8 Best Compact Subwoofers

Looking to enhance your car or home audio system with some booming bass? Well, you’re in luck! In this article, we will be reviewing and comparing a variety of compact powered subwoofers, each offering their own unique features and benefits. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or a movie lover, these subwoofers are designed to deliver deep, immersive bass that will bring your audio experience to a whole new level. So, let’s dive in and explore these impressive products.

Subwoofers have come a long way since their inception in the mid-20th century. Originally developed to reproduce low-frequency sounds in movie theatres, these powerful speakers have now made their way into our cars and homes. The benefits of owning a subwoofer are undeniable. Not only do they enhance the overall sound quality by filling in the low-frequency gaps that regular speakers may miss, but they also add depth and excitement to your music and movies.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the different subwoofers we’ll be reviewing. From the compact and versatile Kenwood KSC-SW11, which is perfect for improving the bass in your car, to the powerful and feature-packed PIONEER TS-WX1210AM, designed to provide deep bass for your home theater system, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking a subwoofer specifically designed for your car, or one that seamlessly integrates with your home audio setup, we’ll guide you through the features and performance of each subwoofer, making it easier for you to choose the perfect one for your needs. So, let’s get ready to rock that bass!

Kenwood Car Subwoofer

The Kenwood KSC-SW11 Compact Powered Enclosed Subwoofer is specifically designed for car audio systems. Its primary use is to enhance the bass and overall sound quality in a vehicle.

We like the Kenwood KSC-SW11 because it offers a powerful sound in a compact size. With its built-in 150W amplifier and 8-1/4″ x 5-1/8″ subwoofer, it delivers impressive bass that can greatly enhance the audio experience while driving. The compact dimensions of the subwoofer, measuring just 11” L x 7.5” W x 2-3/4” D, allow for easy installation under or behind a seat in a truck, in a sedan’s trunk, or in an SUV’s hatch.

The Kenwood KSC-SW11 is specifically designed to add low-frequency depth and impact to car audio systems. It features a frequency response range of 32Hz-120Hz, ensuring that it can handle a wide range of bass frequencies. The subwoofer is housed in a cast aluminum enclosure that not only provides durability but also helps to enhance the sound quality.

One of the key features of this compact subwoofer is its built-in amplifier, which delivers 75 watts RMS power (150 watts maximum). It also offers auto-sensing preamp inputs, allowing for easy connection to both RCA and speaker-level inputs. The package includes a wiring harness and mounting brackets for convenient installation.

The Kenwood KSC-SW11 Compact Powered Enclosed Subwoofer boasts excellent overall quality. The subwoofer is well-built and durable, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of everyday use. The sound produced is powerful and well-balanced, enhancing the audio experience in the car.

Pros:

• Compact size, allowing for easy installation
• Powerful sound with enhanced bass
• Built-in amplifier for added convenience
• Versatile with both RCA and speaker-level inputs
• Includes wiring harness and mounting brackets

Cons:

• Limited frequency range compared to larger subwoofers
• May not be suitable for those looking for extremely deep bass

With its compact size and powerful sound, the Kenwood KSC-SW11 Compact Powered Enclosed Subwoofer is an excellent choice for car audio enthusiasts looking to maximize their bass experience on the go. Its durable construction and impressive features make it a standout option in the market.

BESTISAN Active Home Subwoofer, 6.5″ Compact Design with LFE and Stereo Line Inputs, Audio Output, Built-in Amplifier for Home Theater, Receiver, TV, Speakers (Black)

The BESTISAN Powered Subwoofer, 6.5″ Active Home Audio Subwoofer in Compact Design, is designed to enhance the bass and overall audio quality of home theater systems, receivers, TVs, and speakers.

One of the standout features of the BESTISAN Powered Subwoofer is its compact design. Despite its small size, it delivers impressive bass and punch, making it perfect for small to medium-sized rooms. This subwoofer is also incredibly versatile, with LFE and line inputs that allow for seamless compatibility with a wide range of receivers and bookshelf speakers.

The main purpose of the BESTISAN Powered Subwoofer is to provide users with enhanced audio quality, particularly in terms of bass reproduction. It features a continuously variable 60-250Hz crossover and a 40-250Hz frequency response, ensuring that every low-frequency sound is accurately reproduced. The subwoofer also boasts a 6.5-inch side-firing woofer with a high rigidity PVA-treated cone, enabling it to produce deep and immersive bass.

