Top 12-Inch Subwoofer in 2023 [Tested & Compared]
Do you enjoy the way the bass makes your chest thump? Then, it would be best if you got a 12-inch subwoofer. This size is perfect for those who want the highest audio quality and bass performance.
There are several things to consider when selecting the best 12-inch subwoofer. But it might be challenging to choose from the great options available when there are so many.
With our list of the top 12-inch subwoofers in this article, we can help you make the finest choice. We have everything you need, whether you’re looking for cheap or expensive!
We’ll also provide tips on picking the ideal 12-inch subwoofer for your needs. So let’s get started without further ado!
How Should You Pick The Best 12-Inch Subwoofers?
When contemplating 12-inch subwoofers, space is crucial. A tape measure will be useful for determining whether you have adequate space to install a 12-inch subwoofer where it can produce sound.
Equally important are sound quality and what works best for your music. This is why it’s crucial to take into account the following three factors while looking for a subwoofer:
Power
Watts of power are used to quantify sound volume. Two numbers should be taken into account while calculating power:
1. RMS Power: The speaker’s maximum steady power rating.
2. Peak Power: The maximum power rating available for brief periods.
The volume of the sound increases with increasing watt output.
Sensitivity
Not just Harry Styles or Hugh Jackman can succeed with sensitivity. Similarly, it matters when judging speakers. Check the sensitivity ratings if you compare two speakers with the same RMS power, but one sounds louder. Decibels (dB) are used to quantify sensitivity, which describes how successfully a speaker transforms power into sound volume.
Frequency
The frequency range, measured in hertz (Hz), represents a speaker’s dynamic range of sounds. The frequency range of a good sub is between 30 and 250 Hz. For subwoofers, the bass sound gets deeper, richer, and more rumbly the lower the Hz.
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Best 12-Inch Subwoofer?
Finding the ideal subwoofer is like traveling into an uncharted country. Finding the ideal subwoofer is challenging when you have to consider various aspects. Here is a guide on how to select a subwoofer while taking all the essential considerations into account.
1. The Sound Quality Of A Subwoofer
If the subwoofer is functional, the audio will be clearer, deeper, and more textured. Even if this is not the most crucial aspect to consider when making a purchase, it dramatically affects your decision.
2. The Size Of A Subwoofer
Size is important in the world of subwoofers. This is because a larger subwoofer would require a more significant driver. The driver is the speaker that will output the audio, either on the front side or beneath the woofer. A large motor gives the soundwaves the additional energy they need to cut through the air. However, you can’t get a giant subwoofer and then struggle with the room’s dimensions.
However, purchasing a 10 or 12-inch subwoofer would be a win-win situation to maintain a balance between money and performance. It would give you music that meets your demands and help you to save money.
3. Power And Volume Output
You’ll notice that almost all subwoofers come with an amplifier. The subwoofer is driven by an amp. RMS and Peak are two categories that are used to assess the subwoofer’s output power on its spec sheets. The finest subwoofer for a superb music listening experience is inexpensive, with a Wattage of 150–500.
4. Connectivity Of A Subwoofer
Wireless or cable connectivity are both options for connecting a subwoofer. An audio source for a wired system would be speakers that are linked to it. In contrast, speakers will be connected to a wireless subwoofer by Bluetooth or WiFi.
The drawback of wireless subs is that you will have to pay a high price to do away with the wires. Several different amps can be connected to wired speakers, making them adaptable. Choose wired subs to save money, maintain performance, and increase versatility.
5. Frequency Range
Every sound has a frequency, which serves as a gauge for the volume of the sound. It’s quantified in Hertz (Hz). Understanding frequency is crucial for the subwoofer to deliver sound more effectively.
Humans can hear down to 20 Hz. Thus the closer the subwoofer can play to that frequency, the better. Find a subwoofer with a 50–25 Hz frequency range.
6. Front-Firing Or Downward-Firing
This has minimal impact on your purchase decision. The driver is mounted on the woofer facing forward or downward. In neither case does the performance alter; only the appearance does. You won’t be able to see the driver in a downward-firing driver because it is hidden beneath the subwoofer.
7. The Cost Of A Subwoofer
The price of a subscription can range from $400 to $1250. The frequency, sound quality, and other components all improve as the cost does. A good subwoofer can be had for about $400 and $600; if you’re a real enthusiast, you might want to spend more money on a better subwoofer.
