In the market of audio products, subwoofers are always popular, and there are many different models. But how to choose the best budget subwoofer if you are new in this sphere and your budget is limited? And in this case, I will help you choose the best budget home theater subwoofer.
If you are an audiophile beginner, you may not want to spend too much on expensive subwoofers. Some budget models also can provide you with a new experience of listening to music or watching movies. By learning more about everything connected with sound quality, people, with time, get new devices to receive another level of sounds and satisfy personal tastes.
Subwoofers are money investments for more advanced users and those who know more about audio equipment. Therefore, finding out everything about the loudspeaker you plan to buy is important to get the most suitable option. Even a budget sub can be useful to professionals, saving them money.
Cheap home subwoofers comparison table
| Name | Power, W | Driver size, inch. | Frequency response | Dimensions, inch (HxWxD) | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SVS SB-1000 Pro best overall | 325 | 12 | 24Hz-260Hz | 13.5x13x14.6 | Review |
| Bic Acoustech PL-200 II also a great choice | 150 | 12 | 25Hz-200Hz | 21x19x22 | Review |
| Klipsch Reference R-10SWi wireless | 150 | 10 | 32Hz-120kHz | 15.7×12.5×14 | Review |
| Polk Audio PSW10 cheapest | 100 | 10 | 40Hz-160Hz | 16.2x14x14.4 | Review |
We don’t recommend
Polk Audio PSW108
Cons
- The sound quality in movies is below average, which does not allow you to have complete enjoyment from watching.
- The transformer hum is loud.
- Its frequency knob is not accurate what makes it difficult to adjust the subwoofer properly.
Best budget home theater subwoofer reviews
SVS SB-1000 Pro – best overall
The SVS SB-1000 Pro replaces the SVS SB-1000, adding important improvements and keeping the price (at least the starting price) the same. Among the improvements, a slight increase in power and the inclusion of a control system via a mobile app stand out. A closed subwoofer, yes, but one capable of dropping the frequency down to 20Hz. This offers a performance that is really surprising given its size, and its 325W output will be ideal for small to medium-sized rooms.
Its dimensions are 13.5″ x 13″ x 14.76″, meaning it’s practically a cube. It’s also relatively lightweight compared to other 12″ subwoofers, weighing in at only 26 lbs. The SVS SB-1000 Pro is available in three finishes: black ash, black lacquer, and white lacquer.
At the front, there is only a large 12″ speaker. However, in the back, I found important innovations, as the SVS SB-1000 Pro includes an intelligent control interface that SVS has already used in its top-of-the-line models. This is a new control panel that is operated via a display of 11 LEDs and a series of buttons. From here, you can control the power mode, phase, volume, and low-pass filter. The LED panel lights between the buttons serve as a visual indicator of the value you can set in each section.
In terms of connectivity, the SVS SB-1000 Pro has RCA inputs and outputs, two pairs of speaker cable inputs, and a 3-12V AC/DC trigger input, which is unusual for a subwoofer but is something SVS is used to using in many of its models. There’s also a USB port on top, which is used to power the SVS Soundpath wireless audio adapter (sold separately).
Now, as for my personal impressions of the sound. This subwoofer is so “thumping” at high volume levels that I even got a call from my neighbors (who live 2 floors down) asking me what the strange vibrations were. SB-1000 Pro shows its capabilities in movies and music very well. For example, when I tested it (watching my favorite Transformers), the shot felt soft but very deep and voluminous, and the gait of a huge robot felt powerful and deep.
Also, in my experience, it is much more accurate and crisp than many speakers I’ve had. However, in the 20-40 Hz range, I would like to get more emotion from it.
The SVS SB-1000 Pro is perfect for the typical phrase “small but sturdy.” The most amazing thing about this unit is its impressive deep bass presence (considering its size). Therefore, I can call the SB-1000 Pro the best budget subwoofer overall based on a combination of most factors.
Key specs
- Power (RMS), W: 325.
- Driver size, inch: 12.
- Frequency response: 24Hz-260Hz.
- Dimensions, inch (HxWxD): 13.5x13x14.6.
Pros
- Compact and quite lightweight.
- Reliably designed and manufactured.
- Features a redesigned 12″ driver and improved amplification.
- Includes the ability to control settings via the app.
- Precise and controlled bass combined with surprising depth for its size.
Cons
- Not enough power for large spaces.
