A great subwoofer can change your entire listening experience. With many sizes available (8-inch, 10-inch, 15-inch, 18-inch, and the 12-inch subwoofer and more). You will find yourself with a ton of options.
Whether you use it for home theater system or to listen to music, you’ll find the best choices that match your needs.
Many people opt for the 12-inch subwoofer when they want a subwoofer for their car or a large room.
But even just within the range of 12-inch subwoofers, there are many different options to choose from.
We have chosen some popular categories and the best 12-inch subwoofers within them. Narrow down your options and pick the best one for you.
Best 12-Inch Subwoofers in 2023
Top 12-Inch Subwoofers Reviews
Simply glancing through a list of 12-inch subwoofers may not be enough for you to decide.
You will need to delve deeper into what each of the above-mentioned subwoofers has to offer. We discussed advantages and drawbacks associated with each of these to be able to make a well-informed decision.
To help you through this dilemma, we have compiled some brief reviews of the subwoofers in each of the categories mentioned above. Keep reading to learn more!
7 Best 12 Inch Subs on the Market
1. SVS SB-1000 Pro Sealed Subwoofer – Best overall
- 325 Watts RMS and 820+ Watts Peak Power Sledge STA-325D Amplifier combines massive high current output of discrete MOSFETs with Class D efficiency. Boasting vanishingly low distortion the unique...
- High-Excursion 12-inch SVS Subwoofer Driver features dual ferrite magnet motor assembly with long-throw parabolic surround for extreme excursion that delivers massive output with finesse and accuracy...
Despite being an entry-level product, the SB-1000 Pro’s design is remarkable. Despite being reasonably lightweight (26 pounds), the frame has a tank-like weight and solidity. We particularly enjoy the fact that there are no angled corners.
Crafted meticulously, the SB-1000 Pro features an acoustically inert and rigidly braced sealed cabinet. The extra-thick MDF front baffle and internal bracing create a resonance-free environment, unleashing uncompromised performance. Compact in size, this subwoofer can fit into nearly any room or system.
The Sledge STA-325D Amplifier offers enormous power to drive the subwoofer with a 325-watt solid RMS amplifier and a peak power of 820+ watts. With this power output, the SB-1000 Pro can handle even the most demanding audio passages effortlessly. This subwoofer will offer powerful bass that gives your audio material a new level, which makes the subwoofer ideal for music as well as movie experiences.
A 12-inch high-excursion SVS driver drives the SB-1000 Pro’s performance. This driver moves a lot of air, which results in a crisp and powerful sound that fills the space. Thanks to the dual ferrite magnet motor assembly and long-throw parabolic surround, the driver can produce tremendous excursion, enabling the deep bass extension. The SB-1000 Pro ensures that you feel every subtlety of the bass, regardless of how low the frequencies go, providing a visceral and immersive listening experience.
Pros
- The price increase from the previous model
- The controls are so simple
- The SVS SB-1000 Pro produces crystal clear, engaging, and detailed bass
Cons
- Not suitable for large areas
- Though pretty good entry-level, there are some cheaper products
2. JBL S2-1224 – Best Powered
- Deep, powerful bass with enhanced efficiency and higher output of a vented enclosure and power handling of 275W RMS or 1100W Peak
- 12" (300mm) car audio subwoofer with Ssi
The JBL GT-BASSPRO12 is a 12-inch car audio-powered subwoofer system that amps up your music-listening experience while driving like never before. It creates minimal port noise and can provide a distortion-free bass even at high output levels.
With input levels, bass boost, low-pass, and phase controls, you can adjust and navigate the system to give you the sound you want. This product is the most potent 12-inch subwoofer because it provides an incredible sound that traditional car subs may fail to deliver.
This 12-inch woofer has a die-cast aluminum basket that provides a solid sound, no matter the conditions. Plus, a Slipstream port has been put in place to prevent port noise. The system has been optimized to match the woofer, enclosure, and Slipstream port. Also, when the head unit sends an audio signal, the subwoofer can turn on and off automatically.
Pros
- There is minimal port noise, and the Slipstream port can give you a zero distortion sound.
- The manufacturer’s system optimization ensures that you get the best performance.
- The signal-sensing turn-on feature is an intelligent addition that most traditional car subwoofers lack.
- You can get the sound you want by tinkering around with the input levels, bass boost, low-pass, phase controls, etc.
- Built with medium-density fiberboard, this is a highly durable product.
Cons
- Some customers and dedicated audiophiles were disappointed with the sound.
- Some customers found the amplifier to be under-powered.