Comparison Of Best 12-Inch Subwoofer
Here is a comparison of some of the best 12-inch subwoofers available so you can pick the one that most closely meets your needs.
| Image | Model Name | Price | Features | Ratings |
 | Rockford Fosgate P3D4-12 | Check Price | Best performing Punch series subwoofer. | 5/5 |
 | Pyle PLPW12D | Check Price | Overall the most durable. | 3.7/5 |
 | Kicker 44CWCS124 | Check Price | Best sounding bass. | 4.5/5 |
 | MTX Audio Terminator | Check Price | Overall the best looking. | 4/5 |
 | Rockford Fosgate P300-12 | Check Price | Overall solid powered subwoofer, easy install. | 5/5 |
 | Skar Audio EVL-12 | Check Price | Overall the best value for money. | 5/5 |
Best 12-Inch Subwoofers
Rockford Fosgate P3D4-12
Specifications
- RMS Power: 600 watts
- Frequency Range: 28 to 250 hertz
- Sensitivity: 85 dB
The Rockford Fosgate P3D4 should be at the top of your list if you want fantastic sound quality and bass response. It gives any music with deep, low, resonant bass with an RMS power rating of 600 watts and a peak power rating of 1,200 watts.
The P3D4’s excellent audio quality is partly due to Rockford Fosgate’s Vertical Attach Surround Technique (VAST) technology. The technology that expands the speaker’s effective cone area goes by this fancy term. VAST delivers snappy, full-sounding bass and can be used in a sealed or ported enclosure combined with the lightweight anodized aluminum cone.
A lesser sensitivity rating than other subwoofers is one of the few drawbacks. It doesn’t translate power into volume as well as other models at 85 dB. The frequency range also ends at 28 hertz. It works perfectly for most uses but won’t produce the subsonic rumble you feel more than hear.
But Rockford Fosgate’s P3D4 is the best option if you value sound quality over rattles in your fillings. It is a stylish, well-made, long-lasting subwoofer that produces a bass sound that resonates all around. Thanks to the flex-fit frame, it can be adjusted to fit almost any 12-inch subwoofer spot. Additionally, it will look great in that setting and, more importantly, sound amazing.
Pyle PLPW12D
Specifications
- RMS Power: 800 watts
- Frequency Range: 2 to 3,000 hertz
- Sensitivity: 90 dB
Pyle is an underappreciated brand in the electronics sector that manufactures a large selection of reasonably priced, high-quality automobile audio components. An excellent illustration of what I mean is the PLPW12D. Although it costs nothing, it can produce more than 1,600 watts of peak power and 800 watts of RMS power. It can withstand a variety of sounds and has an excellent sensitivity rating.
There is some dispute regarding Pyle’s paper cone. Although Pyle’s non-press paper cone is beautifully crafted, polypropylene is more durable. Additionally, it doesn’t sound as good and sometimes seems muddy, especially at louder settings. However, it has a rubber suspension and a magnet boot to reduce speaker fatigue.
The PLPW12D includes a steel basket, professionally treated foam surround, bumping, vented motor construction, and reliable rubber suspension. These characteristics aid the Pyle in withstanding the punishment of loud bass and the punishment of residing in your trunk. However, it is a worthwhile exchange if the paper cone keeps the cost low.
Kicker 44CWCS124
Specifications
- RMS Power: 300 watts
- Frequency Range: 27 to 500 hertz
- Sensitivity: 88 dB
Some cars only have a little amount of room for a subwoofer. You can choose a shallow mount sub or a lesser size sub in certain circumstances. Both alternatives are wise ones. However, if you have room for a 12-inch shallow mount sub, the Kicker 44CWCS124 is a good choice.
The ribbed polyurethane surround improves sound quality and longevity, lowering vibrations. The CompC voice coil produces bass without distortion. The yellow stitching adds a pleasing visual contrast and is beautiful, especially when seen in a monochromatic case.
The Kicker 44CWCS124 can only produce 1,200 watts of maximum power and 300 watts of RMS power, which is sufficient for most applications. It goes pretty low with a frequency range of 27 to 500 Hz. It’s difficult to beat this Kicker if you value bass sound quality above volume and have room for a 12-inch subwoofer shallow mount sub, especially at this price.
MTX Audio Terminator
Specifications
- RMS Power: 1,000 watts
- Frequency Range: 37 to 150 hertz
- Sensitivity: 80 dB
A subwoofer as excellent as the MTX deserves a killer moniker, like The Audio Terminator. It becomes loud enough to be heard in the car next to you at 1,000 watts RMS and 2,000 watts peak power. Your friends will be impressed by the size alone, and the bass will shake their bones. The robust nature of the polypropylene cones allows them to withstand assault.
It is similarly comparable in size to the Arnold Schwarzenegger-portrayed cyborg in the Terminator movies. The 14 x 29 x 13-inch proportions sometimes won’t fit in your backseat or trunk.
