The subwoofer has emerged as a critical component of the home theater system. Today's DVDs and Blu-ray Discs contain low frequency information that add a dose of "reality" to those explosions and other special effects, as well as revealing those lower musical tones. If you are considering adding a little punch to your system, consider my moderately-priced powered subwoofer picks.
Paradigm DSP-3400 14-inch Powered Subwoofer
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The Paradigm DSP-3400 Powered Subwoofer delivers powerful, clear, tight, and undistorted deep bass response from the combination of its large front facing 14-inch driver, dual front ports, and 300 watts of continuous power supplied by its built-in amplifier. In addition, the DSP-3400 offers an array of controls that allow the user to tweak the performance parameters to specific room environments and listening tastes. For more details, check out my Short and Full Reviews, and also my Photo Gallery.
Definitive Technology Powered Subwoofers
Definitive Technology well known for their loudspeaker line, but they also make great subwoofers well-suited for both music and home theater applications. Check out a great list of choices from their impressive line-up that also includes some very compact models, as well as tower speakers with powered subwoofers built-in.
Velodyne Powered Subwoofers
Velodyne is well-known for their fine line of subwoofers. Check out a selection of great subs for both small and large sized-rooms.Velodyne WiConnect WIC-10 Wireless Powered Subwoofer
Photo (c) Robert Silva - Licensed to About.com
The Velodyne WiConnect WIC-10 is an affordable powered subwoofer that features a 10-inch downfiring driver, rear port for extra bass extension, and a 125 watt amplifier. The WIC-10 also offers very flexible installation options by providing either wired or wireless connectivity with your home theater receiver. The WiConnect WIC-10 makes a good addition to your home theater system if you need a replacement subwoofer or trying to match a subwoofer with an existing set of speakers. To find if the Velodyne WiConnect WIC-10 subwoofer is the right match for your home theater setup, check out my Review, and Photo Profile.
Klipsch Powered Subwoofers
If you are looking for a great subwoofer to round out your home theater system without breaking the bank, check out Klipsch powered subwoofers, including their innovative triangular powered subs that are perfect for corner installation, as well as their digital powered subwoofer line that can be customized for various types of musical or movie response requirements.SVS Powered Subwoofers
Photo (c) 2007 - Robert Silva - Licensed to About.com
One of leading independent subwoofer makers, SVS has a consistent quality product across the board. No matter which unit you choose from their lineup, whether box-type or cylindrical, you will experience deep, tight, bass deserving of any home theater system. For an example, check out my review of the SVS SB12-Plus Front Firing 12-inch Powered Subwoofer.
HSU Research Powered Subwoofers
A great subwoofer doesn't have to cost a fortune. Dr Poh Ser Hsu designs and makes world class subwoofers for home theater and audio applications at affordable prices. Be sure to check out the VTF or STF Series. Selecting a "best" from this group is impossible -- they are all great values.Axiom EP400 Epicenter 8-Inch Front Firing Powered Subwoofer
The AXIOM EP400 Epicenter is a powerful subwoofer despite is small size. This 8-Inch Subwoofer delivers power, clarity, tightness, and undistorted deep bass response for both movies and music. This subwoofer also offers several controls that allow the user to tweak performance parameters to specific room environments and listening tastes. My impression of the EP400 is extremely postive, making this subwoofer a real winner, especially for those looking for a high-performance subwoofer in a smaller room. For a close-up look and explanation of the features of the EP400, check out my Photo Gallery.PSB Powered Subwoofers
Designed to provide both seamless acoustic integration with a variety of speaker setups for both music and home theater applications, PSB subwoofers are solid performers worthy of consideration. Check out both their single and dual driver units.Episode ES-SUB-CUB8-110 Subwoofer
Photo (c) Robert Silva - Licensed to About.com
If you are looking for a subwoofer, but don't want to see an unsightly big box sitting in your room, check out the compact Episode ES-SUB-CUB8-110. This subwoofer is sealed unit with a front firing 8-inch driver and 110 watt low frequency amplifier. With its small size, it can be easily placed or hidden from view. The ES-SUB-CUB8-110 does a good job with both movie and music material. It provides more bass that you would expect for its size and is a great solution for small or medium size rooms. In addition, of you need more bass coverage in your room, the Episode ES-SUB-CUB8-110 has output connections that allow you to add a second subwoofer.
Review - Photo Profile - Manufacturer's Site.
Review - Photo Profile - Manufacturer's Site.
Crowson Technology TES-100 Tactile Transducer
If a subwoofer doesn't provide enough "kick" for you, then you might what to consider the Crowson Technology TES-100 Tactile Transducer. Although subwoofers bring realistic bass sound to the home theater environment, there is still something missing - tactile sensation. The combination of the TES100 Transducer and A200 Amplifier enables one to turn his/her own chair into a home theater component that adds the sensory experience of touch to your viewing and listening enjoyment.Polk Audio PSW10 or PSW110 10-Inch Powered Subwoofer
The Polk PSW10 is a modest powered subwoofer that is great for entry level systems and/or small rooms. This compact subwoofer delivers 50 Watts of continuous power, good clarity, tightness, and a lower bass response than you might find on more expensive subs. The PSW10 has a 10-inch woofer cone, a front mounted port to extend lower frequency response, a frequency response of 35 to 200Hz, and an 80Hz to 160Hz adjustable crossover. Input connections include both Line Level and standard speaker connections. The PSW10 also features an Auto On/Off function. Also, if you want a more "beefy" sub, also check out the PSW110, which is about the same size as the PSW10 but offers a 100 watt output and downfiring port - it is also priced a little higher at around $249. Compare Prices on the PSW110.