There are two major popular sizes for subwoofers: 10′′ and 12′′. What one do you need, then? For you to choose the size that is best for you, we will weigh the advantages and disadvantages of both in this detailed comparison between 10 vs 12 subwoofer. Although this may be a difficult choice, we can assist you.
Remember that there is no one “correct” response that applies to all situations; it all focuses on particular preferences, your financial situation, and the kinds of music you enjoy. Let’s get going!
| 10-Inch Subwoofers | 12-Inch Subwoofers | |
|---|---|---|
| Base Effects | Punchy | Boomy |
| Accuracy | A tiny bit more precise | A little less precise |
| Bass Output | Decreased bass output | Increased bass output |
| Performance and Loudness | Less loud | Louder |
| Sound Quality | There is no difference | There is no difference |
| Distortion | Less | More |
| Tonality | Tight, well-controlled mids | Higher quality at lower frequencies |
| Frequency Response | Reduced responsiveness | More responsiveness at the low end |
| Weight, Power Demands, Size | Smaller, lighter, and less energy-consuming | Larger, heavier, and require more energy |
Subwoofer: What is it?
A subwoofer is a type of loudspeaker used to reproduce bass or low-pitched audio frequencies. For consumer goods, it might range from 20 Hz to 200 Hz. The subwoofer’s main function is to replicate such deep sounds in music and movies so you can virtually be there.
These low frequencies can be heard more frequently in dubstep music or action movies. The idea is to have a fully immersive experience from your system by having strong bass sensations that shake your body when listening through your home speakers, in addition to just hearing them.
What is the primary difference between a Woofer and a Subwoofer?
Similar to a loudspeaker in many ways, a woofer is designed to accommodate lower-frequency music sounds. It is a particular kind of loudspeaker. The frequency range of a sub, on the other hand, is considerably narrower than that of a woofer.
The size, efficiency, power handling, and distortion of these two devices are where the biggest distinctions lie. But let’s not overlook the price disparity as well.
A sub is a loudspeaker that is larger than a woofer and is often composed of a wooden or plastic enclosure that has space for many woofers. Subs are bigger since they specialize in a smaller area.
Additionally, their bigger size allows them to focus on the low-frequency spectrum while consuming more air. Knowing where to set your sub to obtain the best output is crucial. This makes sure that the sound they produce is richer and broader than what you can get with a regular woofer.
The only issue with that reasoning is that you might need some time to identify the acoustic sweet spots that allow you to utilise your instrument to its full potential. And if you have more than one sub, things become a little trickier. But if the arrangement works out, you’re in for a treat.
The perks of a 10-Inch Subwoofer
Due to its popularity, we commence with the 10-inch sub. I’ve prepared a piece regarding the top 5 hardest striking 10-inch subwoofers if you’re looking to purchase one. The tiny size and simplicity of installation are just the first of many factors that contribute to this. Additionally, because of its improved bass response, it is superior to an 8-inch sub.
It provides you with some extra power and is a nice size, but it doesn’t overpower the music or lower the standard. It is frequently referred to as a well-rounded instrument because it is the ideal tool for enhancing the drum sound quality in music, whether it be pop, jazz, metal, or blues. But let’s look at some of the unique benefits of a 10-inch sub.
1. Enhanced Brass
These little devices function exceptionally well with higher frequencies as well as replicating lower frequencies below the 80-hertz threshold. This adds just the appropriate amount of depth to your music, making it full-bodied and rich. In comparison to your modern door-mounted speakers, this is a better choice.
2. Good Output at Higher Frequency
Because subwoofers are powered by an amplifier, they are typically the only speakers that can handle higher frequencies. However, this sublets the woofers and handles higher notes while enhancing midrange and high frequencies.
3. Flexible Installation
This sub is a standard size, which makes installation simple. Additionally, it is simple to locate an enclosure for this sub that will allow the bass to resonate well. When installing the sub in a car door, this is a huge benefit. Additionally, as it produces non-directional sounds, you can put it anyplace.
The Benefits of a 12-Inch Subwoofer
Regarding the genres of music it can play, this device is adaptable. It is frequently purchased by people who have a voracious desire for bass. Additionally, a 12-inch model does an excellent job of adding extra bass at various frequency levels. However, these subs are large and occasionally unresponsive. They are thus a wonderful option for RnB, rhythm, and rap.
