10 Best Powered Subwoofers for the DJ

Best Powered Subwoofer for DJ

Enter a world where music has the power to carry you to places beyond your wildest dreams and sound becomes an extension of your own being. I experienced an exciting sensation as I stood behind the DJ booth since I knew that the subwoofer I had was specifically made for DJs.

If you are looking for a sub that can produce a reliably crisp and low bass while reducing the strain on your main speakers, you’ve come to the place where you can find the best subwoofer brands.

We’ve rounded up the best-powered subwoofers designed explicitly for the DJ, so you can focus on mixing your music and keeping the crowd entertained. 

Quick List: Best Powered Subwoofer for DJ & Best Brands

  1. KRK S12.4 S12 Powered SubwooferBest Overall
  2. Mackie CR8S-XBT Bluetooth Powered Subwoofer
  3. Sound Town Metis Series 15-inch Powered Subwoofer
  4. Polk Audio PSW10 10″ Powered Subwoofer  Best Budget Option
  5. Yorkville ES21P 2400-Watts 21-Inch Powered SubwooferMost Powerful
  6. Yamaha Audio 10″ Subwoofer
  7. Mackie SR18S, 18-Inch 1600W Professional Powered Subwoofer
  8. BIC America F12 12-Inch 475-Watt Front Firing Powered Subwoofer
  9. Mackie Thump18S Powered Speaker Cabinet
  10. PRORECK 2000W DJ Subwoofer

Powered Subwoofer for DJ Reviews

Owning a high-quality powered subwoofer is practically essential for DJs.

Subwoofers with good brands can transform the audio quality of an entire sound system, making them a great piece of equipment to bring to different venues when you aren’t familiar with the excellent system or suspect you might be working with low-quality speakers.

If these DJ speakers are out of your budget, you might want to consider one of the affordable portable CD players on the market.

In putting together this list, I looked for the best subwoofer brands that put a premium on versatility and reliability. As a DJ, you want to be sure you have the right tools to create the best possible sound no matter where you’re playing, and the last thing you want is to have your equipment blow out in the middle of a set. 

I also paid attention to specific features geared toward live performances. The subs on this list have enough power to fill large spaces and come with variable crossover frequencies, so you can customize your cut points and achieve a louder sound without consuming more power.

Other factors I took into consideration included weight and frequency response range. These subwoofers reveal the most profound and lowest base but are still light enough to transport them to different venues and gigs easily.

The Best Powered Subwoofers for DJs

1. KRK S12.4 S12 Powered Subwoofer — Best Overall

KRK S12.4 S12 Generation 4 12" 220 Watt Powered Studio Subwoofer
  • 12" Kevlar Composite Woofer
  • Bass extension to 26Hz with a max SPL of 119 dB
  • Footswitch control enables/disables sub and crossover filter (footswitch not included)

Our top pick for the best overall powered subwoofer for a DJ goes to the KRK S12.4 S12. KRK is one of the most well-respected brands for producing reliable, high-quality audio equipment, and this well-built 12-inch subwoofer is no exception. 

Pros
  • Sonic Accuracy
  • Powerful Amplification
  • Flexible Crossover Control
  • Versatile Connectivity
  • Easy To Transport
  • Low Bass Output
Cons
  • Footswitch Not Included
  • Subjective Sound Preference
  • Though great, some can see it as expensive

A superior studio subwoofer that excels in audio performance and accuracy is the KRK S12.4. The custom-made 12″ Kevlar composite woofer, which produces incredibly tight and well-defined bass, is one of its notable features; this implies you can go through intensely depressing lows without muddiness or distortion.

The S12.4’s Class-D power amplifier dramatically improves transient response, control, and punch, resulting in a more dynamic and powerful sound rendition. This subwoofer dramatically enhances the depth and richness of your audio experience, whether mixing songs or listening to your favorite music.

With the four-position adjustable crossover control, you may quickly change the subwoofer settings to match your current monitors. You may fine-tune the bass response to suit your tastes thanks to this flexibility, which guarantees flawless interaction with your studio setup thanks to this flexibility, you may fine-tune the bass response to suit your taste and has extended low-end frequencies.

One standout feature is the footswitch control, which makes it simple to turn the crossover filter and the subwoofer on or off. This function gives you precise control over your sound configuration and is tremendously helpful at various phases of the audio production workflow.

