What is a subwoofer? What's the usage?

1、 Definition and function of subwoofer

   A subwoofer, as the name suggests, is mainly responsible for enhancing the low-frequency band, that is, improving the long wave part of the audio (usually below 100Hz, even including infrasound waves that cannot be directly heard by the human ear). Due to the limited volume of ordinary speakers, it is difficult to produce low-frequency sounds with longer wavelengths. Therefore, subwoofers, with their larger size and special design, can produce low-frequency lively effects, making audio performance more full and shocking.

2、 The working principle of subwoofer

    The subwoofer is equipped with a power amplifier circuit inside, which divides the sound signal into different frequency bands through a frequency divider. The high-frequency part is usually processed by satellite speakers, while the low-frequency part is output through a subwoofer. A subwoofer is capable of producing low-frequency sounds ranging from 20-200Hz and resonating with satellite speakers through an inverting hole, creating a stunning bass effect.

3、 Types and characteristics of subwoofers

Subspeakers can generally be divided into two categories: active subwoofers and passive subwoofers:

    Active subwoofer: Built in amplifier, no need for external amplifier during use, convenient and fast. But its shortcomings are that the heat dissipation may not be ideal, the power is relatively limited, and the cylindrical design may bring unnecessary resonance phenomena, affecting the controllability of the subwoofer.
Passive subwoofer: requires an external amplifier during operation, so the design and power selection are more flexible and the effect is more ideal.
In addition, the material of the subwoofer also has a significant impact on sound quality. Wooden speakers generally have better sound quality than plastic speakers because they can effectively reduce the noise caused by box resonance. As a key component that determines the sound characteristics of a speaker, the subwoofer is commonly made of various materials such as paper basin, bulletproof cloth, wool woven basin, PP (polypropylene) basin, etc., each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

4、 Application scenarios of subwoofers

    Subspeakers are widely used in various occasions that require low-frequency sound enhancement, such as home theaters, KTVs, car speakers, public broadcasting, etc. In cinemas, subwoofers can restore the realism of shocking scenes such as airplane takeoff and explosions; In home entertainment, subwoofers can make music and movies more vivid and interesting. In addition, at parties, concerts, and other occasions, subwoofers are essential tools for creating a lively atmosphere.

5、 Suggestions for choosing a subwoofer

When choosing a subwoofer, the following points should be noted:

   Select type according to requirements: Choose active or passive subwoofers based on usage scenarios and personal preferences.
Pay attention to sound quality and power: Sound quality is the core competitiveness of subwoofers, while power determines the shock level of subwoofers.
Consider brand and cost-effectiveness: Well known brands usually have better quality assurance and after-sales service, but it is also necessary to choose products with high cost-effectiveness according to the budget.
Trial listening experience: Try to have a trial listening experience before purchasing to visually experience the sound performance of the subwoofer.
In short, as an important component of the audio system, subwoofers add a lot of color to audio performance with their unique low-frequency sound effects. When enjoying entertainment activities such as music and movies, the stunning feeling brought by subwoofers will undoubtedly make our experience more diverse and colorful.