Are Wireless Subwoofers Good [Pros, Cons & Great Brands]
Thanks to the latest technological advancements, the majority of appliances are now featuring wireless models, including subwoofers.
This raises the question: are wireless subwoofers good?
This article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of wireless subwoofers. Also, we will discuss the best brands of wireless subs and what to look for when buying one.
Why Choose a Wireless Subwoofer?
When working with wired subs, you have to connect them to an amplifier through data cables. This means that you’ll either have an auxiliary jack, optical, coaxial, HDMI, or an RCA cable running on your floors or behind the walls.
Wireless subwoofers come with an amplifier, a receiver, and a subwoofer driver. They use infrared, radio frequencies, Bluetooth, Qualcomm aptX, or Wi-Fi for connections.
Unlike their wired counterparts, wireless subs are clean and neat. These subwoofers come in box or tube enclosures. They block high-frequency ranges to provide a better bass tone than standard speakers.
Wireless subwoofers have the following advantages:
1. Easy To Set-Up
Wireless subwoofers are easy to set up, unlike wired subs. They do not use connection cables. Instead, the only connections you need in your media room are between the transmitter and amplifier as well as the receiver to the sub.
Besides, you do not have to be an expert to connect the wireless sub.
2. No Restrictions on Location
The absence of a physical connection means you can place your wireless sub wherever you want. The subwoofer will receive audio signal transmissions regardless of where you place it.
3. Better Performance
Wireless subs have better overall performance since they do not rely on wires to achieve their full range. The wiring in wired subwoofers does not support lots of frequencies, thereby limiting performance.
4. Freedom To Customize the Sound System
Wireless subwoofers allow you to build the sound system of your dreams. This is because you are not limited to the number of ports on the sub.
The wireless mode lets you upgrade your sound system which is achievable by adding several subs and speakers as you see fit.
The Cons of a Wireless Subwoofer
Having discussed the pros of getting a wireless subwoofer, it is crucial that we also look at the disadvantages. They include:
1. Prone to Interference
Most wireless subwoofers rely on radiofrequency for transmission. If you have other devices that also use radio frequencies, chances are your wireless sub will experience interference.
For instance, running a microwave or a cordless phone in your home can cause interference. This is why it is advisable to place the wireless sub 30 feet from the speaker.
On the other hand, if you are using infrared to transmit audio signals, the connection will experience interference when a translucent or solid material blocks the line of sight.
2. Affected by Latency
Latency mainly affects wireless subs that use a Wi-Fi connection. Your internet speed determines the speed of audio transmission. So if your internet is acting up, your wireless subwoofer will transmit poorly.
3. Difficulty Configuring the Crossover
Your sound system must have harmony. However, this can be challenging when working with wireless subs. You may have difficulty configuring the overlap for your high and low frequencies.
Do Wireless Subwoofers Interfere with Wi-Fi?
Rarely. The interference only occurs when the Wi-Fi router and soundbar use the same frequency band. In most cases, wireless subs rarely cause interference.
Do Wireless Subwoofers Need Plugging?
Sure. You should plug the subwoofer into a power source. Nevertheless, you enjoy better placement since the sub does not need long cable arrangements.
Which Are the Most Popular Brands of Wireless Subwoofers?
Lately, the market is flooded with different brands of wireless subwoofers. Going through each brand can be overwhelming. But, I have done the heavy lifting for you.
I found the following to be the most popular brands of wireless subwoofers.
Kenwood KSC-PSW8
For decades, Kenwood has been manufacturing high-quality stereos and subs. This is why the brand wins our top spot as the most popular brand of wireless subwoofers.
The KSC-PSW8 is compact, portable, and easy to install. Since it takes up little space, you can add it to your media room, car, or take it outdoors with you.
The best features in this sub are:
- 81-decibel sensitivity
- 50Hz – 125 HZ frequency range
- Class D amplifier
- Adjustable rotary frequency control
This Bluetooth subwoofer delivers powerful bass output.
JBL Basspro Micro
Another popular brand that produces superior acoustic subwoofers is JBL. This brand has been delivering superior sound systems since 1946.
One such product is the JBL Basspro Micro. This compact sub packs a lot of power and bass effect. Plus, it has a bass boot option (0dB to 9dB) so you can achieve the deep bass you want.
More features in this model include:
- 140W RMS
- 35-120 Hz frequencies
- Bluetooth subwoofer
- Dockable for easy installation
Pair this sub with quality wireless stereos to transform your home or vehicle into a banging machine.
Klipsch R-12SWi
Klipsch has also earned a reputation for making high-end speakers with functionality and sound quality. The brand has manufactured elegant and durable audio products for 50+ years.
Their R-12SWi is an all-rounded sub equipped with 12” front-firing drivers. It features an all-digital amplifier that uses a low-pass crossover.
Other features present in this wireless subwoofer include:
- Pre-paired 2GHz wireless Hi-Fi transmitter
- Uses Line & LFE inputs
- 200 Watts
- Ported enclosure for optimum bass output
This sub connects easily with other receivers.
Sonos Sub (GEN 3)
Sonos subwoofers reproduce consistent and high-quality sounds. Although the brand’s products are highly-priced, they are worth every dollar.
The Sonos sub defies what an ordinary subwoofer should look like. It features a unique design that complements its performance.
Feel the difference in audio quality by listening to the high and low frequencies with zero distortion.
Some of the best features are:
- Connects over Wi-Fi and Sonos App
- Automatic equalizer
- Class D amplifiers
- Trueplay software fine-tunes the sub to match your home’s acoustics
Besides, you can control this Sonos model with your Alexa devices.
What Should I Look for in Wireless Subwoofers?
Although we have listed the most popular brands of wireless subwoofers, you must know what features to look for before buying.
Frequency Response
This is the frequency at which the wireless subwoofer can reproduce sound. Most brands write the frequency range on the package, often expressed in Hertz (Hz).
If a wireless sub has a frequency response of 20Hz to 200Hz, it means the lowest it can get is 20Hz, and 200Hz is the highest frequency.
Sound Quality
A great wireless subwoofer delivers clear sound and deep bass. Getting these two features packed in one subwoofer is a win.
Bluetooth Version
Check whether the preinstalled version still works if your wireless subwoofer uses Bluetooth. For instance, Bluetooth v1 is almost out of use.
Moreover, look for Bluetooth versions that feature Enhanced Data Rate (EDR). EDR helps improve the sub’s sound quality.
Type of Subwoofer
The major types of wireless subwoofers are:
- Ported vs. Sealed: Ported subs have louder, boomy bass and use less power. Meanwhile, sealed subs use more power for tighter and more accurate bass.
- Front-Firing vs. Down-Firing: Front-firing subs produce fast, airy, and more impactful bass than down-firing subwoofers.
Your choice of sound output will help you pick the right type of wireless subwoofer.
Water-Resistance
If you are looking for an outdoor wireless sub, ensure it features a water-resistant enclosure. This will promote the longevity of the subwoofer even when exposed to rain, pool water, or other elements.
Closing Thoughts
Wireless subwoofers have more audio benefits compared to their wired counterparts. They are more reliable and offer better connectivity to boost your car’s sound system.
Get a wireless subwoofer if the extensive wiring found with wired subs no longer pleases you!
Resources
Best Bluetooth Subwoofer for Car
How to Find the Best Wireless Subwoofer and Which to Buy
Best Bluetooth Subwoofer for Car