Best Powered Subwoofer

Any home theater system or a speaker system in a car is usually supplemented with a low-frequency subwoofer. This allows you to achieve a rich bass and split the sound. A powered (active) subwoofer can significantly reduce the load on the receiver in the home theater or car system. When choosing a subwoofer, you need to consider the properties of the space where it will be installed and many other small nuances. So, when going to the store for a purchase, you need to understand that the choice of models is unlimited and the price of a quality device will be high. That’s why we’ve examined a lot of models from different manufacturers and made a rating of the most qualitative in order to help you choosing the best powered subwoofer for home or car system.

At the beginning, let’s find out what the powered subwoofer is and reveal its advantages and disadvantages that you mandatorily should know when considering buying this type of sub. The powered subwoofer is a monolithic speaker system, which has a built-in low-frequency loudspeaker and power amplifier. This arrangement allows saving space, but it significantly affects the sound quality. The powered subwoofer has built-in functions for adjusting the level and frequency of the signal, and the rear panel is equipped with input and output connectors of the linear type. The standard settings of such subwoofer are good for heavy or rhythmic music. The device better transfers low frequencies and allows regulating their degree of expression.

Each type of subwoofer has its advantages and disadvantages due to its design features. Thus, the advantages of a powered subwoofer are obvious:

• The amplifier is built into the case and doesn’t occupy additional space;
• Wide range of application;
• Active subwoofers are already equipped with an amplifier, so the problems with power differences won’t occur;
• The possibility to use as a portable speaker system, if there are outputs for additional speakers;
• Versatile enclosure options.

Of course, there are also disadvantages that can affect your decision to buy a powered subwoofer:

•  External amplifiers have a larger number of parameters for tuning;
• The power and depth of sound are weakened by the fact that there are obstacles in the housing;
• No possibility of connecting additional filters;
• A passive subwoofer with a high-quality amp and tuning can produce a clearer sound.

Powered subwoofers exist for both the car and the home systems, so we divided the top devices of 2017 into two separate lists that will allow you to compare exactly the kind that interests you the most.

Best Powered Home Subwoofer

JBL PRX718XLF 18-Inch Self-Powered Extended Subwoofer System

• JBL 18" 1500W POWERED DJ Speaker

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$1,146.97

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Specifications

• RMS: 1500 watt
• Sensitivity: 134 dB
• Frequency Response: 35-87 Hz
• Impedance: 20k Ohms (balanced)

JBL PRX718XLF is a high-performance powered subwoofer. It includes a powerful 2278H Differential Drive® speaker with a dual voice coil, and all of these is powered by a 1500 W Class D amp. The JBL PRX718XLF sub with an extended range was developed to provide extremely low frequencies with an exceptional precision and power. You can use it as a single subwoofer in the sub / sat system, and also, if necessary, use it as a part of a large-format system with powerful sound. In the last case, the subs can be mounted on each other, easily adjusted and dismantled after usage. Due to their robust enclosure made of poplar, they are a perfect option for professional sound equipment rental services.

QSC KW181 Powered Subwoofer

• 1000-watt powered subwoofer (2 x 500-watt Class D amplifiers)
• 1000 watts continuous output, 2000 watts peak
• 18-inch woofer
• Includes fixed-length, M20 threaded speaker pole and pole-mounting cup
• Rugged birch plywood enclosure with textured black paint

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$1,399.00

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Specifications

• RMS: 1000 watt
• Peak Power 2000 watt
• Sensitivity: 135 dB
• Frequency Response: 40-112 Hz
• Impedance: 38k Ohms (balanced)

Subwoofer QSC KW181 is a really powerful addition to low frequencies to any home audio system. The manufacturer also recommends buying active loudspeakers of KW Series for perfect sound completeness. This 1000-watt 18-inch subwoofer with a Class D amplifier is easy to tune. It’s also very durable and will last you for a long time. For the convenience of transportation, the developers added handles on it that make it easy to carry. QSC KW181 gives you all of the drive and power that needed. There are even dual balanced inputs (XLR) and outputs. The frequency range is 40-112 Hz, and the price of this sub indicates that it can be one of the best options among powered home subs for those who are looking for a new woofer for their system.