2. Mackie CR8S-XBT Bluetooth Powered Subwoofer

Mackie CR8S-XBT 8 inch Creative Reference Multimedia Subwoofer with Bluetooth Bundle with 1 YR CPS...
  • Mackie 8" Creative Reference Multimedia Subwoofer with Bluetooth
  • Adjustable Input and Output Level | Variable Crossover control | Polarity switch | Inputs - 1/4” TRS, RCA, and Bluetooth | Outputs – 1/4” TRS and RCA
  • IN THE BOX: Serial Number for Download of Pro Tools | First and Musicians Collection - 1/8" to Stereo RCA Cable - Speaker to Speaker Cable - 2 x Monitor Isolation Pads - Attached AC Line Cord

The Mackie subwoofer is one of the best DJ subwoofers in today’s retail store. It is a great overall product uniquely designed to meet the needs of the social media world. From content creators to musicians and video producers and artists can all utilize this incredible device as it promises high-quality sound on a budget.

Pros
  • Adjustable Input and Output Levels
  • Professional Sound Quality
  • Bluetooth Streaming Subwoofer
  • Versatile Connectivity
  • Sleek Design
  • Accessories Included
Cons
  • Size Limitation (8-inch)
  • Power Limitation (200 watts)

This subwoofer is unique for the input and output levels that you can control; this can help you fine-tune the volume of your subwoofer. To ensure optimal integration with your speakers, use the variable crossover control to set the frequency range at which the subwoofer operates.

Another standout feature is eliminating additional cables because of a wireless connection. The Bluetooth function makes it easy for a DJ to connect music from any device to the subwoofer.

The 8-inch polypropylene-coated woofer produces tight, responsive bass performance with 200 watts of clear and precise sound. Your listening experience will be improved across various musical genres and multimedia content thanks to the reflex port’s bespoke tuning, which guarantees accurate and fluid bass reproduction.

A 1/8″ to Stereo RCA connection, speaker-to-speaker cable, monitor isolation pads and other practical accessories are included in the bundle, adding value and convenience.

3. Sound Town Metis Series 15-inch Powered Subwoofer

Sound Town METIS Series 1800 Watts 15” Powered Subwoofer with Class-D Amplifier, 4-inch Voice Coil...
  • MASSIVE POWER: Powered by a built-in Class-D amplifier, the subwoofer handles 500 Watts RMS / 1000 Watts Program / 1800 Watts Peak Power and generates punchy and tight bass
  • HIGH-PERFORMANCE AND LIGHTWEIGHT: The Class-D amplifier efficiently provides enormous power without weighing you down. Thanks to the Class-D topology, the high-output 15” PA subwoofer is powerful...
  • VERSATILE INPUT OUTPUT CONNECTIONS: Easy to integrate this stage subwoofer with your PA rig. It has 2 XLR-1/4” combo and 2 RCA inputs, 2 XLR (through or 100Hz-200Hz high pass selectable) and RCA...

The Sound Town Metis series is a line of top-quality speakers, stage monitors, and subwoofers designed for professional audio applications and DJ use. The 15-inch model offers the best value, with high levels of power and sturdy construction, all for a relatively affordable price.

Pros
  • Rugged construction
  • Versatile input and output connections
Cons
  • Fairly heavy
  • Not as powerful as other models

Although slightly smaller than most 18-inch stage subs, the Metis Series 15-inch subwoofer packs a great punch. It reaches up to 500 Watts RMS and 1800Watts peak power, putting it in the same range as many more extensive and expensive models.

Although it doesn’t have the absolute highest power rating on the market, it can still deliver a booming sound by using high-end materials to reduce distortion and improve damping. Playing a gig with this subwoofer always gets a tight, focused bass, even at high volumes and low frequencies.

The fantastic build quality also lends itself to touring applications. The Sound Town Metis Series 15-inch powered subwoofer has a heavy-duty metal grille, enforced metal corners, and recessed handles, so you won’t have to worry about damaging your audio equipment when you take it on the road.

Finally, the versatile input and output connections make it extraordinarily easy to integrate into your existing stage setup. This is an essential feature, as you won’t have to spend time connecting wires, routing cables, and troubleshooting whenever you want to play a gig. You can simply plug it in and focus on creating the perfect mix. 

4. Polk Audio PSW10 10″ Powered Subwoofer  — Best Budget Option

Polk Audio PSW10 10" Powered Subwoofer – Power Port Technology, Up to 100 Watts, Big Bass in...
  • POWERED SUBWOOFER FOR EXTRA BASS and PUNCH – A 10-inch Dynamic Balance woofer and a uniquely configured directed port provides accurate bass with added depth that brings your music and movies alive....
  • LOUDER CLEARER SOUND EVEN AT HIGH VOLUME – Enjoy a thrilling yet balanced music experience with rich, deep sound, even at low frequencies. BLENDS EASILY WITH ANY SPEAKER and plays the most demanding...
  • DOUBLE THE AMPLIFIER POWER TO 100 Watts of Dynamic Power with its in-built 50-watt RMS amp. Sophisticated engineering with best in class resonance-free driver materials make this sub highly durable...

