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Our Recommended Best Subwoofer Is The Yamaha NSSW050!
- New Twisted Flare Port contributes to clear and tight bass
- Advanced YST II (Yamaha Active Servo Technology II)
- 20 cm (8”) cone woofer
- Stylish addition to any room
Best Active Subwoofers for your Home Cinema in 2021
Having a subwoofer is an essential component to anyone's home theater(you don't need to be a professional to want to enjoy great quality sound!). A subwoofer is the key to multi-dimensional base, which makes movies even more entertaining, and adds far more depth to your music.
Your subwoofer will arguably become the most important part of your home cinema setup, so we're here to help you select the best one for your money in the UK. In this article, we'll be reviewing and providing our recommendations on the best active subwoofers for your home cinema in 2020.
Read on to learn more!
1) Yamaha NSSW050 Active Subwoofer
The Yamaha NSSW050 subwoofer tops the list of the best subwoofers with its range of four models, and four different cable length options (pick your size). Each model looks slightly different in appearance and size, while having its own range of features, but we personally really loved the experience with the NSSW050- and it is amongst the most affordable choices for subwoofers today.
This subwoofer is available from a number of retailers- we ordered ours off of Amazon because of the Prime delivery. Below we'll be discussing this subwoofer in a little more depth, so stay tuned!
What We Love
Below we've highlighted the features of the Yamaha NSSW050 subwoofer- have a read!
Twisted Flare Port
The Yamaha NSSW050 subwoofer features spectacular, innovative design with the inclusion of its new bass port design. The "Twisted Flare port" technology seemed to provide a more natural, authentic sound- rather than a heavily cinematic experience. This is great for listening to music and meditation subliminal tracks, as it has the potential to produce some nurturing and healthy sounds- in comparison to the other models on this page, the NSSW050 had a much less distorted sound.
In addition to the structural design, the twisted flare port has literally got twisted, flared-out sides (compared to the traditional straight side design). This allows the subwoofer to diffuse the amount of air released, producing a clearer, more natural bass. Reduced distortion is key in producing the most tight, and clean bass.
Powerful Sound Production
The Yamaha NSSW050 sub has an eight centimetre cone diameter, which is slightly less than the diameter we recommend for optimal sound (usually around 12-15 inches). This item features an 8-inch cone diameter, which slightly hinders the sound diffusion.
The subwoofer does however use a 50-watt amplifier, which created a deeper and more powerful bass production that doesn't distract you from the soundtrack itself.
YST II Bass
The Yamaha NSSW050 sub features the original YST II bass speaker which gives both a powerful bass response as well as a stable, sound output with maximum accuracy. YST II bass speakers use something called Yamaha Active Servo Technology, which is one of the best styles of speakers for low sound production amongst Yamaha products.
Quite rightfully, it's described to be a powerful bass, minus the flab. The sound production is extremely clear, low, and audible, making for a beautiful home theater.
Sleek Design
We love the sleek, compact design of this sub- it fits snugly into a sound setup for a home cinema, and produces a solid amount of bass. The stylish appearance draws quite enough attention to your home cinema, as it is less boxy than traditional subwoofers.
We recommend placing this on top of another component, as it isn't designed to be a purely standalone item.
What Could Be Better
This sub is excellent in terms of value for money, affordability, sound quality, and convenience of storage- however, it does feature a slightly smaller than preferred cone-diameter.
A larger cone diameter of this sub helps the sound waves bounce off the surface of the cone more- and the greater the surface area of the cone, the more times the sound waves can bounce off. This creates a more diffused sound which really provides the illusion of 'sound coming from everywhere'.
Specifications
Brand: Yamaha
Colour: Black
Power (Watts): 50W
Weight: 8.5 kilograms
Frequency: 28 - 200 Hz
Driver Unit: 8 inch driver
Dimensions (WDH): 29.1 x 34.1 x 29.2 centimetres
2) Caliber BC112SA Active Subwoofer - Budget Option
Next on the list of our best subwoofers is the Caliber BC112SA, a real beast of a subwoofer. With its iconic, statement appearance and extreme power output, your bass will be stronger and bolder than ever.
The Caliber BC112SA is one of the more affordable subwoofers on this list, providing great value for money and enhancing the sounds of many movies and soundtracks.
Below we'll be discussing this subwoofer in a little more depth, so stay tuned!
What We Love
Below we've highlighted the features of the Caliber BC112SA subwoofer- have a read!
Affordable
The main thing we love about this subwoofer is the affordability- its price is well under £100, yet it still packs enough punch to power up an entire home cinema with bass that's powerful enough to make a truly lasting impact on whoever hears it.
To further enhance the power of this subwoofer, the item has a larger cone diameter which, as we discussed earlier, is essential in sound diffusion.
Larger Cone
The Caliber BC112SA has a 12 inch cone diameter, which is the minimum cone diameter we recommend for the right, optimal sound diffusion (low sounds). Whilst the bass on this subwoofer is extremely powerful, the larger cone diameter really helps to simmer the harshness down- diffusing the sound.
