For more in-depth, cleaner, and smoother bass, the solution is to invest in a subwoofer. A subwoofer is a piece of audio equipment that specializes in enhancing low-frequency sound. Traditional speakers aren't often capable of handling deep bass, but subwoofers certainly can. Audio enthusiasts everywhere are investing in subwoofers for their home and car audio systems.
The only issue surrounding bass-enhancing subwoofers is that they tend to be large and bulky. Thanks to the addition of more portable 8-inch subwoofers, this is no longer a problem. Compact subwoofers that measure 8 inches in diameter are the perfect solution for improving the sound quality of car audio and home theater systems.
Not only can a high-quality 8-inch subwoofer enhance low frequencies, but it can also do the same for high-frequency sound. This review of the best 8-inch subwoofers in 2019 offers everything there is to know about subwoofers. Keep reading to learn about a variety of subwoofer products, all just 8 inches in size.
Image | Product | Frequency | Sensitivity | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Alphasonik NSW410 | 35-500 Hz | 86 DB | |
No products found. | JL Audio CP108LG-W3v3 | 28-250 Hz | 83 DB | |
 | Pioneer TS-SW2002D2 | 20-200 Hz | 86 DB | |
Yamaha NS-SW050BL | 28-200 Hz | 86 DB | ||
Rockford Fosgate P3SD2-8 | 38-250 Hz | 82 DB | ||
Audioengine S8 | 27-180 Hz | 88 DB | ||
No products found. | JL Audio 8W7AE-3 | 23-250 Hz | 82.7 DB | |
Alpine Electronics PWE-S8 | 32-150Hz | N/A |
How Subwoofers Work
You already know that the job of a subwoofer is to enhance bass audio, but how exactly does it accomplish this? A subwoofer operates with the help of a large woofer - the part of a speaker that handles low frequencies - and a built-in amplifier. These two parts work together to create a signal that is lower in frequency than can be handled by standard speakers.
Modern-day subwoofers typically feature a powered system, rather than a passive one. This means that they use their own power supply instead of needing an additional power source. In order to function properly, a subwoofer must be connected to an audio receiver or preamp. Then, low-frequency signals are sent from the receiver to the sub, and the sub amplifies the signal into audible noise.
Types of 8-inch Subwoofer Speakers
Benefits of Small Subwoofer Speakers
All speakers come with something called a woofer, which is the component responsible for handling low-frequency sound. Unfortunately, the small woofers within many speaker systems aren’t ideal for handling bass. The main benefit of investing in a small subwoofer speaker is that it is specifically designed to produce high-quality deep bass. You never have to worry about choppy, unpleasant bass again.
So why a small subwoofer speaker? Small subwoofers are the ideal choice because they are highly portable, lightweight, and easy to handle. Subwoofers that measure only 8 inches in diameter can be used in nearly any space. In addition to the fantastic space-saving abilities, here are a few more benefits of small subwoofer speakers:
Choosing a High-Quality 8-inch Subwoofers
Power Output & Handling/Volume/Sound Quality
Power should be a top consideration when selecting an 8-inch subwoofer. More power means a louder boom, and a louder boom means a more enjoyable listening experience. Measuring the power of a subwoofer is done with two sets of numbers: peak power and root mean square (RMS) power.
RMS should be considered before peak power since it has to do with how well the subwoofer continuously handles power. Generally speaking, greater power is always better. In addition to power, look into things like maximum volume and overall sound quality. Sound quality is affected by many factors, so be sure to read plenty of 8-inch subwoofer reviews to get a better idea of how a subwoofer sounds.
Frequency Response/ Range
Frequency response is a measurement of how well a subwoofer can handle low frequencies. Since 8-inch subwoofers are smaller in size than large subwoofer models, the range of frequency handling might not be as broad. The typical frequency range of a subwoofer for the home or car is between 20 and 200 Hertz. To put things into perspective, professional subwoofers used for concert venue audio typically operate below 100 Hz.
