8 Best Speaker Subs

Are you in search of some serious bass for your home theater or car audio setup? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at a variety of subwoofer options that are sure to give you the low-end punch you’ve been craving. Whether you’re looking for a powerful front-firing subwoofer for your home theater system, a wireless subwoofer for deep bass in your living room, or a pair of pro subwoofers for your car audio setup, we’ve got you covered.

Subwoofers have come a long way since their inception. Originally developed in the 1960s, these speakers were created to reproduce low-frequency sounds that traditional speakers were unable to handle. Over the years, advancements in technology have allowed subwoofers to become more compact and powerful, providing listeners with a truly immersive audio experience. The benefits of owning a subwoofer are plentiful. Not only do they enhance the low-end frequencies in music and movies, but they also add depth and impact to explosions, car chases, and other thrilling audio moments. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or a movie buff, a subwoofer can take your audio enjoyment to the next level.

Now, let’s delve into the specifics of each subwoofer we’ll be reviewing in this article. From the Klipsch Synergy Black Label Sub-120 with its 200 watts of continuous power, to the Sonos Sub (Gen 3) offering wireless convenience and deep bass, there’s something for every audio enthusiast. We’ll also be taking a look at the Edifier R1280Ts Powered Bookshelf Speakers, the Rockville RV208P Dual 8″ Car Audio Subwoofers, the MTX TNP212D2 Car Audio Subwoofer Package, the Rockville CT80 Commercial/Restaurant/Conference Room Subwoofer, the Rockville RW10CA Slim Low Profile Active Powered Car Subwoofer, and the Rockville 2 RVP18W8 Pro Subwoofers. So sit back, relax, and prepare to feel the rumble as we compare and contrast these impressive subwoofer options.

Klipsch Synergy Black Label Sub-120 12″ Subwoofer – 200W Continuous Power, 400W Dynamic Power, Digital Amplifier, Black

The Klipsch Synergy Black Label Sub-120 12” Front-Firing Subwoofer is primarily designed to enhance the bass performance of home theater systems. It is a powerful and dynamic subwoofer that adds depth and richness to the audio experience, making it ideal for movies, music, and gaming.

We are impressed by the Klipsch Synergy Black Label Sub-120 for its exceptional performance and powerful bass output. Its 12-inch front-firing driver, combined with its 200 watts of continuous power and 400 watts of dynamic power, delivers deep and impactful bass that can fill a room with ease.

Furthermore, its digital amplifier ensures clean and distortion-free sound reproduction, allowing users to fully enjoy their favorite content without any audio imperfections.

The Klipsch Synergy Black Label Sub-120 is designed to provide powerful and immersive bass for home theater setups. Its key features include:

• Spun copper front-firing Cerametallic woofers for precise and distortion-free bass reproduction.
• Compatibility with almost any AV receiver, making it easy to integrate into existing setups.
• A strong, flexible, and removable grille that adds a contemporary finish and allows for customization.
• Dimensions of 16” H x 14” W x 19.25” D, making it compact and suitable for various placement options.

The Klipsch Synergy Black Label Sub-120 showcases excellent build quality and durability. Its sturdy construction ensures long-term performance, while its contemporary design allows it to seamlessly blend with any home decor. Furthermore, Klipsch is renowned for its high-quality audio products, making this subwoofer a reliable choice for enhancing home theater systems.

Pros:

• Powerful and dynamic bass performance.
• Clean and distortion-free sound reproduction.
• Versatile compatibility with AV receivers.
• Sturdy build quality and contemporary design.

Cons:

• Connection wires not included, requiring additional purchase.
• Placement in a corner is recommended for optimal performance.

Whether it is movies, music, or gaming, the Klipsch Synergy Black Label Sub-120 provides a rich and immersive audio experience. With its powerful bass output, impressive build quality, and versatile compatibility, it is undoubtedly one of the best speaker subs available for enhancing home theater systems.

Sonos Sub (Gen 3) – Wireless Subwoofer for Enhanced Bass – Black

The Sonos Sub (Gen 3) is primarily used as a wireless subwoofer for deep bass enhancement. It is designed to be paired with other Sonos speakers, such as the Arc or Beam, to provide a more immersive audio experience for movies, TV shows, video games, and music.