The Polk Audio PSW10 10″ Powered Subwoofer is a well-respected choice when boosting your DJ and movie sound system. This subwoofer’s 10-inch Dynamic Balance woofer and focused port produce precise, deep bass that makes your audio come to life. It is ideal for many configurations because it is for small-to-mid-sized rooms.

Pros
  • Powerful Bass
  • Clear and Balanced Sound
  • Easy Integration
  • Durable Construction
  • Versatile Connectivity
Cons
  • Limited Power
  • Limited Frequency Range
  • Basic Controls

The PSW10’s ability to sustain clean and balanced sound even at high levels is remarkable. The subwoofer’s ability to withstand challenging frequencies without distorting them creates an exciting and engaging listening experience. A 50-watt RMS amp is added, doubling the amplifier’s output and providing dynamic performance and exceptional longevity.

Because the PSW10 is simple to attach to a receiver for immediate audio enhancement, integration with existing systems is effortless. You may fine-tune the subwoofer to your preferences thanks to its frequency response of 40-160 Hz (-3dB) and continuously variable 80-160 Hz crossover. The subwoofer is a complete and well-rounded unit. It also has a stylish removable grille, speaker and line-level inputs, speaker-level outputs, and a Phase Toggle Switch for multi-subwoofer installations.

The PSW10 makes use of cutting-edge technologies for the best performance. Its Klippel distortion analyzer guarantees accurate voice coil alignment, suspension, and motor structure, resulting in fluid and unhindered movement over a wide range of lower frequencies. Low frequencies are produced by the subwoofer’s resonance-free Dynamic Balance driver materials, which also improve system blending.

The PSW10 has two RCA stereo line-level inputs, two pairs of spring terminals for speaker inputs, two pairs of spring terminals for audio outputs, and two pairs of spring terminals for speaker outputs. This adaptability makes incorporation into any audio configuration simple.

5. Yorkville ES21P 2400-Watts 21-Inch Powered Subwoofer – Most Powerful

The Yorkville ES21P 21-inch Subwoofer is the top pick for the most powerful powered sub. Boasting a whopping 3600 Watts peak power and 2400 Watts RMS, this powered subwoofer for the DJ delivers a monstrous sound that will fill even the largest concert venue.

Pros
  • Powerful Bass
  • Selectable Modes
  • High Sound Pressure Level 
  • Durable Construction
Cons
  • Large Size and Weight
  • Price is high

The Yorkville ES21P is a subwoofer powerhouse that provides an amazing bass experience. It can produce deep, dramatic, tight bass filling even the largest stadiums with its 21-inch back horn loaded design. For live performances, DJ sets, or any other situation where low-frequency extension and power are crucial, this subwoofer is ideal.

The power rating of the ES21P is one of its distinguishing qualities. This subwoofer has abundant power that guarantees excellent performance and headroom, with a continuous power rating of 2400 watts (and a peak power rating of 3600 watts). It can create booming bass that can be felt and heard thanks to its maximum sound pressure level (SPL) of 142dB peak.

The ES21P also has the selectable Punchy, Smooth, and Deep modes, which are fantastic features. You can adjust the subwoofer’s response using these settings to suit your needs. The ES21P covers whether you prefer a tight and snappy bass, a smooth and balanced low-end, or a deep and extended bass response.

Additionally noteworthy are the longevity and build quality. The ES21P is constructed with durable materials and high-quality components to endure the rigors of professional use. It is a wise investment for professional audio applications since it is built to deliver consistent performance even in demanding conditions.

6. Yamaha Audio 10″ Subwoofer

Yamaha Audio 10" 100W Powered Subwoofer - Black (NS-SW100BL)
  • New twisted flare port contributes to clear and tight bass
  • Advanced YST II (Yamaha Active Servo Technology II)
  • 10” cone woofer

Another Yamaha-powered subwoofer can be suitable for DJ events with its suitable bass performance. This high-quality 10” unit is stylish and goes with any room or DJ booth at an affordable cost.

Pros
  • Clear and Tight Bass
  • Compact Size
  • High-Quality Woofer
Cons
  • Being manual can be a downside for some
  • Limited Power Output
  • Wired Connectivity Only

The innovative twisting flare port is one of the NS-SW100BL’s unique characteristics. The bass produced by this subwoofer is clean, tight, and realistic, whether you’re playing special effect sounds in movies or generating a lively atmosphere in a live arena.

