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Best Active Subwoofer (2024 Update)

If you're looking for a powerful and immersive audio experience, an active subwoofer is a must-have. Active subwoofers are designed to handle low-frequency sounds, including bass tones, that other speakers are not equipped to handle. They are a key component in any sound system, whether it's for listening to music, gaming, or watching movies. But with so many options available, it can be difficult to know how to choose the best active subwoofer for your needs.

When looking for the best active subwoofer, there are several factors to consider. For starters, you'll want to think about the size of the room where you'll be using the subwoofer. A larger room will require a more powerful subwoofer to fill the space with sound. You'll also need to consider the type of music or sound that you'll be listening to. Some subwoofers are better suited for certain genres, such as rock or electronic music. Lastly, you'll need to think about your budget. The best active subwoofers can range in price, so it's important to set a budget beforehand.

Are you tired of listening to music or watching movies on a subpar sound system? Do you want to feel like you're really in the thick of the action? Choosing the best active subwoofer can make all the difference in your audio experience. Keep reading to learn more about the top options on the market, and find one that fits your budget and audio needs.

10 Best Active Subwoofer

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is ideal for enhancing the bass and overall sound quality of a car audio system.
2
The product is ideal for adding high-quality bass to a car audio system with limited space.
3
Ideal for enhancing home theater audio with powerful, front-firing subwoofer providing 150 watts of continuous power and 300 watts of dynamic power.
4
This product is ideal for enhancing the audio experience in cars/trucks with limited space availability.
5
The product is ideal for enhancing the bass and overall sound quality of home theater systems in a compact design.
6
Ideal for enhancing sound quality with deep bass, suitable for home theater, gaming, and music listening.
7
It is an affordable and high-performing subwoofer designed for enhancing the audio experience while watching movies or listening to music.
8
The product is ideal for adding powerful bass to a car audio system.
9
Ideal for adding extra bass to car audio systems without taking up too much space.
10
It is ideal for enhancing the bass and low-end frequencies in music and home theater systems.
It is ideal for enhancing the bass and overall sound quality of a car audio system.
The product is ideal for adding high-quality bass to a car audio system with limited space.
Ideal for enhancing home theater audio with powerful, front-firing subwoofer providing 150 watts of continuous power and 300 watts of dynamic power.
This product is ideal for enhancing the audio experience in cars/trucks with limited space availability.
The product is ideal for enhancing the bass and overall sound quality of home theater systems in a compact design.
Ideal for enhancing sound quality with deep bass, suitable for home theater, gaming, and music listening.
It is an affordable and high-performing subwoofer designed for enhancing the audio experience while watching movies or listening to music.
The product is ideal for adding powerful bass to a car audio system.
Ideal for adding extra bass to car audio systems without taking up too much space.
It is ideal for enhancing the bass and low-end frequencies in music and home theater systems.

1. Pioneer Ts-Wx130ea Pre-Amplified Active Subwoofer, 160 W

Introducing the Flat Active Subwoofer – a compact and powerful addition to your car audio system. This subwoofer boasts a slim design that makes it easy to install under your car seat, without compromising on performance.

Equipped with a built-in amplifier, this subwoofer delivers impressive bass and a frequency response of 40 to 200 Hz. It's perfect for enhancing the overall sound quality of your music, making every drive a memorable one.

With a sensitivity of 98 decibels, this subwoofer ensures that every beat and note is heard with clarity and precision. You won't miss a single detail, no matter what genre of music you prefer.

Installation is a breeze, thanks to the user-friendly design. Simply connect the subwoofer to your car's audio system and experience the difference in sound quality instantly.

2. Yaeccc Slimline Car Bass Subwoofer – Power Up!

The 10 Inch 12V 250W Black Ultra-Thin Under-Seat Car Active Subwoofer Speaker is a high-quality audio device that is designed to deliver powerful and rich sound for your car audio system. It is equipped with a plurality of radiating holes on both sides that ensure effective heat dissipation and prevent the sound box from burning. This feature ensures that the subwoofer operates at optimal performance levels for an extended period of time.

With a professional single channel power amplifier template, this subwoofer is equipped with high-end functions such as bass filter, bass enhancement, high-frequency power controller, and remote control by wire. These features allow you to customize the sound output to your desired level, resulting in an immersive audio experience every time you drive.

The all-aluminum alloy body of the subwoofer is designed to minimize the vibrations caused by noise, ensuring that the device operates at stable and reliable performance levels even in high-load environments for a long time. This feature further enhances the sound quality and clarity of the audio output.

