Best 15 Inch Subwoofers

They can help you tweak the quality of the bass performance. 15 inch subwoofers are excellent for off-road vehicles or any other car which is likely to undergo lots of pressure since they can handle incredible energy than the smaller subs. Moreover, they’re also capable of producing deep, powerful lows.

Subwoofers are a fantastic addition to any audio system. If you want powerful deep bass, they are perfect not only because they extend the range of standard speakers and reduce the overall sound distortion. Subwoofers aren’t just for brute force.

We’ve put together the top 15 inch subwoofers to help you choose one that is perfectly suited to your needs.

Read our other guides:
Best budget subwoofers 
Best 12 inch subwoofers 
Best 18 inch subwoofers 
Best under seat subwoofers 

Best Overall

Rockford Fosgate P3D4

Loudest Option

Orion HCAA152


How We Decided

We purchase every product we review with our own funds — we never accept anything from product manufacturers.

The Best 15 Inch Subwoofers

A Detailed List of Best 15 Inch Subwoofers

First time buying a subwoofer? Check out our in depth buying guide first, so you can make the right decision.

Rockford Fosgate P3D4 – Best Overall Subwoofer Option

Rockford Fosgate is truly one of the most trusted manufacturers of car audio equipment. With the P3D4 punch, you can be confident that you’ll get the highest quality product built to last for a long time.

The subwoofer is equipped with spider venting technology as well as anodized dust caps that help keep the motor cool on long road trips and long drives. You can enjoy loud, bass-heavy, high-quality music for hours without worrying about the subwoofer bottoming out.

The basket’s flexibility ensures that the overall weight is low, and you will not notice any increase in your gas bill when you add this subwoofer into your vehicle. It can also make mounting and adjusting the subwoofer extremely simple compared to other brands.

The power output at 1200 Watts makes it ideal to power car systems. It delivers powerful bass that’s loud enough to alter the experience of listening without having to rely on an over-powered amplifier. 

Instead of the conventional plastic voice coils, the device uses anodized aluminum that serves as a heat sink and provides excellent heat dissipation. The power handling is in line with the CEA-2031 standards for the industry, which means it can last for a long time without causing damage to the coils.

Pros

·         It has features for cooling that ensure long-term usage

·         Sturdy construction

·         Easy to install

Cons

·         There is a slight distortion when playing the deep bass

·         Not as loud as other subwoofers.

Skar Audio – Best Budget Subwoofer Option

Some users might prefer a subwoofer that is more sophisticated in design. The EVL-15D2 is the perfect choice for showcasing a subdued style.

If you’re looking for a low-cost model, this subwoofer is genuinely exceptional in audio quality, with an extensive frequency response range as well as incredible bass sensitiveness. The Skar EVL-15D2 guarantees that you’ll enjoy a clear and precise bass when listening to shallow and high notes. It also has an effective coolant system for airflow that can ensure that the woofer stays cool during use for long drives or high-pitched head-banging sessions.

The subwoofer also takes on a lot of power, with a peak power consumption of 2500 Watts. If you’re searching for the best subwoofer to deliver chest-shaking bass even in the tight space of a compact car, the Skar Audio is the best model for the job.

Pros

·         Excellent quality of construction

·         Quality component

·         Incredible core specs

·         High-quality with precise and accurate performance

Cons

·         Not the most durable for extended usage

·         Requires custom subwoofer box

Orion HCAA152 – Loudest 15 Inch Subwoofer Option

The Orion HCAA152 is also a top-of-the-line competition subwoofer. While it’s more expensive than the average subwoofer, it comes with a superior cone for the woofer and is built to handle higher power. The more expensive components will provide better-sounding music that is clear and precise even at a high volume.

However, this type of power comes with its drawbacks. The Orion HCAA152 weighs more than 80 pounds, making it heavier than most home subwoofers for the theater. You’ll certainly require a second or third pair of hands to install this massive subwoofer.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the Orion subwoofer will require a significant quantity of power from batteries to run. It’s highly likely for you to power up your vehicle’s electrical system by adding another battery to fit the subwoofer. Putting this into your trunk will provide you with a pounding bass that will shake your bones. It also comes with the RMS that is 2000 W. This subwoofer can sustain excellent volumes for extended durations of time, which means you can pound throughout the day.

