Equipment plays a pivotal role in deciding the success of a gig for DJs. Preparing a good club mix for the audience but not being able to impress them because of the lack of good equipment is always disappointing for a DJ. One crucial piece of gear for DJs is a powered subwoofer. Thus, in this article, we shall tell you which is the best-powered subwoofer for a DJ.
Types Of Subwoofers
Subwoofers are simple devices that are meant to reproduce sounds with low frequencies. Since it is difficult to create an impact with low-pitch sound, DJs need subwoofers during a performance. Subwoofers are of two types:
- Passive subwoofers need external energy to amplify feeble soundtracks. Thus, you need to connect these subwoofers to external amplifiers and AV receivers to increase the amplitude of the sound and refine it to remove distortions.
- Powered subwoofers or active subwoofers are modern variants in which an amplifier and speaker are enclosed within a single unit. Thus, you do not need to supply external power to these subwoofers for getting an amplified output. However, connecting to the mains supply can be useful if the DJ wants the intensity to be very high.
Top 13 Best Powered Subwoofers For DJ 2022
1. Electro-Voice EKX18SP Subwoofer
The Electro-Voice EKX18SP 18″ 1300 Watt Powered Subwoofer can be a good choice when looking for a high-performance subwoofer for DJing. It is a powered subwoofer that runs on a reliable and safe 1300 Watt digital power. The subwoofer is produced by Electro-Voice, which is one of the most trusted brands in this domain.
The subwoofer contains a highly efficient power amplifier that can increase the strength of the input power by 1500 watts. The model contains a Class D power amplifier that requires less maintenance and lasts longer. The power amplifier has been smoothly integrated with the Quick Smart DSP feature.
Electro-Voice manufactures not only the complete unit but also several accessories. One of these accessories is the high-sensitivity transducer. The transducer is used in this powered subwoofer. It helps in delivering output with a 134-decibel peak sound. The transducers are coupled with titanium compressors, which are responsible for their quality performance.
The thermal management system of the powered subwoofer helps in controlling the high-power input. The amplifier incorporates a variable speed fan that is controlled with several multiple onboard sensors. The system not just keeps the temperature under control, but it also helps in ensuring better performance, making the unit more reliable and safe.
It is a high-quality model and is easy to use. The setup can be done by a DJ using four presets. Advanced settings like crossovers, equalizers, store, and recoil options, along with visual monitoring of limiter status, are some of the most sought-after features when one is looking for a powered subwoofer. You get all these in a single unit if you buy the Electro-Voice EKX18SP 18″ 1300 Watt Powered Subwoofer.
2. QSC KS112 Active 12″ Subwoofer
QSC KS112 Active 12″ Subwoofer is another good option if you are searching for an efficiently powered subwoofer. It is a very compact subwoofer that has a professional appearance. The structure of the subwoofer facilitates its easy installation and portability when needed for DJing in outdoor events.
Besides being highly portable, the QSC KS112 Active 12″ Subwoofer is 12-inches long and has a bandpass design. As it is a powered subwoofer, the unit delivers an impressive 2000 Watt peak power. Just like the previous product on this list, this subwoofer too has special class D amplifiers that are instrumental in delivering high-power outputs.
The subwoofer comes with a special cabinet. The cabinet is made with premium raw materials that make it highly durable. Besides providing protection, the cabinet also houses low noise casters. These casters improve sound quality by refining the output. If casters are not good, noise disturbance levels increase significantly.
To ensure that all connections are safe, the QSC KS112 Active 12″ Subwoofer also contains a couple of M 20 threaded poles. These threaded poles act as receptacles that help form a safe pathway between the power circuit and the speakers. A wobble-free connection ensures that a streamlined flow of electric power is maintained consistently.
The subwoofer also has a special intrinsic correction feature. The feature helps in fine-tuning of sound as per the requirements of the DJ. For better output, loudspeaker management features are also present in this powered subwoofer. You can also buy a security cover for the subwoofer that protects its controls from any tampering.
3. Electro-Voice EKX18SP 18 Subwoofer
Electro-Voice EKX18SP 18″ 1800 Watt Powered Subwoofer is a powerful product that you can buy at very affordable prices. This subwoofer can be used in multiple settings with portable and permanent applications. While its size and power output are large, it weighs only 11 pounds. It is one of the best-powered subwoofers for DJs
The best feature of this powered subwoofer is that you can control several presets with a single knob. The DJ can lay his hands on multiple features with a single knob DSP. Performance style, space, and locations can be modified using this knob. The number of combinations and configurations in which you can use this powered subwoofer is impressive.
