Competition subwoofers are often used in musical competitions that require the highest possible levels of sound. Since they are designed to work with car audio systems, most automakers install competition subwoofers in their vehicles. They are usually installed on the rear doors or trunk area of a vehicle. Vehicles aside, competition woofers can also be found in boats, military aircraft, stadium PA systems, and DJ mix decks.
The best competition subwoofers have an input sensitivity of 1 volt or less and a signal-to-noise ratio of at least 80 dB. These specs mean that the amplifier does not have to work very hard to produce a loud sound. It also means an enhanced capacity to save enough power for competitions.
Competition subwoofers are fitted with a power amp to produce the high sound levels necessary for competition. They should be capable of generating large amounts of power as well as leverage the wide range of power in a PA system. The amplifier can often produce 10 volt or 12-volt stereo signals implying an ability to provide enough high-level power for very low-powered loudspeakers.
Competition woofers can also produce high amounts of bass response while complying with the strict requirements for power consumption and heat dissipation concentration, that is, ensuring that both do not exceed legal limits either during operation or while stored between uses.
Here is a review of 15 of the best competition subwoofers from which you can select the most suitable.
Table of Contents
The VXF-12 D2 is a heavy-duty competition subwoofer loaded with advanced features. This 12″ dual 2-ohm sq/SPL subwoofer is built for the most demanding applications. The state-of-the-art VXF-12 D2 is a result of a unique collaboration between SKAR Audio and a team of audio industry veterans from around the globe.
The VXF-12 D2 dual 2-ohm subwoofer features a competition-grade paper cone that is stitched to a high roll foam surround for maximum rigidity and bass response. The elliptical shape of the paper cone guarantees superior strength and keeps the subwoofer lightweight. The VXF Series also comes with a competition-grade 300 oz ferrite motor. The motor consists of a competition-grade glass fiber aluminum voice coil that contains triple-stacked magnets for exceptional power handling and control as well as high-speed stability.
The VXF Series subwoofers boast a superlinear suspension structure for smooth reflection and long excursion. This suspension system consists of a fluid-cooled waveguide and aluminum waveguide frame with an ultra-linear coating and foam surround. The Series also features an ultra-linear compression driver at the voice coil gap that provides an improved bass response with little or no added coloration. The VXF Series uses SKAR’s proprietary dual 2-ohm impedance configuration augmented with a series-connected 6 ohm outside the voice coil. These features ensure superior transient response and stable power handling in demanding applications like racing.
Lastly, the VXF-12 D2 also includes several other unique innovations that enhance performance and maximize sound quality under extremely demanding conditions. This sub includes the top-of-the-line SKAR Y Composite cone that is engineered for maximum rigidity, lightweight properties, and accuracy under high excursion conditions like racing.
The SOUNDXTREME ST-710 will deliver the high-quality sound you demand from a home theater system. This 10” large diameter, 4 ohms voice coil competition woofer engineered by SOUNDXTREME is perfect for those looking to own a robust and powerful home theater system with excellent bass response. The 800 Watt peak power rating means that you can trust the ST-710 to deliver giant bass with a lot of power. The woofer cone is made of polypropylene which gives it a smooth low-end delivery with minimal distortion and good rigidity, making it perfect for frequencies below 45 Hz. Its very sensitive design ensures accurate frequency response.
Overall, the SOUNDXTREME ST-710 scores very high in terms of performance, especially when considering its price. It has an ability to accurately reproduce low frequencies and because the Voice Coil Diameter and Sensitivity is large, it can be used in conjunction with an amplifier and also with passive and active crossovers at higher-end home theater systems. The ST-710 subwoofer has a decent amount of grunt and can really rumble it down to 38 Hz. Even at high listening levels, the bass output sounds very consistent and clear which means there is virtually no distortion.
Another notable feature of this subwoofer is its high sensitivity which makes it possible to be played at a high volume without any issues.
In conclusion, the SOUNDXTREME ST-710 is a very good competition subwoofer that can easily rival those from higher-end brands. In fact, this subwoofer outperforms all of its competitors in terms of bass response and quality. Hence, it is highly recommended for those wishing to build a powerful home theater system with low distortion and clear bass.