In terms of connectivity, the subwoofer offers multiple options. Users can easily connect it to their laptops or soundbars using the included Stereo RCA to 3.5mm audio cable. Additionally, the subwoofer is equipped with an LFE input RCA port, allowing for a direct connection to receivers and bookshelf speakers.

The BESTISAN Powered Subwoofer also stands out in terms of build quality. Its bass reflex cabinet design, side slotted port, and vibration-absorbing feet all contribute to reducing unwanted vibrations and resonances. The use of high-quality MDF with added internal bracing not only enhances the subwoofer’s durability but also improves its overall sound performance. The black ash finish adds a touch of elegance to any home theater setup.

The BESTISAN Powered Subwoofer offers exceptional audio performance in a compact and stylish design. Its ability to produce deep bass and punch, combined with its versatile connectivity options, make it a great addition to any home theater or audio system.

Pros:

• Compact design
• Powerful bass reproduction
• Versatile connectivity options
• High-quality build and materials
• Lifetime technical support provided

Cons:

• Subwoofer cable not included

With the BESTISAN Powered Subwoofer, users can enjoy an immersive audio experience without compromising on space or style.

BESTISAN 6.5” Powered Home Audio Subwoofer

The BESTISAN Powered 6.5’’ Home Audio Subwoofer is designed to enhance the audio experience of your home theater system, TV, speakers, or any stereo or multichannel audio system.

We like the BESTISAN Powered Subwoofer because it offers an impressive deep bass response in a compact design. It is perfect for those who want to add power and depth to their audio without sacrificing space.

The purpose of the BESTISAN Powered Subwoofer is to deliver high-quality, deep bass performance to enhance your audio experience. Its key features include:

• Integrated High Efficiency Power Amplifier: This subwoofer packs a punch with its powerful amplifier, providing more power in a compact design.
• Overall Frequency Response 40-250 Hz: The subwoofer offers a wide frequency response range, ensuring that you hear every low frequency detail.
• 6.5 Inch Side Firing Woofer: The long throw subwoofer with a high rigidity PVA treated cone delivers tight and smooth bass.
• Bass Reflex Cabinet Design: The compact size of the subwoofer is complemented by its bass reflex cabinet design, allowing for optimal sound reproduction.
• Wired Connection: The subwoofer can be easily connected to your home theater receivers or any stereo system through RCA connections.

The BESTISAN Powered Subwoofer is made with high-quality components, including a durable and aesthetically pleasing black oak finish. Its internal bracing ensures stability and reduces vibrations, resulting in optimal sound performance. The LED display design adds a stylish touch to any room.

Pros:

• Compact design for easy placement in any room
• Powerful amplifier for deep bass response
• Wide frequency response range
• Easy setup with home theater systems and other audio devices
• LED display design adds a unique aesthetic

Cons:

• Limited color options
• May not be suitable for larger rooms requiring more powerful bass

The BESTISAN Powered 6.5’’ Home Audio Subwoofer is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact yet powerful subwoofer. Its deep bass response, easy setup, and stylish design make it a great addition to any audio setup. With its affordable price tag, it offers a great value for its performance and features.

H YANKA 400W 8″ Powered Underseat Car Audio Subwoofer

The H YANKA 400W 8 Inch Powered Underseat Subwoofer Car Audio is designed to enhance the bass sound in a car or truck. It provides a powerful and deep bass experience, perfect for music lovers and road trip enthusiasts.

We love this compact subwoofer for its slim and convenient design. With its ultra-thin profile, it easily fits under the car seat, saving valuable space. The built-in amplifier ensures a clear and accurate bass sound without the need for additional equipment.

The purpose of the H YANKA 400W 8 Inch Powered Underseat Subwoofer Car Audio is to enhance the audio experience in a car or truck by delivering powerful bass. The key features of this subwoofer include its compact and slim design, built-in amplifier, versatile compatibility with car audio systems, and high-quality sound performance.