When you are using amplifiers and speakers, your transducers must optimize the output consistently. This powered subwoofer ensures that the transducer linearity is maintained for long periods. Moreover, the subwoofer also uses advanced limiter algorithms essential for good control over the peak sound intensity.
The power circuits that work within this subwoofer are contained in an enclosure. This enclosure is made up of birch plywood. Birch plywood is a sturdy material that protects the circuit and provides room for enough ventilation. The finishing of this cabinet is done with an EV coat. It is one of the best cabinets that you can find in the market.
A specialized mechanism comprising an LCD screen and several different circuits helps in optimizing the loudspeaker system performance. Besides the LCD screen, a front LED is used to indicate the peak power limit. Therefore, it is a great powered subwoofer that takes care of both performance and safety.
4. QSC KS118 Direct Radiating 18″ Subwoofer
Many experts suggest that the QSC KS118 Direct Radiating 18″ Subwoofer is a superior product, specially meant for DJs who perform regularly. The quality of this powered subwoofer is so good that DJ’s have been using it for years altogether, with no complaints whatsoever.
DJ’s who perform at several different venues need a subwoofer that is portable and provides good quality mobile entertainment. This subwoofer has a very high output and transmits great low-frequency tones. Moreover, the AV quality that you get from the QSC KS118 Direct Radiating 18″ Subwoofer is ideal for clubs and lounges.
The subwoofer contains a direct radiating driver that is supported by a class D amplifier. The amplifier increases the peak power up to 3600 Watts. The apparatus enables this powered subwoofer to reproduce low-frequency musical sounds dynamically. It is an important feature for the DJs who like to remix their tracks in the middle of a live performance.
The circuit also has an on-board DSP unit. The unit helps in optimizing the sound quality and protects the system performance too. Moreover, the onboard DSP of the QSC KS118 Direct Radiating 18″ Subwoofer performs advanced functions like arranging two different soundtracks in a cardioid manner.
Overall, it is a good product; portable and has an elegant appearance. Moreover, it is great for those DJ’s who wish to use very low-frequency sound segments for preparing their final mix.
5. JBL Professional SRX828SP Subwoofer System
JBL Professional SRX828SP Portable Dual Self-Powered Subwoofer System, 18-Inch is a popular subwoofer manufactured by acoustic giant JBL. Like other JBL products, this one comes with a promise of good quality and longevity. The subwoofer is being used by professionals involved in DJing, musical concerts, events, etc.
It has an impressive maximum power output of 4000 watts. The JBL Professional SRX828SP Portable Dual Self-Powered Subwoofer System releases refined audio output of 120 Hz at consistent rates. The consistency ensures that the audio clarity is high at all points. It has been built with the best methodology and tools to deliver such a performance.
As stated before, many audio professionals across the globe speak highly of the JBL Professional SRX828SP Portable Dual Self-Powered Subwoofer System. They suggest that the professional audio output of this subwoofer is better than what they expected. Besides, it is a strong machine that is built to last long, even with long hours of continuous usage.
JBLs elite transducer technology is used effectively in this powered subwoofer. The Differential Drive Technology, JBLs’ patented audio technique, helps in refining the audio such that it has minimal distortions and prolonged low-frequency response.
6. Behringer Eurolive B1200D-PRO
The next product on our list is the Behringer Eurolive B1200D-PRO. The elite principles of German engineering, which are the hallmark of Behringer products, are responsible for the sublime performance of this powered subwoofer unit. It is a simple floor standing variant that occupies very little space.
The maximum power output of the Behringer Eurolive B1200D-PRO is not as high as the other products that we have discussed so far. It has a peak output of 500 Watts only. While it is an area of concern for many, others are convinced that it is among the best subwoofers, owing to its precise performance.
The Behringer Eurolive B1200D-PRO contains a very highly rated Class-D amplifier. Although the power amplification is not very large, the consistency of the output sound with amplified intensity is remarkable. The amplifier offers good thermal excursion and clip limit protection features.
When you are using a full-range sound speaker, you require filtering of sounds. This powered subwoofer is capable of providing a high-pass filtered output. It can do so because of the active steroids crossover feature that works as a built-in mechanism in the unit. The punch and impact that the final sound will possess are simply great.