The ultra-thin design of the subwoofer makes it easy to install under the seat of your car, while its black color complements the interior design of most cars. With its 250W power output, this subwoofer delivers a strong and powerful bass that will enhance your listening experience.

3. Klipsch Black Label Subwoofer For Powerful Bass.

The Sub-100 Subwoofer is a powerful and versatile addition to any home entertainment system. With its spun copper front-firing Cerametallic woofers and 10-inch front-firing driver, this subwoofer delivers high-quality, dynamic sound with 150 watts continuous and 300 watts dynamic power.

The Sub-100 also features an all-digital amplifier for high-efficiency and true-to-source sound accuracy. Its strong, flexible, and removable grille allows for customization and easy cleaning, while its contemporary finish seamlessly integrates with any décor.

Measuring at 14” H x 12.5” W x 15.7” D, the Sub-100 is compact enough to fit in most spaces. It must be connected to an AV Receiver, processor, or pre-amp for optimal performance. The package includes (1) Sub-100 Subwoofer and a power cord, but connection wires are not included.

For the best listening experience, it is recommended to place the subwoofer in a corner. With its impressive sound quality and sleek design, the Sub-100 Subwoofer is sure to enhance any home entertainment system.

4. Slim Under Seat Subwoofer With Audioteck Power

The 10" Angle Active Trunk Box Subwoofer is the perfect addition to any car audio system. With its impressive peak power of 400 watts and RMS of 200 watts, this subwoofer delivers exceptional sound quality and clarity that will elevate your listening experience to new heights.

This subwoofer is designed with both RCA Low Level Input and High Level Input options, providing a range of 0.1 – 6V and 1V-8V respectively. This allows for easy connectivity to a variety of audio systems, making installation a breeze.

The subwoofer is also equipped with a Power and Protection LED that indicates when it is powered on and protected from any damage. Additionally, the Variation Bass Boost feature allows you to adjust the bass level between 0 – +12dB, so you can customize the sound to your own preference.

The Variable Input Gain Control and Adjustable Input Sensitivity Selector (.1V-6V) give you complete control over the input signal, ensuring that you can achieve the perfect sound for your car audio system.

5. Powerful Psw10 Subwoofer: Big Bass, Easy Setup.

The powered subwoofer is the perfect solution for those who want extra bass and punch in their small-to-mid size room. It features a 10-inch Dynamic Balance woofer and a uniquely configured directed port that provides accurate bass with added depth, making your music and movies come alive.

One of the standout features of this subwoofer is its ability to produce louder, clearer sound even at high volume. You can enjoy a thrilling yet balanced music experience with rich, deep sound, even at low frequencies. This sub blends easily with any speaker and plays the most demanding nodes effortlessly without any distortion.

The subwoofer also boasts double the amplifier power, with its in-built 50-watt RMS amp providing 100 Watts of Dynamic Power. Its sophisticated engineering, along with the best in class resonance-free driver materials, make this sub highly durable and fit for extended use.

Integrating this subwoofer with your existing systems is a breeze. Simply hook it up to the receiver and upgrade your music sound instantly. It features a continuously variable 80-160 Hz crossover and 40-160 Hz (-3dB) frequency response.

The 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. Plus, with amplifier distortion of less than 1%, you can enjoy your music without any unwanted noise or interference.

6. Edifier T5 Powered Subwoofer – 70w Rms Active Woofer With 8 Inch Driver And Low Pass Filter

The 8" Speaker Driver from Edifier is designed to give you a powerful and accurate sound experience. With its distortion-free bass, you can expect a high-quality sound output that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning audiophile.

Featuring a low-pass filter with a frequency response down to 38Hz, this speaker driver ensures that your woofer only plays sounds that are too low for your speakers to properly output. This means that you can supplement your speakers' great high and mid-range with bass that you can really feel.

The speaker driver's thick MDF wooden enclosure is made with high-quality, dense fiberboard materials that offer reduced acoustic resonance for better audio quality. This also helps to prevent any unwanted vibrations that could affect the sound output.

Additionally, the speaker driver comes with an automatic standby feature that saves on electricity. This feature ensures that the woofer is not unnecessarily using up power when it's not being used, giving you peace of mind and helping to reduce your energy bill.

Finally, Edifier guarantees you'll have an amazing experience with their products. Buy with confidence, and enjoy their 2-year warranty. So, if you're looking for a powerful and accurate speaker driver that provides you with a better listening experience, the 8" Speaker Driver from Edifier is a great choice.

7. Powerful 10" Subwoofer For Movies & Music.

Looking for a premium home theater experience that delivers bold, rich sound with unparalleled clarity? Look no further than this contemporary subwoofer from Polk.

