Are you in the market for the best PA subwoofers to take your sound game to the next level? As a live sound engineer or a musician, having the right equipment can make or break your performance.
With so many choices, it can be hard to decide which subwoofers will give you the power and sound quality you need. That’s where we come in.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the top-rated PA subwoofers available in 2023, covering a range of price points, features, and capabilities.
We’ll help you find the right subwoofers to take your sound to new heights, whether you’re a pro or just starting out.
So let’s get started.
Contents
- 1 Top Best PA Subwoofers Brands
- 1.1 1. JBL Professional SRX828 SP18 Dual Subwoofer System
- 1.2 2. Electro-Voice EKX18SP 18″ 1300 Watt Powered Subwoofer
- 1.3 3. Electro Voice ELX200-18SP Powered Subwoofer
- 1.4 4. Behringer Eurolive B1200D Pro
- 1.5 5. Mackie Thump18S Powered Speaker Cabinet
- 1.6 6. Rockville RBG18FA 18-inch Folded Horn Subwoofer
- 1.7 7. Rockville RBG18S Active PA Subwoofer
- 1.8 8. QSC KS118 Direct Radiating 18-inch Active Subwoofer
- 1.9 8. PRORECK 2000W DJ Subwoofer
- 1.10 10. Alto Professional TS312S Portable Powered Subwoofer
- 1.11 11. Seismic Audio Baby Tremor Powered 15-inch Subwoofer
- 1.12 12. Sound Town Metis Series 15-inch Powered PA Subwoofer
- 2 Anh Buying Guide
- 3 FAQs
- 4 Conclusion
Top Best PA Subwoofers Brands
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
| Rockville Bass Gig Active... | $179.95 | View on Amazon | |
| 2 |
| Alto Professional TS312S |... | $596.73 | View on Amazon | |
| 3 |
| PRORECK PR18 18 inch 2000W... | 438 Reviews | $359.99 | View on Amazon |
| 4 |
| Behringer Eurolive B1200D-PRO... |
$349.00 | View on Amazon | |
| 5 |
| Bose Sub 1 Powered Bass Module... |
$899.00 | View on Amazon | |
| 6 |
| Sound Town METIS Series 1400... | $279.99 $224.99 | View on Amazon | |
| 7 |
| PRORECK Club 6000 15-inch... | View on Amazon | ||
| 8 |
| PRORECK Club 3500 15 inch... | $489.99 | View on Amazon | |
| 9 |
| PRORECK SP-18X Active Powered... | $409.99 | View on Amazon | |
| 10 |
| Pyle Pro Line Array PA Speaker... |
$1,000.99 | View on Amazon |
1. JBL Professional SRX828 SP18 Dual Subwoofer System
Best powered subwoofers
Another powerful, professional-quality subwoofer system is the JBL SRX828 SP18. It delivers both sound quality as well as sturdy construction. This self-powered subwoofer system can be used for both touring and larger events.
The JBL SRX828SP18 Dual Subwoofer System can move a lot of air thanks to its two 18-inch internal subwoofer cones. Standing next to the subwoofer can feel the pressure and force it emits. With 3200 Watts peak power, and 800 Watts RMS, these power ratings are among the highest on the market.
But the bass is controlled and musical because the subwoofer system uses two subwoofer cones to get this power. This PA subwoofer is the perfect choice if you want a loud, punchy bass that remains crisp and clear at high outputs.
The customizable settings are another major feature of the JBL SRX828SP18 Dual Subwoofer System. The system can be configured in many ways and comes with a range of presets.
You’ll be amazed at how much time and effort you can save choosing from preset configurations, no matter if you are a beginner or an experienced DJ.
DJs who want to be in charge of everything can use the subwoofer system’s many controls to mix, watch the amplifier, and adjust the sound.
This PA subwoofer system is heavy. The JBL SP828 SP18 Dual Subwoofer System weighs in at 145 pounds. To transport the subwoofer system, you’ll need a truck bed, but a van for touring is more practical. To help with transport, you can get a case or casters.
Pros
- Very powerful
- Dual 18-inch subs
- You can fine-tune your sound with extensive controls
Cons
- Very expensive
- Extremely heavy
2. Electro-Voice EKX18SP 18″ 1300 Watt Powered Subwoofer
Are you looking for a subwoofer capable of handling all your needs? The Electro-Voice EKX18SP is the perfect subwoofer for you. It can handle everything from small events to large parties. You can also pair it with another sub, and that will allow you to host large events.