Yamaha DSR118W 18" Subwoofer

• Integral Digital Tuning
• Intelligent Dynamic Control
• Extensive DSP Protection
• Xtreme D-Powered by Leading-Edge Digital Technology
• High Performance Digital Signal Processor and 24-bit Discrete AD and DA Converters

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$999.99

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Specifications

• RMS: 800 watt
• Sensitivity: 132 dB
• Frequency Response: 50-110 Hz
• Impedance: 10k Ohms (balanced)

The Yamaha DSR118W is a compact and one of the best powered subwoofer that extends the low-frequency range of the DSR series speakers to 40 Hz. The model is equipped with an effective Class D amplifier with a power of 800 W and an 18-inch long-range low-frequency radiator. The designers used a powerful ferrite magnet for the last one, which in turn allowed reducing the weight and dimensions of the enclosure and achieve the reproduction of warm and deep bass.

Thanks to the perfect combination of amplifiers, emitters and sound processors, the DSR118W provides the highest levels of sound pressure in its class, preserving the dynamics and accuracy of the signal. The efficiency of the amplifiers is such that convective cooling is enough and the use of fans isn’t necessary to maintain the operating temperature. The extended bass range and the excellent sounding of the basic harmonics of the human voice, the powerful low-frequency reproduction, which doesn’t affect the envelope of the signal, allows reproducing the sound with minimal distortion, even at high volume levels.

Yamaha DXS12 Powered Subwoofer

• 950W of class D power
• Multiple crossover settings to fit any application.
• Compact yet powerful cabinet design.

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$699.99

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Specifications

• RMS: 600 watt
• Peak Power 950 watt
• Sensitivity: 131 dB
• Frequency Response: 47-160 Hz

The DXS12 subwoofer from Yamaha is a very compact and powerful device. The most distinguishing feature is its high-performance Class D amplifier, which gives a peak power of 950W, and a 12-inch low-frequency woofer housed in an acoustically optimized band-pass cabinet. The selectable crossover options, as well as the tuning parameters that are provided, will give perfect bass for both listening to your favorite music and voluminous and multifaceted sound when watching movies.

Yamaha DXS12 gives an incredibly clear sound and best-in-class sound pressure level, but in a more compact cabinet, featuring incredible functionality and versatility that no other audio speaker system can offer. Also, an interesting thing is that subwoofer will be a great device for clubs and indoors dances.

JBL SRX828SP Dual Self-Powered

• Premium JBL Transducers
• Rugged, versatile enclosures
• Tunings available for Crown amps and DBX signal processors
• Fully supported in Audio Architect
• Power Handling: 3200W Peak, 1600W Program, 800W Continuous

5 used from $1,699.00

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$1,899.00

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Specifications

• RMS: 1500 watt
• Peak Power 2000 watt
• Sensitivity: 141 dB
• Frequency Response: 35-120 Hz
• Impedance: 40k Ohms (balanced)

Powered subwoofer with two 18-inch speakers SRX828SP was designed to extend the low-frequency loudspeakers of SRX800 Series. Technical solutions used in SRX828SP are making it one of the best models in its class among competing systems. SRX828SP is equipped with a modern Crown Drivecore amplifier with a processor and possibility to control and monitor remotely.

The dynamic head was manufactured by patented JBL Differential Drive technology and has a coil with a diameter of 3 inches. This technology has enabled not only to reduce the weight of ferritic magnet and increase the power of speaker but also to ensure minimum distortion and extended low-frequency range. A 3-inch driver with a neodymium magnet is responsible for high frequencies. In order to provide the sound quality that you expect from JBL SRX828SP, 18-inch drivers were located inside a specially designed cabinet, which makes it possible to achieve exceptional sound balance and clarity.

Yamaha DXS15 Powered Subwoofer

• 950W of class D power
• Remarkable high output of 132 dB SPL (max)
• Bandpass cabinet deign offers compact size and high performance

1 used from $729.00
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$799.99

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Specifications

• RMS: 600 watt
• Peak Power 950 watt
• Sensitivity: 132 dB
• Frequency Response: 45-160 Hz
• Impedance: 10k Ohms (balanced)

The perfect Yamaha DXS15 subwoofer features power and clarity of bass reproduction with a lower frequency limit of 45 Hz. A fully optimized design with a bass reflex combines a powerful Class D amplifier, a 15-inch long-range low-band emitter, and a modern DSP. All these ensure impressive clarity and depth of bass sound. The cabinet of the powered subwoofer Yamaha DXS15 is distinguished by the presence of a special design of the bass reflex, due to which an unusually high level of sound pressure is achieved. The D-XSUB signal processing capabilities allow the owners of this sub to select the NORMAL, BOOST or XTENDED low-pass filter settings based on the specifics of the room, the features of the musical style.

An excellent, deep, powerful, very clear, and perfectly readable sound, as well as an impressive level of sound pressure, characterize the active subwoofer Yamaha DXS15. This model is ideal for use with Yamaha’s DSR and DXR series speakers.