Another attractive feature of the Behringer Eurolive B1200D-PRO is the switchable Bass Boost. Moreover, the tunable phase switch also works very well and is responsible for the outstanding low-frequency performance of this subwoofer. Overall, if you perform for smaller crowds and do not require a very high peak output power, you can consider buying this product.
7. Rockville New RBG12S Subwoofer
Rockville New RBG12S Bass Gig 1400 Watt Active Powered PA Subwoofer DJ/Pro, 12 inches is another good option if you are searching for a good powered subwoofer. The frequency response of this powered subwoofer lies between 28 Hertz and 200 Hertz. It means that you get a refined low-frequency output and a sharp high-frequency output from the same woofer.
The subwoofer has been rated highly by experts and audio professionals. Some call it the best DJ subwoofer. Moreover, the subwoofer helps in getting in output with a peak sound intensity of 115 decibels. Besides the peak value, it is capable of producing sounds at 110 decibels continuously. These characteristics are beneficial for DJs and other audio professionals, such that they can modify the sound intensity as per the requirements.
Limiter circuits are crucial for the optimum functioning of any powered subwoofer. These circuits help in identifying whether the audio output is getting overdriven. In this case, the circuit limits the peak intensity, which prevents any kind of distortion in the Final Mix. These limiter circuits also have an LED attached to them. The LED indicates the levels of output power at different intervals.
The subwoofer has multiple input jacks. These input jacks help in arranging the input cables in a parallel connection. Engineers and audio technicians suggest that a parallel arrangement of input channels is always a safer option while using a subwoofer. Along with these input jacks, the subwoofer also has a balanced output jack.
Polarity control using threaded poles is another characteristic feature of this powered subwoofer unit. The polarity control feature helps create a safe pathway for electric charge to flow from the power circuit to the output channel. Moreover, the crossover feature that performs consistently between frequencies of 40 and 150 Hz is essential for better audio quality.
8. Sound Town METIS Series DJ Subwoofer
Sound Town METIS Series 1400 Watts 12” Powered PA DJ Subwoofer with 3” Voice Coil (METIS-12SPW) is a premium device manufactured by Sound Town. The size of this powered subwoofer unit is ideal for carrying it to different venues. Moreover, with a 12-inch size and good mechanisms for mobility, it is one of the most preferred subwoofers by professional DJs.
A live DJ performance is more about creating an enjoyable atmosphere rather than making the people love your creative mix. For this purpose, the tracks that the DJ prepares must be supplemented with effects from the audio devices. The Sound Town METIS Series 1400 Watts 12” Powered PA DJ Subwoofer with 3” Voice Coil (METIS-12SPW) helps in delivering a punchy output that instantly draws attention.
The massive bass is the main attraction of this subwoofer. The solid bass reinforces the sound to provide an immersive experience to the audience. Club mixes and other DJ tracks always sound better if the bass is powerful.
The sound quality is good because of the consistent linearity that the subwoofer can maintain in the output. Often, the subwoofers which amplify the output are unable to control the speaker cone. Hence, beyond a point, the output sounds distorted. To prevent this, the Sound Town METIS Series 1400 Watts 12” Powered PA DJ Subwoofer with 3” Voice Coil (METIS-12SPW) makes use of a mechanism that dampens the amplified sound at the right time.
It is a rugged subwoofer that lasts long and is meant for long hours of use. Transportation often causes damage to equipment. However, the heavy-duty metal grille helps in protecting the subwoofer and makes it durable. For ease of transportation, the Sound Town METIS Series 1400 Watts 12” Powered PA DJ Subwoofer with 3” Voice Coil (METIS-12SPW) comes with two recessed handles, with which it can easily be lifted or dragged.
9. Electro-Voice ZXA1SUB 12″ Subwoofer
Electro-Voice ZXA1SUB 12″ Compact Powered Subwoofer is another fine product coming from the factories of Electro-Voice. It is one of the most stylish powered subwoofers that you will see in the market today. Enclosed within a sturdy metallic cabinet, the polishing and the finish on the outside is remarkable. The use of high-quality textured paint makes it appear even more elegant.
Just like other good powered subwoofers that we have discussed till now, this one also has class-D amplifiers that make the low-frequency sound output reach its peak value. The amplifier itself is very light and does not require a high power input to function consistently. Hence, heating issues in the complete circuit are minimal.
Along with sleek styling and an elegant look, the quality of the performance offered by the Electro-Voice ZXA1SUB 12″ Compact Powered Subwoofer is impressive. For live performances, it is probably the best-powered subwoofer. It is because when a DJ performs live, he or she needs to jump between high, mid, and low frequencies very often—getting the right sound quality after so much fiddling is an essential requirement. This powered subwoofer performs this task very well.