Featuring a 10" Dynamic Balance woofer and front-firing port, this subwoofer is designed to direct powerful lows at the seating area, giving your music and movies a cinematic quality that will leave you breathless.

But it's not just about the power – Polk's state-of-the-art Klippel technology ensures a resonance-free combination of materials and construction techniques that tune out distortion for intense and richly-detailed bass, even at extreme listening levels.

And with a built-in high-powered amp that generates 50 watts RMS/100 watts dynamic power, this subwoofer offers an emphatic bass response and a wide dynamic range crucial to recreate the intricate details and authenticity of life-like sound.

But what really sets this subwoofer apart is its easy integration with your existing sound system. With a continuously variable low-pass filter that's adjustable from 80-160 Hz, you can easily tailor the sound to fit your space and preferences. And with multiple line- and speaker-level inputs and outputs, a power-saver on/auto switch, independent volume control, and a toggle phase switch on the back panel, this subwoofer is a cohesive unit that outperforms its competition.

So if you're looking for a subwoofer that delivers uncompromising quality, reliability, and craftsmanship, look no further than Polk. Their unwavering commitment to advanced technology, engineering, and innovation ensures that you can sit back and listen with your heart, knowing that you're experiencing the very best in sound performance.

8. Rockville Rvb10.1a 10 Inch 500w Active Powered Car Subwoofer+sub Enclosure Box

The Rockville RBV10.1A Single 10” 500 Watts Active Subwoofer Enclosure is a powerful and well-designed addition to any audio system. With a peak power of 500 watts and RMS power of 300 watts, this subwoofer delivers exceptional sound quality and performance.

The RBV10.1A features a single 4-ohm nominal impedance, a 1.5” voice coil, and an inverted carbon graphite molded dust cap, which all contribute to the subwoofer’s superb sound output. The kevlar reinforced pulp cone ensures durability and longevity, while the double lamination foam surround provides added support and protection.

The subwoofer boasts a frequency response range of 35Hz to 200Hz, and a sensitivity of 88dB. The anti-vibration braced MDF cabinet helps to reduce unwanted resonance and distortion, while the angled back fits perfectly against rear seats, making it easy to install in your vehicle.

The RBV10.1A also features a computer-tuned bass reflex port, which enhances low frequency response and output. The blue/black aviation grade tweed carpet with embroidered Rockville logo adds a sleek and stylish touch to the enclosure.

This subwoofer is equipped with a Class AB amplifier and a high-speed MOSFET power supply. It also has high level speaker inputs and low level RCA inputs, making it compatible with a wide range of audio systems. The built-in low pass crossover (30Hz -160Hz) ensures that the subwoofer only reproduces the low frequencies, preventing any unwanted distortion.

The RBV10.1A accepts up to 8 gauge wire and has a 100mV-5V input voltage. The power (blue) and diagnostic (red) LED indicators provide a clear visual indication of the subwoofer’s status. The subwoofer also comes with a 20A fuse for added protection.

Measuring 15.75 inches in length, 12.99 inches in height, 10.63 inches in top width, and 14.17 inches in bottom width, and weighing 22.59 lbs, the RBV10.1A is a compact and portable subwoofer that is perfect for use in vehicles or at home.

9. Blaupunkt Blue Magic Xlf 200 A 300-Watt 8-Inch Low Profile Active Subwoofer System

The 8-Inch Low Profile Preloaded Active Subwoofer System is an exceptional product that is designed to enhance the audio experience of your car. With a peak power of 300 watts and a rated power of 150 watts, this subwoofer delivers an incredible performance that will surely impress you.

One of the standout features of this subwoofer is its spun paper cone. The cone is made from high-quality materials that are durable and reliable. It is designed to produce clear and accurate sound that is free from distortion. Whether you are listening to music or watching a movie, this subwoofer will provide you with an immersive audio experience.

The amplifier of this subwoofer is Class D, which means that it is highly efficient and produces minimal heat. This ensures that the subwoofer operates at optimal levels without any risk of overheating. Additionally, the variable low pass filter of the subwoofer can be adjusted between 50-150Hz, allowing you to fine-tune the sound to your liking.

The subwoofer comes with two inputs: RCA and High Level. This ensures that you can connect it to a variety of devices without any issues. The sensitivity of the subwoofer is 92dB, which means that it is highly responsive and can pick up even the most subtle sounds.

10. Yamaha Audio 10" 100w Powered Subwoofer – Black (Ns-Sw100bl)

Introducing the latest addition to Yamaha's line of high-quality speakers, designed to take your audio experience to the next level. The new and improved twisted flare port is engineered to deliver clear and tight bass, elevating the overall sound quality of your music. This cutting-edge technology ensures that you enjoy every beat and note with impeccable clarity.