Impedance
Impedance has to do with how well a subwoofer can handle power and its electrical current flow. It is measured in ohms. MTX Audio says this about impedance:
“A higher impedance load will result in less amplifier output for that impedance, for example an amplifier will output more power at 2 ohms than at 4 ohms. Amps can generally be safely wired at 4 or 2 ohms and some even at 1 ohm depending on their design.”
Sensitivity
Sensitivity and power output go hand in hand. A subwoofer with a high sensitivity rating is more sensitive to power, which means that it needs less power to produce high-quality sound. The higher the sensitivity, the better the sound, and the less power required. The best 8-inch subwoofers feature a high sensitivity rating, typically above 84 decibels. 92db is even better, so consider yourself lucky if you find a sub with this rating of sensitivity.
Placement
Where do you plan on using your 8-inch subwoofer? At home? In the Car? Not only where do you plan on using it, but also how. Is this for jamming out to classic rock tunes while using your in-home rowing machine, or is smooth jazz more your style? Considering the subwoofer placement and how you plan on using it is a must.
Voice Coils
There are two common voice coil options for subwoofers: single and dual. A sub’s voice coil system has to do with how the audio component is wired. The more popular choice is the dual voice coil subwoofer since this offers more flexibility in terms of wiring. Instead of only having one option for wiring the system, a dual voice coil has two separate connection paths.
Wired or Wireless
The main difference between wired and wireless subwoofers is that one is easier to install than the other. Obviously, wireless subs feature a more straightforward installation process than audio equipment containing wires. However, some subwoofer users feel that wireless subs are less reliable than wired ones. If you're not comfortable with a wireless connection, go for the traditional wired subwoofer.
Cone Size/Material & Subwoofer Dimensions
The cone of a subwoofer is the mechanism that is ultimately responsible for producing low bass. It does this by moving back and forth, and it is the only moving mechanism of a subwoofer. This is the main reason that choosing a durable cone is a must.
For the ultimate compact durability, look for materials like polypropylene, Kevlar, carbon fiber, and aluminum. Not only should it be durable but also compact. This is a given for subwoofers that span only 8 inches. Small size is especially important if you plan on using this subwoofer to enhance the audio of your vehicle.
Extra Features
If you plan on using your subwoofer for long periods, consider additional features like a motor cooling mechanism. This specific feature will keep the subwoofer from overheating during long listening sessions. Another cool feature is automatic on/off capabilities; as soon as the sub detects an audio signal, it turns on and starts playing music. Some subwoofers even come with remote control operation.
Enclosure Type
Unless you invest in a component subwoofer, your new sub is likely to be enclosed in one way or another. The enclosure type just refers to the kind of box that the subwoofer is contained within. Enclosure plays a role in many things, including noise quality - like whether the bass is “tight” and accurate.
There are two main types of enclosures for subwoofers: sealed and ported. Sealed enclosures are common because they create natural-sounding bass that is not prone to excessive spikes and dips. This is the ultimate choice for avid music lovers, particularly fans of classical and jazz music. The only drawback is that sealed enclosures require more power to compensate for the air pressure contained within the sealed box.
Ported subwoofers come with vents along the length of the enclosure box. These vents allow airflow that essentially creates a more powerful low bass sound. If deep bass is what you're after, a ported enclosure is the better option. The downside of a ported subwoofer type is that installation is trickier, plus they tend to be larger and take up more space.
Durability/Warranty
A durable subwoofer is likely to come with a manufacturer’s warranty. Most subwoofer warranties only last for a year or two, mainly because subwoofers are not expected to last forever. Do your research on company warranty policies, as well as the ease of making a warranty claim if subwoofer operation goes south.
8 Best 8-inch Subwoofers Reviewed
1. Alphasonik NSW410
Our Top Pick!
Frequency Response Range | 35-500 Hz |
Sensitivity | 86 dB |
Mounting Depth | 4.02” |
Power Output | RMS: 250W, Peak: 800W |
Impedance | 4 ohms |
Warranty | 1 year |
Our top pick for the best 8-inch subwoofer is the Alphasonik NSW410. This 4-ohm subwoofer was designed to enhance car audio. The main thing to thank for this subwoofer’s #1 is the durable polypropylene woofer cone. The cone is small yet powerful, creating an intense low-frequency sound with a peak power of 800 watts.