We usually recommend a cone diameter of around 12-15 inches, and if the bass is powered by a strong amplifier, a larger cone diameter will help neutralise the sound to produce a more natural acoustic.
Extremely Powerful
One thing we'd like to highlight about the Caliber BC112SA is the deep bass it outputs. The sound is powered by a whopping 600-watt sound output, 4Ω impedance, and a 12-inch cone diameter.
The power of the motor is what produces such a deep bass (like many q acoustics subwoofers) is the 600 watt motor. While the sound output is very powerful, it is quite harsh and less diffused than other subwoofers we've tried. This may be down to the balance between the cone diameter and the power of the subwoofer.
What Could Be Better
As we mentioned earlier, the Caliber BC112SA has an extremely powerful bass power, which is excellent for watching movies. In order to produce the best sound, however, a larger cone diameter would be most suitable- such as a 15-inch cone diameter.
This ensures that any type of bass level no matter how low is properly outputted.
Price wise, this subwoofer is excellent for the sound output it offers.
Specifications
Brand: Caliber
Colour: Black
Power (Watts): 600W
Weight: 7.4 kilograms
Cone Diameter: 12 inches
Dimensions: 39.5 x 31 x 34.8 centimetres
3) VONYX Bi-Amplified Active Powered Subwoofer DJ PA Speaker
Third, on our list of the best subwoofers for your home cinema is the VONYX bi-amplified subwoofer. With the right cone size of 18 inches and a beastly 500W motor, the sound quality that is emitted from the subwoofer is simply unbeatable.
This was amongst the last best subwoofers we tried, and we bought it off of Amazon- that's because of the one-day delivery, and it also happened to have £60 knocked off the price when we bought it, so we got it for a price of around £190. This subwoofer is definitely on the pricier end of the spectrum, so if you don't mind splurging, this is a great pick for you.
Below we'll be discussing this subwoofer in a little more depth, so stay tuned!
What We Love
Below we've highlighted the features of the VONYX bi-amplified active powered subwoofer- have a read!
Ergonomic Features
The VONYX subwoofer has many integrated features that make this subwoofer what it is, including: a metal grille for protective purposes; carry-handles; a top-hat for stand/pole mounting; wear-resistant carpet covering;
In addition, another couple of features that really stand out about this subwoofer are the presence of an MP3 media player, as well as Bluetooth compatibility (audiological technology). Bluetooth audio technology innovatively allows you to stream your favourite soundtracks straight from any bluetooth-enabled device (including your laptop and smartphone).
Variety in Cone Diameter
The VONYX bi-amplified subwoofer is extremely powerful- with 500 watts of power, it's rightfully accompanied by an 18-inch cone diameter. We purchased the 18-inch size version- and yes, there are two options for the cone diameter, so you can personalise it to match your needs.
The VONYX bi-amplified subwoofer comes in two cone diameters: 15-inch size and 18-inch size, with the former being around £50 cheaper (as well as featuring more compact dimensions).
Phone Compatibility
The VONYX subwoofer integrates many innovative, technologically-advanced features for greater ease of use- with a USB port and included SD/MMC jack for MP3 playback. Additionally, you can benefit from the stereo RCA, as well as handy features such as the Loop-thru functionality and echo function on the microphone input system.
Warranty
This subwoofer system has a useful 2-year warranty included when you purchase it.
What Could Be Better
While the overall functionality of this subwoofer is beyond excellent, this item is very much on the pricier end of the stick, usually at around £250. Despite being so expensive, we don't find that there's anything special to point out regarding the design of this subwoofer.
To elaborate, we find the overall appearance of this sound system to be quite boxy, which is relatively behind in the market today- with budget options looking far sleeker.
Specifications
Brand: VONYX
Colour: Black
Power (Watts): 500W
Weight: 24.4 kilograms
Cone Diameter Size: 18 inches
Dimensions: 49 x 46 x 64.5 centimetres
This product may be unavailable,
Our recommended alternative to this product is Alpine Electronics SWE-815 300W 8" Active Subwoofer, With Custom Enclosure, Remote Control!
- Auto Accessory
- Package Weight: 11.53 kilograms
- Package Dimensions: 30.6 L x 39.1 H x 32.6 W (cm)
- Auto Accessory
4) Max MAX12SUB Passive Bass Subwoofer
Next on our list of the best subwoofers is the MAX 12SUB passive bass sub, which is designed to output deep (and high) bass in an undetectable manner- you won't be able to realise where the sound is coming from when you use this sub. It almost felt as though the sub created a kind of ambience in the room!
Below we'll be discussing this subwoofer in a little more depth, so stay tuned!
What We Love
Below we've highlighted the features of the MAX12SUB passive subwoofer speakers, so have a read!
Easy Bass Sound
The MAX12SUB is the master of created deep bass with little effort. The sound range output of this sub is about 30 hertz to 300 hertz (high and low- high is best for rumbling and drumming, lower speakers output is best for ambience and background noise/music), making for a wide range of bass noise output. You can create near-silent ambience, and loud, proud rumbling.
This is made possible with its gigantic 800 watt power driven bass, allowing the sub to output a wide range of frequencies with ease.
