The Best 12 Inch Subwoofer For 2024

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Best 12 inch subwoofer
Best 12 inch subwoofer

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Klipsch R-12SW 12" 400W Subwoofer

Klipsch Subwoofers are designed for those who demand the most powerful, deepest bass possible. This R-12SW 12" 400W subwoofer features a copper spun front-firing woofer with a high power all-digital amplifier that delivers 400 watts of dynamic power to the music. The flexible placement allows it to be placed in corners or against walls and will provide low end punch that can't be matched by any other type of speaker. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Skar Audio Dual 12" 2400W Loaded SDR Series Vented Subwoofer Enclosure

Whether you're looking for a powerful subwoofer enclosure or are simply looking to upgrade your factory audio system, Skar Audio has you covered. The SDR Series Vented Subwoofer Enclosure is pre-wired internally for a 1 Ohm final impedance load at the terminals and features two 12-inch dual 4-ohm speakers and delivers peak power of 2,400 Watts and RMS power of 1,200 Watts. Read Review

3. Best Connectivity: KICKER TRTP 12-inch (30cm) Thin Down Firing Subwoofer

Kicker's TRTP (Thin Down-Firing Loaded) 12-inch subwoofer is a great choice for those who don't have much space in the vehicle or aren't looking for high SPL levels. The enclosure has 1/2" MDF construction, triple-stitched seams, and an internally braced back panel to ensure durability and resonance control. Read Review

4. Best Sound Quality: Skar Audio Dual 12" 5000W Loaded EVL Series Vented Subwoofer Enclosure

The Skar Audio Dual 12-Inch 5000 Watt Loaded EVL Series Vented Subwoofer Enclosure is a competition grade subwoofer enclosure that provides a peak power of 5,000 watts and a RMS power of 2,500 watts. These subwoofers come pre-wired internally for your convenience and are mounted. Read Review

These days, plenty of companies are on the lookout for ways to make their products stand out. If there’s a type of product that is virtually guaranteed to make your new device immediately stand out from the crowd, it’s something related to audio.

After all, who doesn’t love great sound? When it comes to subwoofers, almost every manufacturer seems to think that bigger is always better. This makes choosing the right subwoofer for your needs quite tricky. Ideally, you want a subwoofer with a compact footprint that delivers an impressive punch when needed. Luckily, we have done our research and gathered some of the best 12-inch subwoofer options on the market today.

We think Klipsch R-12SW 12" 400W Subwoofer is the best of the best among the top models. If you were dissatisfied with the preceding item, you have the option of selecting Skar Audio Dual 12" 2400W Loaded SDR Series Vented Subwoofer Enclosure as an alternative. You may relax knowing that its quality is also good per what we researched.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Klipsch R-12SW 12" 400W Subwoofer
Our Score:
9.7
Klipsch
  • Powerful 12" copper-spun front-firing woofer
  • Low pass crossover and phase control
  • Equally impressive with music and movies; Brushed black polymer veneer cabinet with satin painted plinth
  • Line/LFE inputs for compatibility with most receivers
  • All-digital amplifier delivers 400 watts of dynamic power
  • Custom Vented Enclosure Made of High Strength 5/8" MDF and Finished in Premium Black Carpeting
  • Double Front Baffle (1.25") with Countersunk subwoofer design for Flush and Attractive Appearance
  • Ported Enclosure Tuned at 32 Hz for Deep and Accurate Bass
  • Pre-wired Internally for a 1 Ohm Final Impedance Load at the Terminals for an Easy Installation
  • Peak Power: 2,400 Watts | RMS power: 1,200 Watts
  • SDR Series 12-inch Dual 4-ohm loaded Subwoofer Enclosure
TOP Choice #3 KICKER TRTP 12-inch (30cm) Thin Down Firing Subwoofer
Our Score:
9.3
KICKER
  • ONE 12" thin-mount CompRT subwoofer and a high-output reFLEX passive radiator which intensifies bass output
  • Forced-Air Cooling helps our CompRT subs run 20 percent cooler
  • True, hard-hitting KICKER bass from a shallow-mount design
  • Easily mounts in cargo area with no space issues, and resists stacking weight
  • Minimal mounting depth without sacrificing musical punch
  • Peak Power: 5,000 Watts | RMS Power: 2,500 Watts
  • Subwoofers Come Mounted and are Pre-Wired Internally for a 1 Ohm Final Impedance Load at the Terminals
  • Premium Vented Enclosure Made of High Strength MDF and Finished in Black Carpeting
  • Competition Grade EVL Series 12-Inch Dual 4-ohm Loaded Subwoofer Enclosure
  • Double Front Baffle (1.25") with Countersunk Subwoofer Design for Flush and Attractive Appearance
  • Pioneer's latest "Champion" series sub-woofers are here. The TS-W312D4 is designed to take the "Champion" Series name to the next level with a range of improvements.
  • Pioneer TSW312D4 Champion Series 12" 1500 Watt Dual 4 Ohm Voice Coil DVC Car Subwoofer
  • "Champion" Series 12' Subwoofer with Dual 4 Ohm Voice Coil
  • Combining a large rigid centre cap and lightweight high rigidity cone structure improves output performance and reduces loss. Improved dual layer (elastic polymer & fibre) hybrid surround provides a lighter and more durable surround than traditional rubber compounds.
  • 1600W Max (3200 Watt per Pair)
  • 800W RMS (1600 Watt per Pair)
  • Polypropylene Cone
  • Bytul rubber
  • Boss P12SVC 12" 1600W Car Subwoofer (Pair)
  • Constructed with thick black carpeting, rounded corners, and durable MDF
  • Specially engineered ported design
  • Single 2 ohm terminals and 1500 watts of RMS power
  • Easy to install and wire so your bass is up and running in no time
  • Dual loaded Solo Baric L7S 12 inch subwoofers
  • DUAL SUBWOOFER: Dual 12-inch subwoofer enclosure with an angled profile fits perfectly in tight spaces in any kind of vehicle; Dimensions (L x W x H): 20.37 x 33.75 x 15.87 inches
  • POWERFUL SOUND: Enclosure works best with 1,200 watts of recommended power; Loaded with a Genuine L7R Subwoofer and a single 2-ohm terminal
  • SPECIFICATIONS: Type: Dual; Subwoofer size: 12 inches; Recommended amplifier power: 1200 watts; Final impedance: 2 ohms; Sensitivity: 95 dB
  • INTERNAL BRACING: Sealed enclosure box design and has extensive internal bracing; Features vented back brace, creating a single integrated unit that both cools the motor and eliminates distortion
  • MORE VOLUME: Get up to 20 percent more volume compared to a round driver; Front-facing port design for loudest possible bass
  • Kicker Bundle Comp C12 Triple 12" Subwoofer Loaded 1800 Watt Sub Box Enclosure & Harmony HA-A1500.1 Amp
  • Kicker 47QL7R12 Car Audio Quad L7R 12" Subwoofer SPL 4800W Sub Box Enclosure New
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To Choose The best 12 inch subwoofer, What Criteria Do You Need To Study Before?

