Top 10 Best Polk Audio Powered Subwoofers
for May 2023

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If you're looking for a powerful subwoofer that can bring your music, movies, and games to life, then look no further than Polk Audio. Polk Audio, a trusted name in home audio and theatre systems, offers a range of high-quality powered subwoofers that provide deep bass and clear sound for your listening pleasure. From the black PSW series to the HTS series, Polk Audio has solidified its reputation as a leader in the audio industry with their innovative designs and superior sound quality.

The PSW series powered subwoofers are among the best options on the market. These subwoofers feature a sleek black finish that blends seamlessly with any home theatre system. With built-in amplifiers, the PSW subwoofers deliver powerful, clear sound that will enhance your listening experience. They also come equipped with adjustable crossover and volume controls, making it easy to customize the sound to fit your individual preferences.

The HTS series subwoofers take things to the next level with their advanced features and exceptional sound quality. These subwoofers are not only designed for music and movie lovers but are perfect for gamers as well. The HTS series offers a sleek, modern design that will seamlessly fit into any home theatre setup. These subwoofers also feature Polk Audio's patented Dynamic Balance technology, which ensures incredible accuracy and clarity of sound. In addition, the HTS series subwoofers offer compatibility with multiple devices, including smartphones and home theater receivers.

Among the top 10 best Polk Audio powered subwoofers is the PSW108, a compact and affordable subwoofer that will fit comfortably in small spaces. The PSW111 and PSW12 also offer impressive performance at a reasonable price point, perfect for anyone starting their home theater setup. Those who are willing to pay a little more for top-of-the-line quality and a more immersive sound experience should consider the HTS10 or HTS12, which offer 10 and 12-inch drivers, respectively.

In conclusion, Polk Audio's powered subwoofers offer an exceptional audio experience that you won't find anywhere else. With their excellent design, sound quality, and compatibility with other devices, it’s easy to see why Polk Audio is a top choice for anyone looking to enhance their listening or gaming experience. So, whether you're an audiophile or just looking for a better way to enjoy your music, movies, and games, Polk Audio's powered subwoofers are sure to provide the perfect solution.

1
9.9
SCORE
Polk Audio T Series 3.1 Channel Complete Home Theater System with Powered Subwoofer | One (1) T30 Center Channel, Two (2) T50 Tower Speakers | Wi-Fi, Alexa, HEOS Built-in

Polk Audio T Series 3.1 Channel Complete Theater Home System with Powered Subwoofer

by Polk Audio
What We like

POLK'S UNMATCHED QUALITY AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE. With these value-priced speakers, you can now enjoy premium acoustics, high quality construction, easy setup and a spectacular theater experience right at home

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Product Features

  • All speakers, including the sub, are equipped with POLKS PROPRIETARY DYNAMIC BALANCE TECHNOLOGY with wider dispersion & minimal distortions so every listener in the room hears UNSURPASSED THREE-DIMENSIONAL SURROUND SOUND WITH HEART-THUMPING BASS
  • Polk speakers are COMPATIBLE WITH MOST HOME THEATER AV RECEIVERS giving you many setup options. Use this 3.1 channel system as is or upgrade to an immersive multi-room setup with 5.1, 7.1, 9.1 or more channels
  • A POWERED SUBWOOFER FOR EXTRA BASS & PUNCH (up to 100 watts) - A 10-inch subwoofer with a uniquely configured directed port provides accurate bass with added depth that brings your music and movies alive. A perfect solution for your small-to-mid size room
  • MASSIVE SOUND FROM 11 SPEAKERS The center channel speaker features (2) 5.25 drivers & a 1 tweeter, and each tower has a 6.5 driver, 1 tweeter & (2) 6.5 Bass Radiators that produce a well-balanced, room-filling sound
2
9.9
SCORE
Polk Audio PSW505 12

Polk Audio PSW505 12" Powered & Subwoofer 265-RT 3-Way in-Wall Speaker

What We like

Product 2: EASY TO MOUNT AND INSTALL

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Product Features

  • Product 1: HEART-THUMPING MUSIC WITH DEEP, POWERFUL BASS
  • Product 2: BUILD A HIGH-PERFORMANCE HOME THEATER SYSTEM THAT DELIVERS, Designed to offset reflective surfaces with no sound distortions, use this 3-way speaker as LEFT/RIGHT SPEAKERS OR REAR SURROUNDS in a 3.1, 5.1, 6.1 or 7.1 channel system
  • Product 1: ACCURATE SOUND REPRODUCTIONS
  • Product 1: DRIVEN BY IMMENSE 460-WATT POWER, the PSW505 gives HIGH PERFORMANCE IMPACTFUL SOUND WITHOUT ANY DISTORtion.
  • Product 2: CRYSTAL CLEAR SOUND WITH A DEEPER BASS for a true cinematic experience.
3
9.3
SCORE
Polk Signature Elite ES15 Bookshelf Speaker - Hi-Res Audio Certified & HTS 10 Powered Subwoofer with Power Port Technology | 10” Woofer, up to 200W Amp

