Mobility Comes First
A 12-inch subwoofer keeps dimensions and weight manageable and is particularly useful in combination with compact 8 or 10-inch tops.
Musikhaus Korn Buying Guide
How to Choose the Right Subwoofer
12, 15 or 18 inch? Active or passive? One subwoofer or two? Choosing the right PA subwoofer is not simply a matter of wattage and woofer size. Music style, low-frequency extension, maximum output, transport, main speakers, DSP and event size all need to work together.
12, 15 & 18 inch explained
DJ, band & mobile PA
Placement & crossover considered
The fastest route to the right bass system
Which Subwoofer Do You Really Need?
Start with the application. A compact singer-songwriter setup places very different demands on the low-frequency system than an electronic DJ night or a live band with kick drum and bass guitar.
Balance Transport and Bass
15 inches is a versatile middle ground for mobile DJs, bands, weddings and events when low-frequency extension, output and transportability all matter.
Maximise Deep-Bass Reserve
For dance music, electronic genres, larger dance floors and powerful live sound reinforcement, an 18-inch system is often the obvious starting point.
Expand a Passive System
If you already operate a passive PA, a suitable passive subwoofer can be a sensible extension. Amplifier output, impedance and filtering must be matched correctly.
The most important rule: a larger woofer does not automatically make a better subwoofer. Compare low-frequency extension, maximum sound pressure level, DSP, enclosure construction, weight and compatibility with your main speakers.
Understand woofer size correctly
12, 15 or 18 Inch for a PA Subwoofer?
Woofer size influences cabinet dimensions and the potential low-frequency performance, but it is only one part of the complete subwoofer design.
| Size | Typical Strength | Suitable Application | What to Check |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Inch | Compact and easy to transport | Speech + music, acoustic acts, small mobile PA | Check low-frequency extension and maximum SPL |
| 15 Inch | Good balance between output and cabinet size | DJ, band, wedding and all-round PA | Compare weight and system compatibility |
| 18 Inch | High deep-bass and output reserve | Dance, club and larger band/event systems | Plan transport volume and weight |
There is no rigid inch rule: a high-quality 15-inch subwoofer can outperform a simpler 18-inch model in individual criteria. The data sheet and the complete system are more important than woofer diameter alone.
Do not compare wattage alone
Six Values Determine the Right Subwoofer
A useful comparison looks at the entire low-frequency system, not just amplifier power and woofer diameter.
How Deep Does It Play?
The deeper a subwoofer can reproduce frequencies cleanly and under control, the more noticeable the lowest frequencies of modern electronic music can become.
Maximum SPL
Maximum sound pressure level describes practical output reserve more meaningfully than looking only at an isolated amplifier wattage figure.
RMS, Peak and Limiter
Power ratings need to be interpreted in context. DSP and limiters protect modern active systems and influence their usable performance.
DSP and Crossover
Adjustable crossover frequencies, delay, polarity and presets make it easier to connect a subwoofer cleanly to the main loudspeakers.
Cabinet and Weight
Plywood, MDF and other cabinet constructions influence transport and robustness. For mobile use, handles and castors can be nearly as important as performance specifications.
Choose the Right Partner for Your Tops
The best subwoofer is one that integrates cleanly with your main speakers and takes over their low-frequency duties in a useful and controlled way.
What Does Crossover Frequency Mean?
The crossover frequency determines where the subwoofer and main speakers divide their work. Typical PA systems may offer settings around 80, 100 or 120 Hz.
Why Must Both Be Adjusted Together?
Incorrect overlap can make upper bass unnecessarily strong or create an audible gap. Manufacturer presets or correctly matched high-pass and low-pass filters provide a good starting point.
Phase, Polarity and Delay
If the subwoofer and tops arrive at the listener at an unfavourable time relationship, frequencies can partially cancel. Polarity, delay and placement therefore need to be considered as part of the complete setup.
Two system concepts
Active or Passive Subwoofer?
Particularly Straightforward for Mobile PA Systems
An active subwoofer already contains its power amplifier. Many models additionally integrate a crossover, DSP, limiter, polarity switching and system presets.