BEHRINGER EUROLIVE B1200D-PRO

• High-performance 500-Watt powered subwoofer for PA applications
• Powerful 12'' long-excursion transducer with high temperature voice coil provides incredibly accurate and pulse-pounding bass
• Precise reproduction of ultra-low frequencies for "bulletproof" punch and impact

1 used from $279.99
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$299.99

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Specifications

• Peak Power 500 watt
• Sensitivity: 122 dB
• Frequency Response: 60-130 Hz
• Impedance: 8 Ohms

Behringer Eurolive B1200D-PRO is a versatile and powerful subwoofer with several levels of protection against signal surges, overheating and other problems arising from improper selection of audio components and based on the most proven Behringer technologies. An effective built-in amplifier ensures the juiciness and saturation of the low-frequency component of sound, and a high-quality emitter, which was carefully thought out from the point of view of engineering, guarantees a good audibility throughout the whole room, and not just directly in front of the speaker.

Behringer Eurolive B1200D-PRO has a compact, easy-to-transport enclosure, which makes it ideal for small and medium-sized rooms. Armed with the Class D amplifier of 500W and professional features, this small subwoofer reproduces low frequencies with certainty and clarity, which is typical for larger systems. Moreover, it is equipped with a pulsed power supply providing noiselessness of an audiotape and very low power consumption.

Now, let’s move the other type of the active subs. If you’re looking for a powered car subwoofer, read our next reviews.

Best Powered Car Subwoofer

BassPro SL - JBL 8" Powered Compact Subwoofer Enclosure System

• 8" JBL BassPro SL Powered Under-Seat Compact Subwoofer Enclosure | Power Output: Peak: 250 Watts | RMS: 125 Watts | Efficient Class D Amplifier | Proprietary, shallow-profile woofer
• LED power (green) and protect (red) indicators | Soft start turn-on | Speaker-level (high-level) inputs with Audio Sense Auto-on | Gold-plated Power, Ground and Remote screw-down connections | 3-way protection circuitry (thermal, overload, and speaker short protection)

Last update was in: April 2, 2020 7:46 am

$249.95

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Specifications

• RMS: 125 watt
• Peak Power 250 watt
• Sensitivity: 70 dB
• Frequency Response: 35-120 Hz
• Impedance: 4 Ohms

If an ordinary audio system in your car isn’t enough for you and you want to add some bass, but at the same time you don’t have free space for the traditional woofer enclosure, then JBL presents the BassPro SL model exactly for you. It’s one of the best powered subwoofer car that has the system which was specifically designed to expand the loudspeakers and provide the necessary bass response without occupying virtually any space in the cabin. In addition, the subwoofer has an autonomous power supply.

The compact cabinet contains an 8-inch low-frequency driver and an incredibly efficient Class D amplifier with a peak power of 250 watts. In addition to the standard functions, the developers have equipped a subwoofer with an adjustable low-pass crossover filter, which is variable from 50 to 120 Hz and a bass boost controller. Thanks to the phase switch the owner of BassPro SL can select the most convenient position. And since you can also install such tiny subwoofer under the seat, a remote level control (GTO-RBC) comes in a kit in order to make an adjustment significantly easier.

NEW KICKER 11HS8 8" Hideaway Car Audio Powered Subwoofer

• RMS Power: 150 Watts
• Ultra-compact powered subwoofer system designed for tight locations
• Just over three inches high
• 8-inch internal subwoofer
• 150-watt (RMS, 14.4v) power amplifier

1 used from $179.99
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$214.98

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Specifications

• RMS: 150 watt
• Peak Power 150 watt
• Frequency Response: 25-120 Hz

For all Kicker products, clear sound and bass power are constants. The 11HS8 model isn’t an exception. Kicker Hideaway will protect you from the hassle of finding the cabinet and amp for the woofer, as well as connecting the amplifier to your sub. Moreover, Kicker 11HS8 is the first compact subwoofer, which became the winner of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) Innovations for its well-thought-out design and engineering. The subwoofer has a wonderful low-frequency output from a tiny enclosure. Be sure: it fits anywhere because its size is only 11.5 x 5 x 18 inches. In such a tiny case, the developers have put a 150-watt amplifier and an 8-inch speaker, which of course will help to add a quality bass to the audio system of your car.