The H YANKA 400W 8 Inch Powered Underseat Subwoofer Car Audio offers impressive overall quality. It is built with premium materials and is designed to deliver clear and accurate bass sound. The slim profile and sleek design add to its appeal, making it a great addition to any car audio system.

Pros:

• Powerful and deep bass sound
• Compact and slim design
• Easy installation with minimal wiring and setup
• Versatile compatibility with car audio systems
• High-quality and immersive sound experience

Cons:

• May not fit in all car or truck models due to space constraints
• More expensive compared to traditional subwoofers

The H YANKA 400W 8 Inch Powered Underseat Subwoofer Car Audio is a top choice for anyone looking to upgrade their car audio system. Its compact design, powerful bass, and easy installation make it a convenient and high-quality option. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or simply want to enhance your in-car audio experience, this subwoofer is an excellent choice.

Pyle 8-Inch Compact Low-Profile Subwoofer – 600W Enclosed Active Car Audio Subwoofer with Built-in Amp

The Pyle 8-Inch Low-Profile Amplified Subwoofer System is designed for car audio enthusiasts who want to enhance their music experience with powerful and deep bass.

We like the Pyle 8-Inch Low-Profile Amplified Subwoofer System because it combines convenience, power, and compactness in one package. It is the perfect solution for those who have limited space in their vehicles but still want to enjoy high-quality bass.

The main purpose of the Pyle 8-Inch Low-Profile Amplified Subwoofer System is to deliver powerful bass that enhances the overall audio experience in your car. With its 600-watt power output, this compact subwoofer system allows you to pump out impressive low-frequency bass volume, making every drive feel like a party.

One key feature of this subwoofer system is its built-in amplifier. It includes low pass crossovers and a control for adjusting input sensitivity, allowing you to fine-tune the bass according to your preferences. Additionally, it comes with a remote level control module that allows you to easily adjust the subwoofer level without having to reach for the system itself.

The low profile design of the Pyle 8-Inch Low-Profile Amplified Subwoofer System makes it ideal for vehicles with limited space. With a height of just 3 inches, it can easily fit under most car seats, providing a discreet but powerful bass boost to your car stereo sound system. The total dimensions of the subwoofer system are 12.8 inches x 9.5 inches x 3 inches, and it comes with all the necessary mounting hardware for easy installation.

The overall quality of the Pyle 8-Inch Low-Profile Amplified Subwoofer System is excellent. It is built with durable materials and designed to deliver reliable performance. The powerful 600-watt amplifier ensures that you get a deep and immersive bass experience without any distortion.

Pros:

• Powerful 600-watt amplifier for impressive bass
• Low profile design perfect for vehicles with limited space
• Easy to install with included mounting hardware
• Remote level control for convenient adjustments
• Compatible with both high-level and low-level inputs

Cons:

• May not deliver the same level of bass as larger subwoofer systems

The Pyle 8-Inch Low-Profile Amplified Subwoofer System is a top choice for car audio enthusiasts looking for a compact and powerful solution to enhance their music experience on the go.

KICKER 46HS10 10-inch Compact Powered Subwoofer

The KICKER 46HS10 Compact Powered 10-inch Subwoofer is designed for car audio enthusiasts who want to enhance their vehicle’s sound system with deep and powerful bass. It is an ideal option for those who are looking to add an extra punch to their music or enjoy a more immersive audio experience while driving.

We were immediately impressed by the compact size of the KICKER 46HS10 Compact Powered 10-inch Subwoofer. Measuring just over three inches high, this subwoofer can easily fit into tight spaces in the car without compromising on sound quality. Its minimal parts and quick-connect Molex plug and harness make installation a breeze, even for those with limited technical expertise.

One standout feature of this subwoofer is the inclusion of a remote bass control. This allows users to conveniently adjust the bass levels according to their preference, without having to reach for the main unit. It puts the control at your fingertips, ensuring a personalized audio experience on the go.

The KICKER 46HS10 Compact Powered 10-inch Subwoofer is specifically designed to deliver deep, clear, and impactful bass in a compact package. Equipped with a 10-inch subwoofer and a 180 Watt amplifier, this subwoofer is capable of producing powerful low frequencies that can transform your driving experience.