- No external PA power amplifier required
- Amplification is matched to the driver
- Easy expansion of active top speakers
- Mains power is required at the subwoofer
For Centrally Amplified Systems
A passive subwoofer requires an external power amplifier. Power handling, impedance and frequency separation must be compatible with the amplifier and the rest of the loudspeaker system.
- Amplification can be located centrally in a rack
- No dedicated mains connection at the subwoofer
- Amplifier and cabinet can be replaced separately
- More planning is required for amplification and processing
Scale the bass system correctly
One or Two Subwoofers?
A second subwoofer is not only interesting because it can provide more bass. It also creates additional system reserve and enables different placement concepts.
One Subwoofer
Ideal for compact 2.1 systems, smaller bands and mobile DJs. Transport and cabling remain straightforward.
Two Subwoofers
More cone area and greater performance reserve are particularly useful for dance floors, live bass and larger events.
Cardioid Setup
Compatible systems can combine several subwoofers so that bass behind the array is reduced. This can help reduce low-frequency energy on stage and behind the system.
The room strongly influences bass
How to Position a Subwoofer Correctly
- Start with one practical position: place the subwoofer where it can stand securely and as close as reasonably possible to the rest of the PA system.
- Do not underestimate the room: walls, corners and the floor influence low-frequency output. More bass in one location does not automatically mean more even bass throughout the audience.
- Do not automatically choose left and right: placing two separate subs below the two tops looks logical, but can create complex interference patterns in a room.
- Use available presets: manufacturer presets for tops, crossover or cardioid operation are a useful starting point when the components support them.
Bass distribution depends on placement, room boundaries,
crossover and the number of subwoofers.
27 suitable product examples
Compare PA Subwoofers by Size and System Type
Product images are loaded using the relevant Musikhaus Korn item number. Technical specifications and the current scope of delivery can be found on each product page.
12 Inch · 6 Products
12-Inch Subwoofers for Compact Mobile Setups
Compact bass systems for small mobile PAs where dimensions and transportability are particularly important.
15 Inch · 8 Products
15-Inch Subwoofers as a Versatile All-Round Class
A popular compromise between low-frequency output, cabinet dimensions and transport for DJs, bands and events.
DSP
RCF
SUB 15-AX
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DJ
Pioneer DJ
XPRS 1152S
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15 Inch
dB Technologies
SUB 615
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15 Inch
Yamaha
DXS 15 MKIII
View Product
Portable
HK Audio
PORTABLE SUB 115 A
View Product
Mobile
Mackie
Thump15Sv4
View Product
DSP
Electro-Voice
EKX-15SP
View Product
Bass Reflex
LD Systems
ICOA SUB 15 A
View Product
18 Inch · 8 Products
18-Inch Subwoofers for DJs, Bands and Larger Events
Larger bass systems for applications where deep-bass potential, output reserve and powerful music reproduction are particularly important.
18 Inch
Pioneer DJ
XPRS 1182ST
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18 Inch
ALTO
Professional TS18S
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18 Inch
ALTO
TX 18S
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DSP
RCF
SUB 18-AX
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18 Inch
Yamaha
DXS 18 MKIII
View Product
Portable
HK Audio
PORTABLE SUB 118 A
View Product
18 Inch
Mackie
Thump18Sv4
View Product
DSP
JBL
EON718S
View Product
Passive · 5 Products
Passive Subwoofers for Systems with External Amplification
Passive bass cabinets for systems in which amplification and signal processing are planned separately.
Manufacturer worlds
Discover PA Subwoofers by Brand
Compare complete loudspeaker series, compatible top speakers, matching subwoofers and system accessories directly within the manufacturer ranges.
Avoid bass problems
The Most Common Mistakes When Choosing a Subwoofer
Buying Only by Wattage
Maximum SPL, low-frequency extension, cabinet construction and DSP are just as important for the result.
Automatically Choosing 18 Inch
A large subwoofer offers little advantage if its weight and transport dimensions make your mobile application unnecessarily difficult.
Ignoring the Crossover
Tops and subwoofers should complement one another rather than reproduce the same bass range without controlled filtering.
