A subwoofer is designed to create low-frequency sounds while loudspeakers handle the high-frequency ones. If you're on a tight budget, keep reading to learn about the best budget subwoofers that you can purchase.
A powerful bass drop is desired by clubs, pubs, and even people who prefer a standalone music experience, which is where a subwoofer comes in handy. Although a subwoofer is an important part of your music system, do your homework before purchasing a new one.
Contents
- What is a Subwoofer?
- What is the Best Budget Subwoofer
- Best Budget Subwoofer
- Types of Subwoofers
- How to Pick the Best Budget Subwoofer
- Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
What is a Subwoofer?
A subwoofer is just another speaker. A subwoofer, sometimes known as a sub, is a woofer or loudspeaker designed to reproduce low-pitched audio frequencies or bass. Subwoofers require a lot of power to move a lot of air or bass sounds. A typical size for such a driver is eight, ten, or even twelve inches.
A subwoofer requires a great deal of control in addition to the power to be audible. Subs give a consistent bass for most media. They allow the amplitude of the bass line in music to be substantially boosted. They focus on the lower frequencies.
The frequency response range varies depending on the model. Active/powered subwoofer and passive subwoofer are the two types of subwoofers. A powered subwoofer has an in-built amplifier, whereas a passive subwoofer requires an external amplifier and consists of the subwoofer driver and enclosure.
A subwoofer is used to supplement speakers that have trouble reproducing low frequencies. They're also useful for relieving speakers of the laborious chore of producing low tones. A subwoofer is a pleasant compliment to a stereo system but an absolute must for surround sound.
It is a great addition to your personal movie experience. Many low frequencies are found in film soundtracks and special effects. A subwoofer not only makes them more audible but also makes them more tangible.
By adding a subwoofer, you can reduce the size of your other surround speakers. It is critical in a much smaller living room. However, for the front channels, utilize larger speakers left, center, and right.
If you're listening to a performance on your sound system, you might notice that some musical instruments are played at a lower decibel than others. However, a piece of music will be incomplete if you only hear the higher-pitched violin and not the bass cello. Here is a list of the best budget subwoofer for the perfect movie night or music anywhere.
What is the Best Budget Subwoofer
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Best Budget Subwoofer
1. Sony SACS9 10-Inch Active Subwoofer
- 115 Watt, Amplified Subwoofer (6 ohms, 80 Hz, 10% THD).Compatible with High-Resolution...
- 10 inches Foamed-Mica Cellular Reinforced Woofer
- Speaker and Line Level Inputs, Frequency Response 28-200 Hz
- In the box: RCA cord, Instruction manual
The SA-CS9, 115W subwoofer adds more punch to your movie soundtracks. The 9.84-inch cone diaphragm moves a bigger volume of air. It results in powerful low-end resonance and a deep, realistic bass sound.
For a wonderful multi-channel home theater experience, the subwoofer emphasizes low-frequency sounds in movies and music. Mica Reinforced Cellular (MRC) fiber woofers are rigid, keeping their shape even when subjected to high pressure and speed. It allows you to crank up the bass without sacrificing sound quality.
A built-in amplifier with a power output of up to 115 W is included in this subwoofer. Vibrations-prone electrical circuits release high pressure within the enclosure outside the cabinet, resulting in a clean and strong bass sound.
For tight, precise bass, the cabinet must be vibration-free. Unwanted vibrations are dealt with in acoustically absorbing waves generated by the unit's rear pressure and the cabinet dampening vibrations. This speaker is finished in a stylish black that complements most modern environments.
The wood veneer also holds its shape effectively, ensuring that fluctuations in temperature and humidity have little effect on the sound. This subwoofer is powerful and compact. It is ideal for installation in tight spaces. The speaker's smaller baffle area reduces sound field distortion for maximum clarity and precision.
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2. Pyle Car Subwoofer Audio Speaker, 8in Non-Pressed Paper Cone
- 800 WATT POWER: This 8in car subwoofer has a power of 400 Watt RMS to 800 Watt peak that...
- UNMATCHED PERFORMANCE: Built with 40 oz. magnet that will enhance car stereo or radio by...
- DUAL VOICE COIL: The speaker subwoofer comes with a dual 4 Ohm impedance that can be wired...
- TREATED FOAM SURROUND: Made entirely of specially treated foam surround for durability....
- 3.7” MOUNTING DEPTH: Easy to install with its 3.7” mounting depth and fits most audio...
This 8-inch automobile subwoofer produces great sound resonance and has a power range of 400 Watts RMS to 800 Watts peak. It also includes spring-loaded push-down speaker terminals that improve sound quality.
It is built with a 40 oz. magnet that improves your car stereo performance by delivering powerful sounds. It has an SPL and sensitivity of 89dB, allowing it to resonate with flawless clarity. The dual 4 Ohm impedance of the speaker subwoofer can be wired as 4 or 8 Ohm.
The 1.5" 4-layer dual voice coil is corrosion resistant and has a longer life expectancy. A durable foam surround made completely of highly treated foam. It's a simple automobile subwoofer with a black plastic basket and a non-pressed paper cone.
The dimensions are 8.2" Diameter x 3.7" mounting depth making it simple to install and fit most cars, boats, or RV audio systems. The essential cords, installation template, and manual are all included.
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3. BOSS Audio Systems CXX8 8 Inch Car Subwoofer, 600 Watts
- Cone - Made from Polypropylene, The CXX8 8 Inch Car Subwoofer Provides a Resilient and...
- Surround - Rubber has the ability to endure much punishment without any sign of damage. It...
- Stamped Basket - A stamped basket can absorb and transfer much of the energy produced by...
- Voice Coil - Our voice coils are able to withstand high temperatures yet maintain its...
- Specs - Resonant Frequency: 49 Hz, Sensitivity SPL (1W/1m): 83 Db, Dimensions: 8. 25” x...
A new car subwoofer must go through a brief but crucial "break-in" period. The "break-in" period will ensure that the subwoofer performs as it was intended. This procedure entails exposing the subwoofer to low-to-medium volume levels in the enclosure for a while.
3-4 hours is usually enough time for the subwoofer's suspension to loosen sufficiently to prevent the voice coil from overheating and failing. The break-in time also helps to extend the life of your subwoofer.
This Chaos Exxtreme CXX8 subwoofer measures 8 inches. With just one voice coil, it can handle 600 watts. The impedance is 4 Ohms, with a mounting height of 3.78 inches and a mounting hole diameter of 7.25 inches. The dimensions are a follows 8.25" x 8.25" x 4.3" with 4.62 lbs in weight. The resonant frequency response is 49 Hz, sensitivity (1 Watt/1 Meter) is 83 dB.
Polypropylene is a strong and long-lasting manufactured material that is used in a wide range of applications. This material in the Chaos Exxtreme CXX8 subwoofer cone allows for maximum give, resulting in great-sounding speakers that endure a long time.
Chaos Exxtreme CXX8 speakers have better or elevated temperature strength and fatigue qualities. In addition, it improves heavy-duty playtime performance and efficiency by reducing weight and increasing operating temperatures.
The stamped basket provides a sturdy and robust platform that allows the listener to hear crisp and clear sounds. Rubber is impermeable to air and can withstand or resist exposure to a variety of weather fronts. Chaos Exxtreme utilizes it to link the cone to the basket in the speakers as surrounds.
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4. Klipsch R-100SW 10" Subwoofer, Deep Bass
- 10" front-firing spun-copper IMG woofer
- All-digital amplifier with 300 watts peak power
- Volume low pass crossover and phase control
- Line level LFE RCA inputs for maximum receiver compatibility
- Dimensions 14 5" x 12 5" x 16 4"
IMG-Injection Molded Graphite woofer cones are extremely light while yet being extremely rigid. It results in a superb low-frequency response with minimal cone breakup and distortion for the deepest, cleanest bass possible.
Klipsch R front-firing subwoofer's built-in, the all-digital amplifier provides adequate power with excellent efficiency and true-to-source precision reproduction. It results in maximum output, detail, and power that fills your home.
The front-firing subwoofer gain, low pass crossover, and phase settings on the Reference Series ensure low-frequency tones blend in with other speakers. As a result, the right degree of bass is established for your space. The RCA inputs are line-level/LFE for best compatibility with conventional home theater receivers.
The high-performance front-firing driver was engineered to create deep bass independent of its location in the room. Hence providing you with greater positioning options. The dimensions are 14 5" x 12 5" x 16 4" with a frequency response of 32Hz - 120Hz - 3dB. The amplifier power is 150W- 300W.
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5. Acoustic Audio PSW-8 300 Watt Down Firing Powered Subwoofer
- Acoustic Audio PSW-8 Specialty Series home theater powered subwoofer, 300 watts peak...
- Built in digital drive high efficiency amplifier, 8” down firing long throw subwoofer,...
- Low level and speaker level inputs and outputs, variable low pass frequency crossover...
- Black ash high density MDF enclosure with advanced RFL bass reflex design, product...
- Use for in wall or in ceiling home entertainment, home theater systems, surround sound...
PSW Powered Subwoofer by Acoustic Audio is created with your style in mind. The sleek design and superior sound make it a must-have for any home theater. The sleek black ash wood finish works well with most home audio systems.
Immerse yourself in the excitement of fast-paced movies or sports, add a full-bodied bass to your favorite tunes, and increase the intensity of your favorite TV shows. PSW Subs include an integrated high-efficiency amplifier that smoothly powers the down-firing subwoofer for a clear, sharp bass sound.
A long-excursion cone is used in the woofer for a deep, precise response. The correct driver materials, speaker geometry, and enclosure construction techniques are combined. It results in a cleaner, clearer low-frequency response sound. In addition, internal standing waves and other performance-robbing resonances are eliminated by bracing and damping the MDF bass-reflex enclosure.
It employs a specially tuned and focused port to provide maximum bass impact. The high and low inputs let you utilize any receiver or processor. In addition, the line and speaker level inputs and outputs are conveniently accessible, making most systems simple to connect to.
PSW Subs has dynamic balance driver materials that are durable, resonance-free, and move quickly. Acoustic Audio by Goldwood's outstanding system provides you with rich, harmonious low frequencies as well as fascinating effects.
Drive the PSW Sub with ease, thanks to its built-in high-efficiency amplifier, for house-shaking power and precise control. The amplifier also has a phase control switch, low level and speaker level inputs/outputs, signal detection auto On/Off function, and variable low pass frequency response control.
PSW Subwoofers include a ported enclosure that is internally braced and lined with gray batting to keep the subwoofer stable and steady even at extreme volume levels. It allows for more efficient power usage. PSW Subwoofers are designed to have optimal loudness, are tuned for distortion-free low frequencies, and are free of resonances.
PSW Subs have a low-profile long-throw subwoofer on the enclosure's bottom. The sub uses a long excursion, and high rigidity PVA treated cone for the most accurate response. In addition, the enclosure has a bottom-slotted bass port and elegant triangular feet to deliver maximum bass impact efficiently.
The low-profile enclosure's gorgeous black finish and sophisticated styling go well with any home theater's decor. In addition, the PSW Sub's subtle black ash wood finish adds an immersive sense to an already excellent subwoofer.
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Types of Subwoofers
1. Passive Subwoofers
Passive subs get their name because they require to be powered by an external amplifier or A/V receiver. It is similar to what you'd hear from standard speakers. The crucial thing is that a passive sub requires more power to reproduce low-frequency sounds. Therefore, the amplifier or A/V receiver must send enough power to sustain bass effects without exhausting the A/V receiver or amplifier's power supply.
2. Active or Powered Subwoofer
A powered subwoofer is a self-contained speaker and an amplifier. For best performance, the speaker and amplifier are matched and placed in the same enclosure. It relieves the A/V receiver of a lot of the power load. Therefore, allowing the receiver or amplifiers to focus on the mid-range and tweeter speakers.
How to Pick the Best Budget Subwoofer
1. Price
Naturally, when choosing the best budget subwoofer, price is a major consideration. Subwoofers can be costly. However, before going out into the market and comparing prices, you should first set a budget for yourself. You deserve the best sound a device can produce.
If you decide to invest in a more expensive subwoofer, the manufacturers should justify the price with additional features. However, getting higher performance does not necessitate purchasing more expensive equipment. Instead, you can sift through a variety of budget possibilities to discover something you like.
2. Durability
Just because you're saving money on the subwoofer doesn't mean you won't get a good product. Durability is vital, even if the price is subsidized. In addition, the elements and components that go into creating the best budget subwoofer should be of high quality.
Subwoofers with polypropylene cones and rubber surrounds are more durable and sound better. Some subwoofers are also housed in a cast-iron frame. It makes them more durable and allows them to withstand a lot of abuse. When a product that performs well fails to live up to its promise of durability, it is one of the biggest disappointments.
3. Purpose
What is the aim of purchasing the best budget subwoofer, and how do you expect it to affect your movie-going or music-listening experience? Different sorts of subs are appropriate for certain scenarios. For example, if you enjoy watching movies, you should look for a subwoofer connected to your home theater system and improves your viewing experience.
If you want a subwoofer that you can easily transport on excursions or from one location to another, a wireless device would be a better choice. Wireless subwoofers are also more portable than regular subwoofers due to their smaller weight.
Knowing why you're buying anything before you go to the store assists you in making an informed decision and avoid being duped or taken for a ride. It means you'll have fewer regrets about your purchase. It is important if you're on a budget. You only get one chance to get the subwoofer of your dreams.
4. Brand
The brand of a subwoofer is really important. While it is not a law that a branded subwoofer cannot be bad quality, several brands are industry leaders. If you can afford it and it is within your budget range, you should aim to go with a brand that specializes in producing things like this as much as possible.
Polk Audio, Yamaha, Boss, BIC America, Klipsch, Micca are more well-known brands. These are brands that have been around for a long time and have proven reliable and high-quality. These companies also produce a variety of product lines that focus on various aspects. As a result, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, all of which are priced differently.
There have been numerous examples of a brand being successful and then taking its success for granted. Customers are frequently dissatisfied after utilizing a well-known brand since their expectations are so high.
The trick is to conduct extensive research before making the final decision. Even if you're thinking about buying a subwoofer that a well-known brand doesn't make, if it comes highly recommended, investigate deeper and ask questions. Then, if you're satisfied with what you've found, there's no reason not to try a subwoofer from a lesser-known manufacturer.
5. Warranty
Different manufacturers and items have different warranty arrangements. Even if the manufacturer has specific warranty conditions, the seller you are purchasing may have different ones. For example, if you buy through Amazon, you may be eligible for a specific warranty period. If you buy straight from the manufacturer, you may be eligible for a different warranty term.
When it comes to subwoofers, a five-year guarantee is considered conventional. However, having a longer window for getting things serviced for free or at a reduced fee is critical in electronics. Five years is plenty of time to determine whether or not the product is right for you.
You have every right to ask for a replacement if something goes wrong. For example, if the product breaks down after five years, it may still be less inconvenient than if it broke down two days after you bought it and had no way of getting it fixed.
Having a long warranty period will be useless if the customer care is unhelpful. See what individuals say about the company's customer service by asking about or looking through online reviews.
6. Wattage
The statistics are rather complex when shopping for a subwoofer. The resonance frequency response is a certain number, and wattage is a specific number. The wattage refers to the maximum volume that a woofer can produce. The wattage is simply an approximate estimate of the woofer's range.
You can choose the volume you wish to listen to and change it with the speaker system. The main difference between a 1000-watt sub and a 100-watt sub is that a 1000-watt sub may offer greater sound quality even at a moderate level.
While 100 watts may appear to be a large amount, it is not for subwoofers. Higher-wattage subwoofers, such as those rated at 300 to 500 watts, are readily available and inexpensive. However, watt ratings alone are a poor indicator of whether or not a subwoofer will deliver the sound you seek.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
1. Should I buy a Wireless or Wired subwoofer?
Most home theater or HiFi subwoofers have wired connections, although many soundbars come with wireless subwoofers. Wireless subwoofers offer the benefit of requiring no setup at all. They have already connected to the central unit, and all you have to do is plug them in.
They take the effort out of the initial setup because the crossover point is already set. However, you will still need to figure out where to put it and plug it into a mains socket. The disadvantage is that it does not sound as good as wired subwoofers in all circumstances.
Although the private wireless network on which they operate can undoubtedly deliver some nice low end, people almost always prefer connected models. Of course, if you're going to have a 5.1 or 7.1 sound system, a fully wired subwoofer is a must, but there are exceptions.
2. What is the Difference Between a Front-Firing and a Down-Firing Subwoofer?
The direction of the driver is the fundamental distinction between front-firing and bottom-firing subwoofers. A front-firing woofer emits sound from the front and directs it straight at the listener. A bottom-firing subwoofer, on the other hand, pushes the sound down into the floor.
The purpose of a subwoofer is to generate a deep bass sound so that the sound design can be heard as intended even when the speaker is set to a low frequency. So regardless of where the subwoofer is placed in the room, its impact is felt from everywhere. The low-frequency sound is too soft to hear, but you can feel it in your chest-thumping, the sound of the bass.
A front-firing subwoofer is not required because the listener does not need to hear the low-frequency sound directly. However, a bottom-firing subwoofer has some advantages. When the sound is pushed down, it strikes a resonant surface in the floor, amplifying the bass.
When you hear intense music, such as at a concert or in an action film, you will feel a thumping sensation in your chest. Standing waves are also less likely to form with a bottom-firing subwoofer. If you had to choose between the two, a bottom-firing woofer would probably be superior for a home theater.
3. Where Should I Place my Subwoofer?
You can put your subwoofer almost anyplace. However, because each room is built differently, the results will vary. Therefore, there may be some trial and error required if you're serious about achieving the best bass performance from your subwoofer.
Not everyone has a dedicated home theater or listening area to install their subwoofer anywhere they want. Although your system is most likely in your living room, décor, furniture, and other items are likely to compete for floor space. It may be necessary to reposition some items, but finding the "sweet spot" is well worth the effort.
If you want to get the most out of a subwoofer, consider acoustic treatment in addition to positioning. Expect mediocre bass performance even if you have the greatest subwoofer on the planet in an acoustically bad environment.
Acoustic panels, diffusers, and bass traps are all good ways to improve the acoustics of your room. Furthermore, current A/V receivers have room correction technology. It adjusts the volume of each speaker to create a more balanced home theater experience.