Its key features include a 150 Watt amp for the HS8 model, a remote bass control for convenient adjustments on the fly, and a quick-connect Molex plug and harness for easy installation. The subwoofer is engineered to deliver accurate and immersive bass reproduction while maintaining a small footprint in the car.

The KICKER 46HS10 Compact Powered 10-inch Subwoofer offers excellent overall quality. It is built to last, with durable construction materials that can withstand the demands of daily use. The sound performance of this subwoofer is also impressive, delivering deep and impactful bass that enhances the overall audio experience.

Some of the pros of the KICKER 46HS10 Compact Powered 10-inch Subwoofer include its compact size, quick and easy installation, convenient remote bass control, and powerful bass reproduction. However, it is important to note that as with any product, there may be some drawbacks. One potential con is that it requires some knowledge of car audio systems for proper installation and setup.

The KICKER 46HS10 Compact Powered 10-inch Subwoofer is a top choice for car audio enthusiasts who are looking for a compact and powerful subwoofer to enhance their driving experience. With its impressive features and high-quality performance, it is sure to satisfy even the most discerning audiophiles.

DR Double Rock CB08 Under-Seat Subwoofer 600W 8″ Slim Powered Car Audio Subwoofer with Built-in Amplifier Active Compact Subwoofer with Amplified Bass Control

The DR DOUBLE ROCK CB08 Under-Seat Subwoofer Car Audio 600 Watts 8 inch Slim Powered Subwoofer with Built in Amp Active Compact Subwoofer with Amplified+Bass Volume Control Knob is primarily designed for enhancing the bass output in a car audio system. It is specifically designed to fit under a car seat, making it a space-saving solution for those who want to add powerful bass without sacrificing valuable trunk or cargo space.

We highly recommend the DR DOUBLE ROCK CB08 Under-Seat Subwoofer for its impressive power output and compact design. With 600 watts of peak power and 120 watts RMS, this subwoofer delivers a deep and punchy bass response that can greatly enhance the overall audio experience in a vehicle. Its built-in amplifier ensures that the power is efficiently utilized, resulting in clear and distortion-free bass.

The DR DOUBLE ROCK CB08 Under-Seat Subwoofer is designed to provide car owners with a convenient solution for adding powerful bass to their audio system. Its compact size allows it to be easily installed under a car seat, making it a discreet and space-saving addition. The subwoofer features a built-in RMS 120W Class AB power amplifier, delivering strong and impactful bass with ease. It also includes a variety of controls such as a level control for volume adjustment, subsonic filter to eliminate low-frequency noise, low pass crossover filter for precise sound tuning, phase control for optimal sound alignment, input sensitivity control, and bass boost to enhance the low-end frequencies.

The DR DOUBLE ROCK CB08 Under-Seat Subwoofer is constructed with an aluminum alloy case, ensuring excellent heat dissipation and durability. It also incorporates a multi-protection circuit design, providing safeguards against thermal issues, short-circuits, under-voltage, over-voltage, and reverse connection. With its robust build quality and reliable performance, this subwoofer is built to last and deliver exceptional bass for car audio enthusiasts.

Pros:

• Compact and space-saving design
• High power output of 600 watts peak
• Built-in amplifier for easy installation
• Multiple controls for sound customization
• Sturdy aluminum alloy case for heat dissipation

Cons:

• May not fit all car models
• Limited to under-seat installation

The DR DOUBLE ROCK CB08 Under-Seat Subwoofer is an excellent choice for car owners looking to enhance their audio system’s bass output. Its compact size, powerful performance, and versatile controls make it a top contender for anyone seeking a convenient and space-saving subwoofer solution.

Pioneer 12-inch Active Subwoofer with Built-in Amplifier and Deep Bass

The PIONEER TS-WX1210AM is designed to enhance your audio experience by adding powerful bass to your music. With its compact design, it is a perfect choice for vehicles with limited space. It offers deep and immersive bass that brings your favorite tunes to life.

We like the PIONEER TS-WX1210AM because it combines a powerful 12-inch subwoofer with a built-in amplifier, delivering impressive bass response without the need for an external amplifier. This all-in-one design simplifies installation and saves space, making it an ideal choice for car audio enthusiasts.