This has a master volume controller, a small monitor, inputs, and outputs, as well as 2 inputs and two outputs. A variable-speed cooling fan is also available, which can be controlled via multiple onboard sensors. QuickSmart DSP is also available for quick setup and tuning.
The M20 threaded pole mount on the top of the speaker can be used to mount the main speakers. This can also be combined with the output channels at the back to create a complete speaker system.
The enclosure of the subwoofer is 15mm plywood and has an EVCoat finish. This subwoofer will look great, sound good, and last a long time. This subwoofer is ideal for live events and may make a good investment if your company offers audio rental services.
Pros
- Can reach 1300 watts power output
- Volumes can reach as high as 134 dB
- The sound quality is clear and deep with no distortion.
Cons
- The subwoofer doesn’t have a low-pass filter built-in.
3. Electro Voice ELX200-18SP Powered Subwoofer
Best PA Subwoofers
The Electro-Voice ELX200-18SP is another reliable subwoofer for DJs. This stage subwoofer is easy to use and made from professional-grade materials. It also comes with many special features that make live performances more enjoyable.
The ELX200-18SP class-D power amplifier is powerful and user-friendly. This subwoofer may not have as much peak power as other brands, but it has some cool technology that makes it very efficient. It uses a highly efficient transmitter to deliver really loud sound while using less power than other subwoofers. Without consuming a lot of energy, you’ll still be able to produce that powerful, deep bass.
You can connect the ELX200-18SP subwoofer to a mobile app. The app has different settings for different places where you might listen to music. You can control the input level and the overall volume from the app too.
You can configure your subwoofer wirelessly using the mobile app via Bluetooth. This gives you great versatility and allows you to adjust your settings while on the move.
The app will also let you know if the sound system isn’t loud enough or if there are any problems with the tools. This means you don’t have to worry about having to deal with major problems and breakdowns on set.
This Electro-Voice subwoofer is small and easy to move around, so it can be used for both home and on-the-go music. This feature is great for young DJs just starting out, especially if they can’t afford to buy different pieces.
Pros
- Transducer with high sensitivity
- A powerful class d amplifier
- Pre-sets to perform live, in clubs, or for music
- Application and control via wireless mobile devices
Cons
- You can’t change the EQ frequencies in DSP
- Rapid volume spikes in damage reports
- Expensive
4. Behringer Eurolive B1200D Pro
Best Budget PA Subwoofer
Behringer is a company I like, but not because they are the best. They are not known for their excellent build quality. They are also a company that offers cost-effective options.
Some people cannot afford the expensive stuff. Behringer ensures that they have at least one item to use, and it is of acceptable quality. That attitude is very refreshing. This Behringer Eurolive B1200D PRO is a great option for anyone on a tight budget.
It is one of my top picks for subwoofers in the PA system. Its price, and not its performance, is what I consider to be the best subwoofer for the PA system.
You may be surprised by this subwoofer. It comes with a 12-inch speaker and a peak power rating of 500 W. It has a maximum power rating of 250 watts peak, or perhaps slightly less.
The maximum SPL is 122 dB. This is not the highest you’ll find. You can choose a frequency response between 4Hz to 90Hz, and there is a +6dB boost in bass.
You can also choose from high-pass filtered outputs operating between 70Hz and 150Hz for use with the main speakers.
Size matters…
These units are compact in size, measuring just 17.0 by 14.8 and 16.7 inches. They also weigh only 43 pounds. These units are very easy to transport.
The back houses the controls and connections. There are two XLR inputs, two XLR outputs, and two with XLR through connections. You can choose between normal or reverse polarity. It is strong and made from a strong, durable, molded plastic. If you wish, they can be mounted on poles.
A superb budget option for smaller venues…
Behringer Eurolive B1200D Pro is a great value for money. It is suitable for many purposes and the audio quality is not exceptional. It is perfect if you plan to use it in small venues.
We wouldn’t recommend it for any bigger venues. It might struggle in a small, packed venue. It can handle most types of music or operations.
If you’re a DJ who wants to get that deep bottom thump then you can find it elsewhere. You won’t get that. It is a great investment if you have the right environment. It was designed and manufactured in Germany by Behringer, a Chinese manufacturer.
Pros
- Excellent build quality at an affordable price
- There are some very excellent sound options.
- Best choice in PA systems
Cons
- Some people will need more power and a better sound.
