10 Best 12 inch Subwoofer for Gaming and Home Theater

Introduction

Your gaming experience is boosted by realistic effects. Similarly, a movie or a motion picture is thrilling only when it has an electrifying feel to it. This type of riveting experience is only attainable when you have crispy sound effects. Even though speakers have high-quality sound but they fail to deliver a room-filling audio experience. This is exactly why you need a subwoofer.

The subwoofer is a type of loudspeaker which is specially designed to deliver low frequencies. These low modulated frequencies are called bass or sub-bass levels. Practically, a subwoofer is a driver which is mounted inside a wooden cabinet; it is supported by an amplifier, as well. These bass levels are generated by musical instruments like drums, guitar, and thumping sounds of an action movie. To add feel and soul to your audio a subwoofer is a must-have. Without it, a home theater system is almost incomplete.

Subwoofers come in different sizes; 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, and 18 inches. Size matters a lot as it determines the degree of booming bass a woofer delivers. The larger the size the greater is the sound effect. Here, we have enlisted some of the best 12 inches subwoofer to maximize your gaming and theater experience.

What are Subwoofers?

As described above, subwoofers are types of loudspeakers that are dedicated to producing low-toned frequencies. Frequencies generated by a subwoofer range from 20–200 Hz, they are commonly known as bass or sub-bass levels. A subwoofer is technically nothing but a driver installed inside a wooden cabinet or enclosure along with an amplifier which further intensifies the audio.

Even after knowing all the practical aspects of a subwoofer, you still might not be sure about buying it. Or you would prefer to stick with the flat audio quality of your speakers. Unfortunately, this will be a huge mistake; it will keep you away from enjoying an exceptional room-filling theater experience. Because a subwoofer does not only increase the realism of the soundtrack but also adds a feel to the music. For example, if you are watching an action-packed, suspense thriller- a subwoofer will add that dramatic effect to every gunshot you hear. Similarly, for intense gameplay, it will add sound effects which will help you discern every move of the enemy.

Different Subwoofer Sizes

Subwoofers come in varying sizes ranging from the smallest 8 inches to the largest 18 inches size. At some point, you may think the bigger the better but it is not the case here. The selection of the size depends on various other factors. This is why you should know some of the most common sizes hence, choose the best one for yourself.

8-inches

8 inches subwoofer is the smallest size you can find. It is best for smaller spaces like; cars. It delivers optimum bass levels and a little bit of thundering effect. Despite this, it has a good performance and frequency range. It has a smaller cone surface lighter weight which makes it ideal for limited spaces.

10-inches

These are slightly larger than the 8 inches ones. If you own compact-sized, satellite bookshelf speakers a 10 inches subwoofer will likely produce complementary bass levels. 10-inch subwoofer driver has a tendency to produce average bass levels and satisfactory sound frequency. It should be your choice if you have a smaller room to fill in.

12-inches

This is so far the most common and ideal size of a subwoofer. It efficiently delivers booming bass as well as thumping sound effects. It works perfectly with floor-standing speakers; this is what makes it the best for your home theater system. This is why it is highly recommended for large or average-sized rooms. Another, plus point is its prices. 12 inches subwoofers usually have mid-ranged and affordable prices.

Effect of Subwoofer Size on Sound Quality

Size is one of the most important factors to consider when it comes to subwoofers. Since it directly refers to the size of the driver. The driver maintains the range and quality of the bass. The bass frequencies are forced out through the cones which reach you in the form of volumes.

The key is, bass waves are fairly large and require a lot of work from the driver to force them out. Larger drivers of 12 to 15 inches deliver sufficient power to send away these ways. Larger drivers require larger cabinets to fit in, so they have more space to push the waves through the air. On the other hand, if you go for a smaller cabinet and driver (8-inches), it will consume more power to deliver a similar effect as a 12 inches driver. Since, they are smaller drivers and therefore, fitted into smaller cabinets.

To conclude, the size of the driver determines the power consumption and frequency range of a subwoofer. This is why it is considered an important factor.

Is Using Subwoofers Good for Gaming?