1. Low-effort bass
The best-known property of subs is their capacity to replace air. That is how they maintain sharpness while delivering tremendous bass. This implies that you receive more volume for the same degree of clarity. It is possible to control the distortion while also managing the compression.
2. Provide with enclosures
These subs are already enclosed because they are pre-installed. One small detail has been handled. You won’t have to worry about finding an enclosure that fits the sub’s measurements, but you will need to take care of the wiring and the amplifier.
3. Improved Stereo Speakers
These subs are effective in capturing frequencies that are lower than those of a typical audio system. By doing so, you enhance the stereo speakers and take advantage of the circumstances.
Subwoofers: 10-Inch vs 12-Inch
A few distinguishing characteristics enable us to evaluate both sizes and reach a conclusion. Let’s look at it.
1. Size
Here is what subwoofer sizes imply because it is one of the most debated specifications. It is significant because it establishes how much air the subwoofer can move in order to provide the desired low bass effect. The larger choice is preferable for this reason alone.
There are subs available in sizes ranging from 8 to 15, but the biggest is not always the best. Why? You can find a smaller sub and change the power settings for maximum output, but the huge sub delivers more bass. You won’t be straining your brain attempting to figure out where to fit it in the interim.
2. Bass Output
Here are the things we can tell you because the bass is the main reason to get a subwoofer. You get more bass from the 12-inch sub than the 10-inch unit. This is due to its larger motor and larger cone, which improve audio reproduction.
Though only in theory. High-end models won’t differ as much from each other. Other elements of the sub must also be considered. But if everything else is equal, you must choose a 12-inch subwoofer.
3. Power Management
You must consider a sub’s capacity to manage power if you want it to be loud. Think about a 10-inch sub connected to the same kind of amplifier and having the same RMS rating as a 12-inch sub.
It’s possible that you currently believe the 12-inch model performs better, but that is untrue because different subs handle power in various ways. This has an impact on how the air is displaced, which impacts how the power is used.
This is another reason why power handling ratings—rather than RMS ratings, which are what most people focus on—are a better way to comprehend performance.
10 vs 12 subwoofer. Conclusion
In the end, if you play with enough variables, you can make any sub do anything. In addition to size, other factors that affect subwoofer output include brand, housing, and power handling.
However, the 12″ sub will have higher bass production and a good frequency response at the low end, even though you probably won’t hear much of a difference between it and the 10″ sub in terms of sound quality.
For us, bass output is the most crucial factor, so if a 12-inch subwoofer can fit, do so because of the increased bass output. Just keep in mind that bigger subs are louder and boomier, while smaller subs might be a little more precise, punchy, and obviously more compact.
Frequently Asked Question-FAQs
What size subwoofer do I need for my car?
It’s crucial to match the subwoofer’s size to the amplifier’s power output in your car. Most cars can accommodate a subwoofer that is 10 inches or less. When selecting a car subwoofer, sound quality is an important factor to consider.
Do 10-inch subs sound better than 12?
Two 12s will sound louder than two 10s since the size of the subwoofer often dictates how loud a vehicle’s audio system will be when it is designed or upgraded.
However, smaller subs are considered to deliver greater sound uniformity if your song doesn’t call for deep bass or a quick attack because larger cone diameters are more likely to result in tiny sound quality imperfections because of their larger surface areas.
12-inch subs sound superior to 10-inch subs only when you need a deeper bass or a quick assault. It can generate consistent bass, although bookshelves or small satellite speakers are required.
The best listening experience if you want louder sound can be had with 12-inch speakers. If you have a large centre channel and large floor-standing speakers, these subs are ideal.
What hits harder 10s or 12s?
When powered sufficiently, two 10-inch subwoofers can produce a somewhat cleaner sound and more powerful impact than a single 12-inch sub. These two subwoofers’ combined cone surfaces provide significantly more pressure. The 12-inch subwoofer, however, will produce a little deeper sound.
The 12-inch subwoofer will sound louder and guarantee that more people hear high-quality music if you are comparing two single subwoofers. To get this result, you must, however, supply sufficient power. These subwoofers can withstand significantly more power than their 10-inch equivalents, it should be noted.