The Alphasonic sub comes in 3 size options - 8”, 10”, and 12”. The 8” unit is by far the most popular, mainly because it provides power even with its small size. It is constructed from high-density polypropylene, heavy gauged stamp steel, and durable fiberglass. The input terminals are constructed from 8-gauge nickel-plated metal.
The 8” NSW410 has an RMS rating of 250 watts, a frequency response of 35 to 500 Hz, and a shallow mounting depth of just over 4 inches. Many people believe that the compact sub is the perfect solution for creating audio bliss within a vehicle.
The only drawback of the Alphasonik according to a few reviewers is the single voice coil. Many audio enthusiasts don’t mind this feature, but some prefer a dual voice coil wiring system. Dual systems provide 2 wiring paths instead of 1. Even with just 1 wiring option, though, the Alphasonik is easy to install in any vehicle.
Pros
Cons
2. JL Audio CP108LG-W3v3
No products found.
Top of the Range Model
Frequency Response Range | 28-250 Hz |
Sensitivity | 83 dB |
Mounting Depth | 5.125” |
Power Output | RMS: 250W, Peak: 250W |
Impedance | 4 ohms |
Warranty | 2 years |
JL Audio specializes in all-in-one subwoofer audio systems for vehicles. The company's CP108LG-W3v3 model can be used in either the home or car, and it is our top of the range model for a few reasons. The first reason is that this features an enclosed slot-ported system, so you won’t have to purchase a separate enclosure piece before installation. The sub itself is just 8 inches in diameter, but the entire unit is a bit larger, measuring 5.125" D x 18.500" W x 11.125" H.
Another loved feature of the JL sub is the high-performance music output. Typically only much larger subwoofers are capable of producing the powerful bass that comes from this model. The precise tuning of its 8W3v3 driver is to thank for this. Many JL Audio users are surprised - and pleased - by the powerful noise that comes from this small audio device.
Because of the thin yet durable wall material used for the enclosure, the internal volume of the subwoofer is about the same as the external volume. To create the necessary low-tuning frequency, JL Audio has made sure that the design is optimal for excellent extension and response smoothness. CP108LG-W3v3 technology utilizes a cabinet-building technique that makes the enclosure assembly more efficient and exact.
The only downside is that this subwoofer requires an additional amp. This is relatively normal for modern-day subs, especially the best 8” shallow mount subwoofer. Manufacturers understand that audio lovers prefer to pick and choose their audio equipment. So if you’re looking for a built-in amplifier, you’ll have to look elsewhere. When shopping around for an amp, look for a power rating between 100 and 250 watts.
Pros
Cons
3. Pioneer TS-SW2002D2
Best Cheap/Budget Option
Frequency Response Range | 20-200 Hz |
Sensitivity | 86 dB |
Mounting Depth | 2-⅝” |
Power Output | RMS: 150W, Peak: 600W |
Impedance | 2 ohms |
Warranty | 1 year |
The shallow-mounted Pioneer TS-SW2002D2 is the best cheap 8-inch subwoofer on this list of reviewed, rated, and compared subwoofers. Not only is it the top budget-friendly option, but it's also a powerful one. It features a peak power of 600 watts and 150 watts nominal power. This means that the sub can continuously handle 150 watts of power as you jam out to classic rock.
The shallow mounting depth of just 2-⅝” is much less than the typical 8” subwoofer. This means that you’ll be able to install this sub in nearly any location, even highly compact spaces. But don’t let the small size fool you. The subwoofer’s cone is larger than the average 8” model, and this oversized cone surface means that it is capable of moving more air. More air movement means louder and deeper bass - which is the entire point of investing in a subwoofer in the first place.
In addition to being small and loud, this piece of audio equipment is also sturdy. The manufacturer uses mica-injected molded resin, which is known for being durable as well as capable of producing accurate base. You most likely won’t need to use the Pioneer included warranty, but you should still register your Pioneer subwoofer to keep the warranty valid.