How about the thunderous vibration of a bomb blast or the thumping footsteps of your enemy? All of these effects could be felt only if you connect subwoofers with your basic speakers.  Nowadays, games are no less than a dramatic movie. Close attention is paid to staggering noises, rip-roaring soundtracks, and pronounced realistic effects. To fully enjoy these upgrades, speakers are not enough. They definitely render crisp and explicit sound quality but they can never fill the space for a subwoofer. It produces a deep frequency response to add a feel to the audio. Having a subwoofer means experiencing gaming at the next level. Its booming bass levels give you a soul-stirring affect- every time, a gunshot is fired.

The Picks: 10 Best 12 inch Subwoofer

Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer – Best for High Quality Sound

If you desire to boost your gaming experience to the next level, Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer is a must-have. It comes in with a 12 inches driver, which is ideal for your home theater system, to enjoy a room filing experience. Another key element is its sturdy and acoustically balanced construction. It has Injection Molded Graphite (IMG) and spun copper cones; which are not only durable but extremely light-weighted, as well. This feature significantly increases the output of low frequencies and decreases distortion to scarcely anything. As a result, it renders deep bass levels an extensive frequency range.

These are front-firing subwoofers means you can place them anywhere; on the bookshelf or beside a wall. Without, facing any troubles with sound distortion and excessive vibrations.

Another compelling feature is its built-in digital amplifier. It delivers massive power output of 200 watts and peak power response of 400 watts. This much power is ample to deliver accurate tones and low-pitched audios. This is how; it is able to deliver thunderous bass when it is turned up to the highest level. Its maximum acoustic output is 116dB. Also, it provides an impressive frequency response ranging from 29 hertz – 120 hertz. All the features are extraordinarily tempting to maximize your home theater experience.

Its bass levels can be easily adjusted by using gain, low pass crossover, and phase controls. They allow you to maintain lower frequencies which can easily blend in with the sound of your pairing speakers.

Key Features

• Spun-copper Injection Molded Graphite cone
• 12 inches of driver
• Voltage: 100-240 Volts
• Frequency response: 29 hertz – 120 hertz
• 400 watts of output power
• Maximum acoustic output 116 dB
• Amplifier power: 200 watts/400 watts
• Front-firing driver
• Dimensions: 19.2 x 14 x 16.5 inches

Pros

• Spun copper and IMG cones are distortion resistant
• The digital amplifier delivers a maximum power output of 200 watts/400 watts
• Front-firing subwoofers allow easy placement
• Comes in with an amazing frequency response of  29– 120 hertz

Cons

• No feature included reducing port noises

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Verdict

The Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer is an ideal subwoofer to pair up with your satellite speaker. It delivers amazing bass levels and also allows maximum adjustments, via its advanced controls. Its price is quite less than what it offers.

Polk Audio HTS 12 – Best for Acoustic Range

Subwoofer is the most essential part of your theater system. If you are missing a soulful touch in your audio Polk Audio HTS 12 Subwoofer, should be your next purchase. It has an alluring design that will perfectly match your classic interior. The perfect, black, matte, walnut-finish, on the exterior and stylish rounded edges, makes it astoundingly attractive.

Apart from evocative looks, it has got all, what it takes to produce thunderous bass levels. Its 12 inches, the front-firing driver has a long-throw which renders powerful bass, for an immersive experience. Technically, it functions on Dynamic Balance Technology, which adds more clarity to the sound and also reduces distortion. Furthermore, it comes in with a Class D amplifier that delivers a massive peak power output of 400 watts. They function concurrently, to produce a core-thumping audio experience.

Polk Audio HTS 12 Subwoofer has also introduced new Patented Power Port Technology. This additional feature allows unhindered transition of airflow into the surrounding. This majorly cuts down the annoying port noises. Also, greatly extends bass effects and reduces turbulence. It claims to produce 3 dB lesser noise than its competitors.

Having maximum control is an ultimate requirement. Polk Audio HTS completely fulfills it. You can easily adjust volume, low pass and phase levels with the control panel at the rear end. Moreover, its power toggle switch enables auto-switching ON and OFF of the system. These adjustments allow you to set the bass levels according to the speaker’s audio quality. Its line-level RCA and LFE inputs makes it easier to connect the subwoofer with the theater system.