Sturdy Build
This sub is designed to withstand a lot of potential damage, giving you greater longevity from the item itself.
The MAX12SUB not only features a solid metal grille, to features a low-resonance construction build which is designed to withstand various types of application. You can use it out on the road, or within the comfort of your own home.
The sub also has useful corner protection which prevents the corners from becoming blunt, as well as protecting people from potential injury if they fall near the corners. The traditional carrot covering is soft and supportive to ensure that any dents, damage, and scratches are kept to the minimum.
Feature-Richness
Despite being a highly affordable option of the best subwoofers, this particular model of our best subwoofers selection has a host of attractive features that make it even more excellent in terms of value for money.
One great thing about this best subwoofer is that it has a 35-millimeter long top hat, which eliminates the necessity for an extra set of separate stands.
The MAX12SUB also has a quarter of an inch in length jack as well as a barbwire spring terminal, which allows for a variety of different connectivities.
What Could Be Better
This subwoofer is very much innovative as a wireless subwoofer (allowing for connectivities), and is an affordable component to your sound system- outputting a wide range of audio levels and emits the right frequencies for different effects.
The appearance is rather blocky and clunky, making it not as aesthetically pleasing as other subwoofers on this best sub list for your home cinema. A slightly more upgraded look would be excellent.
Specifications
Brand: MAX
Colour: Black
Power (Watts): 800W
Weight: 9.8 kilograms
Cone Diameter Size: 12 inches
Dimensions (HWD): 48.5 x 40 x 37 centimetres
This product may be unavailable,
Our recommended alternative to this product is Edifier T5 Powered Subwoofer - 8 Inch Driver - 70 Watt - Front Firing
5) Logitech Z333 Subwoofer System
Last on our search for items in the list of the best sub speakers to get for your sound system is the (wireless subwoofer set) Logitech Z333. Logitech are an excellent brand, especially in their produce of their wireless keyboards. Logitech wireless keyboards are quite iconic- with their sleek, smooth, futuristic and circular design. The Z333 wireless subwoofer music sub system is no less pleasing to the eye- with it's blank, classy appearance.
Below we'll be discussing this subwoofer in a little more depth, so stay tuned!
What We Love
Below we've highlighted the features of the large Logitech Z333 power subwoofer audio system , so have a read!
Multimedia System
The Logitech Z333 large multimedia audio system is comprised of three components: the main large sub (core part of the system), and the satellites.
These wireless speakers are excellent in producing undetectable, multi-directional bass that bounces off all of the walls via the 13-inch diameter of the cone, and the paired satellites. This system was the prime cut of the search for the best sub speakers.
Options for Users - Bass Control
Whether you like deep bass or mellow base, this wireless subwoofer (or non-wireless) enables you to access the best of both worlds.
At the back of the wireless subwoofer, there is a handy control knob which allows you to adjust the sound to meet your music needs (high or low- the choice is yours).
This woofer comes in a bluetooth/wireless option as well as a normal traditional option. With each, you get a 3.5mm jack and RCA inputs functionality. This allows you to use the wireless / non wireless music woofers with your tablet, phone, laptop, or any device you want. 3.5 mm and RCA inputs allow you to conveniently connect almost any device with an audio output, such as a computer, tablet, smartphone or even a TV.
What Could Be Better
This subwoofer is very much innovative as a wireless subwoofer (allowing for connectivities), and is an affordable component to your sound system- outputting a wide array of audio levels and emits the right frequencies for different effects.
The appearance is rather blocky and clunky, making it not as aesthetically pleasing as other subwoofers on this best sub list for your home cinema. A slightly more upgraded look would be excellent.
Specifications
Brand: Logitech
Colour: Black
Power (Watts): 80W
Weight: 3.17 kilograms
Cone Diameter Size: 5 inches
Dimensions (subwoofer): 23 x 22 x 14 centimetres
Dimensions (satellites): 18 x 10.8 x 9 centimetres
Logitech Z333 2.1 Multimedia Speaker System with Subwoofer, Rich Bold Sound, 80 Watts Peak Power, Strong Bass, 3.5mm Audio and RCA Inputs, UK Plug, PC/PS4/Xbox/TV/Smartphone/Tablet/Music Player, Black
What Makes a Good Subwoofer?
When deciding which subwoofer to purchase, it is essential to consider what makes one a good subwoofer. We've listed some pointers below to take note of when shopping online:
- Bad subwoofers will have either too much, or poorly defined bass- larger cone diameters allow for greater sound diffusion, which makes an overall defined and realistic experience
- Better subwoofers will have more accurate imaging
- The mid range of the speakers' output will be clearer, and more transparent- bad subwoofers have a "hole" in the middle of the frequency spectrum that make the noise patchy or fake
- The speaker should be able to cover the lower end of the frequency spectrum to capture deep notes in music (especially instrumental music), as well as explosions and the like which you hear in movies
- Higher wattages indicate greater power potential of the subwoofer- but this doesn't mean you should play it much louder than a, say, 100-watt woofer
- More bass and better bass are mutually exclusive.
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Contents
- 1 Best Active Subwoofers for your Home Cinema in 2021
