Subwoofers

A subwoofer plays the low end that full-range speakers cannot: the kick and the bassline you feel on a dance floor. Pair one or two with PA speakers for events, clubs and DJ sets. Active models from StudioMaster, Proel, JBL, Yamaha, PreSonus and Wharfedale Pro.

How to choose:

• Size: 10–12-inch subs (Proel S10A and S12A, Yamaha DXS12mkII) are compact and quick to move; 15-inch models (StudioMaster TRX15S, Wharfedale Pro T-SUB-AX15B, PreSonus AIR15S, Proel S15A) are the usual choice for bars and events; 18-inch subs (JBL EON718S, PreSonus AIR18S, Proel S18A, Wharfedale Pro Delta-AX18B, StudioMaster Vortex 18SA) move the most air for clubs and outdoor shows.
• Match your speakers: a sub from the same family is designed to work with them — for example the JBL EON718S with EON700-series speakers, or PreSonus AIR subs with AIR speakers.
• Crossover: many active subs pass a filtered signal on to the speakers, so each one plays only its own range.
• Placement: a sub on the floor near a wall gives more bass; try a few positions before the show.

Choosing the speakers that go on top? See PA speakers. For a one-off event, rent a sound system instead.