5. Mackie Thump18S Powered Speaker Cabinet
Best Subwoofer For Outdoor Events
Mackie is a well-known brand and a leader in portable stage equipment and live sound. The Thump 18S Powered Speaker Cabinet provides professional quality equipment.
It is powerful, precise, reliable, and comes with comprehensive system protections. This will ensure that you have all the tools necessary to create the perfect sound.
The Thump18S’s main selling point is its incredible audio quality. The PA subwoofer can produce a very precise bass and was specifically designed to keep it tight under even the most difficult conditions. This precision is crucial for DJs and other live performers.
The Thump18S has sturdy, high-quality materials which will withstand the elements and be used in outdoor events.
You can also have full subwoofer protection, which means you don’t have to worry about your tools breaking down if you push too hard. The Thump18S is a sturdy piece of equipment that you can trust to last.
This sub has one drawback: It doesn’t have as much power as most subs of the same price. This subwoofer only has 600 Watts RMS, which isn’t enough power to run big outdoor events or big venues. It can be easily connected to a second subwoofer to increase volume and punch.
Pros
- Solid enclosure
- Comprehensive system protection
- Bass is precise and accurate
Cons
- Heavy
- It is not as powerful as similar models
6. Rockville RBG18FA 18-inch Folded Horn Subwoofer
Best powered subwoofer
The Rockville RBG18FA 18 inch Folded Horn Subwoofer offers power and a low price. It still packs a strong punch. The subwoofer uses a fold-horn technology, which acts as an amplifier and redirects energy from the speaker’s back to the front. This allows for stronger and more punchy sound.
The Rockville RBG18FA 4″ voice coil is a great value. The Rockville RBG18FA has the same power ratings and good performance as subwoofers which cost a lot more money, but it costs only a fraction of that.
Innovative folder horn technology makes a strong, loud bass that will make your music sound great without costing a lot. You won’t be disappointed by the subwoofer’s ability to reach low frequencies.
The RBG18FA uses high-quality materials that promise reliability and resilience. The solid wood housing makes the subwoofer heavier, but it also makes it very durable, which is important for high-output uses.
The RBG18FA foldable horn subwoofer has an internal heat sink and a variable-speed fan that can be turned off manually. This means you won’t need to worry about thermal overload when working for long periods.
This mid-range subwoofer has one drawback: it requires a lot of tuning to get a balanced sound.
Although this may be a problem for DJs working with many music genres, it is an acceptable compromise for the sub’s capabilities. The PA subwoofer is heavy, but it comes with sturdy casters that make transporting it easier.
Pros
- Great value
- Very powerful
- Automatic fan cooling and internal heat sink
- Solid wood enclosure
Cons
- The mixer needs many adjustments
- Extremely heavy
7. Rockville RBG18S Active PA Subwoofer
Best Subwoofer For Stage
The Rockville RBG18S is our top choice for the best overall powered subwoofer. Rockville is a well-known brand for producing high-quality, reliable audio equipment. This well-built 18-inch sub from Rockville is no exception.
The Rockville RBG18S subwoofer’s incredible power is what immediately grabs attention. The RBG18S subwoofer has a much higher peak power of 2000 Watts and a lower RMS power of 500 Watts.
It is more powerful than many single-unit stage subs. You will be able to perform in front of larger audiences confident that you have the power to fill the space.
The adjustable low pass crossover is another major selling point of this powered subwoofer. You will not put too much strain on the main PA speakers by using the three-position high-frequency cutoff points. This allows you to achieve louder sounds while still putting in the same amount of energy.
You can send some of the mid-range frequencies away from your subwoofer. This can give you really good sound quality and power in a place without making your subwoofer work too hard.
This subwoofer is also exquisite in its craftsmanship and fine details. The RBG18S features an internal heat sink and an automatic cooling fan. This allows you to play all night without worrying about overheating the equipment.
Easy to set up the RBG18S with its strong pole socket, intuitive input, and output Jacks. You’ll sound and look professional with the subwoofer’s attractive metal grille.
Pros
- Adjustable crossover adjustable in three positions
- Automatic fan cooling system with internal heat sink
- Easy installation with strong pole socket
- Finish in sleek style
Cons
- Very heavy
- Dual subs provide the best performance
8. QSC KS118 Direct Radiating 18-inch Active Subwoofer
Best powered subwoofer
The QSC KS118 Direct-radiating 18-inch Sub ranks as the best subwoofer. This subwoofer produces a powerful sound that will fill any concert venue. It has a staggering 3600 Watts peak power, and 2000 Watts RMS.