Pros

·         It is extremely loud

·         The subwoofer has incredible sensitivity

·         The dual flat-convex spiders provide the perfect heat control, and Tinsel leads

·         Large propylene cone for efficient response

·         The cooling process of the voice coils improves the endurance of the sub

Cons

·         The subwoofer is very heavy

·         It isn’t easy to install

·         Needs additional car batteries and amp to function optimally

Klipsch 15″ SPL-150SW – Best 15 Inch Option for Bass

This Klipsch subwoofer has more functional specs, like 800W peak and 400W RMS power. However, it’s a decent design and delivers excellent deep, crisp bass. The woofer is incredibly light and made from aluminum featuring the signature Klipsch Copper Cermatallic coating. In addition, the slotted port provides this sub with an aesthetic that sets it apart. 

It’s more than an appealing box. It’s classified as having an 18 the Hz-125 Hz range, and you’ll be able to enjoy the deep bass, which makes viewing films or listening to your favorite electronic tunes so exciting. The Klipsch SPL-150SW is a stylish and well-made subwoofer that can be capable of rocking your entire home.

The 15-inch subwoofer is simple to set up and set. The Klipsch is built for direct plug and play; it is ideal for those who don’t like the complexity of setting up audio. Klipsch also has an additional wireless connection that allows you to put this subwoofer anywhere that has power access, so you can listen to music wherever you’d like.

Pros

·         Beautiful finish and intuitive design

·         A powerful bass

·         It is easy to mix multiple subwoofers and surround speakers.

Cons

·         Expensive

Kicker S15L7 – Best Premium Option

The Kicker S15L7 subwoofer comes with a unique square design. The distinctive design emits an extremely retro-inspired vibe and is ideal for nostalgia for the 1980s. However, the square version will not fit in traditional 15″ enclosures, so you’ll need to be imaginative and build your own system. While this will give you the possibility of greater flexibility in the control and operation of your audio system, it can be a bit daunting for less skilled users.

The subwoofer comprises the titanium deposit cone, which can be affixed without breaking and has specialized technology to dissipate heat. These thoughtful design elements contribute to the product’s longevity, which means you don’t have to worry about deteriorating the components or losing sound quality. The Kicker S15-L7 is likely to outlast the car you have. Once you’ve put it in, you’re free to put it away.

The main issue with this subwoofer is its limited frequency range and inability to adapt to different styles of music. With a frequency range of 18 to 100 Hz, the Kicker Subwoofer is ideal for mid-to low-frequency bass; however, it struggles with high-frequency tones prevalent in pop and techno.

Pros

·         Excellent build quality

·         Cone made of sturdy material

·         Very loud

·         Excellent heat-management system

·         Strong performance on specific frequencies

Cons

·         Not that cheap

·         Excellent performance, however only at specific frequencies

Pyle PLPW15D – Hardest Hitting 15 Inch Subwoofer

If you like sleek and modern designs, the Pyle PLPW15D is what you require. The combination of black steel baskets and cones made of paper that are not pressed isn’t just beautiful; it guarantees the durability you need. In addition, the 15-inch model has an anti-corrosion dual voice coil that can withstand extreme temperatures without overheating.

The product comes with a 95-ounce magnet, includes a non-fatiguing rubber suspension, and a specially-treated foam cover that guarantees years of reliable service. Additionally, the well-ventilated and bumped motor design allows for sufficient air cooling. The sub needs 6.3 inches of mounting depth and works well with various enclosures.

The 2000W peak power sub can deliver high-quality bass efficiently and reasonably priced. It is built with a solid frame to ensure durability and deliver powerful and rich bass, unlike anything you’ve heard before. It comes with high temp dual voice coils, with an impedance of four ohms and a sensitivity of 92 decibels to hold action for a long time.

Pros

·         This subwoofer is waterproof

·         Fantastic price for high-quality audio

·         Unbeatable flexibility

·         Installation is simple, and the directions are easy to follow.

Cons

·         The sound can be loud.

·         Creates vibrations while playing music.

 Monolith THX Ultra Subwoofer – Best for Home Theaters

A relative newcomer to the world of audio equipment, Monolith is a direct-to-consumer online retailer that specializes in electronic accessories. Their main range of home audio equipment comprises Monolith amps wall-mounted speakers headphones and Monolith’s Monolith the THX Ultra Powered Subwoofer.