Key Features

• 12 inches front-firing driver
• Dynamic Balance Technology
• Built-in amplifier of 200 watts
• Class D amplifier
• Delivers peak power of 400 watts
• Polk’s Patent Power Port Technology
• LFE and Line level inputs
• Volume, low pass, and phase controls on rear end
• Auto ON/OFF toggle at the control panel

Pros

• Powerful 12 inches front-firing driver
• Patented Power Port Technology to reduce port noises, increase clarity
• Class D amplifier delivers 400 watts peak power for booming bass
• Line-level RCA and LFE inputs
• Maximum controls tune with speaker audio levels

Cons

• No Gain control for adjustments

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Verdict

Finding a subwoofer with good bass and modern looks is quite a task. If you are looking for one, the Polk Audio HTS 12 should be your next purchase. It is pretty pricey but the features do just to it. You won’t regret buying it, for sure.

BIC America F12 – Best for Budget Buyers

An affordable subwoofer to complete your home theater is a dream come true. BIC America F12, is here to actually transform your dreams into reality. It comes in with an average sized but high-ranged, long-throw, 12 inches driver. Another, significant feature is its massive size; it is actually bigger than what it actually looks. According to measurements, its dimensions are 21 x 19 x 22 inches. It means you have to be extra conscious about its placement. Its design includes Injection Molded Graphite cones that are very durable and greatly reduce sound distortion.

In order to deliver rumbling bass levels; it comes with an extremely powerful amplifier. Amplifier promises to deliver a tremendous peak power of 475 watts. With this much power output, you can expect explicit sound quality and bone-rattling, thunderous bass. Furthermore, it comes in with an excellent frequency response of 25 Hz-200 Hz. It is sufficient to clearly deliver every highs and lows of your track, efficiently.

Having maximum controlling options makes it easier to tune in with your satellite speaker. In this case, it gives you full control for desirable adjustments. It has a separate volume, phase, and crossover control which allows you to blend in with speakers’ audio. It also contains an auto ON or OFF mode so; you can stand-by it easily.

Port noises can be very annoying and problematic. But BIC America F12 has addressed it by incorporating the Patented BIC Venturi feature. It allows smooth airflow, therefore, effective ventilation which significantly reduces port noises. This subwoofer also makes it easier to connect your subwoofer with your entire home theater system. By including an RCA, Dolby Pro Logic, and DTS inputs.

Key Features

• 12 inches long-throw driver
• Injection Molded Graphite cones
• Patented BIC Venturi
• Volume controls
• Automatic signal sensing technology
• Frequency response: 25Hz-200Hz
• RCA inputs
• 475-watt peak amplifier
• Dimensions: 21 x 19 x 22 inches

Pros

• High power, long-throw, 12 inches drivers
• Durable and anti-distortion IMG cones
• Massive peak power of 475 watts by the amplifier
• Patented BIC Venturi to reduce port noises
• Volume, phase and crossover controls to blend in with speakers

Cons

• No Gain control for adjustments
• Large size makes placement difficult

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Verdict

Thunderous and powerful bass levels are essential for gaming. Its powerful amplifier and driver manage to deliver booming bass. The BIC America F12 is what makes it ideal for gaming or home theater. Its price is so low that it is almost a steal.

SVS SB-1000 – Best Powerful Subwoofer

If you really want to boost your gaming experience, no other option would be ideal except SVS SB-1000 Subwoofer. From its stylish looks to its modern features, it has got all that it takes to be the best. If you consider its looks, it has got an extremely alluring, matte, black ash finish, which adds a premium touch to it. On the other hand, if you want to go for something minimalistic, its piano, glossy white color is equally admirable. Both the designs come in with matching cloth grilles. It can easily blend in with your classy interior. Another, worth mentioning feature is its cabinets. They are built from high quality material to ensure excellent sonic levels are undistorted bass levels.

