Best Compact Subwoofer For Home Theater (2024 Update)
When upgrading your home theater system, adding a subwoofer is one of the best ways to dramatically improve your audio experience. A quality compact subwoofer will provide you with deep, rich bass that brings movies, music, and games to life. However, with so many subwoofer options on the market, it can be tricky to determine which model is right for your needs and space.
Before purchasing a compact subwoofer for your home theater, there are a few key factors to consider. First, think about the size of your room and where you plan to place the subwoofer. A more powerful sub is needed for larger spaces, while smaller subs work fine for apartments and bedrooms. You’ll also want to look at the frequency response range – a good compact sub should reach down to at least 30-35 Hz.
Another specification to check is the amplifier power, measured in watts. More watts generally equates to louder, fuller sound. Ported subs tend to provide more boom and depth, while sealed enclosures offer tighter bass. The inputs and controls are important too – look for LFE and line-level inputs, phase and crossover controls, and auto on/off capability.
Ready to feel those heart-pounding rumbles and room-shaking vibrations? Ask yourself these questions first: How much space do I have for a compact sub? What’s my budget? Do I want ported or sealed? How powerful of an amp do I need? Taking the time to find the right subwoofer will allow you to truly maximize your home theater’s audio potential.
10 Best Compact Subwoofer For Home Theater
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
The product is ideal for enhancing the bass output of a sound system or home theater setup.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
Ideal for enhancing the bass frequencies in a home theater or music system, producing clear and powerful sound.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
The product is ideal for enhancing home theater sound with high-powered bass.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
Ideal for high-quality, powerful home audio systems with clear sound and deep bass.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
This product is ideal for enhancing the bass and overall sound quality of home theater systems in a compact size.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
This product is ideal for enhancing TV sound quality with adjustable bass, multiple connectivity options, and subwoofer for an immersive experience.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
The product is ideal for enhancing the bass and overall sound quality of home theater or music systems.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
Ideal for enhancing audio experience in home theater or gaming systems with deep and powerful bass.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
The product is ideal for amplifying audio in small to medium-sized settings, such as home theaters or conference rooms.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
Ideal for enhancing the bass performance of home theater systems and improving overall audio quality.
|
|
1. Klipsch S 808 Sub White Na
The product being reviewed boasts a contemporary design that seamlessly blends in with modern home interiors. This speaker system features an 8" polyfiber woofer that delivers high-quality sound with crystal-clear details. This speaker system also comes equipped with a powerful 100W bottom-mounted class D amplifier that provides an immersive audio experience.
The speaker system is housed in an ultra-slim cabinet that adds a touch of sophistication to your living space. The slim design of the cabinet ensures that it fits easily into tight spaces without compromising on the quality of sound. The cabinet is also built to last, making it a reliable investment for your home audio needs.
The speaker system is designed to produce a deep, punchy bass that brings your music and movies to life. This is made possible by the bass reflex via slot port technology that allows air to circulate freely within the cabinet, resulting in a more natural and dynamic sound.
2. Bowers & Wilkins Asw608 8" Compact Subwoofer (White)
The ASW608 boasts an 8-inch driver that has been specifically engineered to deliver exceptionally tight and dramatic bass, even in smaller rooms. This compact subwoofer is guaranteed to pack a punch with its powerful amplifier, allowing it to deliver both music and movie soundtracks with impressive force.
With a power output of 200W, the ASW608 is more than capable of delivering a truly immersive audio experience. Additionally, its signal-to-noise ratio of less than 90db ensures that any distortion or interference is kept to an absolute minimum.
Measuring just 11.3 x 10.2 x 11.99 inches, the ASW608 is the perfect size for those who want to enjoy high-quality sound without sacrificing valuable living space. Its compact design makes it easy to integrate into any room, while its powerful performance means that you won't have to compromise on sound quality.
Whether you're a music lover, a movie buff, or just looking for a way to enhance your home entertainment system, the ASW608 is a smart investment. Its impressive specifications, combined with its sleek design, make it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to experience high-quality audio in a small package.
3. Osd Audio 400w Ported Cylinder Cabinetry Home Theater Subwoofer, Nero Tubebass-10
The OSD Audio Nero Tune Bass 10 is a cost-effective and effortless way to elevate the bass in your home theater, media room, or gaming area. Measuring compact yet powerful, this down-firing subwoofer can be discreetly placed in a corner or behind furniture, only revealing itself when you crank up the volume and experience the full potential of its low-frequency sound.