The speaker also comes equipped with Yamaha's renowned Advanced YST II (Yamaha Active Servo Technology II), which effectively controls and cancels out any unwanted vibrations. This technology ensures that the sound produced is not only powerful but also crystal clear, making it a perfect addition to any home theater system.

The 10" cone woofer complements the twisted flare port and Advanced YST II, delivering rich and detailed sound across a wide frequency range. This ensures that you get to enjoy your music, movies, and games with exceptional clarity and depth.

In addition to its impressive sound quality, this speaker is also a stylish addition to any room. Its sleek and modern design is sure to complement any décor, making it a versatile choice for both home and office use.

Best Active Subwoofer FAQs

Are there any specific brands that are known for producing the best active subwoofers?

There are several brands that are well-known for producing high-quality active subwoofers. One of the most popular brands in this category is SVS, which offers a range of subwoofers designed for both home theater and music listening applications. Another top brand is REL, which is known for its high-end subwoofers that deliver exceptional performance and accuracy.

Other notable brands include KEF, which offers a range of active subwoofers with advanced features such as room correction and wireless connectivity, and Yamaha, which is known for producing subwoofers with powerful amplification and advanced DSP processing.

Ultimately, the best brand for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It's important to consider factors such as your budget, room size, and listening preferences when choosing a subwoofer, and to read reviews and do research to find a model that will deliver the best performance for your individual situation.

Can active subwoofers be used with any type of audio system?

Active subwoofers can be used with any type of audio system as long as the system has a compatible output and input. Most modern audio systems have a dedicated subwoofer output that is compatible with active subwoofers. However, older systems may not have this feature and may require some additional equipment or adjustments to work with an active subwoofer.

It is important to ensure that the active subwoofer is compatible with the audio system and that the power output of the subwoofer matches the power input of the system. This will ensure that the subwoofer does not overpower or underperform in the system.

Before purchasing an active subwoofer, it is recommended to check the specifications and compatibility with the audio system to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.

How do active subwoofers differ from passive ones?

Active subwoofers and passive subwoofers are two types of subwoofers that differ in their design and functionality. A passive subwoofer requires an external amplifier to power it, while an active subwoofer has a built-in amplifier.

Active subwoofers are self-powered, which means they have a built-in amplifier that powers the subwoofer. This design eliminates the need for an external amplifier, making it a more convenient and space-saving option. Active subwoofers also have a more consistent and controlled sound quality since the amplifier is specifically designed to power the subwoofer.

On the other hand, passive subwoofers do not have a built-in amplifier and require an external amplifier to power them. This means that the sound quality and performance of a passive subwoofer will depend on the quality and power of the external amplifier used.

Overall, the main difference between active and passive subwoofers is the presence of a built-in amplifier in active subwoofers. Active subwoofers are generally easier to set up and provide consistent sound quality, while passive subwoofers require more components and can have variable sound quality depending on the external amplifier used.

How do active subwoofers improve the overall sound quality of a system?

Active subwoofers improve the overall sound quality of a system in several ways. Firstly, they are designed to produce low frequencies with great accuracy and power. This means that they can reproduce bass notes in music with greater precision, depth and detail, which in turn enhances the overall musical experience. Secondly, active subwoofers are equipped with built-in amplifiers that are specifically tailored to drive the subwoofer driver. This ensures that the subwoofer can produce high-quality bass without distorting or clipping. Moreover, active subwoofers have built-in crossovers that help to filter out unwanted frequencies and prevent them from interfering with the main speakers. This helps to create a cleaner, more focused soundstage, where each element of the music can be heard more clearly. Finally, active subwoofers are often easier to set up and integrate into a system than passive subwoofers, as they come with a range of controls and adjustments that allow users to fine-tune the subwoofer's output to match the room and the main speakers.

How much power should an active subwoofer have?

The power of an active subwoofer depends on several factors such as the size of the room, the type of music you listen to, and your personal preferences. Generally, a good rule of thumb is to look for a subwoofer with an RMS power rating that matches or exceeds the RMS power output of your amplifier. This will ensure that the subwoofer can handle the power output of your amplifier without distortion.

Another factor to consider is the size of the room. For smaller rooms, a subwoofer with a lower power output may suffice, while larger rooms may require a more powerful subwoofer to fill the space with deep bass.

Additionally, the type of music you listen to can also impact the power requirements of your subwoofer. If you enjoy bass-heavy genres such as techno or hip-hop, you may want to invest in a more powerful subwoofer to fully experience the low-end frequencies.