The KS118 subwoofer is the most powerful on the market. This powered subwoofer is a perfect choice if you want to rock a huge concert or make a loud enough sound to shake a whole dance club.
The KS118 is not like many powered subwoofers that are focused on power ratings. The sub can produce a clear, rich sound that is balanced in spite of its extraordinary power.
The QSCKS118 Direct Radiating subwoofer has a great power rating, but we love it most for how well it’s made and how long it lasts. This subwoofer is built with birch plywood and a heavy metal grille to withstand the pounding bass.
This subwoofer will be appreciated by DJs and other musicians for its ability to withstand professional use without sacrificing audio quality.
This subwoofer is extremely lightweight thanks to its four low-noise casters. It can be easily transported to live gigs, so you can still deliver powerful bass regardless of where you are performing.
Related: How To Make A Subwoofer Have More Bass?
Pros
- Extremely powerful
- Sturdy construction and a rugged enclosure
- Optional deep mode for lower frequency response
- For easy transportation, wheels
Cons
- Very expensive
- Extremely heavy
8. PRORECK 2000W DJ Subwoofer
The PRORECK 2000W DJ subwoofer is adored by audio professionals because it pumps 2000W of pure audio. It also has balanced XLR and stereo RCA inputs, as well as other incredible bells and whistles.
The PRORECK 2000W DJ subwoofer is what I love most. It produces crystal-clear sound at 2000 W of powerful power and provides clear audio. The 18-inch speaker is ideal for DJs working in clubs, churches, bars, and conferences.
The balanced XLR combo is even more impressive. The XLR combo is balanced, which means that the left and right audio signals are always in sync. This ensures that you don’t lose any channel information unnecessarily. The XLR combo supports signals between 100 Hz to 20 kHz.
One DJ shared his experiences with the powered subwoofer recently. Although he stated that it was fine to use at home, he mentioned that he would not take it along to gigs. He stated that the sound quality was not good enough to be used for a professional performance.
He was a bit vague so I asked about the audio quality. He said that the sound quality was okay, but that there were better subwoofers available for gigs.
The PRORECK2000W DJ Subwoofer is my recommendation. It has the 2000W subwoofer, balanced XLR combo, and tunable phase switch. I also like the solid plywood housing. I have heard of hundreds of wonderful experiences from customers.
Pros
- Lightweight, but powerful design
- Indicators for power on and maximum volume
- Combination of balanced XLR and XLR
- Housing made of strong plywood
Cons
- The sound quality is just okay
10. Alto Professional TS312S Portable Powered Subwoofer
Best Compact Powered Subwoofer
The Alto Professional TS312S Portable Powered Subwoofer can be used by mobile DJs who are concerned about stage space. It is small enough to carry around and still deliver powerful power. This powered subwoofer is an excellent choice for DJs thanks to its user-friendly design and rugged finish.
Alto Professional TS312S Portable Powered Subwoofer makes our list. Because smaller woofer cones can’t push as much air, they aren’t capable of reaching the same volume or low frequencies as larger models.
The Alto Professional TS312S with long-throw voice coil stands out as a noteworthy exception. It offers a lot of power and powerful bass notes.
It can also achieve undistorted mid-range frequencies and high frequencies. This makes it an excellent choice for DJs who enjoy playing a wide range of music or pop.
The subwoofer is extremely user-friendly. It has multiple output modes and channels that make it easy to connect with companion PA speakers.
This means even if your knowledge of audio connections and equipment setup is not great, you can still configure your sound system easily. You can achieve the perfect mix with the TS312S extended LF switch.
The sub also comes with thermal, electronic, and transducer protection. This means that even with heavy use, your equipment will last.
Pros
- Compact size and lightweight
- It is easy to integrate into a speaker system
- Heavy use can be withstood by the rugged finish
Cons
- Cabinet could rattle at high outputs
- Many models have a smaller woofer cone
11. Seismic Audio Baby Tremor Powered 15-inch Subwoofer
Best Powered Subwoofers
The Seismic Audio Baby-Tremor Powered 15-inch Sub is another tight budget option for amateur and up-and-coming DJs. This subwoofer is small and compact, making it ideal for smaller gigs like weddings, community events, and jazz clubs.
When it comes to audio equipment, Seismic Audio is a highly respected brand. The Baby Tremor Powered 15-inch subwoofer is a great choice. It has a sleek exterior finish and sounds fantastic.