- A few customers complained about JBL’s customer service.
- The RCA port is not as durable as advertised.
- Some customers reported that when the unit is set low, it tends to make a rattling noise.
3. BIC America F12 – Best for Sound
- Powered subwoofer with 12-inch injection molded long throw woofer; BASH designed amp
- Patented BIC "Venturi" vent eliminates port noise
If you are looking for good quality bass sound at an affordable price, purchasing the BIC America F12 12-Inch is worth a shot.
With the help of the company’s patented BIC “Venturi” vent, a large amount of the port noise is removed, allowing you to make the most of deep bass. This is an excellent option for home theaters as the frequency range of 25 Hz to 200 Hz will give you a robust feel of the audio.
This front-firing subwoofer has a power output of 475 watts, higher than most others on this list. This makes it ideal for even more significant events and gatherings. The adjustable crossover and volume control are a bonus.
Pros
- This 12-inch subwoofer gives you excellent sound quality, especially with bookshelf speakers under $500.
- While the price of this product is higher than some of the others on this list, you get great value for your money, in addition to a 5-year warranty.
- This well-built subwoofer gives you powerful bass output, fulfilling the main criteria of a good subwoofer.
Cons
- This may not be the ideal subwoofer for you if you are looking for a more compact option, as this can turn out to be quite bulky and inconvenient to move around.
- If used continuously for an extended period, this subwoofer tends to heat up and get quite hot.
4. Polk Audio PSW505 – Home Audio Subwoofer – Best 12-inch Subwoofer for Home Audio
- HEART-THUMPING MUSIC WITH DEEP, POWERFUL BASS – Polk's 12-inch Dynamic Balance Woofer sounds better because it is built better. Make your movies, music & sports experience thrilling
If you want to take the experience of watching a film or your favorite show at home to the level of an actual theater, you need to invest in a good-quality subwoofer that gives you an elevated sound quality.
The Polk Audio PSW505 12-Inch Powered Subwoofer is our pick for this category.
There are many reasons for this, but we can start by discussing the high-power performance product delivers while minimizing the distortion that comes with higher sound output.
The sub can work with your home audio system or speaker for accurate sound reproduction, which is good. With a decent low-frequency response rate, this subwoofer is easy to integrate with your existing sound system, reducing the work you need to put in.
Pros
- You get some of the best features — usually available only in the high-end products — with this powered subwoofer.
- The 5-year warranty period is a definite plus point.
- It is very easy to integrate with your existing speakers or home theater system.
- The Polk subwoofers give you a continuously variable 60-120 Hz crossover and an impressive frequency response between 25 Hz and 125 Hz.
Cons
- The price is a little on the higher side when compared to the other options on the list.
- The dynamic power output isn’t too impressive.
5. Rockford Fosgate P3D4-12 Punch P3 DVC – Best Around 200$
- The P3 Series is Rockford Fosgate’s best performing Punch subwoofer delivering reference quality bass in our most popular models
- The Punch P3D4-12 is a 12” 4-Ohm DVC (dual voice coil) subwoofer with 600 Watts RMS / 1200 Watts Max power handling and custom 10-AWG nickel plated push terminals
If you want a good quality product that packs a punch without poking holes into your budget, you do not need to look beyond the Rockford Fosgate P3D4-12 Punch P3 DVC 12-Inch Subwoofer.
With 600 watts RMS and 1200 watts peak power, this is a compelling option, but you will not have to worry about it heating up too much, as it comes with anodized aluminum voice coil formers that help dissipate heat.
While this model has many features, you don’t have to worry about complex installations, as it is straightforward to fix. It has also passed all the industry standards, which is good.
Pros
- The power output is astounding with 600 watt RMS and 1200 watts peak power, which translates to a great listening experience.
- The FlexiFit basket makes for an overall flexible installation process.
- The product is built very well and allows for quick dissipation of heat, which can be a problem with other large subwoofers.
- The features offered by Rockford Fosgate make this one of the ideal options for a high-value product.
Cons
- The subwoofer does not come with an enclosure so you may have to purchase one separately.
- The sensitivity is relatively low, especially when compared to some other options on the list.
- You may need a separate amp to get the best performance out of this product.
6. Audiopipe TXX-BD2-12 – Best Around 100$
- RMS 750 Watt
- AUDIOPIPE 12" 3000 WATT Car DVC Subwoofers
If you don’t want to spend too much on a high-quality subwoofer to improve your listening experience, the Audiopipe TXX-BD2-12 12 Inch 3000W Subwoofer is a great option.
