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Top 5 Best Studio Subwoofers To Enhance Low End In Your Mixes

November 3, 2023 
BY DAN SPENCER
Last Updated on January 9, 2024

Are you looking to step up your studio recording game and enhance the low end in your mixes? When it comes to music production, every element counts. That’s why finding the right subwoofer can make all the difference.

In this article, we review five of the best studio subwoofers in the market to help you decide. Whether you’re on a budget or have been saving for this moment, you’ll find what you need.

Let’s check out the top contenders.

Included in this guide:

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Best Overall
JBL LSR310S 10-Inch Powered Studio Subwoofer

JBL LSR310S 10-Inch Powered Studio Subwoofer

  • 10-inch high-excursion, low-frequency driver
  • 200-watt Class-D amplifier
  • Selectable crossover frequencies (80Hz, 100Hz, and 120Hz)
4.7
Check Price
Runner-up
Yamaha HS8S 8-Inch Powered Studio Subwoofer

Yamaha HS8S 8-Inch Powered Studio Subwoofer

  • 8-inch low-frequency driver
  • Frequency response (22Hz—150Hz)
  • Balanced XLR and ¼ inch input/output
4.6
Check Price
Top Pick
KRK S8.4 8-Inch Powered Studio Subwoofer

KRK S8.4 8-Inch Powered Studio Subwoofer

  • 8-inch glass aramid composite woofer
  • Optional footswitch to control the sub and crossover filter
  • Four-position selectable crossover
4.7
Check Price
Top Pick
Mackie CR8S-XBT 8-Inch Multimedia Subwoofer

Mackie CR8S-XBT 8-Inch Multimedia Subwoofer

  • Adjustable input and output levels
  • 8-inch polypropylene-coated body
  • CRDV desktop volume remote included
4.5
Check Price
Lowest Price
PreSonus Eris Sub 8 8-Inch Powered Studio Subwoofer

PreSonus Eris Sub 8 8-Inch Powered Studio Subwoofer

  • 8-inch low-frequency driver
  • 200 watt Class AB amplifier
  • Multiple input and output options
4.7
Check Price

Related Article: The Top 5 Best Studio Monitors On A Budget


The Top 5 Best Studio Subwoofers

The JBL LSR310S is a fantastic active 10-inch subwoofer known for its deep, clear bass response. It’s an essential part of the studio environment for delivering a precise and powerful low-frequency reproduction.

Optimized to operate with JBL’s 3 Series Studio Monitors, the 10-inch driver and 200-watt amplifier work in harmony to enhance the overall audio quality. What’s more, the selectable crossover frequencies allow users superb flexibility to adjust the subwoofer’s response.

On top of that, the JBL LSR310S features the Extended Low Frequency (XLF) mode. This mode extends the low-frequency response, allowing the subwoofer to reproduce even lower frequencies than it would normally.

Pros
  • Producing accurate and powerful low-frequency response, which enhances the audio quality.
  • The high-quality build, with a strong MDF enclosure as well as an elevated base, reduces resonance and allows room for downward firing.
  • Seamless integration with JBL’s 3 Series Studio Monitors and versatile connectivity to many audio equipment.
Cons
  • Lowered audio quality at higher volume levels.
  • While it provides excellent value for money, it can be quite an investment for some.
  • The performance of the JBL LSR310S can be affected by the room acoustics, so it needs proper room treatment and setup for the best results

The Spectacular Yamaha HS8S subwoofer comes equipped with an 8-inch driver, providing accurate low frequencies (as low as 22Hz). It also features a built-in amplifier with a power output of 150 watts specifically designed for low-frequency reproduction.

Additionally, this essential studio equipment includes a variable low pass filter. Such a feature allows you to set the crossover frequency to match your specific setup. Consequently, it guarantees seamless integration between the subwoofer and your studio speakers.

The Yamaha HS8S also offers balanced connectivity input and output options. This minimizes interference and ensures clean signal transfer between the subwoofer and the audio source. Plus, the compact cabinet design helps reduce resonance and unwanted vibrations.

Pros
  • The compact and lightweight design makes the Yamaha HS8S subwoofer perfect for smaller studio setups.
  • The balance of inputs and outputs provides flexibility for connectivity to various equipment options.
  • It produces more than enough power for small to mid-sized studio setups.
Cons
  • Like most subwoofers, the Yamaha HS8S can be influenced by room acoustics if not properly treated.
  • Due to its compact size, it may not be as suitable for larger studio applications as larger subwoofers.
  • It has a high price point.

The KRK S8.4 is an outstanding subwoofer delivering well-defined and accurate bass. Its 8-inch glass aramid composite woofer combined with a high-quality Class D power amplifier provides awesome control and extraordinary transient response.

One of this subwoofer's best features is the vast array of connectivity options, allowing you to hook it up with any equipment without needing a special adapter. On top of that, with its four-position selectable crossover, it can adapt to many kinds of studio monitors.

As an update to the previous generations, the KRK S8.4 comes with improved low-frequency extension and enhanced porting. It also has a stronger inverted dust cap and a lower profile design for placement flexibility.