The American Bass is a high-energy competition subwoofer that is ideal for all kinds of music. It produces a crisp and clear sound and has an excellent SPL – 88 dB – to buttress its quality. The 3-inch 4-layer coated copper wire voice coil, powerful motor structure, and Kevlar fiber added non-press paper cone guarantee a low distortion performance, high power, and longevity. This product has been tried and tested for you to enjoy a splendid performance at all times.
It is an embodiment of extra strength with a 40 oz heavy triple stacked magnet structure and dual 4-ohm impedance voice coils that provide precise phase matching when used in parallel configuration at a 2-ohm load.
You can easily stretch your bass output to the extreme and still enjoy a crisp, clear sound with the American Bass whose peak power stands at an impressive 3000 watts. More specifically, this subwoofer can operate in a continuous power range of between 300 watts RMS and 3000 watts peak power. The American Bass is easy to install in most audio systems, be they cars, boats, or RVs.
The CT SOUNDS EXO-12-D1 is a speaker built to take your system to the next level of sonic impact. This subwoofer features an innovative design and superior construction for pure bass response in top name brands. The RMS power of this subwoofer is 3000 watts while its peak power of 5000 watts ensures that you feel its bass impact on your chest when playing tracks with heavy bass content.
Obviously, the CT SOUNDS Audio EXO-12-D1 is one of the most impressive subwoofers you can get on the market for under $1000. It comes with an impressive 4 layer flat aluminum voice coil specifically designed to cope with high thermal power demands and also uses a 6 layer Pure Nomex spider pack to boost efficiency, performance, and reliability.
This sub creates massive amounts of bass without too much distortion or rattle. It also features a high-quality cast aluminum basket with cast-aluminum handles for easy installation functions. The cone is made of 6% high-quality carbon fiber reinforced composite material for maximum durability and is covered with Mega Foam Surround for improved bass response.
WRAT is also increased by the presence of the above-mentioned lightweight cast aluminum basket that helps to keep the subwoofer stable thus reducing power compression and increasing clarity. The dual 1-ohm coil voice coil design helps to eliminate any impedance problems and to ensure the best performance from your amplifier.
The MASSIVE AUDIO SUMMOXL124 Competition Subwoofer is designed for those who want nothing but the best as well as those who demand loud sound and high ratings. The speaker driver is a 12-inch industrial textured cast aluminum basket with a red-stitched edge for protection from the elements. With dual poly/Nomex spider and Kevlar fiber reinforced non-pressed paper cone, this exquisite product will definitely dwarf any other car speakers it goes up against.
Not only that, this subwoofer has a 3-inch voice coil – so don’t think you can put it in your trunk without an amp! – and will run at 1500 watts RMS with 3000 watts max power handling capabilities. With a Kevlar spun-laced voice coil, you can be sure that this subwoofer will neither rattle nor make noise in any high volume. In short, the SUMMOXL124 is guaranteed to give you the best sound performance.
In addition to its amazing and reliable performance, this subwoofer offers you a high level of protection in the form of resistance to both physical and thermal shock. This means your car is in excellent hands when it comes time for a replacement.
With its powerful 250 oz high energy double stack strontium magnet voice coil, the MASSIVE AUDIO Competition Subwoofer is engineered to generate a very explosive sound. This makes it ideal for large venues such as stadiums. It is also suitable for high-performance sound systems and will provide a fantastic output for your vehicles.
What more? Just go for the MASSIVE AUDIO Competition Subwoofer and enjoy some of the best sound quality available on the market.
The ROCKVILLE PUNISHER 12D1 utilizes a 3-inch, 4 layer aluminum voice coil firmly wound with wire that is stable up to 250 degrees Celsius. This 12-inch dual 1-ohm has a double-stacked 246 oz Y35 magnet and cast aluminum basket with a black sanded finish, as well as 2-chrome-plated binding post terminals. The 12D1 also features a black non-pressed paper cone, ultra-stiff cone, thick foam surround, incredible sound quality, and custom rubber boot magnet cover.
Where it gets interesting is the black stitching on the cone and surround which helps to reinforce the unit’s structure and improve heat dissipation. The 12D1 comes with a vented hole on the T-yoke and washers for enhanced heat dissipation as well as an aluminum heatsink ring and extra-thick T-yoke.