The purpose of the PIONEER TS-WX1210AM is to provide a dynamic bass response that enhances the audio experience. It features a 12-inch subwoofer and a built-in amplifier, producing a powerful and immersive soundstage. The compact design allows for easy installation in vehicles with limited space.

Key features of the PIONEER TS-WX1210AM include:

• 1300 watts peak power: With its high peak power, this subwoofer delivers a powerful bass response that adds depth and richness to your music.
• Low-pass crossover: The adjustable crossover point allows you to customize the subwoofer’s output to match your preferences and audio system, ensuring a balanced sound without any frequency overlap.
• Excellent sound reproduction: The high-quality components and precise engineering of the PIONEER TS-WX1210AM deliver accurate and detailed sound, minimizing distortion for clean and crisp bass response.

Overall Quality

The PIONEER TS-WX1210AM is known for its excellent overall quality. It is built with high-quality components and designed to deliver accurate and detailed sound reproduction. The compact design ensures optimal power delivery to the subwoofer, resulting in a powerful bass response that enhances your audio experience.

Some pros of the PIONEER TS-WX1210AM include its powerful bass output, compact design, and built-in amplifier. However, as with any product, there are also a few cons. Some users have reported that the bass might be overpowering at times, and others have mentioned that the installation process can be slightly challenging.

The PIONEER TS-WX1210AM is a powerful and compact subwoofer that delivers deep and immersive bass. Its built-in amplifier and adjustable low-pass crossover make it a versatile choice for car audio enthusiasts. Despite a few minor drawbacks, it offers excellent sound reproduction and overall quality.

Comparison of Specifications

Product Name	Kenwood KSC-SW11	BESTISAN Powered	H YANKA 400W 8 Inch Powered Underseat	Pyle 8-Inch Low-Profile Amplified	KICKER 46HS10 Compact Powered	DR DOUBLE ROCK CB08 Under-Seat	PIONEER TS-WX1210AM Powerful 12-inch Active
Subwoofer Size	8-1/4″ x 5-1/8″	6.5″	8-inch	8″	10″	8″	12-inch
Amplifier Power	150W	Unknown	400W	600W	180W	120W	Unknown
Frequency Response	32Hz-120Hz	40-250Hz	Unknown	Unknown	Unknown	50Hz – 150Hz	20 Hz – 130 Hz
Inputs	Auto-Sensing preamp (RCA), speaker-level	LFE, Line	Unknown	Low-Level, High-Level	Unknown	Unknown	Unknown
Outputs	Audio	Audio	Unknown	Unknown	Unknown	Unknown	Unknown
Mounting Options	Under or behind seat, trunk, or hatch	Unknown	Underseat	Underseat	Unknown	Under-seat	Unknown
Dimensions	11” L x 7.5” W x 2-3/4” D	Unknown	Unknown	12.8”x9.5″x3”	Ultra-compact	11.42 x 8.47 x 2.56(L x W x H)inches	12.5″ x 19.75″ x 14.88″

Note: Some specifications are not provided in the product descriptions. The table only contains the available information.

It can be seen that each product has different specifications such as subwoofer size, amplifier power, frequency response, inputs, outputs, mounting options, and dimensions. Therefore, customers can choose the most suitable product based on their specific needs and requirements.

Conclusion

After reviewing all eight products, it is clear that each subwoofer offers unique features and benefits that can enhance one’s audio experience. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider before making a purchase decision.

Drawbacks

1. Some of the compact subwoofers may not deliver the same deep bass response as larger models.
2. Certain models may require additional cables or equipment to connect to different audio systems.
3. The power output of some subwoofers may not be sufficient for larger rooms or outdoor settings.

Despite these drawbacks, there is a standout recommendation for a specific audience.

Recommendation for a Specific Audience

For those seeking a powerful and immersive audio experience, the PIONEER TS-WX1210AM is the top choice. With its 1300 watts peak power and deep bass capabilities, this subwoofer is suitable for larger rooms or outdoor settings. Its built-in amplifier and compact design make it a convenient choice for home theaters, car audio systems, or any setting where a high-quality sound experience is desired.

Overall, when selecting a subwoofer, it’s essential to consider individual needs and preferences. Whether it’s for car audio or home theater systems, there is a subwoofer that can meet various requirements and enhance one’s audio experience.