Bic Acoustech PL-200 II – also a great choice
BIC America is a longstanding manufacturer of sound equipment. It has plenty of various loudspeaker models. One of the main goals is to provide an affordable speaker to customers, and if you want to get one of the best budget subwoofer, you should consider BIC America F12. It is one of the most popular models of this manufacturer in the low price category.
At first glance, you see a rectangular speaker with a weight of 42.7lbs. The housing is done with an MDF board and black laminate. On the bottom side, it has rubber feet, which increase the stability of the unit. Besides, it reduces vibrations when you use BIC America F12 at loud volume levels. As a result, it will not shake and drift from its place.
This subwoofer is equipped with a 12-inch driver. At the maximum output of 475-watt, you will enjoy a wonderful sound quality. As it has front-firing, it is recommended not to place any obstacles in front of the speaker. It allows you to always receive wonderful sound.
The front side of the subwoofer does not have any LED indicators, which is better while you watch your favorite movies, as it does not disturb you. On the rear side, you have all the adjustments. There are also power controls. As you may not want to use it all the time and save power, it has a standby mode. By selecting it, you increase the life expectancy of the unit.
Additionally, you will not have difficulties using this model in combination with other speakers. Crossover and volume knobs to adjust all the needed settings.
Key specs
- Power (RMS), W: 150.
- Driver size, inch: 12.
- Frequency response: 25Hz-200Hz.
- Dimensions, inch (HxWxD): 21x19x22.
Pros
- It has magnetic protection to reduce unwanted noises.
- Possibility to easy adjust crossover and switch the phase.
- It does not take much time to install and start using.
Cons
- With long working sessions, it may get hot.
Klipsch Reference R-10SWi – wireless (optional)
The subwoofers of the Klipsch Reference series are conceptual and designed and executed down to the smallest detail – as a timeless luxury, as eternal value, as embodied elegance, and as an example of modern design, as an absolute expression of the technical achievements of the company throughout its history. In contrast to conservative audio, Reference is in many ways open to future solutions and audio formats and anticipates them.
The Klipsch R-10SWi wireless subwoofer can be placed in any convenient location in the room, even hidden, to greatly expand the range of uses. The subwoofer has a proprietary woofer with a 10-inch driver and 300-watt peak power output, and the supplied wireless signal transmission unit can be connected to any free line-level or LFE output of an amplifier or AV receiver. The wireless connection establishes automatically in a few seconds. It allows you to put a subwoofer in any corner of the room without bothering with expensive wires.
Apart from deep rich bass, there are a number of other features. First, the speaker is in the front, which makes the bass explosive. Secondly, in addition to adjusting the volume, there is a crossover setting, which makes it possible to connect it to any system from small satellites to large three-way floor-standing systems. You can choose from which frequencies you want it to enter the sound. Third, you can change the phase by 180 degrees. A cool feature that allows you to customize it for the characteristics of the room. Fourth, in addition to LFE, there is an output to the left and right channels, like professional equipment.
The design is also very nice. Unlike boring black and white drawers, Klipsch makes its appliances in stylish black and gold, which makes it look like a piece of furniture rather than a bedside table. With the included manual, you learn more about this affordable subwoofer and how to properly place them to receive better sound quality.
Key specs
- Power (RMS), W: 150.
- Driver size, inch: 10.
- Frequency response: 32Hz-120Hz.
- Dimensions, inch (HxWxD): 15.7×12.5×14.
Pros
- The wireless mode has a large range of work.
- Clear and deep bass at low frequencies.
- It is made of reliable materials to use for many years.
Cons
- You should check whether you receive all necessary cables with a purchase or you need to buy them additionally.
Polk Audio PSW10 – cheapest
Another model that can become your best cheap subwoofer is Polk Audio PSW10. With its compact dimensions, you will not have difficulties in placing it in your room. The front side of the subwoofer is silver. However, you may not get it from the first glance as this unit has a meshed grille to protect speakers from dust. The housing is mostly made with MDF boards. Such kind of plywood increases the durability, smoothness, and sound of speakers.
On the rear side, you have all the needed settings with an inbuilt power cord: phase switch, low pass filter, and volume control.
One of the reasons why you receive sounds of nice quality is the 10-inch driver size. As it is a powered or subwoofer, you do not need to buy an additional amplifier as it is already inbuilt. It allows you to receive a wonderful and accurate sound quality in the proper combination of deep bass. With 100-watt output, you will be pleased with deep bass on low frequencies.
If you already have a sound system, you will not have difficulties in adding Polk Audio PSW10 to it. You can easily manage 80-160Hz crossover and 40-160Hz (-3dB) frequency response according to your needs. This model can also be connected with other subwoofers.