Just keep in mind that this product is only the subwoofer itself. You'll need to purchase the additional parts and pieces for optimal audio. Unlike the JL Audio sub, the Pioneer does not come with an enclosure case. If you do choose to purchase an enclosure case, Pioneer has one that is highly compatible with this subwoofer. The UD-SW200D down-firing shallow enclosure box is the perfect companion for the TS-SW2002D2.
Pros
Cons
4. Yamaha NS-SW050BL
Best for High-Sound Quality
Frequency Response Range | 28-200 Hz |
Sensitivity | 86 dB |
Mounting Depth | 13-⅜” |
Power Output | RMS: 100W |
Impedance | 5 ohms |
Warranty | 1 year |
Whether you consider yourself an audio nerd or not, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of the Yamaha company. Yamaha has been creating high-quality audio equipment for decades, so it’s a name you can trust. The company believes in sharing passion and performance, and it is devoted to high-quality sound. The Yamaha NS-SW050BL subwoofer is best for high-sound quality thanks to Yamaha staying true to its philosophy. This subwoofer creates only the cleanest and tightest bass.
It does this by incorporating a number of Yamaha advanced features, such as the Twisted Flare Port, which makes low-frequency sounds powerfully rich and impactful. Most subwoofer ports create turbulent airflow, but the gently twisting flared shape creates a smooth flow of air around the edge of the port. Thanks to the Twisted Flare feature, extraneous noise is reduced, and low-frequency signals are more accurate.
Unlike the other subs mentioned so far, the Yamaha is more geared towards in-home music listening rather than car audio. The 8” subwoofer cone is enclosed in a sleek black case that is a stylish addition to any room. The design features gentle curves and a clean matte black finish, making it a nice addition to bookshelf speakers.
Since this subwoofer is already enclosed, there isn’t much you need to do in terms of assembly and installation. Simply hook it up using the included subwoofer cable, calibrate the system, and start enjoying low frequency sound like you never have before. The only downside is that this subwoofer has an impedance rating of 5 ohms, which is considered to be less than ideal for some audio enthusiasts.
Pros
Cons
5. Rockford Fosgate P3SD2-8
Best 8-Inch Shallow Mount Subwoofer
Frequency Response Range | 38-250 Hz |
Sensitivity | 82 dB |
Mounting Depth | 2-11/16” |
Power Output | RMS: 150W, Peak: 300W |
Impedance | 2 ohms |
Warranty | 1 year |
If a shallow mounting measurement is what you’re after, consider the Rockford Fosgate P3SD2-8. This is the best 8-inch shallow mount subwoofer, with a top-mount depth of just 2-11/16”.
The compact size of the Rockford Fosgate makes this the ultimate subwoofer if you’re limited on mounting space. Even with such a shallow depth, this sub isn’t lacking in power at all. It has a peak power handling rate of 300 watts and a continuous power handling rate of 150 watts.
Rockford Fosgate is a global leader in audio innovation, and this becomes more obvious than ever with the P3SD2-8. The Rockford company understands that not all vehicles can accommodate deep subwoofers, which is why they created the P3SD2-8. Even if you have a depth-challenged car, you can enjoy deep bass listening.
This sub does not come with an enclosure box, but the good news is that it was designed to be compatible with both vented and sealed enclosures. All Rockford Fosgate products are optimized to work together, so it is suggested that you complete your audio system with the company’s 300-watt mono amplifier.
This model provides several wiring options with its dual voice coil system. Wiring this subwoofer is easy, but if you have any trouble, the Rockford Fosgate support team can help. The only downside is that this sub is not as loud as some of the larger models on our list. But if you’re looking for something compact with a shallow mount depth, this is the subwoofer for you.
Pros
Cons
6. Audioengine S8
Best 8-Inch Model for Home Theater
Frequency Response Range | 27-180 Hz |
Sensitivity | 88 dB |
Mounting Depth | 11.25” |
Power Output | RMS: 125W, Peak: 250W |
Impedance | 10K ohms unbalanced |
Warranty | 3 years |
Anyone in the market for the best 8-inch model for home theater should turn to the Audioengine S8. This subwoofer delivers excellent bass performance and provides low, tight, clean bass. Not only does this work well with home theater systems, but it is also compatible with turntables, all powered and passive speakers, TVs with analog output, CD and DVD players, and video game consoles.