We like the Sonos Sub (Gen 3) for its ability to deliver powerful bass without any distortion. With two force-canceling drivers at its core, this wireless subwoofer effectively eliminates vibration and rattle, resulting in a clear and immersive sound experience. Its slim and sculptural design, along with the high-gloss finish, make it visually appealing and versatile in terms of placement options.

The Sonos Sub (Gen 3) is designed to enhance the audio quality of a Sonos speaker system. By focusing on the lowest frequencies, it adds depth and richness to sound playback, allowing users to experience fuller and more detailed audio. Its key features include wireless connectivity, a sleek and modern design, and the ability to be positioned vertically or horizontally for optimal placement in any room.

The Sonos Sub (Gen 3) is known for its impressive overall quality. The wireless subwoofer delivers deep bass without any distortion, ensuring a high-fidelity audio experience. Its construction is sturdy and durable, and the design is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Users can expect exceptional performance and longevity from this product.

• Eliminates vibration and rattle for powerful bass without distortion

• Versatile design allows for vertical or horizontal placement

• Enhances midrange playback to provide fuller and more detailed sound

• Wireless connectivity for easy integration into Sonos speaker systems

• Sturdy and durable construction

• Relatively high price compared to some other speaker subs on the market

• Requires a Sonos speaker system for optimum use

The Sonos Sub (Gen 3) is a top-performing wireless subwoofer that elevates the audio quality of any Sonos speaker system. It delivers deep bass, eliminates distortion, and enhances sound playback, all while boasting a sleek and modern design. While it may come at a higher price point, its quality and performance make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking an immersive audio experience.

Edifier R1280Ts Bookshelf Speakers

The Edifier R1280Ts Powered Bookshelf Speakers are designed to be used as 2.0 stereo active near field monitors, making them perfect for studio monitoring or enhancing the audio experience while listening to music, watching movies, or playing games.

We love the Edifier R1280Ts Powered Bookshelf Speakers because they offer exceptional sound quality and a range of impressive features at an affordable price. These speakers provide a clear, balanced sound with powerful bass, thanks to the 42 watts RMS and the 4-inch subwoofer unit.

The main purpose of the Edifier R1280Ts Powered Bookshelf Speakers is to enhance the audio experience by delivering rich, immersive sound. They feature dual RCA inputs, allowing you to easily connect to any devices with RCA to RCA/3.5 mm-RCA audio cables. Plus, you can connect two devices simultaneously without the need for constant plugging and unplugging.

One standout feature of these speakers is the extra sub-out port, which automatically detects and connects to an external active subwoofer. This built-in crossover ensures a seamless integration between the speakers and the subwoofer, resulting in a more complete audio experience.

The speakers also come with an updated remote control that allows you to adjust the volume, mute/unmute, and control the bass and treble from across the room. Additionally, they have a Soundfield Spatializer button that enhances the listening experience by adding depth and dimension to the sound.

The Edifier R1280Ts Powered Bookshelf Speakers are made with a wooden enclosure, which not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also improves the overall sound quality. The use of high-quality components ensures that these speakers deliver accurate and detailed audio reproduction.

Pros:

• Extra sub-out port for connecting an external subwoofer
• Dual RCA inputs for easy connectivity
• Superior sound quality with strong bass
• Updated remote control for convenient operation
• Wooden enclosure for improved audio performance
• 2-year warranty for peace of mind

Cons:

• Not a Bluetooth version

The Edifier R1280Ts Powered Bookshelf Speakers are a fantastic choice for those seeking high-quality audio at an affordable price. With their powerful sound, convenient features, and durable construction, these speakers are sure to enhance any audio setup.

Rockville RV208P Car Audio Subwoofers

The Rockville RV208P Dual 8″ 800w Car Audio Subwoofers in Vented Sub Enclosure Box is designed for car audio enthusiasts who want to enhance their music experience with deep and powerful bass.

This subwoofer system stands out for its impressive power output of 800 Watts peak power and 400 Watts RMS continuous music rating. It is a match made in audio heaven for amplifiers that deliver 400W RMS at 4 ohms. Additionally, the 250 Watts RMS test tone rating ensures durability and reliability, even when pushing the subwoofers to their limits.

