The best subwoofers for 2024: Klipsch, KEF, Kanto, and more
Want to add some more low-end definition to your home theater system? When bass is what you need, and your main speakers just aren’t cutting it, you’ll want to invest in a dedicated subwoofer. And unlike most traditional speakers, a sub tends to play nicely with whatever brand of bookshelf, floor-standing, or satellite speakers you may already own.
However, there are literally hundreds of subwoofers to choose from. Should you invest in a boutique option that’s renowned for audio quality? Or could you save yourself a few bucks and go with something a bit more pedestrian? Whatever your woofer needs may be, we’ve created this roundup of the best subwoofers for 2024 to make your shopping experience much easier.
SVS SB16 Ultra
The best overall subwoofer
The SVS SB-16 Ultra has been on our list for some time, mainly because we haven't found anything worthy to take its place. This subwoofer has become our measuring stick, which might actually be unfair to the competition — it's that good. Beneath a sleek, stylish subwoofer box, the cubic SVS SB16 houses a monstrous 16-inch Ultra driver with an 8-inch, edge-wound voice coil and a ridiculous 1,500-watt continuous Sledge amplifier with discrete MOSFET output that tops out at 5,000 watts peak power.
Additionally, a smartphone app for iOS and Android has upped the SB16 Ultra's game significantly, taking the pain out of setting up your sub by allowing you to fine-tune the speaker from your optimal listening position and create custom presets for different listening situations.
All of this is to say: No matter how you're using the SB16, it impresses. Gunshots and explosions in films register with a hefty thump to the chest, and the sub manages low-end instrumentation beautifully, allowing acoustic bass to bounce smoothly while electronic bass and kick drums shake the foundation of your home. For our money, this is the best subwoofer you can buy, period.
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