Modish looks doesn’t mean a compromise on performance. It comes in with a powerful 12 inches driver, which promises to produce deep bass and high frequency range. It is excellent for smooth sound quality while gaming or watching movies. Its amplifier is another feature that contributes to its performance. Since it incorporates exclusive Sledge Amplification and advanced Digital Signal Processing (DSP). They play a vital role in providing clear sound quality and an immersive audio experience.

Its multiple controlling options allow a variety of adjustments which include; volume, low pass filter, and phase control. They enable you to tune the bass levels according to the audio of speakers. So, they can blend in to deliver a legitimate acoustic experience. Moreover, it contains automatic ON and OFF switches along with, RCA, Speaker Level, 12V Trigger inputs. Altogether, they make your work easy by allowing hassle-free connectivity to home theater systems.

Its SPL technology is one more important feature, as it permits smooth and undistorted flow of bass. It also contributes to its amazing frequency range of 24-260Hz. Surprisingly, it renders balanced and coherent audio even at the highest peak power of 720 watts.

Key Features

• Black ash or glossy white colors available
• High SPL for smooth audio transmission
• Advance Digital Signal Processing (DSP)
• Long-throw, powerful 12 inches driver
• Sledge STA-300D amplifier installed
• Peak Power of 720 watts
• Inputs: RCA, Speaker Level, 12V Trigger
• Frequency Range: 24-260Hz
• Volume, low pass filter and phase control

Pros

• Powerful amplifier delivers massive 720 watts of power
• 12 inches long-throw driver ensures balanced acoustics
• Remarkable frequency range of 24-260Hz
• Volume, low pass filter and phase control to blend in with audio
• SPL and DSP technology ensures smooth bass levels

Cons

• No feature incorporated to reduce port noise

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Verdict

The SVS SB-1000 will be an interesting addition to your home theater system. It will prove to be the best for gaming and for watching movies. It may seem quite expensive, at first. But you will think otherwise once you consider its features and performance.

Fluance DB12 Subwoofer – Best for Dynamic Range

Add soul to your basic music track by purchasing Fluance DB12 Subwoofer. It delivers the best room filling experience therefore, it is ideal for gaming and watching movies. Exteriorly, it offers modish looks; its classic, matte black ash color is a sight for sore eyes. Moreover, it is crafted from high-quality MDF wooden cabinets which reduce resonances and enhance deep bass levels. Apart from its exotic looks, it houses a long-throw, 12 inches driver. Its front-firing driver ensures you hear every lowest frequency clearly and produces booming bass with minimum distortion. It is ideal for both; premium features and incredible performance.

Another, technical addition which improves its performance is its amplifier. It is designed to produce rumbling bass levels and to produce a vast frequency range so; you can have an immersive audio experience. It can deliver a massive peak power of 400 watts with almost zero distortion in sound quality. Normally, it produces 240 watts of power which renders absolutely clear audio. It can produce an amazing frequency response of 36 Hz – 180 Hz means; you will hear every tune of the track accurately. 

It comes in with a separate control panel located at the rear end. The Control panel incorporates volume, gain, and crossover controls. They allow you to set the bass frequency at a level to which it can seamlessly blend in with audio of your speakers. Along with controls, it also includes Line/Low Level, RCA L/R, and Speaker inputs. They let you connect the subwoofer with your home theater system easily.

Key Features

• 12 inches long-throw front-firing driver
• The amplifier delivers peak power of 400 watts
• MDF cabinets for minimum distortion
• Input: Line/Low Level, RCA L/R and Speaker
• Frequency Response: 36hz – 180hz
• Volume and crossover controls

Pros

• MDF wooden cabinets allow smooth bass level with no distortion
• The amplifier delivers a massive peak power output of 400 watts
• It has an impressive frequency response of 36 Hz – 180 Hz
• Volume, gain, and crossover controls allow to blend bass with speakers’ audio
• Modish looks to complement the interior

Cons

• No feature incorporated to reduce port noises

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Verdict

The Fluance DB12 Subwoofer is ideal for gaming and enjoyable for watching movies. It has got stylish looks and minimal features along with excellent performance. You should buy it especially if you are on a budget because it has an extremely reasonable price tag.