10. PRORECK PR18 Subwoofer
The SVS SB-3000 subwoofer speaker is no joke. It’s pretty expensive, so let’s make that clear from the very beginning. If you opt for it, you’ll get pure quality but will also spend some 1,000 bucks for it. If that last piece of information wasn’t too much for you, let’s see what you’d be getting.
The first thing you’ll notice about the SVS SB-3000 is the appearance. It has a 13” driver, which basically comprises the whole cabinet. There is no “blank” space on the body, and I think that’s wonderful. Also, it’s a 13-inch driver, not 12, not 10. Now that will give you some high sound quality.
Even though it’s extremely powerful, it’s not heavy at all, and a healthy person shouldn’t have a problem lifting it and moving it around the room. But in addition to the design, the SB-3000 packs some cool features, too.
There is a set of physical knobs that directly control the sound output of the subwoofer. Of course, one of them is the volume knob which is no surprise. Another knob controls the crossover point, which means that you fade a song in and out, manually.
SVS doesn’t stop there. You can also control the EQ, meaning that you can cut some vocals or high frequency and increase the lows, i.e. bass. Of course, you can do this the other way around too, if you wish.
To show you how powerful the SVS SB-3000 is, let’s just say it has 800 watts of continuous power while the peak power can go all the way up to 2,500 watts. That will for sure make your walls shake, without a doubt.
The SVS SB-3000 might damage your bank account by a grand, but its performance is worth at least twice that.
11. Mr. Dj PRO-SUB15BT Self-Powered Subwoofer
The Mr. Dj PRO-SUB15BT 15-Inch 5400W max Bluetooth Self-Powered Subwoofer (PROSUB15BT) is another good option for you. This power unit is just 15 inches in size, but it produces an output that beats all other subwoofers in terms of peak power. It produces an output with maximum intensity up to 5400 W, which is more than enough for a concert hall.
Another great advantage of using this powered subwoofer unit is the variety of inputs you can feed into. You can use your SD card, Aux cables, Bluetooth, USB cables, etc., and pair any device with the subwoofer. The Mr. Dj PRO-SUB15BT 15-Inch 5400W max Bluetooth Self-Powered Subwoofer (PROSUB15BT) has a digital control display. It helps you select whichever track you want to play using this subwoofer after connecting your device.
This powered subwoofer allows you to get a balanced XLR input and output. Getting balanced outputs consistently is a great feature because the prevalence of obtaining distorted audios from woofers is usually very high. The subwoofer also has a dedicated output channel to transmit the output into any other passive speaker with better acoustic qualities.
Mr. Dj PRO-SUB15BT 15-Inch 5400W max Bluetooth Self-Powered Subwoofer (PROSUB15BT) is in demand these days. It has an elegant and professional look and works well for both private and professional use. It has a class D amplifier that increases the intensity of audio signals having frequencies as low as 40 Hertz.
Overall, it has been one of the best performers in 2022 in the powered subwoofers category. Professional DJs have positive reviews about it, and some even call it the best DJ subwoofer. Some people have concerns over the pricing of this unit. However, the sales of the Mr. Dj PRO-SUB15BT 15-Inch 5400W max Bluetooth Self-Powered Subwoofer (PROSUB15BT) has been tremendously high.
12. Big America H-100II
The Big America H-100II subwoofer speaker is a big, bold, and rugged device made of quality materials which is visible the first time you lay your eyes on it. The cool thing about it is that it costs just under $300, which is pretty cool for such a speaker.
Besides the rugged design that combines metal and wood, the Big America H-100II subwoofer has cool features, too. You will find the phase switch to be a great addition to the sound quality of your speaker, as it will increase the sensitivity, which makes it louder than other options.
Some find this unimportant, but I’m very fond of the detachable cable. This will add a lot to your flexibility, and you don’t have to worry about replacing or fixing the whole set if your jack goes bad. Simply put, having a detachable cable means more freedom.
When it comes to bass response, the H-100II is a much better performer for low-end frequencies, though its tweaking capacities are not as good. However, if you’re mostly using the subwoofer for low frequencies, which is only logical, you won’t have a problem.
What I personally don’t like about this subwoofer speaker is that it’s rear-ported. The port makes the air inside the cabinet react with the sound volume coming from the outside. This affects the response and placing this one to face the wall will do you no good, unlike other subwoofers.