The purpose of the Rockville RV208P Dual 8″ 800w Car Audio Subwoofers is to provide car audio enthusiasts with a high-quality and powerful bass experience. The key features of this product include a bonded, stapled, and braced 3/5″ MDF cabinet, a computer-designed under-side bass reflex, and an aero-port system. The enclosure box is angled at 15% for near perfect in-vehicle bass alignment, resulting in optimal sound performance. The subwoofers themselves feature a high-power, high-efficiency 12″ subwoofer, an injection-molded polypropylene cone, a high excursion butyl rubber surround, and a linear progressive spider system.

The Rockville RV208P Dual 8″ 800w Car Audio Subwoofers in Vented Sub Enclosure Box are made with high-quality materials and designed to deliver exceptional sound performance. The solid construction of the MDF cabinet ensures durability, while the carefully designed port system maximizes the bass response. With their high power handling and efficient design, these subwoofers provide clear and impactful bass that enhances any audio system.

Some of the advantages of the Rockville RV208P Dual 8″ 800w Car Audio Subwoofers include their powerful performance, durable construction, and optimized bass alignment. On the downside, the system may be too powerful for some individuals’ preferences and the size of the enclosure may not fit in all vehicles. However, for those seeking a premium bass experience, this subwoofer system is an excellent choice.

MTX 12″ Subwoofer Package with Enclosure, Planet Monoblock Amplifier & Wiring Kit

The MTX TNP212D2 12″ 1200 Watt 4 Ohm Dual Loaded Car Audio Subwoofer Package with Sub Enclosure, Planet 1500W Monoblock A/B Amplifier & 8 Gauge Wiring Kit is designed for car enthusiasts who want to enhance their audio system with powerful bass and superior sound quality.

This speaker subwoofer package stands out among its competitors due to its impressive features and affordability. It offers everything needed for a complete and easy installation, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced users.

The purpose of this MTX subwoofer package is to deliver deep bass and high-quality sound in your car. It includes a 12-inch dual loaded subwoofer with a durable sub enclosure, ensuring optimal performance and protection for the speaker.

Key features of this package include a 1200 watts max power and 400 watts RMS capability, providing powerful bass and clear audio. The speaker is built with a rubber surround and polypropylene cone, ensuring durability and exceptional sound reproduction. Additionally, it features a 2-inch aluminum single 4 ohms voice coil, further enhancing the audio experience.

The subwoofer enclosure is constructed with solid MDF and is covered with thick black carpet, providing both stability and a stylish appearance. Its dimensions of 14 by 26.96 by 13.5 by 11.13 inches make it compact enough to fit in most car trunks while still delivering impressive bass.

This package also includes a Planet Audio Amplifier, offering switchable sound sensitivity input and selectable bass boost. Users can customize the bass output according to their preferences. The amplifier is accompanied by a remote control, allowing for convenient adjustments while on the road.

To facilitate the installation process, the package comes with a Soundstorm AKS8 complete 8-gauge amplifier installation kit, ensuring easy and secure wiring connection. Additionally, a high-quality fuse holder, 30-feet speaker wire, and 6-feet split loom tubing are provided to ensure a hassle-free installation.

The MTX TNP212D2 12″ 1200 Watt 4 Ohm Dual Loaded Car Audio Subwoofer Package with Sub Enclosure, Planet 1500W Monoblock A/B Amplifier & 8 Gauge Wiring Kit delivers impressive performance and exceptional sound quality. Its durable construction and comprehensive package make it an excellent investment for car audio enthusiasts.

• Powerful bass and clear sound quality

• Easy installation with included wiring kit

• Durable construction for long-lasting performance

• Compact size for convenient installation in most vehicles

• Customizable bass output with the included amplifier

• May require professional installation for some users

• The amplifier may consume additional power from the car’s electrical system.

Rockville CT80 8-inch 70V Subwoofer for Commercial, Restaurant, and Conference Room with Wall Mount

The Rockville CT80 8″ 70V Commercial/Restaurant/Conference Room Subwoofer+Wall Mount is designed for use in various settings. Its primary use is to enhance audio quality by providing deep, powerful bass in commercial spaces such as conference rooms, restaurants, bars, and even homes.

