Subwoofers are a very difficult piece of equipment to master, especially when trying to master it cheap. Low frequencies are very difficult to reproduce, but they can add a lot to an overall listening experience. However, spending a lot of money isn’t the best option, so we ventured out to find the best under $100.
We looked for models that are competent enough in the low-end without being over inflated. Adequate power delivery was a must as well, ensuring the speakers don’t distort under the low-end pressure.
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The Acoustic Audio PSW-6 embodies a distinct design philosophy, one that focuses on maximizing efficiency within a compact form factor. The built-in digital drive amplifier provides controlled power that shakes the room without any distortion. Unlike the majority of compact subs, this model ensures stability and efficient use of power through its internally braced MDF Bass Reflex Enclosure. The long throw subwoofer located on the bottom of the enclosure gives out precise response and maximum bass impact.
The PSW-6 doesn’t stop at powerful sound, it has a high rigidity PVA treated cone and includes a bottom slotted bass port for ultimate sound control. A black ash wood finish rounds off the package, combining aesthetics and performance, something reminiscent of the Klipsch R-10SWi. Owners echo these qualities, praising it as a perfect companion to other high-quality speakers found in our best under $500 review. The Acoustic Audio PSW-6 is the ideal choice for those who need to optimize space without compromising sound quality, making it our pick for best compact subwoofer on the market at this price point.
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In a quest to find the best home theater subwoofer, we often stumble upon products that promise a lot but deliver little. The Monoprice 8in 60-Watt Subwoofer is not one of those products. When it comes to providing a full-bodied cinematic experience, this subwoofer not only competes but it also raises the bar. An 8″ reinforced driver powered by a 60 Watt RMS amplifier takes center stage, delivering a frequency response range of 50 to 250 Hz. Much like the Kanto SUB6MG ($149 on Amazon), the focus here is on enhancing the overall home theater experience without going overboard.
But where this subwoofer truly shines is in its ability to provide seamless integration with your surround speakers. Gain and frequency knobs allow you to tweak the crossover filter and power output, giving you complete control over your audio environment. Users have praised the subtle yet powerful bass impact and the sound quality for the price. The low minor humming issue that a few users noted, is manageable with the use of a high-quality cable. The Monoprice 8in 60-Watt Subwoofer is thus the go-to choice for those wanting to upgrade their home theater sound.
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Slim subwoofers are a godsend when it comes to addressing the persistent problem of space. And in this niche, Monoprice SSW-8 reigns supreme. This subwoofer is the epitome of flexibility in placement, owing to its slim, low-profile design that allows it to fit comfortably under your favorite chair, behind your TV stand, or even your sofa. Thanks to the on-wall mounting brackets, you even have the option to mount it on the wall. But don’t let its slim form factor deceive you – this subwoofer doesn’t compromise on bass output. Monoprice SSW-8 has been specifically designed to maximize output from its unique enclosure.
Monoprice SSW-8 doesn’t just offer convenience, but it delivers where it matters: sound performance. Housing an 8″ woofer and a 100-watt amplifier, it delivers an impressive frequency response of 30 to 150Hz. Crucially, it has a variable low-pass filter and phase control that allow for tailored sound enhancement. This sub is all about clean, sharp bass that is sonically accurate. But it’s not just the technical prowess that makes it stand out; it’s how these tech aspects translate to user experience. The SSW-8 transforms your casual TV viewing into a near-theatrical experience by filling out the sound spectrum beautifully. The bass output doesn’t muddy the overall sound but complements it – a trait that is testament to the work of some talented individuals over at Monoprice. All these qualities, coupled with the very fair price tag, make the SSW-8 the best choice for those in search of a VERY space-friendly, high-performing subwoofer.
The first consideration with this price point is, well, the price. When only spending $100 on a subwoofer, it’s clear that a fixed budget is probably in place. Jumping up to $300 or $500 will yield a significantly better result, but that isn’t always in the cards. Because of that, we made sure to hunt down bargains that offered excellent value for the money.
The price may suggest that these subwoofers won’t perform well, but $100 proves to be about as cheap as you can go before the value starts to wear off.
However, there are some issues. The best subwoofers are ripe with features, including things like subharmonic enhancement, more filter options, and sometimes remote functionality. Those won’t be found on subwoofers under $100, though.
Unfortunately, this price point doesn’t warrant much in the way of features. Auto signal sensing and tunable crossover is present on each option, but that really should be expected. Other than that, these just give you the sound they come with.
$100 won’t offer much in the way of features, but our options provide just where it counts. Performance is king, and the models that you can find here are no exception.
When looking for a subwoofer, asthetics play a huge role. More often than not, an audio set-up is meant for a living or entertainment room, elevating each speaker to the same level as the furniture in terms of design. Because of this, each of are options are understated in the best of ways, ensuring they can fit seamlessly into almost an existing set-up.
Neutral colors were essential, trying to shy away from a potential clash in the room. While it may not seem important at first, a small box sitting on your floor that clashes with everything in the room can quickly become an annoyance, which is certainly not the goal.
Subwoofers thrive on a larger budget. Making a competent speaker that can compete in the low-end without sounding flubby or distorted is certainly a feat. That feat is even more exemplified with a price under $100.
Each of these options prove to provide a solid low-end experience, all for a low price. While a lack of features is disappointing, these propositions give it where it counts – in performance.
With a rich history spanning over 15 years in an array of audio disciplines, our ethos is rooted in real-world performance analysis and detailed long-term evaluations. We discerningly sift through a multitude of user reviews to distill the true experience of ownership.
This diligent approach allows us to curate and showcase only those products that resonate with excellence, whether you’re a casual listener just beginning your audio journey or an experienced audiophile seeking the next level in sound experience.
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