The main reason that this is the optimal choice for home theater audio has to do with its appearance. The sleek boxed design looks great in any home. This 8” custom woofer is small enough to fit in any corner, or even tuck behind a piece of furniture. There's no need to hide this subwoofer away, though, since it works well with any interior design setting. This model comes in a black or white matte finish.
Included in the box is the subwoofer itself along with RCA cables, 1.5 minijack audio cables, and a quick start guide. One of the most common S8 FAQs is whether or not this sub comes with wireless capabilities. The answer is yes; the S8 does come with wireless capabilities; you just need a wireless adaptor.
One drawback to purchasing the Audioengine S8 is the lofty cost. But the extended warranty period makes up for this. While most other home audio subwoofers come with a 1-year warranty, this one comes with 3 years of coverage. Audioengine builds quality products that they stand behind, which is the reason for the much longer-than-average warranty period.
Pros
Cons
7. JL Audio 8W7AE-3
No products found.
Best 8-Inch Subwoofer for Car Audio
Frequency Response Range | 23-250 Hz |
Sensitivity | 82.7 dB |
Mounting Depth | 6.83” |
Power Output | RMS: 200-500W, Peak: 1000W |
Impedance | 3 ohms |
Warranty | 2 year |
JL Audio’s 8W7AE-3 model is the best 8-inch subwoofer for car audio, and not just because of its easy-to-install top mount design. The 3-ohm subwoofer has been called the "best damn 8-inch subwoofer ever made" time and time again. It comes with remarkable performance capabilities, stunning design attributes, and the ability to deliver impactful audio.
Powerful low-frequency sound is made possible with the subwoofer's linear excursion envelope. This essential woofer part exceeds .75", which is larger than conventional subwoofers in the same class as the 8W7AE-3. This means that the sub can deliver on sound impact beyond the normal range of 8" subwoofers. Another reason for the intense noise production is the sub’s power handling capabilities. It has a continuous power handling rating of 500 watts.
The company’s W7 subwoofer series has been around for over a decade, with constant improvements being made with each new model released. This subwoofer uses the signature JL Audio DMA optimized motor. DMA stands for Dynamic Motor Analysis, which basically means that JL Audio works to analyze and improve motor performance of their subwoofers continuously.
This subwoofer does not come with an enclosure box, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you wish to enclose the audio device. Aside from that, the only additional drawback of choosing this model is the high price tag. But just remember that you get what you pay for, so a higher price also means more durability and better sound quality.
Pros
Cons
8. Alpine Electronics PWE-S8
Best Compact 8-Inch Subwoofer
Frequency Response Range | 32-150Hz |
Sensitivity | N/A |
Mounting Depth | 3” |
Power Output | RMS: 120W, Peak: 240W |
Impedance | N/A |
Warranty | 1 year |
For a subwoofer that is stylish, powerful, and compact, check out the Alpine Electronics PWE-S8. This subwoofer’s dimensions are what make it the best compact 8-inch subwoofer on our list. The compact size measures just 13.5” L x 9” W x 3” D, making it small enough to install beneath or behind a seat in your car or truck. If you choose to use this sub in your home instead, you can place it almost anywhere.
Even with its small size, this subwoofer still manages to create loud and deep bass, no matter where you’re listening. It even comes with a built-in 120W amplifier. The woofer plus the amplifier are both housed together within the durable cast aluminum enclosure, which comes in black. This sealed enclosure system gives you the power to add deep, accurate bass to your vehicle’s sound system, all without taking up space.
The subwoofer is listening-ready as soon as it is removed from its box. All that is required for setup is to connect your car’s sound system through the RCA or auto-sensing speaker level inputs, both of which can be found on the sub's side panel. This side panel is where you can also find controls for proper sound setup based on your personal listening preferences. This includes things like phase, gain, and LP crossover.