Pros
  • Strong design with reinforced MDF enclosure to ensure maximum durability, with a removable grille for improved aesthetics.
  • Front-firing port, providing low-frequency extension.
  • Offering a range of input/output options, including XLR, ¼-inch TRS, and RCA connections for extra flexibility connecting to different audio sources.
Cons
  • The footswitch for hands-free operation of some features isn’t included, adding to the overall cost.
  • The removable grille may muffle the sound a bit.
  • It can be a little expensive compared with other competing models, especially with the optional add-ons.

The Mackie CR range has always provided up-to-bar studio setup equipment, and the Mackie CR8S-XBT is no exception. This powerful subwoofer comes equipped with an 8-inch driver and a 200-watt amplifier, bringing depth to the lowest of tones.

Moreover, a standout feature in the Mackie CR8S-XBT is the built-in Bluetooth connectivity. It allows you to stream music from your device to any connected speakers wirelessly. Additionally, the subwoofer comes with a CRDV desktop remote for easier control.

That said, the sleek design of the Mackie CR8S-XBT is a joy to the eye, pairing perfectly with CR series monitors. Plus, the rear panel features various inputs and outputs, including ¼-inch TRS and RCA connectors.

Pros
  • An 8-inch driver with 200 watts of power provides a low-frequency response, enhancing the overall music-listening experience.
  • Variable crossover and polarity control to finetune sound to your preferences.
  • Built-in Bluetooth connectivity option for wireless streaming, offering convenience and flexibility.
Cons
  • For an 8-inch driver, the subwoofer size is somehow large, which may not be the best thing for smaller studio setups.
  • Depending on the setup and room acoustics, the performance might vary.
  • While it pairs well with Mackie CR monitors, compatibility with other brands may differ.
5
PreSonus Eris Sub 8 8-Inch Powered Studio Subwoofer
Lowest Price

PreSonus Eris Sub 8 8-Inch Powered Studio Subwoofer

  • 8-inch low-frequency driver
  • 200 watt Class AB amplifier
  • Multiple input and output options

The PreSonus Eris Sub 8 is an 8-inch powered studio subwoofer designed to provide accurate and extended low-frequency response. Whether in a studio or home audio setup, this equipment can be a valuable addition.

The marvelous subwoofer features a Class AB amplifier with 200 watts of power. It ensures the highest quality possible, amplifying low frequencies. Moreover, the PreSonus Eris Sub 8 offers a variable crossover frequency control, allowing for seamless integration with studio monitors.

Furthermore, the subwoofer includes great acoustic tuning control for best optimization. As for the build, the PreSonus Eris Sub 8 has a sturdy MDF cabinet with a front-firing bass port for minimum resonance and vibrations.

Pros
  • For such an affordable price (below $200), it provides superb value for money.
  • The compact and sleek design size makes it perfect for all kinds of audio setups.
  • Despite the size, it provides clear and powerful low-frequency responses.
Cons
  • Integration with studio monitors of a different brand may require prior testing and adjustments for optimal results.
  • Due to its small size, it may perform less in large spaces or more professional applications.
  • The subwoofer’s effectiveness can be dependent on your room’s size and acoustics.

Related Article: The Top 5 Best Studio Monitor Stands Of 2024


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the ideal subwoofer size for my studio?

The size of the subwoofer you should go for depends on how large the room is and the desired low-frequency extension. If you have a large studio, you may benefit from subwoofer models that are 12 inches or larger.

What additional room treatment do I need when using a subwoofer?

Using a subwoofer, you may need to add bass traps to absorb low-frequency sounds. On top of that, acoustic panels and diffusers are great for controlling reflections as well as maintaining balanced acoustics.

What does a crossover frequency control on a subwoofer do?

It allows you to set the point where the subwoofer takes over reproducing low-frequency sounds from the main monitors for a seamless transition.

Are subwoofers with Bluetooth connectivity good for studio setups?

While it’s a fantastic feature, Bluetooth may not be practical for studio setups. That’s why wired connections are typically preferred.

How can I minimize vibrations and resonance from a studio subwoofer?

Consider placing the subwoofer on isolation pads or stands. Plus, ensure the subwoofer is properly secured in place to prevent it from moving during operation.

Product Recap

Choosing the right subwoofer can be a tough task, especially if you don’t have the budget or time to do some testing. To make this task easier for you, we reviewed five of the best studio subwoofers.

The JBL LSR310S subwoofer represents our top pick, combining power and precision. As for the Yamaha HS8S, it takes the runner-up spot, providing spectacular performance. Lastly, if you’re on a tight budget, the PreSonus Eris Sub 8 is a fantastic choice.

If you found this guide helpful, please consider subscribing to our blog for more music production tips, product reviews, and buying guides. Also, you can support new content by contributing to our tip jar.

"Some of the links within this article are affiliate links. These links are from various companies such as Amazon. This means if you click on any of these links and purchase the item or service, I will receive an affiliate commission. This is at no cost to you and the money gets invested back into Audio Sorcerer LLC."

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