There are several reasons why the Rockville CT80 Subwoofer stands out among its competitors. Firstly, it offers versatile placement options. Whether you prefer to mount it on the wall using the included brackets or place it on the floor or a shelf, this subwoofer allows for easy integration into any space.

Additionally, the selectable tap options on this subwoofer make it highly customizable. With power options ranging from 10w to 55w and the ability to handle 4 Ohm input, users can tailor the audio output to their specific needs. The built-in 70v/100v transformer ensures compatibility with a wide range of systems.

The Rockville CT80 Subwoofer is specifically designed to deliver exceptional low-end performance. With a frequency response of 40Hz-800Hz and a sensitivity of 90dB, it reproduces deep bass frequencies with accuracy and clarity.

Key features of this subwoofer include its compact dimensions of 12.49.6512.4 inches and a weight of 12.9lbs, making it easy to install and move around as needed. The high-quality mount bracket ensures sturdy and secure mounting.

The Rockville CT80 Subwoofer is built with a focus on quality and durability. Its 20 oz magnet and banana binding post terminals, which accept both banana cables and regular speakers, contribute to its impressive audio capabilities. Its RMS power handling of 80w at 4 ohms ensures reliable and consistent performance.

Pros:

• Versatile placement options
• Customizable power options
• Compact design for easy installation
• High-quality mount bracket
• Wide frequency response for rich bass reproduction
• Accepts both banana cables and regular speakers

Cons:

• Limited to specific settings such as commercial spaces and conference rooms

The Rockville CT80 8″ 70V Commercial/Restaurant/Conference Room Subwoofer+Wall Mount offers excellent audio performance in commercial and conference room settings. With its customizable power options, versatile placement, and durable construction, it is a reliable and user-friendly choice for adding deep bass to any space. Whether it’s enhancing the audio experience in a restaurant or adding impact to presentations in a conference room, this subwoofer delivers outstanding results.

Rockville 10-Inch 800 Watt Slim Low Profile Active Powered Car Subwoofer in Black

The Rockville RW10CA 800 Watt Slim Low Profile Active Powered Car Subwoofer Sub, Black is primarily designed for enhancing the sound quality in car audio systems. It is specifically built to add powerful bass to existing car speaker setups.

One of the main reasons we like the Rockville RW10CA subwoofer is its slim and low-profile design. With a height of just 2.7 inches, it easily fits into tight spaces in the car, such as under the seat, without sacrificing performance. This makes it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy enhanced bass without taking up valuable space in their vehicle.

Another standout feature of the Rockville RW10CA is its impressive power output. With a peak power of 800 watts and RMS (Root Mean Square) power of 200 watts, this subwoofer delivers powerful and deep bass notes for an immersive audio experience. It also offers adjustable input sensitivity, allowing users to fine-tune the sound to their preference.

The main purpose of the Rockville RW10CA subwoofer is to enhance the bass performance in car audio systems. It does this by reproducing low-frequency sounds with clarity and precision, complementing the existing car speakers.

Key features of the Rockville RW10CA include a low pass filter, phase switch, and bass boost control. These allow users to customize the subwoofer’s output according to their preferences and the acoustics of the car’s interior.

The Rockville RW10CA subwoofer is highly regarded for its overall quality. It boasts a durable build and is capable of withstanding the rigors of daily use. The subwoofer’s thermal protection circuitry, short protection circuit, and overload protection circuit ensure its longevity and safety.

Furthermore, the subwoofer offers excellent sound reproduction with minimal distortion, thanks to its high-quality components and advanced technologies. Users can expect clear and deep bass notes that enhance the overall audio experience.

Pros:

• Slim and low-profile design
• Powerful and deep bass output
• Adjustable input sensitivity
• Durable build with protective features

Cons:

• May not fit in all car models due to its height restrictions
• The subwoofer may require professional installation for optimal performance.

Rockville 2 18″ Pro Subwoofers

The Rockville 2 RVP18W8 2400w 18″ Pro Subwoofers 8-Ohm Raw Subwoofers with 90 Oz Magnets are primarily used in professional audio systems, such as in concert venues, nightclubs, or recording studios. They are also suitable for advanced home theater setups or car audio installations where a powerful and deep bass response is desired.

We are impressed with the Rockville 2 RVP18W8 Pro Subwoofers for their exceptional power handling and high-quality construction. These subwoofers deliver a clean and accurate bass response, making them ideal for audio enthusiasts and professionals who demand premium audio performance.