The BLACK VELVET motors are designed for competition subwoofer use meaning that they can withstand extreme amounts of power without compromising sound quality. The motors are specially designed with a 3 layer spider system. The spider prongs are supple and cut from a single piece of wood. The motors use an O-ring design for better sound quality, but also allow for better cooling.
In addition to the thermally efficient motors, the heavy-duty cast aluminum basket is mounted on a four-layer stainless steel spider. The basket is pressed by a vented steel plate and has a black polypropylene dust cap with a built-in magnet pad for maximum sound quality. The interior of the basket is coated with a permanent film that protects the cone from damage.
Not only does the 12D1 feature a non-pressed paper cone, but it also utilizes a thick foam surround to further prevent damage to the cone and spider. This component also enhances excursion and is a high-quality component that assists the delivery of top-notch sound. The entire frame uses a heavy-duty tool that allows for superior strength and durability, allowing you to really let this unit throw down.
The MOJO 1212 is a competition subwoofer from Memphis Audio. It features a 12” dual 1-ohm voice coil and can achieve an RMS 1500 watt and peak 3000-watt power handling capability. The speaker has an 8.58 inch depth and weighs 51 pounds with dimensions of 24x15x8 inches (LxWxH). It is equipped with a 250 oz magnet and 3.5-inch aluminum triple voice coil with Direct Vent Cooling.
The speaker is made of cast aluminum with a vented design to lower the pressure of moving air inside the speaker which helps to significantly reduce distortion while increasing power handling capability. The speaker also comes with a double stitched rubber surround that similarly delivers low distortion and increased power handling capability as well as extended high-frequency response and high SPL handling per RMS watt. Another feature is a lightweight Polypropelyne dust cap that can withstand high temperatures for extended periods when in use.
The MOJO 1212 utilizes Sensor 83 dB technology for optimum impedance over the entire range of operation in order to deliver maximum output in any system configuration with minimum fuss. It also features a folded surround that delivers optimum cone excursion linearity for improved audio performance.
The MOJO 1212 is simple to install, easy to maintain and can be paired with a good amp for an efficient sound system. It is a high-quality speaker that is designed for a competition environment. Some of the advantages of this well-engineered subwoofer include an ability to produce loud sounds despite a compact design and offering the best value for the money.
The SKAR AUDIO VXF-12 D4 Competition Subwoofer is designed for the serious audiophile who desires to optimize power. This woofer is crafted to meet any challenge and boasts 1000 watts RMS at 4 ohms and peaks at 2000 watts!
SKAR AUDIO has developed this subwoofer with a very special patented polycotton spider that provides extra strength and stiffness for better linearity and control of the cone movement. The result is improved reproduction accuracy. The cone is made with a heavy gauge steel basket protected by an extremely flexible high-temperature copper wire voice coil that provides the highest possible resistance to the heat generated by the motor structure itself while providing optimal sound quality during hard and sustained bass pounding sessions.
The basket is designed to achieve an optimal heat dissipation capacity while maintaining a flat frequency response over time, even under extreme heat conditions. This hybrid polycotton/concentrated dielectric material is a unique combination of strength and flexibility and can withstand the most powerful continuous bass pounding while maintaining linearity and control over the movement of the cone during long playback. The polymer structure is bonded to a high density, extremely flexible wire voice coil assembly with exceptionally low inductance.
The SKAR AUDIO VXF-12 D4 Competition Subwoofer comes with a motor made of cast aluminum structure with a ferrite magnet structure. The cast aluminum frame boasts a superior heat dissipation capacity while the ferrite magnet provides maximum surface area for better airflow around the motor structure.
In summary, the VXF-12 D4 is an extremely rugged and reliable piece of equipment capable of outstanding output including in periods of continuous heavy loads and peak power demands.
The WET SOUNDS REVO 15 XXX V4-B is the world’s first competition sub. It weighs over 70 pounds and is designed with a cast aluminum frame that has a powder-coated glossy black finish that can last for years. This is a speaker designed for extreme bass and for only SPL-oriented applications. With a 4500-watt peak power handling – all delivered by dual 5 inch voice coils and built-in screw-down terminal blocks., the XXX V4-B is the most powerful sound system in its class.