Key specs
- Power (RMS), W: 100.
- Driver size, inch: 10.
- Frequency response: 40Hz-160Hz.
- Dimensions, inch (HxWxD): 16.2x14x14.4.
Pros
- The subwoofer turns off automatically if the power fluctuation can damage it.
- Installing and connecting all needed cables is simple and fast.
- The square shape allows you to easily place the unit where you want.
Cons
- It does not have LFE.
Kanto sub8
A lot of audiophiles and music lovers prefer to enjoy sounds of proper quality. This can be achieved even with the best inexpensive home subwoofer Kanto Sub8. A simple design model, which brings a lot of joy and satisfaction. With only an 8-inch drive and maximum output of 250-watts, you receive a wonderful sound quality.
It is a front-firing powered subwoofer with a design of a small box. Its rubber feet provide stability and prevent the unit from sliding due to vibrations. The entire interface is located on the rear side. There you will find the standard volume and frequency crossover knobs. RCA input with the phase switch.
In order to keep Kanto Sub8 in working order for many years, it has power management options. Instead of constantly turning the subwoofer on, there is a standby mode. When you do not listen to music, the subwoofer will start to save power. It is suitable when you use the unit periodically during the day.
Key specs
- Power (RMS), W: 125.
- Driver size, inch: 8.
- Frequency response: 35Hz-175Hz.
- Dimensions, inch (HxWxD): 11x11x11.9.
Pros
- This compact subwoofer does not require a lot of space.
- Easy to control and adjust crossover settings.
- You will not spend much time to take it out of the box and start using it.
Cons
- It has a limited sub-bass extension.
BIC America F12
BIC America is a sound equipment manufacturer that has been on the market for a long time. It offers different models of loudspeakers. One of the company’s main goals is to provide customers with affordable acoustics. If you are focused on a budget subwoofer, then you should definitely pay attention to the BIC America F12. It is one of the manufacturer’s most interesting and popular models in this price segment. Well, let’s take a closer look at it.
At first glance, you see a rectangular speaker with a weight of 42.7 lbs. The housing is done with an MDF board and black laminate. On the bottom side, it has rubber feet, which increase the stability of the unit. Besides, it reduces vibrations when you use BIC America F12 at loud volume levels. As a result, it will not shake and drift from its place. Everything is simple, and nothing is superfluous. Minimalism and ergonomics.
BIC America F12 is equipped with a 12-inch driver. You will enjoy a wonderful sound quality at a maximum output of 475 watts. As it has front-firing, it is recommended not to place any obstacles in front of the speaker. It guarantees you sound without interference.
The front side of the subwoofer does not have any LED indicators. This is not a bad thing, as it will not distract you while watching a movie. Personally, I don’t like the flashing lights and indicators that make the device look like a Christmas tree. On the rear side, you have all the adjustments. There are also power controls. It has a standby mode because you may not want to use it all the time and plan to save power. By selecting it, you increase the life expectancy of the unit.
Additionally, you will not have difficulties using this model in combination with other speakers. There are crossover and volume knobs to adjust all the needed settings.
I can confidently name the BIC America F12 as the best budget subwoofer overall. It really reproduces the bass clearly, and even at high volume levels, the sound remains clear. I am sure this model will give you many driving emotions from listening to your favorite songs or watching videos.
Key specs
- Power (RMS), W: 150.
- Driver size, inch: 12.
- Frequency response: 25Hz-200Hz.
- Dimensions, inch (HxWxD): 21x19x22.
Pros
- It has magnetic protection to reduce unwanted noises.
- Possibility to easilly adjust crossover and switch the phase.
- It does not take much time to install and start using.
Cons
- With long working sessions, it may get hot.
Polk Audio PSW505
If you want to get something nice without spending much of your budget, you should consider Polk Audio PSW505. This brand is famous for its high quality and reliability. One of the main benefits is that this model belongs to the best budget powered subwoofers. Powered or active means that you do not need to buy an additional amplifier. PSW505 already has one inside. It delivers wonderful sound quality. Due to the 12-inch driver and 300-watt of output, the powerful bass is very accurate and deep.
This model also serves properly for home theatre. It produces clear sounds at low and high frequencies that properly conveys movie scenes. At quiet moments, you will not hear distortion or many unwanted sounds.
If you take a closer look at the rear side, you can find out about its connectivity. With the following inputs/outputs, you can easily manage settings: LFE input, low-pass filter, and phase switch.
