Best Starter Subwoofer

[asap]

I have limited knowledge on the topic of subwoofers but am looking for one in the 150-225 dollar price range. I just want one for music that has the maximum amount of bass without distortion. Also i dont know whats required to buy with the sub (cords, inputs, etc). Any help, explanation, suggestions, would be greatly appreciated.

 

[markw]

With that price range there will obviously be some compromises but you do have options.

As for connections, assuming you have a receiver with a subwoofer/LFE output,all you need is a single coaxial cable, of sufficient length, with RCA plugs on the ends. Nothing fancy or expensive, no magical "official" subwoofer cables. You might even have something lying around.

As I said before, there are several and I'm sure others will have their suggestions as well, but i picked up a BIC F12 a few months ago for $200. It replaced a $600 Velodyne VA-1210 I bought 14 years ago that died and frankly, I'm amazed at what it delivers for this price.

 

[Jeff R.]

Your room size will be helpful to know also what are your expectations.....

You can go with ported sub to get better low end extension and likely a higher output level....this will be your better option if you have a larger space.

You can go with a sealed sub if you are looking for a cleaner, tighter bass with less low end extension and likely a little less total output capability.

 

[bikemig]

You could pick up a "b" stock outlaw M-8 for $225: B-stock Order Form

Here is a review of the M-8: http://news.cnet.com/8301-13645_3-20042164-47.html

 

[Irvrobinson]

Or two of these Monoprice subs.

 

[theJman]

I have limited knowledge on the topic of subwoofers but am looking for one in the 150-225 dollar price range. I just want one for music that has the maximum amount of bass without distortion.

In that price range some of the bass will actually be harmonic distortion, but that's to be expected I'm afraid. The manufacturers don't have the ability to put much engineering into a $200 sub and still make a profit, so they have to choose what compromises to make.

Along with what's been suggested thus far perhaps the Dayton SUB-1200 would work. You could actually get two of them.

 

[j_garcia]

In that price range some of the bass will actually be harmonic distortion, but that's to be expected I'm afraid. The manufacturers don't have the ability to put much engineering into a $200 sub and still make a profit, so they have to choose what compromises to make.

Along with what's been suggested thus far perhaps the Dayton SUB-1200 would work. You could actually get two of them.

The sub1200 is my recommendation too

 

[afterlife2]

I second the M8 I loved it when I had it. I got it B stock for $175 last year Christmas time. $225 is still a good deal. Also check out the Energy 8" alot of people seem to love it: http://www.amazon.com/Energy-ESW-C8-8-Inch-Subwoofer-Black/dp/B0021L9BMO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1353538545&sr=8-1&keywords=energy+subwoofer+esw-c8 it was on sale at buy.com for $99.99, but sold out fast.

You could pick up a "b" stock outlaw M-8 for $225: B-stock Order Form

Here is a review of the M-8: Outlaw M8: Easily the best budget subwoofer? | The Audiophiliac - CNET News

 

[Send Margaritas]

I'd third the Dayton 1200. Or this: BIC Formula F-12 12" Subwoofer 475 Watts 303-436 For the money listed, you'd have a hard time doing better.

 

[asap]

Thanks everybody your input has helped a lot.

 

[Soccerkid830]

I used to have two Dayton Sub-120's which is the predecessor of that sub-1200 and they served their purpose well. They were my first powered subs so it was a huge upgrade from what I had before.

 

[Soundman]

if I'm not mistaken, that Dayton 1200 sub is a DIY model....thought the OP should be ware of that when make his choice. Someone correct me if I'm wrong on this.

 

[theJman]

if I'm not mistaken, that Dayton 1200 sub is a DIY model....thought the OP should be ware of that when make his choice. Someone correct me if I'm wrong on this.

The 1200 is a complete sub. Dayton does sell kits, but that's not one of them.

 

[Soundman]

The 1200 is a complete sub. Dayton does sell kits, but that's not one of them.

thanks for clarifying, Jim. The kits are a great value, but then a gain, time is money so it's not for everyone. It's nice to know Dayton has products out there for those of us that don't have the time to invest.

 

[markw]

A subwoofer kit is about as simple as it gets. if it takes more than about an hour to assemble, and that includes unpacking and reading the intructions, there's something wrong.

Even if someone has 9 thumbs*, it's an easy way tosave a few bucks.

*Assuming the 10th was lost cutting meat on a plate.

 

[Soundman]

A subwoofer kit is about as simple as it gets. if it takes more than about an hour to assemble, and that includes unpacking and reading the intructions, there's something wrong.

Even if someone has 9 thumbs*, it's an easy way tosave a few bucks.

*Assuming the 10th was lost cutting meat on a plate.

lol.....