This THX Ultra certification for this subwoofer ensures you’ll get high-quality cinema sound even in rooms as big as 3000 cubic feet. Even if you’re not familiar with all the details about the sensitivity ratings and frequency response, it’s safe to know that the subwoofer is fully vetted and capable of achieving extremely low frequencies with low distortion.

Another reason we like the Monoprice Subwoofer is the incredible build quality. The woofer is protected by a grille that can be removed and has a stylish finish that doesn’t stand out like a sore thumb inside your living room.

Furthermore, the cabinet is constructed using high-density fibreboard instead of the more familiar medium density type, providing it with an extra level of toughness you’ll appreciate when building a classy and well-appointed home theater.

Pros

·         High-quality construction

·         Crisp, articulate bass

·         THX Ultra Certified

·         Amplification to the extreme.

Cons

·         Very heavy and large

·         Expensive

Audio PSW-15 Subwoofer – Best for Acoustic Sound

The PSW-15 is an excellent budget choice for those looking to enhance their audio experience at home. With a broad-band frequency response as well as a built-in digital drive amp, the 15-inch subwoofer can enhance the deep, powerful explosions you love in action films and will add full-bodied bass to your most loved music.

Its slim profile and sleek design make it a fantastic multi-faceted piece of furniture for any living space. Due to its elegant appearance and small size, the PSW-15 is ideal for home theaters and bedrooms, and other living spaces.

You’ll have the opportunity to experience an immersive experience while watching films, listening to music, and playing online games without having to worry about an expensive speaker system that occupies about half of the room.

Additionally, the PSW-15 provides a stunning frequency response, particularly at this price. It comes with an extended-excursion cone which helps to give a precise and precise response, meaning that you’ll be able to detect the subtle details in the sound.

Pros

·         Very affordable and low cost

·         Sleek, low-profile design

·         Incredible response to the frequency

Cons

·         Not suitable for rooms with smaller dimensions.

·         Internal amplifiers overheat.

Power Acoustik MOFO-152X

The most important feature of the Power Acoustik subwoofer is its power handling. The bass in this subwoofer is compelling, which means you’ll be able to bump the volume of bass-heavy music to the maximum you’d like. The greatest challenge is finding an amplifier powerful enough to make the most of the incredible capabilities of this subwoofer.

It’s also light with the use of a UV-coated, foam-like surround, and a four-spline heat source, and aluminum stiffeners. The dust cap made of aluminum is attached to the voice coil’s past, and the fins block the cones from flexing during high excursion. It also serves as a heat sink to maximize the flow of air. For those who push their subwoofers to the limits, you can get a reassembled recone kit if the cone gets damaged.

Pros

·         This sub has an excellent low-frequency response

·         Excellent value-for-money

·         It is Strong and loud

Cons

·         The quality of the subwoofer build needs to be improved

Things to consider when buying the 15-inch Subwoofer

There are a variety of aspects to take into consideration when purchasing a 15-inch subwoofer.

Amplifier

The right amplifier is essential to get the most value from your subwoofer. This won’t be a problem for powered subwoofers, as they have a built-in amplifier. However, with component subwoofers, it is vital. It is often beneficial to purchase an amplifier with a more excellent rating than the subwoofer to ensure that other elements can run smoothly on an amplifier.

Power Rating

The power rating tells you the amount of energy (by watts) the subwoofer can handle. Most subwoofers have two ratings; peak power and RMS. The peak power rating is related to the maximum power that the subwoofer can handle in brief bursts without causing damage. The RMS rating measures how much power the subwoofer can manage in continuous use. If you’re looking for a subwoofer that has the highest volume and clarity, you should choose one that has the most impressive RMS rating you can find.

Voice Coils

Subwoofers have the option of a singular or double voice coil (DVC). Single coil subwoofers can only contain one coil wrapped around the former, with one side being positive and the opposite is the negative terminal. When a subwoofer is a dual coil, it has two coils wrapped around, the first having two terminals, positive and negative.

Both have their own uses. Dual coil subwoofers are more flexible. They permit multiple subwoofers to be connected to a single amplifier or for one subwoofer to have connections in parallel to a single amplifier. The majority of high-end 15-inch subwoofers feature DVCs because they offer greater flexibility in wiring. DVC subwoofers can be quite expensive; however, most people are amazed by their power.

