VLF and higher frequency signals are sent separately to the subwoofer(s) and mains by a 'crossover' network, typically using active electronics, including digital signal processing (DSP). Subwoofers are never used alone, as they are intended to substitute the VLF sounds of 'main' loudspeakers that cover the higher frequency bands. This very low-frequency (VLF) range reproduces the natural fundamental tones of the bass drum, electric bass, double bass, grand piano, contrabassoon, tuba, in addition to thunder, gunshots, explosions, etc. Thus one or more subwoofers are important for high quality sound reproduction as they are responsible for the lowest two to three octaves of the ten that are audible. The typical frequency range for a subwoofer is about 20–200 Hz for consumer products, below 100 Hz for professional live sound, and below 80 Hz in THX-certified systems. On the left, a version with transparent cabinet is shown where the large magnet (grayish color) of the speaker driver can be seen in the middle, close to the brown damper.Ī subwoofer (or sub) is a loudspeaker designed to reproduce low-pitched audio frequencies known as bass and sub-bass, lower in frequency than those which can be (optimally) generated by a woofer. A typical Hi-Fi subwoofer (r.), with the subwoofer loudspeaker built into a cabinet. A driver is commonly installed in an enclosure (often a wooden cabinet) to prevent the sound waves coming off the back of the driver diaphragm from canceling out the sound waves being generated from the front of the subwoofer.

Loudspeaker for low-pitched audio frequenciesġ2-inch (30 cm) subwoofer driver (loudspeaker).

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