The Rockville RVP18W8 Pro Subwoofers are designed for one purpose: to produce powerful and impactful bass frequencies. With a peak power rating of 2400 Watts and an RMS power handling of 1200 Watts, these subwoofers can handle a significant amount of power without distortion.

Key features of these subwoofers include a fiber reinforced ultra-stiff paper composite cone and a paper composite dust cap, ensuring durability and excellent sound reproduction. The expanded and rolled steel basket provides structural integrity, while the accordion cloth surround allows for enhanced excursion and precise control over the cone movement.

The Rockville RVP18W8 subwoofers also feature a 3″ high temperature CCAW high SPL voice coil, which ensures efficient power handling and minimizes thermal compression. The dual nickel-plated banana plug terminals allow for easy and secure connection to the amplifier.

The overall quality of the Rockville 2 RVP18W8 Pro Subwoofers is exceptional. The use of high-quality materials, such as the ultra-saturated, high BL magnetic motor gap and the linear progressive conex spiders, contributes to their excellent performance and durability. These subwoofers are built to last and provide consistent and powerful bass reproduction.

Pros:

• High power handling capability
• Durable construction with quality materials
• Accurate and impactful bass response
• Suitable for professional audio applications
• Easy to connect with dual nickel-plated banana plug terminals

Cons:

• May require a powerful amplifier to fully utilize their capabilities
• Large and heavy, requiring adequate space for installation.

The Rockville 2 RVP18W8 2400w 18″ Pro Subwoofers 8-Ohm Raw Subwoofers with 90 Oz Magnets are an excellent choice for those seeking powerful and high-quality subwoofers. Whether for professional use or advanced home audio setups, these subwoofers deliver exceptional bass performance and durability. With their impressive features and build quality, the Rockville RVP18W8 subwoofers are a solid investment for any audiophile or professional seeking superior bass reproduction.

Comparison of Specifications:

Product	Klipsch Synergy Black Label Sub-120 12”	Sonos Sub (Gen 3)	Edifier R1280Ts Powered Bookshelf Speakers	Rockville RV208P Dual 8″	MTX TNP212D2 12″ Dual Loaded Car Audio Subwoofer Package	Rockville CT80 8″	Rockville RW10CA 10″	Rockville 2 RVP18W8 2400w 18″ Pro Subwoofers
Woofer Size	12-inch	Not specified	Not specified	Dual 8″	12″	8″	10″	18″
Power Output	200 Watts continuous, 400 Watts dynamic	Not specified	42 Watts	800 Watts peak, 400 Watts RMS	1200 Watts peak, 600 Watts RMS	40w-15w-10w selectable with 70v input, 55w-25w, 15w selectable with 100v input, 80w RMS power handling @ 4 ohm	200 Watts RMS	1200 Watts peak, 600 Watts RMS
Impedance	Not specified	Not specified	Not specified	4 Ohm	4 Ohm Dual	4 Ohm	2 Ohm	8 Ohm
Dimensions	16” H x 14” W x 19.25” D	Not specified	Not specified	Not specified	Not specified	12.49.6512.4 inch	12.4 x 13.4 x 2.7 inch	Not specified
Additional Features	Compatible with almost any AV receiver, Spun copper front-firing Cerametallic woofers	Two force-canceling drivers, Slim and sculptural design, Wireless connectivity	Dual RCA inputs, Soundfield Spatializer button, Updated remote control	Vented sub enclosure box, High-Power, High-Efficiency 12″ Subwoofer	Complete car audio subwoofer package, Includes wiring kit and amplifier	Can be wall mounted, Tap switch for power options	Slim design, Thermal and overload protection, Adjustable input sensitivity	Raw subwoofers, Fiber reinforced ultra stiff paper composite cone

Comparison Summary:

1. Klipsch Synergy Black Label Sub-120 12″: This subwoofer offers 200 watts of continuous power and 400 watts of dynamic power. It is compatible with various AV receivers and features spun copper front-firing Cerametallic woofers.
2. Sonos Sub (Gen 3): The Sonos Sub is a wireless subwoofer designed for deep bass. It features two force-canceling drivers and delivers powerful bass without distortion. It can be connected to other Sonos speakers for a more immersive audio experience.
3. Edifier R1280Ts Powered Bookshelf Speakers: These bookshelf speakers offer 42 watts of continuous power and come with dual RCA inputs for easy connectivity. They also feature an updated remote control and a sub-woofer output for connecting an external active subwoofer.
4. Rockville RV208P Dual 8″: This car audio subwoofer system includes dual 8″ subwoofers in a vented enclosure box. It has a peak power of 800 watts and an RMS rating of 400 watts. The subwoofers have a 4-ohm impedance and are designed for optimal bass alignment.
5. MTX TNP212D2 12″ Dual Loaded Car Audio Subwoofer Package: This subwoofer package includes a 12″ dual loaded car subwoofer with a sub enclosure. It has a peak power of 1200 watts and an RMS rating of 600 watts. The package also includes a Planet Audio amplifier and an 8-gauge wiring kit.
6. Rockville CT80 8″: The Rockville CT80 is an 8″ commercial subwoofer that can be placed on the floor or wall-mounted. It has selectable power options and a built-in 70v/100v transformer. It is suitable for use in conference rooms, restaurants, and bars.
7. Rockville RW10CA 10″: This slim car subwoofer has a peak power of 800 watts and an RMS rating of 200 watts. It features a low-level RCA input and high-level inputs with auto turn-on technology. It also includes various protection circuits and a subwoofer level remote control.
8. Rockville 2 RVP18W8 2400w 18″ Pro Subwoofers: This package includes two 18″ raw subwoofers with a peak power of 2400 watts and an RMS rating of 1200 watts. The subwoofers have an 8-ohm impedance and are designed with a fiber-reinforced ultra stiff paper composite cone.

These products offer a range of power outputs, sizes, and additional features to suit different audio needs and environments.

Conclusion

In summary, the review covered eight different subwoofers, highlighting their features, pros, and cons.

Klipsch Synergy Black Label Sub-120

This subwoofer offers powerful bass with its 200 watts of continuous and 400 watts of dynamic power. However, it is limited to home theater use.

Sonos Sub (Gen 3)

The Sonos Sub is a wireless subwoofer that delivers deep bass. Although it is an excellent addition to a Sonos system, its high price may deter some buyers.

Edifier R1280Ts Powered Bookshelf Speakers

The Edifier R1280Ts provides studio-quality audio with its 42 watts RMS and subwoofer line-out. Its wooden enclosure adds to its aesthetic appeal. However, it may not be suitable for users looking for a portable option.

Rockville RV208P Dual 8″

Designed specifically for car audio, this subwoofer offers great sound quality and power with its 800-watt capacity. However, it is limited to car usage only.

MTX TNP212D2

With its dual loaded car audio subwoofer package and 1200-watt capacity, this option offers excellent sound performance in cars. Yet, its specific use for vehicles may not suit those in need of a home theater subwoofer.

Planet 1500W Monoblock A/B Amplifier

This amplifier provides a powerful audio experience with its 1500W monoblock. However, due to its specific use for amplification and lack of a subwoofer, it may not be suitable for those seeking a standalone subwoofer.

Rockville CT80 8″

Designed for commercial spaces, this subwoofer offers high-quality sound and easy wall mounting options. However, it may not be the best choice for personal use or home theaters.

Rockville RW10CA 10″

This slim and low-profile car subwoofer delivers 800 watts of power, making it a great addition to any car audio system. However, it is limited to automotive use only.

Rockville 2 RVP18W8 2400w 18″

These professional-grade subwoofers offer a whopping 2400 watts of power. They are ideal for audio enthusiasts and professionals seeking intense bass. Nonetheless, they may be too powerful for casual or home use.

In conclusion, for those looking for a subwoofer for their home theaters, the Klipsch Synergy Black Label Sub-120 and Sonos Sub (Gen 3) are both excellent choices. For car audio enthusiasts, the Rockville RV208P Dual 8″ and Rockville RW10CA 10″ are highly recommended. The Edifier R1280Ts Powered Bookshelf Speakers are a great choice for studio monitor speakers. Finally, the Rockville 2 RVP18W8 and MTX TNP212D2 are ideal for professionals and extreme bass enthusiasts.