Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Subwoofer Leave a comment

A subwoofer is a loudspeaker dedicated to reproducing bass or low-frequency sound. It is designed to improve the low-frequency range of loudspeakers producing high-pitched frequencies and enhance your general listening experience. This impressive device is available in a variety of sizes with various configurations. With so many options to buy from, selecting a suitable one can be a little tricky.

At RTC Electronics, a leading electronics store in Mississauga, we have an understanding of what to look for in an electronic device. That’s why we have compiled a list of key factors that you should consider when buying a subwoofer to make the most of your purchase.

Size

The size of a subwoofer is an important factor as the larger the surface area, the deeper the sound will be. The larger the box, the more air is moved by the subwoofer and louder bass is produced. If you want your device to produce a tighter, richer sounding bass, then go for a small-sized subwoofer. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a deeper and louder sound, then a larger device is best. Subwoofers are generally available in four sizes, 8 inches, 10 inches, 12 inches and 15 inches. When choosing the size, make sure that you have ample power and space for the subwoofer. For example, if you have chosen 15 inches’ device, but you’re unable to provide the power required to produce the sound, then it is a waste.

Enclosure

Subwoofers are generally placed in a wooden enclosure that comes in two kinds of builds, sealed and vented. A subwoofer with sealed enclosure is built to produce tight, accurate bass as there is no place for air to move in or out. On the contrary, vented or ported enclosures are built to produce the maximum output from the subwoofer. They are suitable for producing sound with deeper bass. In this enclosure, vents are used to reinforce low bass frequencies, but in order to do so, their accuracy takes a hit.

Sealed enclosures are not as efficient as vented enclosures because they require more power to produce the same amount of bass. In short, if you want more thumping sound, then a subwoofer with ported enclosure is the right choice whereas if you’re looking for clarity over power, then go for a sealed enclosure.

Power

Considering the power handling capacity of a speaker is essential as not all subwoofers can receive the same amount of power. Make sure that the subwoofer you want to purchase matches with the amplifier you’re using to get the maximum output. That said, if you want plenty of bass, then go for a powered subwoofer with built-in amps and driver so that there’s no need to get additional power from your home theatre receiver.

Design

There are two types of subwoofer designs, down-firing and side-firing. As the name suggests, a down-firing subwoofer is pointed downwards whereas a side-firing subwoofer is pointed in the front or on the sides. Interestingly, bass is less directional than treble or higher-frequencies. But, if you want the bass to directly come towards you, choose a front-firing sub whereas if you want the bass to spread evenly inside the room, then a side-firing is the best choice.

When buying a subwoofer, make sure that you consider its size, power handling capacity, design and enclosure type. It will help you choose an appropriate device for your home theatre and boost the quality of sound produced. To learn more about finding the right subwoofers, contact RTC Electronics, a leading e-commerce retailer of electronic accessories in Mississauga.