Best PA Subwoofers for Bands and Live Sound

Subwoofers extend PA system response into the frequencies that full-range speakers cannot reproduce effectively. The deep bass impact that subwoofers provide transforms dance music, hip-hop, rock, and any genre where low-frequency power matters. This guide covers the best PA subwoofers for different applications and budgets.

Best Powered PA Subwoofers

Powered subwoofers include matched amplification for simplified setup. The QSC KS118 ($1,499) delivers exceptional performance with an 18-inch driver and 3600W peak power. The cardioid design reduces unwanted bass behind the subwoofer.

The JBL PRX818XLFW ($999) provides professional performance with WiFi-enabled DSP control. The 18-inch woofer extends response to 30Hz with powerful output.

The Yamaha DXS18 ($849) combines Yamaha reliability with potent bass. The 18-inch driver handles demanding material with clarity and impact.

The EV EKX-18SP ($999) delivers excellent value with professional DSP features. The 18-inch driver and 1800W amplifier provide serious low-end capability.

The QSC KS112 ($999) offers cardioid performance in a compact 12-inch format. The smaller size suits applications where full 18-inch subwoofers prove impractical.

Best Budget PA Subwoofers

The EV ZLX-12SP ($499) provides powered 12-inch subwoofer performance at entry-level pricing. The lightweight design suits mobile applications.

The JBL EON718S ($899) delivers JBL quality with app-based control and DSP processing. The 18-inch driver handles demanding bass material.

The Behringer B1200D-PRO ($379) offers maximum subwoofer capability per dollar. The 12-inch driver provides adequate extension for smaller systems.

The Alto Professional TS412S ($499) delivers aggressive pricing with 2500W peak power. The 12-inch driver suits budget-conscious system expansion.

Subwoofer Size Considerations

12-inch subwoofers provide adequate extension for smaller venues and moderate bass requirements. The compact size aids portability while the response extends typical full-range speakers effectively.

15-inch subwoofers offer middle ground between 12 and 18-inch options. The bass extension and output improve over 12-inch models while maintaining reasonable size.

18-inch subwoofers deliver maximum bass extension and output. Large venues, outdoor events, and bass-heavy applications benefit from the substantial capability. The size and weight increase accordingly.

21-inch subwoofers serve professional touring and installation applications. The massive drivers provide extreme low-frequency capability for the largest events.

Cardioid vs Conventional Designs

Conventional subwoofers radiate bass omnidirectionally, sending low frequencies in all directions including toward the stage. This can cause bass buildup on stage that interferes with musicians’ monitoring.

Cardioid subwoofers use additional drivers or ports to cancel rear-ward bass radiation. The result focuses bass toward the audience while reducing stage spill.

The QSC KS series and some JBL models offer cardioid options. The technology benefits any application where stage bass control matters.

The cardioid advantage comes with cost and complexity trade-offs. Conventional subwoofers cost less and weigh less while providing the same forward output.

System Integration

Subwoofers work best when properly integrated with main speakers. The crossover frequency determines where main speakers hand off to subwoofers.

Most systems cross over between 80-120Hz. Lower crossover points require subwoofers capable of extended response while higher crossover points may cause overlap issues.

Proper phase alignment between subwoofers and mains ensures they work together rather than canceling each other. Time alignment addresses the physical spacing between speakers.

DSP-equipped systems simplify integration through built-in crossovers and delay. Matched systems from single manufacturers often provide automatic optimization.

Deployment Approaches

Stacked subwoofers beneath main speakers provide simple setup. The arrangement suits smaller venues and portable applications.

Ground-stacked or flown arrays address larger venues requiring distributed bass coverage. Multiple subwoofers spread across the stage frontline provide even coverage.

Aux-fed subwoofers receive signal only from instruments requiring bass reinforcement. This approach keeps vocal and instrument leakage from unnecessarily driving subwoofers.

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All PA subwoofers are available at Guitar Center, Musician’s Friend, ProAudioStar, and Amazon.