Klipsch 12 – Best Wireless Subwoofer

Imagine having a subwoofer which you can place anywhere, without worrying about messy cables. Well, it is not an imagination anymore with Klipsch’s latest R-12SWi innovative wireless model. Along with ease of placement, it also comes in with alluring looks that integrate into your classy décor. It contains sturdy MDF wooden cabinets which not only minimize distortion but also enhance deep bass levels. Its spun copper, Injection Molded Graphite cones are extremely light-weighted and allow maximum frequency output with no turbulence. For the protection of the exquisite exterior it also contains removable grilles which are acoustically transparent.

Another feature that sets Klipsch R-12SWi apart from its competitors is its wireless mode. It comes in with a wireless pre-paired transmitter of 2.4 GHz. You simply have to plug it in with the subwoofer or LFE out on your receiver. This allows easy connection of subwoofer and effortless placement. Its built-in amplifier further improvises quality bass production. It produces a massive peak power of 400 watts to deliver smooth booming bass and a wide frequency range.

In order to blend bass levels with audio quality of speakers, it comes in with Low Pass Crossover, Gain, and Phase Control. These controls allow you to set frequency levels that integrate well with audio quality. Moreover, it produces an incredible frequency response of 29Hz-120Hz. For connection with home theater systems it has; Line level, LFE RCA jacks.

Key Features

• Injection Molded Graphite cones
• The built-in digital amplifier offers 400 watts of peak power
• Low Pass Crossover and Phase Control
• Removable Grilles
• 2.4GHz Wireless Transmitter
• Maximum acoustic output: 116dB
• Frequency Response: 29Hz-120Hz
• Auto on/off switch
• Indicator LED light

Pros

• Wireless pre-paired transmitter of 2.4 GHz
• Digital amplifier massive peak power of 200 watts
• 12 inches driver produces deep bass levels
• Its wireless design allows easy placement
• The incredible frequency response of 29Hz-120Hz

Cons

• No feature to reduce port noises

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Verdict

The Klipsch 12 will work pretty well with your home theater system. It is highly recommended for gaming. However, its price is quite too high but its features justify the price quite well.

MartinLogan Dynamo 1100 X – Best for Wireless Connection

MartinLogan Dynamo 1100 X has entirely changed the game with its advanced features. It is obvious; you don’t want to miss out this completely wireless subwoofer. You can easily control it by using the Sub Control App. This app can be downloaded on any of the following systems iOS and Android and operate via Bluetooth connection. Along with its smart feature, it also has modern looks. Its matte, black, classic finish is attractive to the eyes and integrates with the interior pretty well. It can be placed anywhere safely with its rubber stands.

It comes with a 12 inches driver. It produces powerful bass levels at an incredible frequency range. The driver has one more unique feature; it can be converted into a down-firing or front-firing position easily. This feature allows you to place the subwoofer anywhere in your house without fearing any type of distortions. It also incorporates a digital amplifier which delivers an average power of 200 watts. It is enough to provide an immersive experience and booming bass.

When it comes to controls, it’s Sub Control App plays a vital role. It enables adjustment of volume level, low-pass filter, phase controls. Thereby, you can adjust the frequency range from any corner of your room. It also enables you to blend in the bass levels with speaker audio. Another worth mentioning feature is its Anthem Room Correction feature. It is installed to help you find and investigate any noise, distortion, or turbulence in your room which causes disruption in the performance of the subwoofer.

Key Features

• 12 inches powerful driver
• Polypropylene cone
• The amplifier delivers 120 watts of power
• Contains Sub Control App
• Design for both front and down-firing woofer
• Bluetooth connectivity available
• Controls include: volume level, low-pass filter, phase
• Anthem Room Correction feature
• Frequency response: 20-30 Hz

Pros

• Wireless Bluetooth connectivity allows easy control
• You can easily adjust the low-pass filter, phase to match audio quality
• Driver produces strong bass levels
• Anthem Room Correction helps to detect a disturbance
• The amplifier delivers a good frequency response of 20-30 Hz

Cons

• No feature to reduce port noises

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Verdict

Having a wireless subwoofer that you can control from any corner of the house is indeed very helpful. The MartinLogan Dynamo 1100 X is great for a family movie night or party that too at a very low price.