The NS-SW100BL’s 100W of power is enough to create deep and dramatic bass, giving your music depth and impact. The subwoofer’s small size and powerful performance make it simple to integrate into any DJ setup without taking up a lot of room.

7. Mackie SR18S, 18-Inch 1600W Professional Powered Subwoofer

Mackie SR18S 18-inch 1600-watt Professional Powered Subwoofer
  • 1600W Powered Subwoofer with 18-inch Woofer
  • 2 Full-range/2 Highpassed Outputs
  • Custom Voicing Presets

The Mackie SR18S 18-Inch 1600W Professional Powered Subwoofer is a powerful and reliable subwoofer designed for real-world working musicians, DJs, events, venues, and more.

Pros
  • Powerful
  • Wide Frequency Response
  • Built-Like-A-Tank Construction
  • Custom Voicing modes
Cons
  • It can be larger and heavier than others, being an 18” unit
  • Though great for DJs, the price can be a downside for some

The SR18S is a superb subwoofer that offers unmatched dependability and fantastic sound. It provides intense and dramatic bass performance that can fill any venue or event space with a 1600W Class-D amplifier and a maximum sound pressure (SPL) of 133 dB. Your sound system will sound deeper and richer thanks to the frequency response of 33Hz to 200Hz, which guarantees deep and extended low-frequency reproduction.

The SR18S’s unique voicing settings are one of its best qualities. You may tailor the subwoofer’s response to your unique sound needs using selected displaying modes like Flat, Deep, and Punch. This adaptability enables you to match the subwoofer to various musical styles, settings, or preferences, guaranteeing that the desired bass tone is produced.

This subwoofer exhibits Mackie’s “Built-Like-A-Tank” architecture with its durable wood cabinet and hard steel grille. Due to its robustness, the subwoofer can survive the rigors of on-the-go use, making it a trustworthy travel companion for DJs and musicians. By reducing resonance and vibration, the subwoofer’s sturdy design also helps to its exceptional sound quality.

Compatibility is yet another strength. The SRT Series, SRM | V-Class Series, or any other PA system are excellently complemented by it, enabling smooth integration and a significant boost in output and efficiency. The SR18S improves the efficiency of your sound system whether you use it as a standalone subwoofer or as a component of a bigger configuration. It produces strong, deep bass that improves your sound.

8. BIC America F12 12-Inch 475-Watt Front Firing Powered Subwoofer

BIC America F12 12-Inch 475-Watt Front Firing Powered Subwoofer
  • Powered subwoofer with 12-inch injection molded long throw woofer; BASH designed amp
  • Patented BIC "Venturi" vent eliminates port noise
  • Adjustable crossover, adjustable volume control, automatic signal sensing

If you are looking for good quality bass sound for your DJ at an affordable price, purchasing the BIC America F12 12-Inch is worth a shot.

Pros
  • Excellent sound quality
  • Great value for your money
  • 5-year warranty.
  • Powerful bass output
Cons
  • May be inconvenient to move around.
  • If used continuously for an extended period, this subwoofer tends to heat up and get quite hot.

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.

9. Mackie Thump18S Powered Speaker Cabinet

Mackie Thump18S 600W 18 Inches Powered Subwoofer
  • 600W 18" Powered PA Subwoofer with Dual XLR Inputs
  • Stereo Full-range Highpass Outputs
  • Adjustable Level Polarity Controls

Mackie is one of the most popular subwoofer brands and a world leader in portable stage equipment and live sound. The Thump 18S Powered Speaker Cabinet is a professional equipment that provides power, precision, and reliability through comprehensive system protections. You’ll have the right tools to get that perfect sound.

Pros
  • Robust enclosure
  • Comprehensive system protections
  • Precise and accurate bass
Cons
  • Heavy
  • Not as powerful as comparable models

The main selling point of the Thump18S is its fantastic sound quality. The subwoofer can produce a highly accurate bass and has been designed to remain precise and tight even under the most strenuous conditions. For DJs and other live performers, this precision is critical.

Additionally, the Thump18S is made with sturdy, high-quality materials that will hold up on the road and in outdoor event venues. The comprehensive system protection is another level of assurance, as you won’t ever have to worry about overloading your equipment or having it malfunction if you accidentally push the driver too hard. If you want a robust piece of equipment, it doesn’t get much better than the self-proclaimed “Built-Like-A-Tank” Thump18S.