Regardless of the size of your space, the Nero-TubeBass 10 Cylinder subwoofer makes adding bass more accessible than ever before, thanks to its 400W power-handling capacity. This subwoofer includes a 10” down-firing driver, which produces a gut-wrenching and profound low-frequency sound effect that will take your audio experience to the next level.
The OSD Audio Nero Tune Bass 10 is perfect for those who want to add an extra dimension to their audio setup without breaking the bank. It can effortlessly fill up large, medium, and small spaces with its powerful and rich sound, making it an excellent addition to any home theater, media room, or gaming area.
4. Audioengine S6 210 Watt 6"
The Audioengine S6 subwoofer is an ultra-compact yet powerful addition to any desktop setup or gaming rig. With 210 watts of power, it sets a new standard in performance to size ratio. You'll be impressed by the deep, smooth, and punchy bass that defies expectations.
Featuring a 6-inch front-firing woofer in a sealed enclosure, the S6 delivers powerful bass down to 33Hz. The subwoofer also includes an auto-sensing standby mode, dual analog inputs, variable crossover knob, phase switch, USB charging port with W3 wireless expansion compatibility, and weighs only 15.4 lbs.
The Audioengine S6 subwoofer works seamlessly with all Audioengine powered speakers and is compatible with AV receivers or preamps. Connecting the subwoofer to any powered speakers with an audio output is simple.
The package includes the Audioengine S6 Powered Subwoofer, 6.5ft. 3.5mm mini-jack audio cable, 6.5ft. RCA audio cable, 5.9ft. AC power cord, 2 Microfiber cloth bags, and a setup guide. You'll also receive a 3-year product warranty and stellar US-based customer support.
Audioengine is based in Austin, TX, and has been changing the way people listen to music since 2005. They believe in the power of music and are passionate about inspiring you to listen every day. The Audioengine S6 subwoofer is a testament to their commitment to providing high-quality audio products that deliver exceptional sound and performance.
5. Powerful Compact Subwoofer With Big Bass
Looking for a subwoofer that can bring movie, gaming, and music experiences to life with extra punchy bass? Look no further than the ultra-compact Polk Audio PSW108 Powered Subwoofer.
This subwoofer is equipped with an 8" Dynamic Balance woofer, specially-tuned downward-firing port, and on-point speaker geometry that work together to deliver accurate bass with added depth. The result? A more immersive audio experience that will have you feeling like you're in the middle of the action.
Not only does the PSW108 deliver powerful bass, but it also ensures louder, clearer sound even at extreme volume levels. Thanks to smart compression circuitry, distortion is limited, providing a more balanced and thrilling music experience with rich, deep sound, even at low frequencies.
Driven by a 150-watt amplifier (300W at peak), this sub is your answer to more power in a small footprint. It takes up only about one square foot of floor space, yet fills any room with incredible sound no matter where you place it.
The Polk Audio PSW108 is also designed to perfectly blend with your existing system. It is timbre-matched with other Polk speakers from TSI, RM, and R/T/M Series, making it easy to hook up to any receiver without any hassles or extra connections. Upgrade your home theater and entertainment with ease.
In addition, the PSW108 features a sleek detachable grille on the front, as well as LFE line-inputs, speaker-level inputs and outputs on the back, and Low-Pass Filter & Phase Toggle Switch, making it a cohesive and complete subwoofer, especially at this price point.
Polk Audio is known for its unwavering commitment, reliability, and craftsmanship, and the PSW108 is no exception. Bring out the best in your surround sound system and acoustic excellence, so you can sit back, relax and listen with your heart.
6. Pheanoo 2.1 Sound Bar With Subwoofer: Ultimate Tv Audio
The PHEANOO P15 sound bar may be small in size, but it delivers big sound. With up to 107 dB of total SPL output and 140W maximum audio output, it significantly improves dialogue clarity and broadens your TV's soundstage. This sound bar can easily make an impactful change to your TV sound and film-watching experience.
One outstanding feature of this sound bar is its dedicated subwoofer, which delivers punchy, rich bass for a more engaging and immersive listening experience in movies, music, and games. The subwoofer cavity space is large enough to reproduce deeper, richer bass than most systems with a built-in subwoofer. Additionally, there is a subwoofer extension cable (sold separately) that you can use to make the subwoofer placement more flexible.
The PHEANOO P15 sound bar offers multiple setup options. The HDMI ARC connection allows you to control the volume on the sound bar with the TV remote control. The Optical and RCA connections ensure compatibility with all older TV models. There is also a 3.5 mm AUX input for connecting external devices.