Polk Audio Polk Signature Elite ES15 Bookshelf Speaker - Hi-Res Audio & Certified HTS 10 Powered Subwoofer with Power Port Technology

What We like

Product 2: UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY & VERSATILITY The sub comes with LFE & stereo line level inputs. Pair it with any of Polks Signature series 2-channel stereo speakers or create a complete home theater with S50 tower, S15 bookshelf & S30 center channel speakers

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Product Features

  • Product 1: COMPACT HOME THEATER BOOKSHELF SPEAKER - Polk Signature Elite ES15 features Dynamically Balanced Acoustic Array with Precision Crossovers, a 1" Terylene Tweeter and a 5.25" Woofer that deliver room-filling, crystal clear sound in a life-like soundstage
  • Product 2: POLK'S PATENTED POWER PORT TECHNOLOGY delivers deeper bass response with its turbulence-smoothing diffuser that transitions air flow from the speaker into your listening area minimizing any kind of distortion & delivering rich full-range sound everywhere
  • Product 2: HIGH EFFICIENCY SUB-WOOFER FOR SMALL TO MEDIUM-SIZED ROOMS The HTS 10 features a 10" front-firing long-throw woofer with Polk's proprietary Dynamic Balance Technology designed to fill your room with immersive, three-dimensional sound in great clarity
  • Product 1: LOOKS TO KILL - The Signature Elite series speakers with their bold, modern looks are sure to make heads turn and set feet tapping, no matter where you are sitting in the room. Their elegant and classy style will make a statement with any home dcor
  • Product 1: NOT ONLY HEAR, BUT FEEL THE HEART-THUMPING BASS - Polk's Patented Power Port Technology delivers 3dB louder bass output than conventional ported speakers, minimizing turbulence & distortion so you do not miss any detail in your movies, music and games
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9
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Polk Audio RC80i 8-inch Premium 2-way In-ceiling Speakers | Set of 2| PLUS PSW505 12-inch Powered Subwoofer | Upgrade your Home Theater Now!

Polk Audio RC80i 8-inch 2-way Premium In-ceiling Speakers

What We like

Polks UNWAVERING COMMITMENT, RELIABILITY, AND CRAFTSMANSHIP has made it one of the most trusted names in home audio; Bring out the best in surround sound systems and acoustic excellence, so you can SIT BACK, RELAX AND LISTEN WITH YOUR HEART

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Product Features

  • 2) SUBWOOFER HEART THUMPING MUSIC WITH A DEEP RUMBLE the sub has a 12 woofer. DRIVEN BY IMMENSE 460W POWER, the PSW505 gives HIGH PERFORMANCE IMPACTFUL SOUND WITHOUT ANY DISTORTION & Polk's Proprietary Dynamic Balance Technology that DELIVERS GREAT DEPTH OF SOUND WITH CLEAR, CRISP DIALOGUES
  • VERSATILE & FULLY LOADED SUBWOOFER the front grille is detachable, and the back has a magnetically shielded LFE input for noisy signal aversion, line & speaker level inputs and outputs, and a Phase Toggle Switch designed for running multiple subwoofers
  • 1) CEILING SPEAKERS YOU CANNOT SEE BUT CAN SURELY FEEL; Includes a pair of Polk RC80i Disappearing In ceiling speakers; Each overhead speaker is equipped with an 8 inches Mid/Woofer & a 1 inches Swivel Tweeter
  • OUT OF THE BOX & RECESSED INTO THE CEILING; no mess, no extra assembly in 3 simple steps, QUICKLY AND EASILY INSTALL the ceiling speakers for a clutter free look; The PATENTED ROTATING CAM system ensures secure, vibration free installation
5
8.9
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Polk Audio HTS 10 Powered Subwoofer with Power Port Technology | 10” Woofer, up to 200W Amp | For the Ultimate Home Theater Experience | Modern Sub that Fits in any Setting | Washed Black Walnut