KEF KUBE12B – Best for Deep Bass

It is time to elevate your gaming experience with KEF KUBE12B. It offers good features and performance and has got the full potential to be your favorite. Externally, it has matte black finished on the sides and a glossy blacktop. It can be installed in the wall or placed in a corner. It ideally integrates well with your interior décor. Technically, it incorporates a 12 inches wide driver which has a tendency to deliver deep bass levels and accurate highs and lows of the track.

It comes in with a Class D amplifier which delivers massive peak power of 300 watts. It is sufficient to provide you with a room filling, immersive audio experience. For further improvisation, it uses the latest iBX technology which unleashes the full-range of the driver. It helps the driver and amplifier to work in cooperation to produce extraordinary bass responses.

For the controls, it houses a separate control panel at the rear end which includes: gain, phase, low pass filter, and crossovers. These controls allow you to tune in frequency to a level, at which it blends in with the audio of speakers. Along with the controls, its impressive frequency range of 22Hz – 140Hz clearly delivers highs and lows. For easy connectivity with the home theater system, it incorporates LFE, line, and speaker-level inputs.

Key Features

• 12 inches front-firing driver 
• Controls: gain, phase, low pass filter, and crossovers
• KEF Smart Compression
• iBX technology included
• LFE, line and speaker-level inputs
• Class D amplifier delivers 300 watts of power
• Frequency Response: 22Hz – 140Hz

Pros

• iBX technology to enhance bass levels
• The amplifier produces massive power of 300 watts
• The driver delivers deep bass levels
• Multiple controls help to blend audio and bass levels

Cons

• No feature to reduce port noise

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Verdict

Having alluring looks and incredible performance together is unbelievable. Fortunately, this is not impossible anymore. You can purchase the KEF KUBE12B subwoofer at an amazing price and continue enjoying your gaming and movie sessions.

Sound Town METIS Series 1400 – Best for Massive Power

Sound Town METIS Series 1400 is the best choice if you are looking for sturdy construction and a distortion-free design. It has a carpet black exterior which is extremely exquisite. Its heavy-duty metal grilles are exotic as well as very durable. These features make it very resistant and convenient for traveling purposes. For further ease, it incorporates two recessed handles which help out to carry it around, effortlessly. Its beauty is maximized with birch plywood front and rear panels which alongside, contribute to reduce turbulence and enhance bass levels.

One of the most prominent features is its powerful Class-AB amplifier. Its massive 1400 watts of peak power instantly, knocks out all of its competitors. This much power is sufficient to render bone-rattling bass response and enough to shake up your walls. Together with the amplifier, its 12 inches driver along with 3 inches voice coils deliver thumping bass. These features make it unbeatable in terms of bass and frequency response.

For controls it incorporates volume and LPF switches. They play an essential role to help tune in the bass with the speaker audio levels. To connect it with the home theater system it comes in with the following 2 XLR, TRS combos, 2 RCA inputs.

Key Features

• Built-in Class-AB amplifier
• 1400 watts of massive huge power
• 12 inches driver and 3 inches voice coil
• Plywood front
• Heavy-duty metal grille
• Inputs: 2  XLR, TRS combos, 2 RCA
• Frequency Range: 40 Hz – 800 Hz

Pros

• Massive 1400 watts of peak power
• Driver and voice coil produces clear audio
• Impressive frequency range of 40 Hz – 800 Hz
• Sturdy design will last longer
• Easy to carry around

Cons

• Does not have Gain, Crossover, and Phase controls
• No feature to reduce port noises

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Verdict

If you are planning to wake up your neighbors, the Sound Town METIS Series 1400 subwoofer has sufficient peak power to do so. This is ideal for gaming and rocking a party. You will never buy it.