With an impressive frequency range between 2o Hz and 900 Hz, the unit gives you the maximum feel for the bass being produced by the subwoofer. The power output is also impressive — 750 watts RMS and 3000 watts maximum output — making this one of the most remarkable budget options on the list.
However, it may lack more sophisticated features in the other, more expensive subwoofers. Setting up is also a little more challenging, as wiring can get tiresome. Despite this, it is probably the best cheap subwoofer for people with a budget.
Pros
- One of the most affordable options, this product gives you the look of a more expensive subwoofer.
- The Audiopipe subwoofer is designed to handle even the higher power levels and produce very loud audio.
- If you are looking for impressive bass, this is a good product worth giving a shot.
- The product is built strongly and won’t give you the problems that some of the cheaper options do.
Cons
- The wiring process is fairly complicated so you may need to enlist the help of someone with experience.
- You will be required to look for a separate enclosure for this subwoofer.
- When it comes to very deep lows, the performance leaves something to be desired.
7. Definitive Technology Descend DN12 – Best High End
- MORE BASS FROM THE SAME SPACE - Featuring dual 12" radiators and the new 3XR Architecture that offers triple the bass-producing surface area of a traditional ported sub, the Descend DN12 performs like...
- PLAYS WELL WITH OTHERS - Features Intelligent Phase Control with 360 degrees of customizable phase adjustment that enables you to tune the DN12 sub to seamlessly blend with your system, delivering a...
Definitive Technology has a 12” subwoofer that triples the bass radiating surface area. it has 3XR Architecture that allows it to perform like a 15” ported sub – probably even better.
3XR Architecture consists of an active 12” subwoofer coupled with two 12” passive bass radiators for reaping the benefits of both sealed and ported cabinets. Because it isn’t ported, it does away with the distortion.
Moreover, the pounding and thundering of the bass with even tonal handling, dialogue, and highs are not overwhelmed or crushed by the bottom end.
It has a 56-bit DSP that moderates cone movement, and the Class H amplifier keeps things at an even and impressive keel during low-demand conditions with 500W continuous RMS.
For those high amplitude transients, rail voltage is increased so that you can hear every note, and the sub can sustain quality during high-packed action scenes and various musical instrument solos.
In the EQ Deep mode, the bass slams like a champ, and I was afraid to max out the volume for my and the sub’s well-being.
There’s a lot to gain from having a high-end subwoofer as part of the chain in your home theater sound system. Reaching the rewards requires a decent amount of cash upfront.
Though not cheap, the Descend DN12 is constantly compared to SVS alternatives, and it’s often said that it can give them a run for their money.
Pros
- High-end quality with Class H amplifier
- Powerful output with 500W continuous RMS with high transient peak power of 1500W
- 3XR Architecture, Intelligent Phase Control, and Remote Control with On-sub LED Display
- IR pass-through for remote control syncing to a master remote
- 12V Trigger input for simultaneous activation and seamless blending of a multi-speaker system
Cons
- No wireless connectivity
- Weak bass in the very lowest volume levels
12-Inch Subwoofers: Comparison Table
| Product | Power Handling | Price Range | Our Pick For |
|---|---|---|---|
| SVS SB-1000 | RMS: 325W, Max: 820W | Under $800 | Best overall |
| JBL S2-1224 | RMS: 275W, Max: 1100W | Under $300 | Best Powered |
| BIC America F12 | RMS: 475W | Under $300 | Best for Sound |
| Polk Audio PSW505 | RMS: 300W, Max: 460W | Under $300 | Best for Home Audio |
| Rockford Fosgate P3D4-12 Punch P3 | RMS: 600W, Max: 1200W | Under $200 | Best Around $200 |
| Audiopipe TXX-BD2-12 | RMS: 750W, Max: 3000W | Under $100 | Best Around $100 |
| Definitive Technology Descend DN12 | RMS: 500W, Max:1500W | Under $1500 | Best High End |
Tips for Choosing the Best 12-Inch Subwoofer for You
At this point, you have already gone through the best 12-inch subwoofers available in the market currently, but how to make the decision when it comes to choosing between such good subwoofers?
There are a number of considerations that you need to include in your assessment of the subwoofer before you purchase one.
To make it easier for you to pick one, we have listed the main factors that need to be given some thought before you purchase a subwoofer for use at home or outside. Keep reading to find out all you need to know!
Budget Considerations
First and foremost, your budget is the first primary consideration when it comes to purchasing subwoofers. While some people don’t want to spend too much money and are okay with the average bass quality provided by the cheaper, under-$100 subwoofers, others give a lot of importance to the power output and bass quality promised by the more expensive products.