To suit different audio needs, the PHEANOO P15 features a variety of preset EQ modes, including Dialogue, Movie, and Music. These modes create suitable individual sound curves matched to the content type to boost the sound quality and enhance your viewing experience. The EQ modes have been professionally tuned for optimal sound quality.
Finally, the PHEANOO P15 sound bar offers wireless streaming with Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. You can easily stream all your favorite music, podcasts, or audiobooks from your smartphone, tablet, or any smart device to the TV sound bar. With its impressive features and easy set up, the PHEANOO P15 sound bar is an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their TV sound system.
7. Svs Sb-2000 500 Watt Dsp Controlled 12" Compact Powered Subwoofer (Premium Black Ash)
The SVS SB-2000 Subwoofer is the perfect addition to any home entertainment system. With its powerful combination of quickness, intelligent processing, and innovative driver design, it delivers an unrivaled bass experience for music, movies, TV, and everything you listen to.
Measuring at 14.6 inches in height, 14.2 inches in width, and 15.4 inches in depth, this subwoofer is compact enough to fit in any room without sacrificing sound quality. The 12-inch driver is the heart of this subwoofer, delivering deep, accurate bass that is sure to impress even the most discerning audiophiles.
The Sledge STA-500D is the sonic engine that brings an unprecedented level of amp technology and sophistication. With 500 watts RMS (1100 watts peak), this subwoofer delivers powerful, distortion-free bass that fills any room. The frequency response of 19-220 hz ±3 DB ensures that you get a wide range of sound that is both accurate and powerful.
In addition to its impressive performance, the SVS SB-2000 Subwoofer is also energy-efficient, with a standby mode that consumes less than 0.5 watts. The sealed box design ensures that the subwoofer is always delivering accurate, distortion-free bass that is sure to impress even the most discerning listeners.
8. Monolith 8" Thx Sub – Compact, Powerful Bass
The Monolith THX Certified 8" 150 watt Powered Subwoofer is a powerful yet compact addition to any audio setup. The subwoofer features an 8" downfiring cone housed in a vented MDF enclosure that is tuned to easily blend with the Monolith THX Certified Compact Satellite Speakers to present a seamless frequency response from 30Hz to 20kHz, with deep and powerful bass.
Designed in conjunction with the THX Certified Satellite Speakers, the sub/sat combination reproduces a flat and seamless frequency response. It also features three EQ controls, allowing users to fine-tune the bass response for their room. The THX EQ setting has the lowest distortion and cleanest sound, ensuring an optimal listening experience.
Setting up the Monolith THX Certified 8" Powered Subwoofer is quick and easy. Simply connect it to any multichannel receiver or amplifier and pair it with capable satellite speakers for a fantastic cinema or gaming experience. The compact form factor of the subwoofer ensures that it can fit into any space with ease.
9. Yamaha 10" 100w Powered
The latest addition to Yamaha's line of audio equipment is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to experience high-quality sound. The newly designed twisted flare port technology ensures that the bass is both clear and tight, providing an immersive listening experience.
The advanced YST II (Yamaha Active Servo Technology II) further enhances the audio quality, ensuring that the sound remains distortion-free, even at high volumes. The 10” cone woofer delivers crisp and clear sound, making it perfect for music enthusiasts and audiophiles alike.
In addition to its superior sound quality, this speaker is also a stylish addition to any room. Its sleek and modern design will complement any decor, making it perfect for those who want their audio equipment to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
10. Bose Bass Module 700 – Black- Wireless, Compact Subwoofer
Introducing the wireless, compact subwoofer that is specially designed to complement the Bose Sound Bar 700 and take your audio experience to the next level. With this subwoofer, you can feel the deep, dramatic bass in your music, TV shows, and movies, thanks to the powerful driver and generously sized port that deliver a dynamic range of rich, low notes.
The Bose subwoofer has a wireless range of 30 feet, allowing you to place it anywhere in the room without any wires getting in the way. What's more, you can rock the house without sacrificing clarity, thanks to the quiet port technology that virtually eliminates distortion. You'll hear every note with crystal-clear clarity, even at high volumes.
The premium glass top finish of the Bose subwoofer adds an elegant touch to your home theater setup, making it a perfect addition to your entertainment center. Pair the Bose Sound Bar 700 and Bose Bass Module 700 with Bose Surround Speakers for a powerful combination of thunderous bass and true surround sound.
It's worth noting that the Bose Bass Module 700 is also compatible with Bose Sound Bar 500 and Sound Touch 300 sound bars. So, no matter which sound bar you have, you can still enjoy the powerful bass that this subwoofer offers.
Best Compact Subwoofer For Home Theater FAQs
Are there any compact subwoofers that can be mounted on a wall or ceiling?
Yes, there are compact subwoofers that can be mounted on a wall or ceiling. These types of subwoofers are designed to save space and offer flexibility in installation. Wall or ceiling mounted subwoofers, also known as in-wall or in-ceiling subwoofers, are typically smaller in size than traditional subwoofers and often come with a mounting kit for easy installation. Some popular brands that offer wall or ceiling mounted subwoofers include Yamaha, Sonos, and Polk Audio. When selecting a compact subwoofer for wall or ceiling installation, it is important to consider the size of the room and the desired level of bass. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the subwoofer is compatible with your existing audio system and that any necessary wiring and installation requirements are met.
Are there any compact subwoofers that offer wireless connectivity for easy setup?
Yes, there are several compact subwoofers available in the market that offer wireless connectivity for easy setup. One example is the Sonos Sub, which is a wireless subwoofer that can be paired with any Sonos speaker wirelessly to deliver deep, rich bass. It comes with two Class-D amplifiers and two force-canceling speakers that eliminate any vibration or rattle, thus providing a clear and powerful bass. Another option is the Klipsch Reference RSB-8 soundbar and wireless subwoofer system, which allows you to stream music wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The subwoofer is compact and easy to set up, and it provides a powerful bass response that enhances your movie and music experience. Other compact subwoofers that offer wireless connectivity include the Polk Audio DSW PRO 550wi wireless subwoofer, the Yamaha MusicCast SUB 100 wireless subwoofer, and the Definitive Technology SuperCube 4000 compact subwoofer.
Can a compact subwoofer provide the same level of bass as a larger subwoofer?
When it comes to subwoofers, the size of the driver and the enclosure can make a big difference in the amount and quality of bass produced. Generally, larger subwoofers with bigger drivers and enclosures can produce more bass than their smaller counterparts. However, the size of the subwoofer isn't the only factor in determining the level of bass it can produce.
Compact subwoofers can still pack a punch when it comes to bass, especially if they are designed and built with quality components. Some compact subwoofers feature advanced technologies like high-excursion drivers, dual voice coils, and efficient amplifiers that allow them to produce deep, powerful bass despite their smaller size.
That being said, larger subwoofers will generally be able to produce more bass, especially at lower frequencies. If you're looking for the absolute highest levels of bass, a larger subwoofer is likely the way to go. However, if you want a compact subwoofer that can still deliver impressive bass performance, there are certainly options out there to consider. Ultimately, the best subwoofer for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
How do I choose the best compact subwoofer for my home theater?
When choosing the best compact subwoofer for your home theater, there are a few important factors to consider. Firstly, consider the size of your room and the amount of space you have available for the subwoofer. Compact subwoofers come in a range of sizes, so make sure you choose one that fits comfortably in your space.
Secondly, think about the power and frequency response of the subwoofer. Look for a subwoofer with a high power rating and a low-frequency response, as this will ensure a deep and powerful bass sound.
Thirdly, consider the type of music and movies you will be listening to. If you enjoy bass-heavy music, you may want to choose a subwoofer with a higher power rating. Similarly, if you enjoy action movies with explosive sound effects, you may want to choose a subwoofer with a higher frequency response.
Finally, consider the brand and reputation of the subwoofer. Look for a brand with a good reputation for producing high-quality audio equipment, and read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the subwoofer's performance and reliability. By considering these factors, you can choose the best compact subwoofer for your home theater and enjoy a powerful and immersive audio experience.
How does the price of a compact subwoofer compare to larger subwoofers?
When it comes to subwoofers, the price can vary greatly depending on the size and quality of the product. Typically, compact subwoofers are less expensive than larger subwoofers. This is because larger subwoofers require more materials to produce and can handle more power, making them more expensive to manufacture. On the other hand, compact subwoofers are designed to be smaller and more portable, making them a popular choice for those who want to add more bass to their music without sacrificing space. However, it's important to note that the price of a subwoofer is also influenced by factors such as brand, materials used, and overall quality. Therefore, it's important to do your research and compare prices and features before making a purchase.
How much power should a compact subwoofer have for optimal performance in a home theater?