Acoustic Audio PSW500-12 – Best for Stylish Design

Acoustic Audio PSW500 comes in with exotic looks which look perfect with contemporary interiors. It has an exorbitant, black ash finish on the exterior, which is protected by removable, acoustically transparent grilles. It is enclosed inside high-quality MDF wooden cabinets to allow deep bass levels and minimize distortion.

It incorporates a 12 inches driver which is covered with rigid, PVA Treated cones. It produces excellent bass levels for a room-filling experience and an impressive frequency range of 24 – 250 Hz. Its powerful amplifier works to produce an amazing peak power of 500 watts.

The rear control panel includes gain and crossover knobs which allow matching bass levels with audio of the speakers. For easy connection with the home theater system it has RCA and LFE inputs.

Key Features

• The amplifier delivers 5oo watts peak power
• Frequency Range: 24 – 250 Hz
• Controls: phase, gain and crossover knobs
• 12 inches front firing driver
• MDF bass reflex cabinets
• Inputs: RCA and LFE

Pros

• Amazing peak power of 300 watts
• Phase, gain, and crossover knobs allow to tune in with audio
• Driver delivers deep bass response
• The high-frequency range of 24 – 250 Hz

Cons

• No feature to reduce port noises

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Verdict

Having great performance and impressive looks at such a low cost, is no less than a miracle. You should instantly avail of the Acoustic Audio PSW500-12 if you want to excel your gaming experience.

What to Look for When Buying a 12 inch Subwoofer?

Frequency Range

Frequency is measured in Hertz and in the case of subwoofers; it determines the depth of the bass. Factually, the lowest frequency heard by the human ear is 20Hz and the lowest frequency felt by the body is 16Hz. You should always go for a subwoofer with the lowest frequency response because it delivers every low and high of audio, the way an artist wants you to feel it. While, some latest subwoofers, produce so low frequencies that they can only be felt and are powerful enough to punch you in the gut.

Front-firing vs down firing

Front-firing subwoofers are the ones that have their drivers facing upwards. On the contrary, down firing drivers, face downwards towards the floor. Any of the two types will have no significant differences. It is all about your personal preferences and placement. If you intend to place it across or beside the speakers, you should go for front-firing. Anyhow, at the end it depends on your choice.

Ported vs Non-ported

Ported ones have holes (ports) on their exterior which leads to the inside of the subwoofers. On the other hand, non-ported ones are entirely sealed from the outside. Many of the high-end brands are making non-ported subwoofers but it doesn’t mean it’s a plus point. Surprisingly, ported subwoofers are much better as they allow better airflow therefore; keep the interior cooler even at higher vibrations. However, ported subs are very expensive.

Recommendations

After giving a detailed list of products, deciding the best one would be very difficult. Hence, we have provided you with our top recommendations. So, it is easier for you to select the perfect subwoofer for yourself.

Best Overall

The product that undeniably tops our list is Polk Audio HTS 12. This subwoofer will never disappoint you; let it be performance or looks. It delivers massive 400 watts of peak power which is quite impressive. Its ported exterior greatly minimizes annoying port noises. Along with its exquisite design it completely knocks out its competitors. However, it is quite expensive. But we are sure you won’t think the same after considering its remarkable features.

Runner Up

The next most attractive product has to be Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer. After all, Klipsch is supposed to be the most renowned brand in the audio industry. Well, it has continued its legacy by providing astonishing exterior design and impressive peak power of 400 watts. It is ideal for gaming and watching movies. Its deep bass levels will deliver an immersive room-filling experience.

Best Value for Money

Budget has always been the utmost priority, therefore; we have selected BIC America F12 that comes in at a great value for money. It delivers astounding peak power of 475 watts which is sufficient to deliver booming bass. Its incredible frequency response efficiently delivers highs, and lows of the track. Its maximized controlling options allow it to perfectly tune in with the speakers.  You should instantly buy at especially, at a price this low this is almost a steal.

Final Words

Finally, we are done with our list of subwoofers. We hope you find the best one for your theater system. To further ease your work we have provided you with a detailed buying guide and selected some of the best products for you. Now, it is up to you which subwoofer impresses you the most.