One of the only downsides to this sub is that its power ratings are lower than most powered subwoofers in a comparable price range. With only 600 Watts RMS, this subwoofer alone is likely not strong enough for large outdoor concerts or big venues. It can easily be connected to a second subwoofer for additional volume and punch.  

10. PRORECK 2000W DJ Subwoofer

Sale
PRORECK PR18 18 inch 2000W P.M.P.O Active Powered PA DJ Subwoofer Cabinet (ONE subwoofer)
  • Powerful 2000-Watt powered subwoofer with 18” low-frequency driver for bass reinforcement.; 400 Watts RMS/ 800 watts Program/ 2000 Watts Peak; 18 inch woofer with 60oz magnet and 3" voice coil....

People in the audio industry adore the PRORECK 2000W DJ Subwoofer because it pumps 2000 W of pure audio and has a balanced XLR combo, stereo RCA inputs, and other unique bells and whistles.

Pros
  • Lightweight but powerful design
Cons
  • Sound quality is just okay

More than anything else, I’m happy to tell you about the PRORECK 2000W DJ Subwoofer because it provides crystal-clear audio at 2000 W of intense power. It has a low-frequency driver, which includes bass reinforcement, and overall, the 18-inch woofer is the perfect speaker for DJs who work at parties, meetings, churches, bars, conferences, theaters, and more.

Even more impressive is the balanced XLR combo. This means the right and left audio signals are always perfectly in sync, so you’ll never lose channel information unnecessarily or needlessly. And the XLR combo is full range and filtered to support signals between 100 Hz and 20 kHz.

On the opposite side of the spectrum, one DJ recently told me about his experience with this subwoofer. Even though he said it was wonderful to use it at home, he did mention that he wouldn’t bring it to gigs with him. He said the quality wasn’t good enough for him to take to a paid performance. This is vague, so I asked him about the sound quality. Ultimately, he said the sound quality was just okay and felt there were better subwoofers out there for gigs.

In the end, I have no trouble recommending the PRORECK 2000W DJ Subwoofer because of the powerful 2000 W subwoofer, the balanced XLR combo, the selectable phases, the solid plywood housing, and the hundreds of incredible experiences that I’ve heard about from other previously happy customers.

Powered Subwoofer for DJ Buying Guide

Do I need a Subwoofer if I Already Have a PA System?

If you’re new to DJing or the world of live sound, you may be wondering why you would need a subwoofer if you already have a speaker system.

Subwoofers are specifically intended to drive lower frequencies. Most PA systems and standard speakers are not capable of reaching frequencies around 40Hz and less, which causes the lower notes to just roll off. If you’re a DJ, you’ll want to ensure that all the bass notes in your mix come through and don’t end up distorted or fuzzy because of your speakers’ limited drivers. The same principle holds for other live musicians and event performers. Wedding bands, pub owners, and other amateur DJs want to ensure they get the fullest possible sound.

Another benefit to having a powered subwoofer is that it can divert the energy away from your PA system, thus allowing you to achieve louder volumes without overloading your equipment. Adding a subwoofer to your system helps you maximize your total power, allowing you to play larger, even venues and take your live performances to a whole new level.

Even if you’re an amateur DJ and borrow audio equipment from your gig venues, a powered subwoofer is a necessary piece of equipment to own. With a powered subwoofer, you can play music without an amplifier. This will allow you to perform at a broader range of venues and get more gigs. 

What Size of Subwoofer is Best?

The size and type of subwoofer you choose will depend primarily on the type of music you’re playing and the kinds of events you will be performing at. Smaller subwoofer cones are more suitable for specific musical styles such as acoustic, folk, and jazz. If you’re a DJ at a jazz or dinner club, then a smaller driver will be a better option for matching mid-range and high frequencies.

Smaller subwoofers are also lighter and less expensive than larger models. If you’re an amateur with the occasional DJ gig or you primarily work at weddings, community events, and small social functions, then a 12 or 15-inch subwoofer is probably all you need.

Professional EDM style DJs performing at raves, clubs, and larger concert venues will likely opt for a larger driver or even dual powered subwoofers as these are capable of achieving a louder, deeper bass. If you’re an amateur DJ who dreams of playing a larger venue someday, or you’re just someone who likes to play a lot of EDM or hip hop, then a professional quality 18-inch subwoofer is a good investment. 

Finding the Perfect Powered Subwoofer for DJ

Every DJ needs a reliable subwoofer they can trust to deliver the highest quality sound. The powered subwoofers in this list come at a range of different price points and offer a variety of specialty features and strengths, but all are fantastic additions that will enhance any PA system.

Further Reading: