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Woofer vs Subwoofer – What’s the difference? 2024

A woofer is a speaker in your system that handles low-frequency audio signals. On the other hand, a subwoofer focuses on reproducing deep bass frequencies The range, size, and power output of these two speakers are their primary differences. Let’s examine the key distinctions between a woofer and a subwoofer.

Whether discussing home theatre systems, clubs, or automobile sound systems, the terms woofer and subwoofer are invariably used. Although the majority of people believe that these two are nearly interchangeable, there is a small distinction between them. The lower end of the audible spectrum is the focus of a woofer speaker, which gets its name from the low sound of a dog barking. A subwoofer is a specialist woofer that has an even shorter frequency range than a woofer, which is a specialised speaker.

What is a woofer?

A woofer is a speaker in your system that handles low-frequency audio signals. Subwoofers are often utilised to create a powerful sound for movies or music videos, whilst woofers are frequently employed as front/rear channel speakers in home theatre systems.

What is a subwoofer?

On the other hand, a subwoofer focuses on reproducing deep bass frequencies Depending on their size and whether they are intended for very heavy-duty use or not, subwoofers come in a wide range of pricing ranges and power consumption levels. It’s advisable to pay attention to the particular specifications before making your purchase because these requirements differ from manufacturer to manufacturer.

Frequency ranges

While subwoofers frequently fall as low as 20 Hz or even lower in audio frequencies and only go up to 200 Hz, woofers normally have a frequency range between 50 Hz and 2,000 Hz.

Sizes

A typical 12-inch model can often handle about 200 watts of continuous power, but these parameters differ from manufacturer to manufacturer, so it’s advisable to pay attention to the details before making your decision. In comparison, a compact subwoofer that may be rated at 50 watts of continuous output is an option if you’re looking for something less potent. If you just have a little amount of space for your system, you should take into account the fact that a subwoofer normally takes up more space than a woofer.

Drivers

While a woofer can have up to four drivers, the most common configuration is two to three drivers, and it frequently incorporates a tweeter, a subwoofer is normally a single-driver speaker for your home theater systems.

Pricing

Typically, a 12 inch powered speaker on Amazon starts at $99 and is both inexpensive and high-quality. A good entry-level budget option would cost approximately $150, but some models have been closer to $350, so it all depends on whatever features you value highly enough to spend a little more money on.

A standard woofer typically costs around $100, however a subwoofer can cost anywhere from $150 to as much as $400. If you’re looking for some of the top woofers and subwoofers on Amazon, we suggest taking a look at JBL and Polk Audio models, which range in price from $200 to $1200.