Type of enclosure

The enclosure type will determine the intensity level and how deep and precise your subwoofer’s bass can reach. Sealed boxes provide the most powerful and accurate sound. However, port and bandpass enclosures produce the most volume.

High Quality of Build

There are many different subwoofers available with different prices and quality levels. Subwoofers aren’t necessarily mean good quality, and cheap doesn’t necessarily mean poor quality. A subwoofer of good build quality will give a loud sound and will last a long time when subwoofers that aren’t of high quality can cause distortion and often will blow up pretty quickly. Also, be sure to check the cone’s construction and magnet size. 

Impedance

It’s a technical term that has no connection to the overall output quality. However, if you’re looking to get the deep and powerful bass you want, your system must be properly put together, and it is also essential to consider the subject. Impedance is the term that defines the amount of resistance that the sub adds to the circuit. If you’re a student in the days of high school, then you are aware that this characteristic measures in Ohms.

Different Type of Subwoofers

Component Subwoofers

Component subwoofers are also known as passive subwoofers. It requires mounting inside the subwoofer box and an external amplifier to create high-quality sound. Component subwoofers are top-rated among audiophiles because they are highly customizable and provide robust, transparent, and loud bass. The subwoofers are available in various dimensions and designs in high or lower power configurations.

The enclosures that house subwoofers may be sealed or come with ports based on needs and the type of music the owner would like. Sealed enclosures consume more power, producing a powerful, clear sound. Ported enclosures are less energy-intensive.

Powered Subwoofer

A powered subwoofer is perfect for people who don’t want to deal with the burden of making an enclosure that is custom-designed and running wires. They are small and don’t take up much space. The powered amplifiers produce a stunning sound. But their tiny drivers and amplifiers don’t offer large bass as some audiophiles prefer. They are typically more straightforward to set up, and a lot of smaller subwoofers powered by amplification can be placed in tiny places (like underneath the seats) to make use of trunk space.

Enclosed Subwoofers

An enclosed subwoofer is mounted in a specially designed box to hold the subwoofer. This kind of subwoofer removes the need to select the right enclosure, but you are stuck with the shape and the type of box that the subwoofer comes in. It is also necessary to have an external amplifier to use enclosure-based subwoofers.

Subwoofers for vehicles

These subwoofers have unique designs that will fit in different places in automobiles. They’re color-matched to the vehicle’s interiors and can be placed in areas where other types of subwoofers cannot fit without some modifications. But, like powered subwoofers, these subwoofers for vehicles don’t have huge and rich bass.

FAQs

What does the word “impedance” mean?

Impedance is a measure of electrical resistance. The lower the subwoofer impedance, the easier it is for the amplifier to charge it.

Can I install my 15′ subwoofer myself?

Yes. Subwoofers can be installed in a matter of minutes, provided you follow the directions correctly. But, the procedure is unique to the subwoofer’s type and the brand. If you’re new to the field seeking help from an expert will give you the right outcome.

Do I require an amplifier to run my 15-inch subwoofer?

Yes. Audio systems themselves don’t have enough power to create the most refined audio from subwoofers. Therefore, you’ll require an external amp to supply the subwoofer with sufficient power. However, if the subwoofer is powered,  you don’t have to purchase an amplifier externally.

What is the difference between a 2-ohm subwoofer and a 4-ohm one?

Impedance is used to describe how much electrical power the coil(s). It directly influences the volume of sound produced by the subwoofer. For example, a subwoofer with a 2ohm rating will sound louder with the same power input, whereas an amplifier with a 4-ohm rating will give an even and better sound.

Can placing my subwoofer inside the trunk alter the bass?

It’s all about the strength of the subwoofer. The clear and loud bass sound can travel through various substances with ease. As long as the subwoofer is high-quality, placing one in your trunk won’t alter the bass.

Conclusion

All 15-inch subwoofers aren’t the same. Although they might have the same woofer cone size, the models featured in this list offer distinct characteristics and strengths. To choose the most effective 15-inch subwoofer, you’ll first need to determine whether you’ll be using it exclusively inside your house or your vehicle. Then, you’ll be able to make use of this guide to locate an appropriate speaker within your budget that will meet your personal preferences and requirements.