRX218S is the highest power rating for a concert audio system.

A home subwoofer is most often used to enhance the sound of games, movies, music. How powerful, high-tech, advanced it should be is a purely individual question. You need to rely on the criteria named by experts, as well as the possibilities of your own budget.