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Willie Greer - July 22, 2021
Achieving low-frequency tones can be especially tricky when you’re gearing up to perform in a live audio setting. Lucky for you, the best powered subwoofers for live sound systems are readily available in the market. With that being said, our resident audiophiles ran a series of sound tests on several products avoid waste of your time and money on substandard products.
EKX18SP
- Efficient thermal management
- 1300W reliable digital power
- Plywood construction
- Minimized bass build-up
- EVCoat finish
B1200D-PRO
- Lightweight package
- Signal & Power Monitor LEDs
- Accurate & heart-pounding bass
- Active stereo crossover integration
- Powerful Class-D amplifier
IRX115S-NA
- Compact & sturdy structure
- Ergonomic handles
- MDF wood construction
- Low-frequency response
- Steel grille protection
Reviews of the Best Powered
Subwoofers for Live Sound
BEHRINGER B1200D-PRO
Upon conducting evaluations to determine the best powered subwoofer for live sound systems, our specialists came across BEHRINGER B1200D-PRO. Coming from a trusted brand, it’s no surprise how this sub delivers accurate and heart-pounding bass that you’d expect from 500W powered audio equipment.
It’s also energy-efficient and highly compatible with any two-way audio speaker because of its active stereo crossover configurations. Despite the compact structure, its enclosure houses a 12-inch woofer capable of enhancing low tones.
There’s also no need to be wary about overheating as this powered sub has multiple protection features and LED signals for input overloads.
What We Like
- Built-in protection and LED signals
- Features active stereo crossover configurations
- Equipped with Boost Button
- Compact and energy-efficient subwoofer
What We Don’t Like
- May need maintenance
- Moderately expensive
Electro-Voice EKX18SP
If you have an extra budget and you badly need a massive and powerful woofer for onstage music production, then we highly recommend purchasing Electro-Voice EKX18SP. Operating with a 1300W power rating and a master volume control, we’re sure that this massive woofer will tear the roof of any mid-sized event.
There’s no doubt that you’ll get your money’s worth because this sub will surely accompany you for the longest time considering its durable 15mm plywood enclosure and EVCoat finish. And if you’re not familiar with any audio setup, you can rely on its QuickSmart DSP feature for easy configuration and tuning.
What We Like
- Durable Plywood Enclosure and EVCoat finish
- Has a master volume control setting
- Easy to set up and tune with other speakers
What We Don’t Like
- Costly than the rest of the subs
- No built-in low pass filter
JBL Professional IRX115S-NA
While many would argue that the price equates to better quality [1], JBL Professional IRX115S-NA proved to our audio experts that it doesn’t apply to all products. Aside from its budget-friendly price, this 15-inch sub has a durable MDF construction and non-resonant sturdy handles for long-lasting and easy usage.
This sub also reproduces a direct sound and runs at different crossover points for smooth frequency response. And did we mention that it has multiple mounting options for easy setup? Listeners can experience enhanced low-frequency performance thanks to its mechanical fastener technology.
What We Like
- Rugged MDF wood construction
- Diverse crossover points for smooth frequency response
- Has multiple mounting and portability options
What We Don’t Like
- May require regular maintenance
- Must be transported with care
Bose Sub 1 Powered Bass
If an easy installation is what you seek, then Bose Sub 1 Powered Bass is an ideal choice to consider. Add this powerful sub to your speaker system to get a frequency range as low as 40Hz during the entire music production.
Thanks to its compact and sturdy design, it has a small footprint enabling flexible placement. It also has independent sub level controls that allow users to adjust the reproduction of bass sounds according to their preference. On top of that, this sub directs bass sound in front, reducing distortion and feedback.
(No savings to buy a new sub? Well, you can cut cost when you begin making your DIY subwoofer with this simple guide)
What We Like
- Compact and space-saving construction
- Low-frequency range capacity of 40Hz
- Features independent sub level controls
What We Don’t Like
- Needs regular maintenance
- More suitable for small-mid sized events
Powered Subwoofer for Live Sound Buyer’s Guide
Power and Volume
You should know that your sub’s location determines your power and volume needs. While power doesn’t necessarily mean higher volume or better sound quality, keep in mind that the watt rating is a rough estimation of how loud your woofer will play.
Sound Quality and Bass
The best subs don’t necessarily have to make a booming bass sound but must have the ability to attain enough low-frequency range to complete your listening experience.
(Looking for better sound quality? Well, consider installing high-powered subwoofer amps to your audio system, too)
Controls
Most subwoofers have controls that allow mixers to adjust peaks and frequencies to match room-specific audio needs, like Level/Gain knobs that enable direct volume adjustment and low-pass filters control crossover points.
Our Top Pick For a Powered Subwoofer for Live Sound:
BEHRINGER B1200D-PRO
Selecting the best powered subwoofer for live sound systems involves a wise investment of money and time, which is why our audio experts unanimously hailed BEHRINGER B1200D-PRO as our top pick. With a moderate price range and active stereo crossover configurations, we’re sure that this will give you a heart-pounding bass without the fear of overheating.
Looking for related products? You can also check out our list below:
