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List of The Best PA Subwoofers – Powered & Active Wireless Budget Options

SoundMaxPro Staff
List of The Best PA Subwoofers

If you are looking for the powered best PA subwoofers, check out our recommendations.

Related: Best Wireless Subwoofers 

In several PA systems, subwoofers are the notable components. They play a prominent role in whether the sound output is intended to fill a room or present a thumping bass effect. They are efficient at accentuating the bass frequencies. Moreover, they also relieve the load from your main speakers to let them focus on mids and highs. Consequently, it leads to comprehensive sound output with excellent clarity.

Also Read: Best Subwoofer Amplifiers

The present article focuses on the top picks for PA subwoofers, depending on our recommendations. You will come across the most recent PA subwoofers, with a released date up to late April 2021.

The Best PA Subwoofers

The below powered PA subwoofers are the market favorite ones that you can purchase today:

Best PA Subwoofers
Sr. No. Image Product Name Manufacturer Buy Now
1 Electro-Voice EKX-18SP Electro-Voice Check on Amazon
2 QSC KS112 2000W 12″ QSC Check on Amazon
3 Bose F1 Bose Check on Amazon
4 Electro-Voice ETX-18SP Electro-Voice Check on Amazon
5 QSC KS118 QSC Check on Amazon
6 JBL SRX828SP JBL Check on Amazon
7 Electro-Voice ZXA1SUB Electro-Voice Check on Amazon
Budget Option
1 Behringer Eurolive B1200D-PRO Behringer Check on Amazon

1. Electro-Voice EKX-18SP:

 

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The EV sound quality, reliability, and latest technology are seen in the EKX-18SP. All these are available in a compact pack is suitable for DJs, musicians, small-to-medium live clubs, and installed sound applications. The large 18-inch woofer and 1300W amplifier are the critical components of this Electro-Voice subwoofer. One of the fascinating features that is it is implemented with the Cardioid Control Technology that emphasizes sound projection on the audience as reduces stage noise.

The included DSP (Digital Signal Processing) facilitates rapid setup and matching. It helps match with the venue it is used in or your other speakers.

There are efficient Class D power amplifiers with a rating of 1500 W, and QuickSmartDSP is also present. Furthermore, this subwoofer conveys up to 134 dB peak SPL with the help of high-sensitivity transducers that are designed by EV.

The built-in EKX amplifier contains intelligent thermal that guarantees excellent performance and reliability even in severe environmental conditions.

Equipped with an 18″ LF Driver, the subwoofer feels lightweight when carried.

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Overall, EKX-18SP is an efficient sub-woofer that works well in the majority of musical applications and events. The sound clarity is excellent, and it feels comfortable to carry along.

2. QSC KS112 2000W 12″:

 

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QSC is a prestigious name in the world of premium quality loudspeakers. Therefore, there is no surprise to perceive that this brand excels in the subwoofer market too. Two major components are a 12-inch LF driver and a 2000W amplifier. An incorporated DSP enhances overall sound quality.

The setup is simplified with the correction tuning and adjustable crossover design. Moreover, the 6th order bandpass permits enhanced bottom end. Two extra features include loudspeaker management and Intrinsic Correction tuning. The heavy-duty casters will not make noise while they move.

Due to the rugged wooden enclosure, the subwoofer can withstand the severity of external conditions. To ensure longevity, the cabinet is built from premium birch. Apart from personal use, it can be used by professional musicians, venue owners, and bandleaders.

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If you are looking for a portable subwoofer from a renowned brand, then the QSC KS112 is a good choice without spending much.

3. Bose F1:

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The Bose F1 subwoofer is unique from the rest because it boasts a twin 10″ driver design. This design provides it with enough clarity and projection. This design enables the subwoofer to function just like a typical speaker. As a result, it enhances its overall usability and value. Being lightweight, F1 is perfect for non-fixed-type installation.

Despite the compact design, the subwoofer packs in 1000W of power. Moreover, there is a polarity switch for selections of REV and NORM. You can set the line output EQ to either full range or a high-pass filter. Consequently, it facilitates hassle-free crossover selection while used with the main loudspeaker; F1 can work with those F1 Series speakers from Bose equipped with compatible mounting brackets when it comes to compatibility. However, it can be connected with tops from other brands. Generally, this Bose subwoofer is widely being used by guitarists, keyboardists, DJs, and other musicians.

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For those who own Bose F1 Series speakers, this subwoofer is a perfect choice. Moreover, its portability helps for mobile PA system setups.

4. Electro-Voice ETX-18SP:

 

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In terms of low-frequency response, more prominent speakers usually perform better. The Electro-Voice ETX-18SP subwoofer is meeting this requirement. Essentially, it is an 18-inch woofer paired with a 1,800W Class D amplifier, and a maximum SPL is 135 dB. For a wide range of permanent and portable applications, this powered subwoofer is a decent choice.

Another key feature is the true cardioid DSP preset that conveys accurate cardioid response over all frequencies. For efficient management of this subwoofer, the brand has equipped it with “QuickSmart” DSP. It optimizes sound quality and supports various presets for various applications.

The included blower-controlled thermal management defenses internal components against heat damage. Furthermore, the performance of the loudspeaker system is optimized through an LCD screen. The front LED depicts power. You can use this subwoofer in various settings like band performances, DJ sets, church services, and more.

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Electro-Voice ETX-18SP delivers the optimal low-end sound output. It is beneficial for those places that allow various kinds of musical performances and events.

5. QSC KS118:

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In this guide, the KS series from QSC attains a decent position due to the nearly perfect ratings of the series’ flagship model, i.e., KS118. This device is designed for presenting loud sound output in large venues. A 3,600W amplifier drives the incorporated 18-inch driver. The generated low frequencies are helpful for AV production, mobile entertainment, performance venues, and clubs.