Polk Audio HTS 10 Powered with Subwoofer Power Port Technology

by Polk Audio
What We like

Polks commitment & expert craftmanship with their use of advanced technology, master engineering, and innovation helps them bring out the BEST IN SOUND SYSTEMS AND SPEAKERS so you can SIT BACK, RELAX AND LISTEN WITH YOUR HEART

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Product Features

  • YOUR BEST BET WITH MODERN LOOKS & THUNDEROUS PERFORMANCE The sleek rounded corners are a highlight, but this sub will surely take your movie & music experience up a notch with its deep rumbling bass with its in-built 200-watt amplifier (200W at peak)
  • POLK'S PATENTED POWER PORT TECHNOLOGY delivers deeper bass response with its turbulence-smoothing diffuser that transitions air flow from the speaker into your listening area minimizing any kind of distortion & delivering rich full-range sound everywhere
  • UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY & VERSATILITY The sub comes with LFE & stereo line level inputs. Pair it with any of Polks Signature series 2-channel stereo speakers or create a complete home theater with S50 tower, S15 bookshelf & S30 center channel speakers
  • ALL CONTROLS ON THE REAR PANEL Controls for volume, low pass filter and phase toggle for optimum bass levels (0 to 180 degree) are in close reach, right on the back of the subwoofer. The front has a clean rich look with detachable grille
  • HIGH EFFICIENCY SUB-WOOFER FOR SMALL TO MEDIUM-SIZED ROOMS The HTS 10 features a 10" front-firing long-throw woofer with Polk's proprietary Dynamic Balance Technology designed to fill your room with immersive, three-dimensional sound in great clarity
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8.6
SCORE
Polk Audio PSW111 8

Polk Audio PSW111 8" Powered Subwoofer & RC80i 2-Way Premium in-Ceiling 8" Speakers, Round Set of 2 Perfect for Damp and Humid Indoor/Outdoor Placement

What We like

Product 2: OUT OF THE BOX & RECESSED INTO THE CEILING - no mess, no extra assembly - in 3 simple steps QUICKLY & EASILY INSTALL these speakers. Leave the paintable aluminum grilles as is or spray paint to MATCH YOUR EXISTING INTERIOR and virtually make them disappear

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Product Features

  • Product 2: EXPERIENCE MORE BALANCED & LIFELIKE SOUND Features an 8" Dynamic Balance woofer & a 1" aimable tweeter for more depth & detail in your music. Mineral-filled polymer cone & strong composite driver baskets create wider dispersion for EVEN-SOUND COVERAGE
  • Product 1: LOUDER CLEARER SOUND EVEN AT EXTREME VOLUME LEVELS Features smart compression circuitry that limits distortion and gives a more balanced & thrilling music experience with rich, deep sound, even at low frequencies
  • Product 1: PERFECTLY BLENDS WITH YOUR EXISTING SYSTEM Timbre-matched with other Polk speakers from TSI, RM & R/T/M Series, this sub hooks to any receiver. No hassles, no extra connections. Upgrade your home theater and entertainment
  • Product 2: THE RUBBER SEAL DRIVES better response and PREVENTS MOISTURE ACCESS, a key feature for USE IN A BATHROOM, KITCHEN, SAUNA AND COVERED PORCH
  • Product 1: HIGH-EFFICIENCY LOUDSPEAKER Driven by a 150-watt amplifier (300W at peak), this sub is your answer to more power in a small footprint. It takes about one square foot of floor space and fills any room with incredible sound wherever you place it
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8.5
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Polk Audio PSW505 12

Polk Audio PSW505 12" Powered Subwoofer

by Polk Audio
What We like

EASY TO INTEGRATE WITH EXISTING SYSTEMS Hook up this sub to the receiver and upgrade your music sound instantly. Features continuously variable 60-120 Hz crossover and 25-125 Hz frequency response

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Product Features

  • ACCURATE SOUND REPRODUCTIONS Be it delicate, melodious string music or solid blasts and booms from bombs and bullets, this subwoofer picks the subtleties between different kinds of sound correctly and reproduces them with absolute perfection
  • DRIVEN BY IMMENSE 460-WATT POWER, the PSW505 gives HIGH PERFORMANCE IMPACTFUL SOUND WITHOUT ANY DISTORTION. While it blends with any speaker, it works best with Polk's Signature Series Speakers. Highly recommended for your home theater
  • VERSATILE & FULLY LOADED The front grille is detachable, and the back has a magnetically shielded LFE-input for noisy signal aversion, line- & speaker-level inputs and outputs, and a Phase Toggle Switch designed for running multiple subwoofers
  • HEART-THUMPING MUSIC WITH DEEP, POWERFUL BASS Polk's 12-inch Dynamic Balance Woofer sounds better because it is built better. Make your movies, music & sports experience thrilling
8
8.1
SCORE
Polk Audio PSW111 8