When it comes to selecting a compact subwoofer for your home theater, the power requirement depends on your personal preference and the size of your room. Generally, a subwoofer with a power range of 100 to 300 watts is more than enough for most home theater setups. However, larger rooms may require a subwoofer with a higher power rating. It's important to note that power alone doesn't determine the quality of the subwoofer's performance. Other factors such as driver size, sensitivity, and frequency response also play a crucial role. Therefore, it's recommended to choose a subwoofer that is specifically designed for home theater applications and has a balanced combination of power, driver size, and frequency response. Additionally, proper placement and calibration of the subwoofer can also affect its performance.
What are the top-rated compact subwoofers for home theater use?
When it comes to choosing a compact subwoofer for home theater use, there are several options available in the market. Some of the top-rated subwoofers are:
1. SVS SB-1000: This compact subwoofer is known for its powerful bass output and accurate frequency response. It comes with a 12-inch driver and a sealed cabinet design that allows it to fit in tight spaces.
2. KEF KC62: The KEF KC62 is a compact subwoofer that delivers deep bass and accurate sound reproduction. It comes with a 6.5-inch driver and a unique force-canceling design that eliminates distortion.
3. REL T/5i: The REL T/5i is a compact subwoofer that offers excellent bass extension and fast response. It comes with an 8-inch driver and a sealed cabinet design that makes it easy to place in any room.
4. Yamaha NS-SW050BL: This compact subwoofer is an affordable option that delivers impressive bass performance. It comes with a 6.5-inch driver and a twisted flare port that reduces noise and distortion.
5. Klipsch R-100SW: The Klipsch R-100SW is a compact subwoofer that offers powerful bass and a stylish design. It comes with a 10-inch driver and a rear-firing port that enhances low-frequency response.
Overall, these compact subwoofers are excellent choices for home theater use, and each offers unique features and performance benefits.
What features should I look for when shopping for a compact subwoofer for home theater use?
When shopping for a compact subwoofer for home theater use, there are several features you should consider to ensure that you choose the best one for your needs. First and foremost, you should look for a subwoofer that is compatible with your existing home theater system. This means that you should check the subwoofer's frequency response range and make sure that it can handle the low-frequency sounds that are common in movie soundtracks.
Additionally, you should look for a subwoofer that is compact enough to fit into your existing setup without taking up too much space. This is especially important if you have a small home theater room or if you want to keep your setup as streamlined as possible.
Other important features to consider when shopping for a compact subwoofer include the subwoofer's power handling capabilities, its sensitivity rating, and its overall build quality. You may also want to look for a subwoofer that has adjustable crossover and volume controls, as this can help you fine-tune the subwoofer's sound to your liking.
Ultimately, the best compact subwoofer for your home theater will depend on your individual needs and preferences. By considering these features and doing your research, you can find the perfect subwoofer to enhance your home theater experience.
What is the ideal size for a compact subwoofer in a home theater setup?
When it comes to selecting a compact subwoofer for a home theater setup, the ideal size can vary depending on individual preferences and the size of the room. However, generally speaking, a compact subwoofer with a driver size of 8-10 inches would be a good option for most home theater setups.
A subwoofer with a larger driver size can produce deeper and more powerful bass, but it can also take up more space and be more expensive. On the other hand, a subwoofer with a smaller driver may not be able to produce the same level of bass, but it can be more affordable and easier to integrate into a room.
It's important to consider the overall balance of the sound system when selecting a subwoofer size. If the other speakers in the system are smaller, a compact subwoofer may be a better match. However, if the system includes larger speakers, a bigger subwoofer may be necessary to maintain an even frequency response across the range of sounds.
What is the lifespan of a compact subwoofer and how do I maintain it for optimal performance?
The lifespan of a compact subwoofer can vary depending on the quality of the product and frequency of usage. Generally speaking, a well-maintained subwoofer can last anywhere from 5-10 years or more. However, if it is used excessively or exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity, it may not last as long.
To maintain your compact subwoofer for optimal performance, it is important to keep it clean and free of dust and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the surface and avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the subwoofer. It is also important to ensure that the subwoofer is placed in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.
Another key factor in maintaining your subwoofer is proper usage. Avoid playing music at excessively high volumes for extended periods of time as this can cause damage to the speaker and reduce its lifespan. Additionally, make sure that the subwoofer is properly connected to your audio system and that the settings are adjusted to optimize performance.
Regular maintenance and proper usage can help extend the lifespan of your compact subwoofer and ensure that it continues to provide high-quality sound for years to come.