With its DSP function, the KS118 can save scenes and adjust crossover frequency. The saved settings can pinch the subwoofer to compete with the requirements of the event and venue.

An ingenious feature it comes with is the selectable Deep mode. It improves low-end performance to make the subwoofer perfect for DJs, electronic musicians, and more. Also, it implies that you can let this device work as a deep-sounding subwoofer or a more natural-sounding subwoofer. With the Deep mode, you can choose a desired crossover frequency and delay.

All the components are encompassed in a cabinet that is made up of 15 mm birch wood. The smooth-rolling casters make it portable. It is possible to connect two units in a cardioid array. Portability lets the subwoofer possess a nearly perfect rating over multiple retail stores.

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If your budget allows and if you have excellent exposure to QSC loudspeakers, then KS118 is a suitable choice for you.

6. JBL SRX828SP:

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With the inclusion of two 18-inch drivers within a single subwoofer, the SRX828SP elevates the standard 18-inch subwoofer design. This design enables the subwoofer to attain a highly high max SPL. This guide features the highest Max SPL rating. Crown’s 2000W Drivecore amplifier powers both the 18-inch woofers. Moreover, they are enclosed in an 18mm thick plywood cabinet.

The incorporated DSP with HiQnet lets you control the subwoofer through Android and iOS apps. For a wide range of applications covering small and average-sized installations and tours, this subwoofer conveys top-notch performance.

With the top-notch 18mm wooden enclosures, JBL’s Patented DuraFlex finish, and 14-gauge steel grilles, the SRX800 speakers last longer and can sustain the ruggedness of outdoor conditions.

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If you are looking for the most low-end capable and loudest subwoofer, go for this JBL subwoofer. It comes in robust construction and can work well in all conditions.

7. Electro-Voice ZXA1SUB:

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Notwithstanding the low-profile wood enclosure, this Electro-Voice subwoofer packs in 700W of power. It expands the ZXA1’s sleek style and performance into the low-end dominion. You can pair it with other subwoofers from the ZXZ1 series to supplement a proper thump to a DJ set. There are meticulously matched transducers and electronics inside.

There is the inclusion of a 12-inch low distortion, high output EVS-12S woofer. Moreover, a selectable DSP low-end boost filter offers room for expanding extra low-frequency. Innovatively designed high-power woofers, as well as drivers, guarantee full-range sound with outstanding clarity.

It is possible to transform this compact audio system into a professional-quality low-end audio system. This is achieved with the inclusion of connectivity and easy-to-use controls. What’s more, the plywood enclosure makes the design lightweight yet durable.

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In terms of full-range sound with exceptional clarity, the ZXA1SUB is a suitable pick. It is easy to carry anywhere and control some of its features.

Budget Option:

This section is the one where we occasionally include additional options that don’t fit the list above. However, the products described in this section are helpful since they are reasonably priced. For those on a tight budget, the following PA subwoofer can be considered:

Behringer Eurolive B1200D-PRO:

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For people on a tight budget, the Behringer Eurolive B1200D-PRO is a popular alternative. It is a mountable pole subwoofer with a selectable +6 dB bass boost. You can vary the frequency in the range of 4 Hz to 90 Hz. Moreover, it presents switchable hi-pass-filtered outputs in the range of 70Hz to 150Hz. So, you can plug it into your main speakers.

Typically, this Behringer subwoofer is widely used for wedding DJs, bands, and churches. Some people also incorporated it as a part of home theater systems.

To present powerful punch and effect, the subwoofer supports the accurate reproduction of ultra-low frequencies. Furthermore, active stereo crossover conveys high-pass filtered outputs to be compatible with full-range loudspeakers. The12-inch long-excursion transducer is equipped with a voice coil capable of withstanding high temperatures. This transducer is responsible for the precise and thumping bass output.

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If you want a powerful sound output in a small venue and/or if you are on a tight budget, then B1200D-PRO is an excellent pick for you. But for a DJ who requires excessive bottom end, then look for a more powerful subwoofer.

Things to Consider When Buying a PA Subwoofer:

From a wide range of available options, it may seem perplexing to choose the desired PA subwoofer. The below section helps you select the most suitable PA subwoofer as per your needs.

Integrating Subs to your PA system:

Out of the various ways for integrating subs into your PA system, the easiest one is to prepare a sub-mix on your mixing console. Here, you can deliver the kick drum and bass towards the Aux output and subsequently connect that to a powered subwoofer.

An alternative way is to run your subwoofers in a parallel fashion to your main PA speakers, provided your subs possess high pass filters. In some more complex setups, you would use a crossover unit for splitting the frequencies before delivering the signal to your subwoofers. However, this guide cannot cover the full info on how to integrating subwoofers.

Driver size and music type:

For folk style bands and acoustic performers, the small 12-inch drivers provide the bottom-end they need. However, for performing bass-heavy styles, you require more significant drivers. Such drivers are helpful for EDM-type DJs.

Working as Stage Monitors:

Several drummers and occasionally bass players utilize a subwoofer along with a standard stage monitor. The reason is they wish to obtain a robust bottom end for excellent stage performance.

Portability:

Typically, subwoofers are not entirely portable owing to their dimensions. Occasionally, you may find difficulty moving around due to an extra speaker. However, many people can put in extra effort for movement, considering the excellent sound quality. They can compromise with space and weight of the subwoofers too.

It is recommended first to assess your low-frequency needs considering your mobility and ease of use. For a solo performer who has nobody else to carry his/her gears, choose a lighter subwoofer. When choosing massive subwoofers, focus on features like rolling casters for mobility.

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