Rockford Fosgate P300-12 Punch 300 Watt Powered

• Constructed with 5/8-Inch MDF
• 12 AWG input terminals
• Class D amplifier (300 watts RMS)
• Remote bass-level control included
• Sealed enclosure, for tight, accurate bass. Dimensions: 15 x 19.8 x D1 11 - D2 7 (in)

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$163.74

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Specifications

• RMS: 300 watt
• Peak Power 600 watt
• Frequency Response: 35-150 Hz

The Rockford Fosgate P300-12 subwoofer in the case with a built-in amplifier will qualitatively complement the pleasant and deep bass system of your car. Stylish design and convenient form factor of the body will allow you to take a little space in the trunk of the car, as well as stylishly fit into the cabin interior. The sound quality is good, but you shouldn’t expect special pressure from the Rockford Fosgate P300-12.

In general, Rockford Fosgate company has found a successful combination of a reliable enclosure, speaker, and amplifier. This is an excellent solution for those who want to avoid complex calculations and improve the sound of their favorite music. 12-inch speaker, as well as an amplifier with an RMS power of 300 watts fit in the sealed case of P300-12. It’s an excellent model that greatly deals with low frequencies and doesn’t require complicated settings and matching the parameters of different devices when connected.

Rockville RW10CA 10" 800 Watt Slim Low Profile Active Powered Car Sub

• Rockville RW10CA 800 Watt 10" Slim Car Subwoofer
• 800 Watts Peak / 200 Watts RMS
• PWM MOSFET Power Supply
• Low Level RCA Input
• High Level Inputs with Auto Turn-On Technology

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$269.99

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Specifications

• RMS: 200 watt
• Peak Power 800 watt
• Sensitivity: 90 dB
• Frequency Response: 20-150 Hz
• Impedance: 2 Ohms

With the Rockville RW10CA subwoofer, it’s easy to get effective low-frequency reproduction. The company presents this model as an “all-in-one” solution for your car, which also doesn’t take up much space either in the trunk or in the cabin. The thickness of this device is only 2.7 inches and you can easily hide it under the seat, but you most likely won’t want to do it because of its stylish design. And the main surprise is how the developers managed to put a 10-inch speaker and amplifier whose maximum power is 800 watts, and the RMS 200 watts in such a small enclosure. Since the amplifier is already integrated, you won’t have to spend many hours mounting and configuring RW10CA. High-level inputs allow you to turn the device on and off without a remote wire.

The Rockville company is proud of the fact that the RW10CA subwoofer is CEA compliant, and it’s also equipped with MOSFET transistors that significantly reduce energy consumption. Overall, when developing this subwoofer, the developers really took into account all the possible wishes of the user and were able to achieve high-quality and bright bass.

Pioneer TS-WX120A 150 W Powerful Amplified Subwoofer System

• Extremely compact, yet powerful subwoofer system
• 150 watt Built-in MOSFET amplifier
• Wired remote to control gain, phase, and LPF
• Enclosure size: (WxDxH): 11"x 7-7/8" x 2-3/4"

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$148.53

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Specifications

• RMS: 50 watt
• Peak Power 150 watt
• Sensitivity: 98 dB
• Frequency Response: 30-160 Hz
• Impedance: 2+2 Ohms

The Pioneer TS-WX120A is an extremely compact subwoofer system for your car. The built-in MOSFET amplifier enhances the bass sound through a woofer with an aluminum cone of up to 150 watts. It is suitable for any music as this sub delivers deep, bright, and powerful bass up to 30 Hz.

Compact design TS-WX120A allows installing it in different places, even under the passenger seat. You can even put your luggage on it in the trunk without compromising the sound quality. Thanks to the polyurethane finish, the enclosure of this subwoofer is scratch resistant. Wired remote control makes it easy to adjust the gain, phase, and LPF.

MTX Audio RT8PT Universal Powered Subwoofer Enclosure

• Amplifier Power Output: 120 Watts RMS
• 8" High performance subwoofer in a carpeted, vented enclosure
• High Level and RCA inputs for easy connection in any system set up.
• External Bass Control is included for convenient control of volume from front of vehicle.

1 used from $139.95
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$155.72

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Specifications

• RMS: 120 watt
• Peak Power 360 watt
• Sensitivity: 98 dB
• Frequency Response: 35-250 Hz

MTX Audio RT8PT provides the best quality and purity of music sound, the ability to hear juicy bass even at a minimum volume level. You will be surprised of what a powerful bass can sound from such a small subwoofer. The case also has an amplifier with a nominal power of 120 watts, as well as an 8-inch speaker. The whole enclosure is sheltered by a thick layer of carpet thanks to which the model will perfectly fit into the interior of your car. And thanks to the opening for ventilation, the excessive heat will go out of the cabinet.

The MTX Audio RT8PT subwoofer combines simplicity of mounting and settings, high-level connections, and RCA inputs. A distinctive feature is the presence of external bass controls, which will help to choose the perfect sound for you.