It works well with SUVs and vehicles with hatchbacks or big trunks. However, you will need something smaller if you want to use loud bass to levitate a Miata or Mini Cooper. Thankfully, MTX provides more compact enclosures.
The Terminator speakers at least look as beautiful as they sound and are portable. The speakers stay cool while the bass is delivered with force, thanks to the ventilated enclosure.
Additionally, the bass can be adjusted using an exterior knob affixed to your console or dashboard. You may select the amount of bass you want with the one-wire control arrangement, which is simple.
Whatever setup you choose, the Audio Terminator’s loud, booming sound will either make your neighbors envious of you or make them loathe you.
An amplifier is not included on the MTX Terminator, but you can buy one with the speakers and enclosure if you want one. Or you may purchase a complete sound package with everything you need to connect it to an OEM factory audio.
Rockford Fosgate P300-12
Specifications
- RMS Power: 300 watts
- Frequency Range: 27 to 500 hertz
- Sensitivity: 12 dB/octave
Occasionally, purchasing a whole subwoofer package is simpler. However, the construction and acoustic quality of many are lacking. Such problems do not exist with the Rockford Fosgate P300-12.
The built-in amplifier offers 300 watts of RMS output and 1,300 watts of peak power to complete the task. All you need to do is connect the subwoofer, whether you’re upgrading an aftermarket radio system or an OEM factory stereo.
The enclosed enclosure, composed of sturdy plastic, produces a clear sound with powerful, deep bass. Additionally, it has some pleasant additions like automatic on/off and a range of connectivity possibilities.
The built-in bass equalizer can also be used to adjust the baseline’s frequencies to match the music. Although large, the box is lovely. Most trunks will be able to contain it, but there won’t be a place for golf clubs or bulky luggage.
Some people enjoy wiring speakers and amplifiers, building their subwoofer enclosures, and becoming brand-obsessed with every aspect of automotive audio, right down to the speaker wire.
The Rockford Fosgate P300-12 is not the right choice if you fall into that category. But if you’re looking for an all-in-one subwoofer that delivers robust, resonant bass sound in a stylish, long-lasting shell and is simple to connect, this is unquestionably it.
Skar Audio EVL-12
Specifications
- RMS Power: 1,250 watts
- Frequency Range: 25 to 250 hertz
- Sensitivity: 85 dB
Don’t overlook the Skar Audio EVL-12 if you want a powerful bass that can rattle brick. This subwoofer can output 1,250 watts of RMS power, which is more than many other subs. And you can generate 2,500 watts of peak power, which is a lot of power.
Not to mention low, rumbling noise; the thunder will sound like 25 hertz on the low end. The Skar EVL-12’s only disadvantage is that it sounds muddier the harder you push it. That might be because of Skar’s high-roll foam surround and competition-grade paper cone. The good news is that misuse won’t damage the high-temperature voice coils or the effective airflow cooling.
Skar markets the EVL-12 as the perfect sub for competitive and everyday use. Without a doubt, it will endure. You’ll be fine if you keep the volume at or below RMS capacity.
FAQs Of Best 12-Inch Subwoofer
1. What are dual voice coil subwoofers?
There are additional wiring possibilities available with dual voice coil subwoofers because they contain two sets of coils. This allows additional control over the subwoofer’s audio output and system integration.
2. What brand of the subwoofer is the best?
There is not a single, all-encompassing answer to this query. Before making a purchase, it’s crucial to consider your unique demands and tastes. However, the best names in the industry include Sony, JBL, Kicker, Skar Audio, American Bass USA, Pioneer, and Rockford. The Pioneer TS-series subwoofer, Kicker CompR, Rockford Fosgate, and Skar Audio EVL-12 D2 are a few notable products.
3. Which subwoofer offers the best deep bass?
You should look for a subwoofer with a larger enclosure if you want the deepest bass tones. The woofer will be able to move more air. As a result, they produce a deeper sound. These subs, however, consume more energy and take up more room. Additionally, they are less accurate than a smaller container.
4. How much power is needed for a great system?
Depending on the subwoofer, a superb system requires different power. However, between 100 and 400 watts of power are needed for the majority of 12-inch subwoofers. Before choosing which amplifier to buy, ensure it can handle the load.
Wrapping Up
Our primary advice is to avoid making a hasty decision or following a fad when determining which 12-inch subwoofer would best suit your needs. It’s possible that you won’t obtain the best return on your investment if you do this.
Whatever model you choose, remember that it is not a replacement for your speakers but rather a device that enables them to perform to their best ability.
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Mark Dalio
Mark is a tech-obsessed serial entrepreneur who also enjoys reading and writing. He has a strong urge to keep learning and talking about technology, which led him to become an author. Mark has co-founded two successful startups, one of which was acquired in 2018.
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