With the volume and low pass knobs, you can easily manage crossover and connect PSW505 with other devices of your existing audio system. It is necessary to mention that the power cord is not inbuilt. It allows you to replace it whenever you want for shorter or longer variants depending on your needs.
Another important part of this powered budget subwoofer is its housing. It is made of MDF, which properly reduces vibrations and sound distortions.
Key specs
- Power (RMS), W: 300.
- Driver size, inch: 12.
- Frequency response: 25Hz-125Hz.
- Dimensions, inch (HxWxD): 18.2×15.2×16.2.
Pros
- It does not require a lot of space and can be placed on the table.
- This model also suitable for gaming.
- The installation and crossover adjustments do not take much time.
Cons
- At max volume, the sound is a bit distorted.
What’s the difference between a budget and expensive subwoofers?
It takes time to figure out what is right for you and what the ideal sound is for your particular home system. Some of you will probably go down the path of trial and error. So it is logical to start by buying an entry-level subwoofer. But is it possible to buy good cheap subwoofers, and how do they differ from expensive models? Let’s get into it. After all, you can really enjoy a movie or music only with the help of a properly selected music system. Lively and rich bass from a subwoofer provides incredible sound.
Sound quality
You should know that, in general, there is a distinction between passive and active subwoofers. As the subwoofer analysis shows, the active version has internal amplification and dominates the market. And the deep bass capabilities are determined by the electronics used and, to a lesser extent, by the available dimensions.
Expensive subwoofers have higher-quality components, including specialized drivers, advanced amplifier circuitry, and sophisticated signal processing technology. These premium components provide a more accurate and faithful reproduction of low frequencies, minimal distortion, and better control over the lower frequencies.
Cheap subs can use simpler components and materials inherent in their more expensive counterparts. While they may provide quite a decent bass, the sound quality will not be as refined, and they may not be able to reproduce very low frequencies or high-volume levels without distortion. Before buying, you must ensure that the subwoofer appropriately accompanies quiet passages and lifts higher tones effortlessly.
Durability and lifespan
With the variety of models and prices, it’s actually quite difficult to speculate about the durability and lifespan of subwoofers. I’ll remind you again that expensive subwoofers utilize high-quality materials and manufacturing techniques to produce a more durable and long-lasting product. Premium subwoofers are designed for constant use and provide stable performance over a long period.
The low-budget subwoofer may not be as durable. It may have a shorter lifespan and be more susceptible to wear and tear over time, especially when used at high volume levels or for long periods.
Weight and materials also matter because cheap plywood and plastic won’t give you the resonance you want, and sometimes the opposite will even give you “thump” and unwanted distortion. But I would pay more attention to the brand and availability of parts on the market so that you can fix the unit quickly in case of a minor breakdown.
Technological advancements
High-end subwoofers often feature the latest technological advances, such as advanced digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms, phase control, automatic equalization, adaptive room correction systems, and wireless connectivity.
But while budget subwoofers for home theater may not have these innovations (which limits their ability to adapt to different room environments), they can still deliver decent performance.
User experience and ease of use
Expensive subwoofers often have user-friendly interfaces, intuitive controls, and advanced remote control capabilities. Of course, this makes it much easier to customize them to your individual preferences. In the premium class, you may even find smartphone apps or software interfaces that provide additional control and customization options.
Cheap devices have simpler control options, which doesn’t affect their primary purpose. Unfortunately, even the best budget subwoofers can’t have the capabilities of premium models. However, by taking more time to customize, you may grow closer to your equipment and love it dearly.
FAQ
How much power do you need for a good subwoofer bass?
Is a 12-inch subwoofer better than a 10-inch subwoofer?
A 12-inch subwoofer will generally have better low bass output than a 10-inch woofer due to the larger cone area, but it also requires more amplifier power and space to install. Therefore, a smaller 10-inch subwoofer may be more appropriate in some applications.
Is a bigger woofer always better?
Is it better to have 1 or 2 subwoofers in the home theater?
Is it better to have ported or sealed subwoofer cabinets?
This is not a cut-and-dry question, as every cabinet design has its pros and cons. For example, a bass-reflex ported cabinet will provide more low bass output than a similar size sealed enclosure. A sealed enclosure will generally have better sound quality (tighter, more precise bass) at high SPL levels, but they cannot achieve the lower frequencies of a ported cabinet. They’re more suited to small spaces.
The only way to answer these questions is to carefully consider your requirements and make an educated decision based on facts. The best subwoofer for YOU may not be the best subwoofer for someone else.