Almost all buyers are anxious about getting best 12 inch subwoofer. Whenever creating multiple purchases, various issues need to be resolved. Our market expertise will give you help to make the best shopping selection.

Please consider the following factors before selecting best 12 inch subwoofer:

Wired Or Wireless

A rising number of subwoofers powered by Bluetooth are capable of wireless connectivity. Wireless connectivity eliminates the requirement for long cables between subwoofers and receivers.

A wireless subwoofer is usually equipped with a transmitter that plugs into any receiver's subwoofer outputs.
Low-frequency audio signals are transmitted by the transmitter to the wireless subwoofer from the receiver connected to home theater. The wireless receiver integrated into the subwoofer powers the amplifier, which produces the low-frequency sound.

Frequency Response

This is the "dive" index for the subwoofer's low frequency. This parameter indicates how low the subwoofer's output can reach. Subwoofers capable of reaching this frequency can typically be heard by humans at 20 Hz. However, subwoofers with the ability to achieve such low frequencies are more costly.
Don't worry too much about the frequency limit. It is generally acceptable to use a subwoofer at 160-200Hz. Why? Why? Because the frequency above 120Hz is where most of the midrange woofers are. This indicator can't be altered and is established when the subwoofer has been designed, manufactured and shipped to the factory.
If you are able to find a subwoofer that has a dive of around 20Hz for a reasonable price, it is difficult for consumers.
Some entry-level subwoofers with low-end features have a dive of 40Hz or less. The frequency that is too low can cause serious distortion. It is a sign that there are not enough dives. The foundation may not be reliable and all parameters will become meaningless.

Diaphragm Material

Material refers to what is used in the manufacture of the diaphragm. The tweeter's diaphragm materials are plastic, metal, and silk. There are many diaphragm materials for the woofer, including paper, polyethylene, wool, and aluminum-magnesium alloy cones.
They have different prices and properties. It is difficult to determine who is better or worse. Choose paper or wool pots if you enjoy orchestral music. Polyethylene cones are best for metal music. Paper cones and wool cones shouldn't be used in humid environments. They absorb moisture easily and can change the sound quality.

Sealed Vs Ported Subwoofer

When searching for the best subwoofer guide, this is one of the most crucial questions. There are two types of subwoofers depending on whether or not the interior of the cabinet connects with the exterior. The sealed subwoofer is, like its name, a closed cabinet. Low-frequency output occurs because of the compression within the box. This subwoofer has a simple structure and a better transient response. It also provides clear, crisp hearing. Low-frequency speakers have a lower cutoff frequency than others. You will need to use a bigger cabinet, and a higher-calibre speaker if you wish to achieve a lower frequency of low-frequency diving. The speakers are also more sensitive and efficient than any other type of speaker.
The hole is accessed by the ported subwoofer, which leads the radiation wave through it. The port is generally circular in shape and has one. Some subwoofers can have multiple ports, which allows users to adjust their output energy and enhance the listening experience. A subwoofer port may even have a bar design to allow for greater integration and aesthetics.