Some of the more expensive 12-inch subwoofers can set you back by over $1,000, which means that it will be a big investment on the part of the consumer. You can get a good quality sub in the $200-$600 price range, which can is a steal for bass enthusiasts.
Subwoofer Location
One of the most common tricks employed by people while setting up subwoofers in their houses is putting the sub against the wall so that it can sound a little louder than it would if placed in a regular setting. If you put it in a corner, the volume will increase even further. However, neither of these positions will give you the best bass response.
If good bass is what you are looking for, you need to sit in the spot that you will be occupying most frequently — your listening spot — and move the subwoofer around. Or you could place the unit in one spot and move around the room as you note the bass quality, which will change significantly with every few feet.
Watts of Subwoofer
Powered subwoofers come with in-built amplification so you don’t have to purchase one separately to drive it. The wattage is an important consideration when you are looking for powerful subs.
While there is no single answer for the ideal wattage or power, the general rule is that the higher the amp’s wattage, the more power and impact your bass will provide.
However, this does not mean you should stretch your budget too much to get more wattage. You need to look at the subwoofer’s continuous power or RMS rating carefully. You will also see a “peak power” rating with the product, but that is more of an on-paper assessment and doesn’t have too much of a role to play in the overall performance.
EQ (Equalization)
Another feature that you can look out for while assessing subwoofers is room EQ processing. This means playing different test tones through the speaker and subwoofer to generate an equalizer setting specific to the particular room. This allows for minimizing peaks when it comes to the frequency response, which means that you can avoid over-accentuated notes.
However, you must remember that this feature will not be able to fill any gaps occurring because of the room acoustics, as that is out of the ambit of a subwoofer. This feature will also not be able to make up for a poor-quality subwoofer that is low on power.
Sealed vs Ported Subwoofers
There are two main types of subwoofers available for purchase when it comes to distinctions based on the enclosures that they are placed in — sealed and ported. The first of these are known as sealed subwoofers or acoustic suspension, where the air doesn’t move in or out of the box. This makes them quicker and more responsive, with the resulting bass being very tight and more accurate.
On the other hand, ported subwoofers or bass reflex enclosures have an air vent built into the subwoofer itself. This allows for better reinforcement of the low bass output. While there is no correct answer to what is a better option of the two, ported ones give you a more powerful bass but are larger than the sealed options, which may be a drawback.
Wireless Connectivity
Attaching a subwoofer to your home theater system or speaker usually involves dragging out a long wire that needs to be plugged into either scheme. Some options allow you to wirelessly connect the subwoofers to other sources and control them through a remote or app.
While this is the age of wireless connectivity, many subwoofers have not jumped onto the bandwagon. However, this doesn’t mean that some of them cannot be upgraded if you purchase some separate equipment to enable its wireless features. Remember that a wireless subwoofer, or one upgraded for wireless use, will cost you more than a simple wired version.
Good Bass Vs More Bass
The main decision you need to take after looking at the many features offered by the different subwoofers is whether you are ready to compromise on getting good quality bass for more bass altogether.
These are two different things. More bass does not mean good bass.
Those cars you hear thumping out loud are probably going for more bass but bad bass. Good bass will make you feel the music or the film without rushing to find a cover. While some still look out for more bass, good bass should be the ultimate aim you want to achieve with the subwoofers.
Make a Well-Informed Choice On Your Next Subwoofer Purchase
Our main recommendation is this, don’t choose blindly or follow a fad when deciding which 12-inch subwoofer best fits your needs! Doing so will make it highly likely that you will not get the best value for the money you have spent!
For example, if you are new to the concept of subwoofers and just want to try one out, investing in a $600 subwoofer doesn’t make the most sense — unless you have that much extra cash. In this case, you may want to try the affordable BIC or Rockford Fosgate options first.
For people who want more sophisticated equipment to elevate their listening experience, an investment in the SVS subwoofer may be a better choice.
Whatever model you choose to go for, remember that it is supposed to aid your speakers to bring out their best performance and not be a replacement!
Further Reading:
- SVS Subwoofers: Brand Review (2023)
- 9 Best Budget Subwoofers to Rock Your World (Not Your Wallet)
- The Best 10-Inch Subwoofer: A Review of the Top 5 in 2023
- Definitive Technology Descend DN12 Subwoofer Review (Tested)
- Definitive Technologies Studio 3D Mini Review (Soundbar & Sub)
Trent is a music lover, musical instrument player and passionate audio afficionado.