This allows you to have a professional-quality experience at a reasonable price. It produces a powerful bass that can fill small spaces or parties.
This subwoofer is only suitable for small DJ sets. The power ratings of this subwoofer are not sufficient to work in larger venues like concert halls or rave clubs, as they only provide 300 Watts RMS.
You won’t be able to get a lot of volume out of the Baby Tremor Powered Subwoofer alone. You will need to use a larger main speaker system, or combine the Baby Tremor and a second subwoofer of 15 inches.
This subwoofer does not have an internal fan cooling system. It has a heat sink. If you are worried about the subwoofer getting too hot during long events or all-night parties, you can point a fan at the back of it to cool it down.
The Seismic Acoustic Baby Tremor Powered 15-inch Subwoofer still has a solid construction and is a great budget model.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Strong construction and rugged build
- It is easy to connect and configure
Cons
- No internal fan, and not prone to heating up
- Low power ratings
- Some distortion at higher volumes
12. Sound Town Metis Series 15-inch Powered PA Subwoofer
Sound Town Metis is a line of high-quality speakers, stage monitors, and subwoofers made for DJs and other professional audio uses. The 15-inch model is the most affordable, offering high power and robust construction at a reasonable price.
The Metis Series 1800-watt powered subwoofer with 3″ voice coil is smaller than other 18-inch stage subs but packs a lot of power. It can reach up to 500 Watts RMS, and 1800Watts peak power. This puts it in the same category as larger and more expensive models.
It doesn’t have a top power-rating, but it can still produce a powerful sound. High-end materials are used to reduce distortion and improve damping. This subwoofer will deliver a tight, focused bass at all volumes, even at low frequencies, when you play gigs.
This superb build quality is also ideal for touring. The Metis Series 15 inch powered subwoofer comes with a heavy-duty metal grille and enforced metal corners. There are recessed handles so that you don’t have to worry if you damage your equipment while on the road.
Because the input and output links are so flexible, the system is easy to add to an already set-up stage. This is an important feature because it means you don’t have to spend time every time you play a gig wiring, routing wires, and fixing problems. It’s easy to plug it in, and you can focus your attention on making the perfect mix.
Pros
- Construction with a rugged finish
- Flexible input and output connections
Cons
- Very heavy
- It is not as powerful as the other models
Anh Buying Guide
Time to Listen to Some Serious Low-Frequency Sounds
The purpose of your subwoofer will dictate what you purchase. This will often be determined by how big the venue is where you’ll be using it. You will need at most an 18-inch woofer if you plan to use it in larger venues. may even be two depending on the size of your venue. 12 inches is sufficient if it’s for a small club or venue.
All sound options have similar frequency response and SPL’s.
Build-quality
It may get knocked around if you’re carrying it around to many places. Poor build quality can quickly lead to serious damage. Nearly all of the speakers that we reviewed had strong builds.
It is important to consider the dimensions of your item if you plan on moving it around. It is important to consider how heavy it can be carried. There are many heavy speakers on this list. It is important to consider transportation.
How Much Will You Spend?
There are many price options. If you are on a budget, there are still good-quality speakers that cost less than $100.
FAQs
Is My PA A Good Candidate For A Subwoofer?
Projecting low frequencies requires a lot of energy. In a larger venue, it is easy for low-frequency sounds like synth basses, low toms, kick drums, bass guitars, or low toms to be lost. A subwoofer can be added to your PA system in case this happens.
Are Powered Subwoofers Really Worth The Cost?
Powered subwoofers can be matched perfectly with Amp, Box, and Subwoofer. They sound fantastic and are very reliable. Because of this reliability, they don’t push the Db, bass, or sound limits as hard as you would if you had a custom setup.
What Is The Life Expectancy Of Powered Subwoofers?
There are many variables that can impact the life expectancy of your equipment, but a sub-standard model should last 20+ years.
Is Electro Voice A Good Brand?
Electro-Voice is one of the few audio companies that make casings, waveguides, and drivers in-house. This ensures excellent quality for every application. Their impressive track record of patents is a testament to this.
What Is The Life Expectancy Of A PA System?
High-quality speakers can last anywhere from 40 to 50 years, based on what they are made of and how they are used.
Conclusion
The best PA subs are made by high-end brands, but it can be difficult to know which to choose. If you’re not sure where to start, check out the list to easily make a decision.
Last update on 2023-09-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