Setting the Subwoofer Too Loud
More bass is not automatically better. The subwoofer should extend the system instead of masking the complete mix.
Not Testing Placement
Even a relatively small change in position can noticeably alter bass distribution in the room.
Forgetting Transport
With heavy 18-inch systems, castors, handles, protective covers and the available vehicle space belong in the buying decision.
Plan the complete loudspeaker system
Related Topics Around PA Systems and Low Bass
Active Speakers
Select suitable top speakers for an active 2.1 or 2.2 PA system.
PA & Sound Reinforcement
Plan mixers, tops, subwoofers, monitors, power amplifiers and accessories together.
Studio Subwoofers
Studio monitoring places different demands on output, room acoustics and accurate low-frequency reproduction.
Frequently asked questions
Answers About Choosing the Right Subwoofer Size
Which subwoofer do I need as a DJ?
For small mobile systems, a 12 or 15-inch subwoofer can be sufficient. For electronic dance music and larger areas, a capable 18-inch model generally offers more potential deep-bass reserve.
Is a 15 or 18-inch subwoofer better?
A 15-inch model is often lighter and more compact, while an 18-inch design can offer greater deep-bass potential depending on its construction. Frequency range, maximum SPL and total weight remain decisive.
Is a 12-inch subwoofer enough?
A good 12-inch model can be a very sensible choice for compact PA systems, smaller events and moderate sound levels. The requirements increase significantly for large dance floors.
Do I need one or two subwoofers?
One subwoofer is sufficient for many smaller 2.1 systems. Two subs create additional performance reserve and enable more flexible bass and cardioid placement configurations.
How many watts should a PA subwoofer have?
A fixed wattage recommendation is not very meaningful. Compare maximum sound pressure level, frequency range, limiter behaviour, efficiency and the intended application as well.
Which crossover frequency should I use?
This depends on the subwoofer and main speakers. Values around 80, 100 or 120 Hz are common in PA systems. Manufacturer presets provide a useful starting point where available.
Can I combine subwoofers and tops from different manufacturers?
Yes, provided signal levels, crossover settings and performance characteristics work together. Components from the same series often provide matching presets and can simplify system setup.
What does cardioid mean for a subwoofer?
Several appropriately controlled subwoofers can concentrate more low-frequency energy towards the front while reducing radiation behind the array.
Where should I place the subwoofer on stage?
The optimum position depends on the room and the number of subwoofers. Test the bass distribution and use suitable delay or cardioid presets on professional systems where available.
Do I need a subwoofer for speech?
Usually not. For speech-only applications, intelligibility and audience coverage are more important. A subwoofer becomes particularly useful for music, kick drum, bass guitar and dance events.
Tops and subwoofer must work together
Still Unsure Between 12, 15 and 18 Inch?
For larger PA systems, it is worth considering the tops, subwoofers, DSP, event size and transport as one complete system rather than choosing the bass cabinet in isolation.
Bass as part of the complete system
How to Choose the Right Subwoofer | Musikhaus Korn
Choose your subwoofer first according to the application and the low-frequency foundation you need. 12-inch systems keep mobile PA setups compact, 15-inch subwoofers provide a versatile middle ground and 18-inch models often offer the greatest reserves for dance music, DJs and live sound.
Size alone does not determine performance. Frequency response, maximum sound pressure level, DSP, crossover design, cabinet construction and the interaction with your main speakers are just as important. A high-quality smaller subwoofer may therefore be the better choice for a particular application than a larger model selected only by woofer diameter.
For an uncomplicated mobile PA system, an active subwoofer is generally the most direct solution because amplification and, depending on the model, signal processing are already integrated. With a passive PA, the amplifier, impedance and signal processing must instead be dimensioned appropriately.
If you expect your system to grow in the future, also check whether a second subwoofer and directional bass configurations can be integrated sensibly. Planning the complete system from the start makes it easier to coordinate tops, bass, DSP, transport and the required event size.
More buying guides
Plan PA, Stage, DJ and Studio Equipment as Complete Systems
More decision guides covering speakers, mixers, microphones, monitoring and complete setups can be found in the central Musikhaus Korn guide.