Subwoofer Box Material

Subwoofer boxes are currently made from plastic or wood. Some high-end models will also use metal. Wood speakers used to be considered superior to plastic speakers at first, though this is not the case anymore. Some well-made speakers are better than those made from rough wood. When choosing speakers, it is important to weigh the components. A large wooden speaker will perform poorly if it is too light.

Subwoofer Size & Number

If manufacturers don't want to disclose the maximum sound pressure, most can refer to the third parameter.
The Frequency Response element explains that subwoofers must have sufficient power to produce high frequencies and push air around enough to be heard by the ear. The maximum sound pressure that a subwoofer can achieve is directly related to its size and quantity. The unit's configuration is the best way to determine the subwoofer's strength.

Active Vs Passive Subwoofer

There are two types of subwoofers: passive and active. The active subwoofer is currently the most common in home theatres. Subwoofers require a lot power. Many receivers don't have sufficient driving power. Independent passive subwoofers can be found in professional audio more frequently. This is a rare feature in consumer audio. An active subwoofer has a built in power amplifier module. The active subwoofer is currently the most popular home theatre component.

Maximum SPL

A subwoofer's quality cannot be determined by a single parameter. What makes a subwoofer so capable of producing a sufficient sound pressure level to be considered excellent? Let's first examine the hearing curve of the human ear.
The curve shown in the figure illustrates that different frequencies and sensitivity levels are found within the human ear. Human hearing is identical to this up-and-down curve, which indicates a variable sound pressure level.
The sound of 80dB at 1000Hz is almost identical to 120dB when you listen at 20Hz. This difference amounts to 40dB. The threshold for hearing is 80dB at 20Hz. However, the sound itself is extremely faint and barely audible.
This is why subwoofer parameters must include the maximum sound pressure level. The human ear cannot sense low frequencies and needs to hear a higher sound pressure to feel slight differences. Mix it up if the voice of your subwoofer is too low.

FAQs

Is There A Difference Between A Woofer And A Subwoofer?

These terms are often interchangeable. A "woofer" is a term that refers to a driver with a greater frequency response than a Subwoofer. It's less focused on pure bass and will be more common to be part of speakers than an individual unit.

Can I Use Two Subwoofers At Once?

Although it's not common for home installations, you can. Make sure your receiver is capable of handling two subwoofer connections. To get multi-directional bass, some people like to use two smaller woofers.

Does My Speaker System Need A Subwoofer?

This is a great idea. A subwoofer is a key component of home theater systems. The latest standards in movie audio are also applicable.

Where Is The Ideal Subwoofer Placement?

You have greater freedom than normal speakers which can be very directional. Your subwoofer will also fit more easily. My guide to placing home cinema speakers in the right place is a great starting point.
Subwoofers can be difficult to place in rooms. They must be near a power outlet, as powered speakers. They will also have to be connected to an AV receiver, which distributes the signal to the other speakers in the setup.
These are just some of the factors you should keep in mind when placing your subwoofer. You'll need to experiment with subwoofer positions, and listen to the sound each produces from different locations in your home.

What Is A Crossover?

A crossover is an electronic circuit which routes frequencies to the subwoofer at a particular point. The crossover routes all frequencies higher than that point to the subwoofer, main and center speakers, as well as surround.
Most subwoofers, as well as AV receivers, have variable crossover frequencies that allow you to adjust the sweet spot. Others are set at around 100 Hz.

Are Wireless Subwoofers Worth It?

It's not ideal to connect a sub to an AV receiver. You may need to conceal a part of the cable, or find a shorter one to place in the right spot. Let's be honest, it's not fun to crawl on your knees and lay cables. !
There are many subwoofers that work wirelessly. However, they must still be connected to an electrical socket. This is how it works: instead of plugging in a cable to your AV receiver you attach a transmitter.
Without the need for an audio cable, the transmitter box sends the signal directly to the sub. Some manufacturers include the accessory with their subs, others make it available as an option.
You don't have to worry about it not being wireless, as you can purchase a universal wireless kits that will transform most subs into wireless units.

Are Bigger Subwoofers Better?

You can. They can be. Larger woofers produce more precise, space-filling bass and a greater "shake factor" than smaller models. This is just one aspect. For example, a large, poorly built subwoofer can rattle excessively, while smaller, more powerful models may still be able to do an excellent job.

How Much Bass Is Enough?

Your viewing habits will determine the power you require from your subwoofer. A larger subwoofer with greater power will be needed if you watch a lot of action films and listen to music. In this case, a 12-inch sub is ideal.
If you watch sports or comedy, however, the subwoofers can be used in a smaller room. A smaller subwoofer is sufficient for a large room.

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About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.