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Can any speaker be used as a subwoofer? The basics of bass

Written by

Katelin Sargent

, ArchiPro

31 August 2023

 • 

3 min read

The innovative Klipsch RC-122 BTS “Behind The Screen” Speaker System with 18” high output polyfiber cinema subwoofer drivers.
The innovative Klipsch RC-122 BTS “Behind The Screen” Speaker System with 18” high output polyfiber cinema subwoofer drivers.
The role of the bass in music is fundamental, and its presence or absence can make or break the listening experience. Whether you’re an audiophile or just someone who enjoys music, it’s essential to understand the role of a subwoofer and whether any speaker can be used as one.

The importance of a subwoofer

A subwoofer is a type of loudspeaker that reproduces low-pitched audio frequencies, commonly known as bass. Bass frequencies typically range from 20Hz to 200Hz. A subwoofer enhances the depth and richness of sound, making it fuller and more enjoyable. It is especially important for music with deep, rhythmic bass lines which you'll find in R&B, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Drum and Base - even mainstream pop music. It's an essential component that brings music to life.

Can any speaker be used as a subwoofer?

Technically, any speaker can reproduce low frequencies, but not all speakers are equipped to handle the low-frequency range effectively. A speaker needs to have specific characteristics to function as a subwoofer:

Size of the driver

The size of the speaker’s driver plays a significant role in its ability to reproduce low frequencies. Larger drivers can move more air, which is necessary for producing bass sounds. A typical subwoofer driver size ranges from 8 to 15 inches, although there are larger ones available.

Power handling

A speaker needs to handle a considerable amount of power to produce low-frequency sounds at high volumes without distortion. Subwoofers usually have higher power-handling capabilities compared to regular speakers.

Frequency response

The frequency response of a speaker indicates the range of frequencies it can reproduce. A speaker that can reproduce frequencies as low as 20Hz will function well as a subwoofer.

Making the right choice for your sound system

Having a sound system with a good bass response can make any occasion more enjoyable. If you’re looking to upgrade your sound system and are considering whether or not to invest in a dedicated subwoofer, keep in mind the following points:

  • A dedicated subwoofer will always provide better bass performance than a regular speaker used as a subwoofer.
  • If you’re on a budget, consider a speaker with a large driver, good power handling, and a frequency response that reaches down to 20Hz. This will provide a decent bass response, although it won’t match the performance of a dedicated subwoofer.
  • Consider the size of the space where you will be using the sound system. A larger space may require a more powerful subwoofer to fill the area with sound.

The bottom line on bass

While any speaker can technically function as a subwoofer, a dedicated subwoofer will always provide better performance. Consider your budget, the size of your space, and your audio needs before making a decision.