Are Slim Subwoofers Good [Pros, Cons & Great Brands]
Are you looking to enjoy high-quality sound in your home but don’t have the space to install a large subwoofer? Well, get a slim subwoofer.
Small cars and trucks also have limited space to install a large subwoofer. If you own one, the limited space should not stop you from enjoying quality bass.
So, are slim subwoofers good?
This guide highlights the pros and cons of slim subwoofers and why you should get one. Plus, there is a list of the best brands of sim subs.
Why Choose a Slim Subwoofer?
Slim subwoofers are better known as shallow subwoofers. They are small in size and fit well in tight spaces. They are the preferred subs, particularly for car owners with limited installation space or homes that require multiple woofers.
These subs deliver fantastic sound quality, just like regular subwoofers. However, do not expect the speakers to rattle with bass.
The following are the benefits of slim subwoofers.
1. Less Power Consumption
Due to their small size, shallow subs consume less power than regular subwoofers. They require minimal power from the amplifier, unlike some regular subwoofers.
2. Less Installation Space
Slim subwoofers are compact and do not require lots of airspaces. Their low mounting depth makes it possible to fit them in small, tight spots that other subs would not fit.
If you want to install one in your car, consider adding it to the back dashboard, doors, or under the seats.
3. Easy Installation
Installing a slim subwoofer is an uncomplicated process as it does not require expert skills. Mounting the light subwoofer takes several minutes with a few tools and hardware.
Moreover, they are less noticeable due to their compact size. This means these subs do not interfere with your interior décor.
4. Lightweight
Slim subwoofers have a low mass and are portable. You can carry them during your outdoor excursions, or if you install them in your vehicle, they will not weigh them down.
5. Produce Tight Bass
Despite their small size, slim subwoofers do produce a tight bass. During installation, these subs are shallow-mounted. This depth means there is minimal airspace left behind them which reproduces loud, booming bass.
The Cons of a Slim Subwoofer
Slim subwoofers have the following disadvantages:
1. Not Too Loud
Shallow subwoofers are designed to fit in tight spaces without much air behind them. Since they only move minimal air, they do not produce earth-shaking bass as regular subs do.
2. Less Durable
Slim subs are easy to install. Their shallow mounting depth also means they are easy to fall out. When this happens, the subwoofer may suffer damage and become less durable.
What Is the Difference Between a Slim Subwoofer and a Regular Subwoofer?
Power requirement, weight, and portability differentiate a slim sub from a regular one.
Due to their small size, slim subwoofers require less power for their low power output. Moreover, they are lighter, portable, and do not weigh down the speaker. In terms of the frequency range, these subs are quite limited compared to regular subwoofers.
Regular subs are larger than slim subwoofers. This means they use more power which translates to higher sound output. They also deliver a wide range of frequencies and have higher sensitivity than shallow subs.
Additionally, regular subs are bulky and less preferable for small cars. Installing one in your car may mean modifying the seats and using too much space for the complex installation.
What Size of Subwoofers Are the Best?
The best size of a subwoofer is determined by the space and power in your home or car and your budget. The diameter ranges for subwoofers are between 6.5” and 19”.
Here is a breakdown of the four most common sizes of shallow subwoofers:
- 15-inch subwoofers: These are the best subs for the rattling bass effect.
- 12-inch subwoofers: They are universal, reproduce heavy bass, and offer a deeper range of frequencies.
- 10-inch subwoofers: These are well-rounded and are perfect for fast-paced music like metal and heavy rock. These are also perfect for heavy bass music like club music.
- 8-inch subwoofers: Their small size complements the system and is suitable for fast-paced music, including electronic and heavy rock. These subwoofers also reproduce soft, light bass.
Bottom line, 8-inch subwoofers are not as overpowering as 15-inch subs. If you are looking for a middle ground, get a 10-inch or 12-inch sub.
The Most Popular Brands of Slim Subwoofers
You may have come across several brand names advertising shallow subwoofers. If you cannot place a finger on the best brand, worry not.
Here are the three most popular brands of slim subwoofers.
Rockford Fosgate P3SD2-8
Rockford Fosgate subs are among the best subwoofers available today. They produce excellent peak power and hard bass.
The P3SD-8 is a favorite shallow subwoofer since it reproduces clear, powerful, low-frequency bass.
The sub has the following features:
- Dual 2-Ohm voice coils
- 150 Watts RMS power
- Durable construction
- Ideal for sealed or vented spaces
This slim subwoofer is sufficiently loud when playing all music genres.
Skar Audio VD-12 D4
Skar Audio is taking the audio market by storm. Its subwoofers produce crisp and clean bass that will blow your mind.
The VS-12 D4 is versatile as it is programmed to handle different amounts of power while retaining a shallow footprint.
The best features in this subwoofer include:
- 500W RMS power
- 800W Peak power
- 2-inch voice coil & dual 2-ohm voice coil configuration
- 25-300 Hz frequency range
This sub is inexpensive and even features an advanced airflow system that cools the system after heavy use.
Pioneer TS-A
Pioneer is dedicated to achieving quality audio reproduction, and this slim subwoofer series is no exception.
The Pioneer TS-A is an inexpensive unit yet packs deep bass under high volumes.
Here are more brilliant features:
- Reinforced cone structure
- Easy installation
- Balanced and enhanced sound quality
- Rich bass, Higher frequencies, zero distortion
Choose your perfect speaker from the TS-A series.
Final Thoughts
Slim or shallow subwoofers are precisely small-sized to fit in small and tight spaces. These subs are inexpensive, portable, and easy to install. Regardless of your indoor, outdoor, and car needs, these subs will add decent bass to your audio output.
Resources
Advantages and Disadvantages of Shallow Mount Subwoofers
Best Shallow Mount Subwoofers in 2022