Polk Audio PSW111 8" Powered - Subwoofer Power Port Technology

by Polk Audio
What We like

Polks UNWAVERING COMMITMENT, RELIABILITY, AND CRAFTSMANSHIP has made it one of the most trusted names in home audio. Bring out the best in surround sound systems and acoustic excellence, so you can SIT BACK, RELAX AND LISTEN WITH YOUR HEART

more infoarrow_drop_down

Product Features

  • LOUDER CLEARER SOUND EVEN AT EXTREME VOLUME LEVELS Features smart compression circuitry that limits distortion and gives a more balanced & thrilling music experience with rich, deep sound, even at low frequencies
  • ULTRA-COMPACT POWERED SUBWOOFER FOR EXTRA PUNCHY BASS An 8" Dynamic Balance woofer, specially-tuned downward-firing port & on-point speaker geometry helps deliver accurate bass with added depth that pumps up your movie, games and music experience
  • PERFECTLY BLENDS WITH YOUR EXISTING SYSTEM Timbre-matched with other Polk speakers from TSI, RM & R/T/M Series, this sub hooks to any receiver. No hassles, no extra connections. Upgrade your home theater and entertainment
  • HIGH-EFFICIENCY LOUDSPEAKER Driven by a 150-watt amplifier (300W at peak), this sub is your answer to more power in a small footprint. It takes about one square foot of floor space and fills any room with incredible sound wherever you place it
  • A SLEEK DETACHABLE GRILLE on the front, along with LFE line-inputs, as well as speaker-level inputs and outputs on the back, and Low-Pass Filter & Phase Toggle Switch, make this sub COHESIVE & COMPLETE, especially at this price
9
8.1
SCORE
Polk Audio PSW108 10

Polk Audio PSW108 10" Powered Subwoofer

by Polk Audio
What We like

A built-in high-powered amp generates 50 watts RMS/100 watts dynamic power for an EMPHATIC BASS RESPONSE and a wide dynamic range crucial to recreate the intricate details and AUTHENTICITY OF LIFE-LIKE SOUND

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Product Features

  • CONTEMPORARY DESIGN FOR A PREMIUM HOME THEATER EXPERIENCE A 10" Dynamic Balance woofer & front-firing port directs powerful lows at the seating area giving a CINEMATIC QUALITY to your music and movies
  • Includes: (4) Polk Audio PSW108 10" Powered Subwoofer
10
8.1
SCORE
Polk Audio PSW108 10

Polk Audio PSW108 10" Powered Subwoofer

by Polk Audio
What We like

A built-in high-powered amp generates 50 watts RMS/100 watts dynamic power for an EMPHATIC BASS RESPONSE and a wide dynamic range crucial to recreate the intricate details and AUTHENTICITY OF LIFE-LIKE SOUND

more infoarrow_drop_down

Product Features

  • CONTEMPORARY DESIGN FOR A PREMIUM HOME THEATER EXPERIENCE A 10" Dynamic Balance woofer & front-firing port directs powerful lows at the seating area giving a CINEMATIC QUALITY to your music and movies
  • Includes: (2) Polk Audio PSW108 10" Powered Subwoofer

Polk Audio has been a trusted name in the audio world since its inception in 1972. Right from the start, Polk Audio has prided itself on providing high-quality sound for the masses. But it wasn't until the advent of powered subwoofers that they really began to perfect their craft.

The first Polk Audio powered subwoofer was introduced in 1983, and it changed the way people thought about home audio. At the time, most subwoofers would only work with large, expensive amplifiers. This made them difficult to use for the average listener. But Polk Audio's powered subwoofers made it possible for anyone to add impressive bass to their audio setup without breaking the bank.

In 1987, Polk Audio introduced the PSW-10, a 10-inch powered subwoofer that quickly became a best-seller. Its compact size made it a perfect addition to smaller audio setups, without sacrificing the quality of the sound. This subwoofer was the foundation for the rest of Polk Audio's powered subwoofers to come.

Over time, Polk Audio continued to innovate in the powered subwoofer space. In 1996, they introduced the DSW line of subwoofers, which featured improved power handling, deeper bass, and an elegant design. These models quickly became a favorite among audio enthusiasts and Polk Audio loyalists.