Ultimately, it's important to carefully consider your individual needs and preferences when selecting the power output of your active subwoofer to ensure optimal performance and enjoyment.

What are the benefits of using an active subwoofer instead of a passive one?

An active subwoofer has several benefits over a passive subwoofer. Firstly, an active subwoofer comes with a built-in amplifier which allows it to produce a more powerful and accurate bass response. This is because the amplifier is specifically designed to work with the subwoofer driver, resulting in a more efficient and controlled delivery of low-frequency sound.

Secondly, an active subwoofer has its own power supply, which means it doesn't rely on the power from the receiver or amplifier. This leads to a cleaner and more consistent bass response, as the subwoofer is not affected by fluctuations in the power supply.

Thirdly, an active subwoofer usually comes with a range of controls and adjustments, such as volume, crossover frequency, and phase, which allow for more precise tuning of the subwoofer to match the room acoustics and other speakers. This can lead to a more natural and balanced sound.

Overall, the benefits of using an active subwoofer over a passive one are a more powerful and accurate bass response, a cleaner and more consistent delivery of low-frequency sound, and more precise tuning options.

What are the best active subwoofers available on the market?

There are many active subwoofers available on the market, each with their own unique features and specifications. However, some of the best active subwoofers available in the market are:

1. SVS SB-2000: This subwoofer delivers powerful, accurate bass with its 12-inch driver and 500-watt amplifier. It also has a compact design and can fit in almost any room.

2. Klipsch R-120SW: This subwoofer has a 12-inch driver and a 400-watt amplifier, delivering deep bass with minimal distortion. It also has a sleek design that can blend well with any home theater system.

3. JBL Bar 9.1: This subwoofer has a 10-inch driver and a total power output of 820 watts. It also features Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technology, which can create an immersive sound experience.

4. BIC America F12: This subwoofer features a 12-inch driver and a 475-watt amplifier, delivering deep bass and clear sound. It also has an adjustable crossover and volume controls.

5. ELAC Debut 2.0 SUB3030: This subwoofer has a 12-inch driver and a 1000-watt amplifier, delivering powerful and accurate bass. It also has a sleek design and can be integrated with any home theater system.

Ultimately, the best active subwoofer for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It is important to consider factors such as room size, power output, and design when selecting a subwoofer.

What features should I look for in an active subwoofer?

When looking for an active subwoofer, there are several features that you should consider before making a purchase. The first and most important feature is the size of the subwoofer. The larger the subwoofer, the deeper and more powerful the bass will be. However, larger subwoofers can also be more expensive and take up more space in your room.

Another important feature to consider is the power rating of the subwoofer. The power rating will determine how loud and punchy the bass will be. You should look for a subwoofer with a power rating that matches the size of your room and your listening preferences.

The frequency response is also an important feature to consider. A subwoofer with a wider frequency response will be able to reproduce lower frequencies more accurately. Look for a subwoofer with a frequency response that goes down to at least 20 Hz.

Finally, connectivity options are also important to consider. Look for a subwoofer with multiple input options such as RCA and speaker wire connections. This will allow you to connect the subwoofer to a variety of different devices such as a stereo receiver, AV receiver, or soundbar.

What is the frequency range of the best active subwoofers?

The frequency range of the best active subwoofers can vary depending on the specific model and manufacturer. However, in general, active subwoofers are designed to reproduce low-frequency sounds, typically in the range of 20Hz to 200Hz. Some high-end models may be capable of reproducing frequencies as low as 15Hz or even lower.

It's worth noting that while a wider frequency range can be impressive, it's not always necessary or even desirable. The most important factor in choosing an active subwoofer is finding one that complements your existing audio system and provides the right balance of bass and midrange frequencies for your listening preferences.

Ultimately, the best way to determine the frequency range of a specific active subwoofer is to consult the manufacturer's specifications or try it out for yourself in a listening test.

What is the optimal size for an active subwoofer?

The optimal size for an active subwoofer depends on various factors, such as the size of the room, the frequency range of the other speakers, and personal preferences. Generally, larger subwoofers tend to produce deeper and more powerful bass, while smaller ones are more compact and easier to integrate into a room.

A common size for an active subwoofer is around 10 inches, which is suitable for most home theater systems and music setups. This size can produce a good balance between low frequency response and overall size. However, if you have a larger room or demand more bass, you may want to consider a larger subwoofer, such as a 12 or 15-inch driver.

It's worth noting that the size of the subwoofer is not the only factor that determines its performance and sound quality. Other factors such as the power output, frequency response, and overall design also play a crucial role. Therefore, it's important to consider all these factors when choosing an active subwoofer for your setup.