The machined aluminum pole piece venting is strategically positioned to provide maximum airflow through the magnet gap and cool both voice coils individually. The REVO 15 XXX uses a patent-pending composite cone design – a superior composite material that is simple to use and very strong. A low resonance rubber surround [cut with precision from a solid slab] maintains consistent damping characteristics over years of use. Internally, the subwoofer is acoustically optimized with extensive computer modeling and FEA [Finite Element Analysis] as well as real-world testing. The result is the most power handling and best performing subwoofer in its class at any price.
As noted above, the REVO 15 XXX comes with a powder-coated frame with a long-lasting high gloss black finish. However, if you desire a different color for aesthetics or other reasons, we can powder coat your subwoofer to match any standard color. It’s also important to note that powder coating has proven difficult to use with certain types of drivers and crossovers. Therefore, we recommend sending your chassis and crossover off for final assembly before powder coating if possible.
The WET SOUNDS REVO 15 XXX V4-B is easy to install into any car. The sensitivity of this subwoofer is very high at 90 dB with 2.83 v at 1 meter which makes it suitable for even the lowest powered preamps. The heavy cast aluminum frame has three large threaded holes in the top that enable you to strap it directly to your vehicle or install it on a flat surface using the included hardware. We recommend using two of the holes for vertical mounting and one hole for horizontal mounting.
The paper dust cap protects against noise pollution while the double-wave damped fabric surrounds ensure maximum sound performance over time. This tough subwoofer also comes with a water-repellent pressed paper membrane and has a frame structure manufactured from aluminum, as well as surround walls made of fiberglass.
The HERTZ SV200.1 delivers excellent performance in terms of clarity and detail, especially at low to moderate frequencies. It is a very efficient subwoofer that reproduces all frequencies easily without much distortion. For its size, it has a rather impressive peak power handling capability. You’ll be happy to know that it has a peak power rating a little lower than 400 watts but a continuous rated power of 250 watts (the figure below).
Its frequency response spans 100Hz to 9000Hz and its maximum power handling is up to 500 watts, with 250 watts of continuous power handling. It is designed for both 4 ohms and 8 ohms impedance. The subwoofer can be mounted on any type of bracket with an overall depth of just over 1″ (25mm). The polypropylene cone is high-temperature resistant, so you can mount this subwoofer in extreme weather conditions without worrying about damage to your equipment.
The American Bass XFL-1044 Competition Series is made with a non-pressed paper cone and features a 3-inch voice coil. It offers power handling of 2000 watts and 1000 watts RMS as well as large dual-stacked 220 oz magnets and triple stacked coils for maximum excursion.
The American Bass 10 inch Competition Series has room for a depth of 6.5-inches from the mounting surface. For durability, this subwoofer is powder-coated to protect against corrosion from liquids or other materials that may seep in over time. This also helps the subwoofer overcome adverse weather conditions such as rainfall or snow. It is designed with a die-cast aluminum basket which makes it lightweight but at the same time strong.
The American Bass XFL-1044 is not specifically made for any one type of person or situation. Rather, it is ideal for those who desire optimum sound quality in their vehicles without a need for a lot of installation space. The dual 4-ohm subwoofer will work with a mono amplifier at a constant 2 ohms or a stereo amplifier at 1 ohm. For maximum performance and sound quality, it is recommended that the user has a stable power supply before opting for this subwoofer. The XFL-1044 can be used either as part of interior and/or exterior systems since it can process higher amounts of power than most other subwoofer systems.
The American Bass XFL-1044 is renowned for its durability and ability toughness. Finally, on a note of caution, it is vital that the user avoids strong vibrations as these can impact the woofer’s ability to produce quality sound.
The DS18 TROUBLEMAKER TM-18SPLNEO Competition Subwoofer has an 18-inch diameter cone with Kevlar coverings operating at 1-ohm dual voice coil impedance. Rated power handling is 6000 watts max frequency and 3500 watts for continuous duty applications. The lightweight but sturdy cast aluminum basket features an optimized magnetic field design to deliver precise transient response with rock-solid reliability as well as dual voice coil design, high-efficiency voice coils, and total magnet strength up to three times more than most other designs. Each woofer also utilizes forged big slots, laser cutouts, and brass inserts with heavy-duty eyelets for optimum strength and rigidity.
The voice coils are made in the USA from the highest quality materials with a Triad Tri-Sealed Taper wound design. However, it does not include an enclosure so you need to add one that is your choice.