In 2001, Polk Audio introduced the Subwoofer Bass Station, a subwoofer and amplifier combo that further simplified the audio setup process for consumers. The Bass Station was a complete audio solution, eliminating the need to purchase separate subwoofers and amplifiers. This made it easier and more accessible for anyone to create a high-quality audio system in their home.

Today, Polk Audio's powered subwoofers continue to be some of the most respected and beloved in the market. The company continues to innovate and push the boundaries in the audio space, with new models that feature improved frequency response, better power handling, and sleeker designs.

In conclusion, Polk Audio's history in powered subwoofers is a testament to the company's commitment to providing high-quality audio to everyone, regardless of their budget or technical expertise. Their innovations have made it possible for anyone to enjoy rich, immersive sound in their homes, and they continue to be a trusted name among audio enthusiasts and casual music lovers alike.

Key Decision-Making Factors:

1. Sound Quality: Performance Rating - Critical

Sound quality is arguably the most critical factor when it comes to home audio and theater systems. The overall sound quality of the system will determine how enjoyable the watching or listening experience is. Therefore, it is essential to choose a system that ensures high-quality sound with clarity and depth, providing an immersive experience. Many factors can influence sound quality, such as speaker size, frequency range, power output, and audio format compatibility. Hence, selecting a system with high-end features and components can significantly affect the overall quality of the sound.

2. Connectivity Options: Performance Rating - High

In the current era of digital streaming and smart devices, having multiple connectivity options is essential. Consumers nowadays expect to have the option to connect their home audio and theater systems with their smart devices, laptops or other devices easily. Hence, a system with versatile connectivity options such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB, HDMI, or aux-in ports is necessary. These connectivity options not only allow the user to enjoy their favorite media from multiple devices but also enable them to control the system wirelessly.

3. User-Friendly Interface: Performance Rating - Moderate

An easy-to-use and simple user interface can help enhance the overall user experience. The system should be intuitive enough for users to navigate around the menu, adjust volume, and select different audio-video modes quickly. A user-friendly interface makes a big difference, especially for older users or those that may not be tech-savvy. A well-designed remote control and mobile app with a user-friendly interface can add extra convenience, allowing users to control their system wirelessly with ease.

4. Price: Performance Rating - High

The price is an essential factor for many people while selecting a home audio and theater system. It can impact which system they ultimately choose and how much they can afford to spend. Consumers need to get good value for their money, ensuring they are getting the most bang for their buck. Hence, selecting a system with high-quality components and features that cost-effectively provides excellent sound quality at an affordable price is highly desirable.

5. Aesthetics: Performance Rating - Low

The aesthetic design of the home audio and theater system can be a factor for some consumers that are concerned about how the system looks in their living space. However, aesthetics should not be the primary consideration when selecting a home audio and theater system. While it is essential to consider how the system fits with the home decor, consumers should prioritize other factors, such as sound quality, connectivity, and ease of use. Ultimately, aesthetics will be a personal preference and ranked low on the list of decision-making factors.

FAQ About polk audio powered subwoofers

1. What is the best Polk subwoofer?

The Polk Audio PSW505 is widely considered the best Polk subwoofer. It has a 12-inch driver and a continuous power output of 300 watts, with the ability to reach up to 460 watts of peak power. Its design includes a built-in amplifier, a front-firing driver, and a bass-reflex enclosure, all of which contribute to its impressive sound quality.

2. What subwoofer has the best sound quality?

The answer to this question is subjective and depends on personal preference. However, some brands that are generally considered to produce high-quality subwoofers include SVS, JL Audio, Bowers & Wilkins, and REL. It's essential to consider factors such as driver size, frequency response, and build quality when looking for a subwoofer with the best sound quality.

3. What brand of subwoofer is the best?

Similarly to the previous question, the best brand of subwoofers is subjective and depends on individual needs and preferences. Some popular brands that produce excellent quality subwoofers include Polk Audio, SVS, Klipsch, JL Audio, and Bowers & Wilkins. Factors to consider when choosing a brand include price, size, and the type of sound you're looking for.

4. What is the price of Polk Audio subwoofer 12?

The price of Polk Audio subwoofer 12 can vary depending on the specific model and where you purchase it. Generally, you can expect to spend anywhere between $200 and $500 for a 12-inch Polk subwoofer. However, some high-end models may cost upwards of $1,000. It's essential to compare prices and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.

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