Not only is the PWE-S8 strong and small, but it is also durable. Because the Alpine Electronics company specializes in vehicle-specific audio gear, they know that durability is of the utmost importance. This is why they have constructed their most popular compact subwoofer with sturdy cast metal. The only downside of the PWE-S8 is that it is meant specifically for vehicles. If you’re looking for something to enhance home theater audio, go with a model like the AudioEngine S8 instead.
Pros
Cons
Small vs. Large Subwoofers
Some audio enthusiasts stand by their belief that large subwoofers are capable of producing a more powerful sound. Although there is some truth to this, modern audio technologies make it so that even small subs can handle a great deal of power - even small 8-inch subs. The perk of choosing a small sub vs. a large one is the added portability and lightweight size.
Subwoofer Installation & Placement
Subwoofer performance has a lot to do with its placement. Acoustics have a significant impact on sound quality, so the first step in subwoofer installation is deciding on the perfect arrangement. For car audio, ideal placement is either in the trunk or beneath a seat. For home theater systems, you'll need to consider the size and shape of the room.
Can I install my 8-inch subwoofers myself? This is a common question among first-time subwoofers. In most cases, the answer is yes. DIY subwoofer installation is possible, especially for small 8-inch subs. The most challenging installation step is connecting the receiver to the amplifier.
You’ll need to follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions on how to do this. For extra help, refer to this helpful video tutorial by Crutchfield.Subwoofer Adjustments for Optimal Sound
For optimal sound quality, you’ll need to make some adjustments to your subwoofer when you first get started. The common adjustment controls on modern subwoofers include things like crossover, volume, phase control, and equalizing. Most first-time subwoofer users struggle most with adjusting crossover, which is the frequency at which your subwoofer starts effectively play bass.
To properly adjust crossover, find your subwoofer's specifications on the frequency range. If the frequency range is between 80 and 180 Hz, set the crossover to 80Hz. Setting subwoofer volume can be another difficult adjustment. Too-high volume can lead to a warbled, buzzy, and downright awful sound. Volume will have to be adjusted based on your personal listening preferences.
Common Subwoofer Issues & Fixes
If your subwoofer isn't working properly, there's a good chance that it relates to the system's wiring. It probably has to do with a failed connection between the receiver and the amplifier or problems with the speaker wires. Luckily, this is a reasonably easy fix. Simply check to make sure that the wires are all connected as they should be.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Are compact subs still effective in bass production?
Absolutely. Even small, 8-inch subwoofers are effective in producing high-quality bass. A subwoofer from a reputable manufacturer comes with a built-in amplifier that is highly effective when it comes to producing low frequencies.
Will putting my 8-inch subwoofer in the trunk affect the bass?
The placement of your new audio device has a lot to do with sound quality, especially for car subwoofers. Luckily, you can gain bass without losing space by placing your 8-inch subwoofer in the trunk. Sound quality will not be affected as long as you’re using the best 8-inch subwoofer for car audio.
Do I need to have an audio amp to power my 8-inch subwoofer?
This depends on whether you have chosen a subwoofer with a built-in amp or one that requires an amp addition. If you do need to purchase an audio amp separately, make sure to accurately match the amp with your subwoofer.
Which type of enclosure should I get?
It is very unlikely that an 8-inch subwoofer will feature a ported enclosure. Ported enclosure types are more common for large subs. If you’re searching for a small subwoofer, the best choice is the sealed enclosure type.
What should I expect from an 8-inch subwoofer?
You might be surprised by how powerful an 8-inch subwoofer can be. If you opt for one of the models in the 8 subwoofer reviews above, expect to be wowed by sound quality, bass production, and portability.
What are the top subwoofer brands for 8-inch models?
There are several reputable audio equipment manufacturers to choose from, but in our eyes, the top brand for 8-inch models is Alphasonik. You might also consider JL Audio or Yamaha.
Conclusion
In our honest opinion, the best 8-inch subwoofer is the Alphasonik. It’s powerful with a peak power rating of 800 watts and an impressive frequency range of 35 to 500 hertz.
In addition to these high-performance features, the Alphasonik is extremely reasonable in price. For an all-in-one subwoofer system that comes with an enclosure box (the Alphasonik does not), you might consider the Yamaha powered subwoofer instead.