The TROUBLEMAKERTM-18SPLNEO is a true low-frequency powerhouse with a dual voice coil design that allows it to handle up to 25 kW in burps without burning an amp.
TROUBLEMAKER Series subwoofers are classified designs intended for competition, home audio, and serious bass enthusiasts. These subwoofers will, however, perform to the same standard and specifications as their commercial counterparts with upgraded components and materials.
This MASSIVE AUDIO HIPPOXL84 features an 8-inch driver and a large magnet size that is sure to shake the foundations of your sound system. It has a rugged industrial textured cast aluminum basket and an oversized mirror image dual poly/Nomex spider that offer high-energy strontium magnets.
This MASSIVE AUDIO HIPPOXL84 is a perfect selection for those that want a quality, powerful and durable competition subwoofer. The strontium magnet structure comes with a high-energy neodymium magnet assembly that yields more magnetic power than regular ferrite magnets.
The industrial textured finish provides a sleek and striking look to fit any vehicle or personal space. The MASSIVE AUDIO HIPPOXL84 features high-grade dual impedance with a 2-ohm impedance when wired in parallel and a 4-ohm impedance when wired in series.
The voice coil of the Massive Audio Competition Subwoofer Features Kevlar Spunlace and Kevlar Fiber Reinforced Non-Pressed Paper Cone made of quad-layer aluminum wire that allows more power to be used with less distortion. This makes for deeper bass and greater sound quality.
The MASSIVE AUDIO HIPPOXL84 features a Deep/Bass and its dual 4-ohm impedance enables the use of multiple amps or higher power for more powerful sound. However, it can be used as a single 4-ohm impedance as well and can handle as much as 700 watts RMS and 1400 watts max power.
The Orion HCCA152 Competition Subwoofer is a 15-inch deep-pitched sound machine with a mounting depth of 12 inches. This sub is specifically designed for competition sound systems with optimum power handling and deep, loud bass. A sensitivity rating of 87.2 dB at reference volume level indicates the potential to produce exceptionally high SPLs when used with amplification that can handle higher power loads
The HCCA152 subwoofer uses dual 2-ohm voice coils for dual-mono operation or bridged mono operation. The maximum power level is 2500 watts RMS and the continuous maximum power level is 5000 watts. High-temperature Polyester Amide and Amide Resin Coated voice coil with enhanced voice coil cooling systems keep the magnetism cool under heavy use while copper wound voice coil helps to reduce the voice coil losses under heavy power control.
High-temperature suspension surrounds provide a strong seal between the cone and the basket. A low-mass design produces high output levels from a compact enclosure. A large diameter butyl rubber surround ensures durability and extended cone excursion. The HCCA152 subwoofer has a black coil, dual flat conex spider with loop stitched tinsel leads. The spider provides tighter control over the woofer while still allowing it to move freely.
The HARMONY AUDIO HA-ML182 MONOLITH Subwoofer is the perfect choice for the passage of booming bass, true-to-life music and movie moments, and ultimate performance.
The 18-inch driver vibrates at 2200Hz with a 3500W dual 2-ohm voice coil that gives you an accurate response for natural sound reproduction that will delight your senses. It has a built-in ferrite magnet that produces strong magnetic field stability with low distortion. This subwoofer features a Rectangular Vented Enclosure Design with a Dense Polypropylene Cone which helps it minimize standing waves inside the enclosure so you get more power out of your amplifier while maintaining accurate treble and bass output levels.
The HARMONY AUDIO HA-ML182 MONOLITH provides rich and powerful bass with a large, dynamic range. The paper cone is excellent at acoustically damping high frequencies and tuned to the geometric mean of the room. Its dual voice coils provide isolation between sides and an XLR balanced input-output allows for flexibility in amp selection as well as passive crossover configuration.
The competition-grade paper cone creates a fast response with a tight transient response to provide punchy bass. It is very good at retaining deep bass without the need for excessive heat sinking on powerful amplifiers. The top of the voice coil is mated with an aluminum alloy basket which acts as a heat sink and adds to the durability of this subwoofer. The spider leads are connected through woven tinsel leads which provide extra means of heat dissipation in addition to the natural insulation provided by ferrite core inductors that help extend its further life in high power applications.
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