On the plus side, this speaker is very powerful. It has a 12” diameter meaning it handles a lot of air, making it super loud.
13. QSC KLA181 18” Subwoofer
QSC KLA181 18” 1000-Watt Active Line Array System Subwoofer is last on our list of the best-powered subwoofers for DJs, but it certainly gives tough competition to all other subwoofers that we have discussed so far. This unit is the flagship model of the company, and its power amp module works on a stable 1000-watt configuration.
It has a unique mode that saves energy when the subwoofer is not in use. The auto standby feature of the QSC KLA181 18” 1000-Watt Active Line Array System Subwoofer Automatically becomes active when it senses a phase of inactivity that lasts more than 5 minutes. Moreover, once the activity resumes, it is capable of working at the same power levels as it was working before, without any lag.
Overall the design, deployment flexibility, and quality of sound output make it a splendid product.
Common Problems With Powered Subwoofers
While powered subwoofers reduce your expenditure on equipment and solve your woes of carrying a lot of bulk to gigs, they certainly have some limitations too. Powered subwoofers usually have amplifiers that are not as competent as an external amplifier. Thus, the sound quality is not as good as it can be.
Secondly, unless the powered subwoofer has a special mechanism for it, the boom produced by their speakers is not powerful. It is because the drivers installed in these subwoofers are small.
If the subwoofer is underpowered, the output sound will not have the strength and depth you desire. Sometimes the limiter circuits clip the output very extensively. It makes the sound lose fine details and it may also get distorted.
Best Powered Subwoofers – Conclusion
So, in this article, we helped you to find the best-powered subwoofer for a DJ. DJing not just depends on the mix that a DJ creates with the available tracks, but also on how the final mix is presented. For a good experience, the output quality of the speakers and the amplifiers must be good. When buying a powered subwoofer, the performance of both these components needs to be studied carefully.
Powered subwoofers can be used for various purposes. You can use them for your home theater, your car, and your professional audio requirements. However, the power output of the subwoofer needs to be ideal for the purpose for which you are using it. Once you have found the best subwoofer per your needs, it will serve as a great accessory. For DJs, it will act as a game-changer that will improve the quality of their performance manifold.
FAQs on Powered Subwoofers
Q1. What Does Active Subwoofer Mean?
Active subwoofers or powered subwoofers are specialized audio units that house a speaker and an amplifier in a single enclosure. It simply means that an active subwoofer has a separate power source. Moreover, it is easy to set up an active subwoofer, and a single subwoofer arrangement is best suited for DJs.
Q2. Should I Get A Powered Subwoofer?
Powered subwoofers are very crucial for modern DJs who perform at different venues, some of which do not have good equipment. Both amplifier and speaker are present inside the powered subwoofer. Thus, a powered subwoofer helps you obtain optimal performance without buying a separate amplifier and speaker.
Q3. How Do You Use A Powered Subwoofer?
Powered subwoofers are easy to arrange and set up. You simply need to identify the preamplifier output of the subwoofer. Now, connect a coaxial cable that transfers the output to a separate receiver directly. Connect the subwoofer to a direct supply source. Although the amplifier can make it work without external power, an input supply makes the subwoofer work more efficiently.
Q4. Can I Use A Car Subwoofer For DJ?
It is not recommended that you use the strong subwoofers of a car for DJing, but it is certainly possible. Subwoofers of a car produce very high-intensity outputs. Professional DJ equipment does not require such intensities, and it is probably not a safe option too. Thus, think twice before you use a car subwoofer for DJing.
Q5. What Is The Best-Powered Subwoofer For DJs In 2022?
We have discussed several powered subwoofers that work perfectly for DJs. While the choice of subwoofers depends on the venue and the requirements of the DJ, some varieties have shown to perform outstandingly well. Among these are the Electro-Voice EKX-18SP, the QSC KS112, the Behringer Eurolive B1200D-PRO, and the Electro-Voice ETX-18SP.
Q6. What Is The Best Subwoofer For Deep Bass?
Bass power of the speakers is a crucial determinant of the final audio quality. As powered subwoofers enclose a speaker and an amplifier, the bass parameters of the subwoofer should be checked before buying. Some powered subwoofers like the MTX Audio Terminator TNE212D Dual 12″ Subwoofer, the JL Audio 10TW3-D4 10″ Shallow Mount Subwoofer, and the Rockford Fosgate P300-12 Subwoofer are known to reinforce the sound with very deep bass.