Emotiva
Emotiva BasX S12 Subwoofer
Best powerful bass for enhancing home theater and music systems.
The Emotiva BasX S12 is a powerful and affordable subwoofer that delivers impressive bass performance for its price point. Featuring a 12" driver and a 300W amplifier, it's designed to provide impactful low-end for both home theater and 2-channel audio systems. While it lacks advanced features, its straightforward design and robust output make it a compelling option for those seeking enhanced bass without breaking the bank. Its compact size allows for easy integration into various room setups, and its ability to produce significant midbass punch makes it a strong contender in its class.
$399.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
2278
/ 8450
#2278 in Speakers
Price vs Category Average
-73%
Below average
Driver
12
/ "
Who it's for
- Budget-conscious audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts seeking strong bass.
- Movie watchers and music lovers desiring immersive, room-filling sound.
- Users upgrading their audio system who value simple setup and effective performance.
Who should skip it
- Advanced users and calibrators who require precise digital room optimization.
- Interior design-focused individuals who prefer discreet or stylish audio components.
- Apartment dwellers or those with limited space and mobility concerns.
Performance breakdown
Low-End Impact
The 12-inch driver delivers authoritative punch for cinematic home theater experiences.
Midbass Definition
Tight, responsive output that adds necessary weight to music and soundtracks.
Room Integration
Compact footprint allows for flexible placement in most standard living spaces.
Setup Simplicity
Straightforward analog controls make dialing in your crossover frequency a breeze.
Build Robustness
Solid construction that handles high-volume output without unwanted cabinet resonance.
System Versatility
Seamlessly bridges the gap between dedicated stereo and multi-channel surround setups.
Key Specs
Driver
12"
Amplifier
300W Class-D
Dimensions
17.75"H x 16.75"W x 18.25"D
Weight
48.5 pounds
Rear-venting slot port
Line-level inputs with loop-through outputs
Controls
Volume, phase, crossover frequency (50Hz to bypass)
Features
- Powerful 12-inch driver and 300W amplifier
- Affordable price point for its performance
- Compact size for easy room integration
- Capable of producing significant midbass punch
- Straightforward controls for easy setup
- Suitable for both 2.1 and 5.1 systems
What customers say
Customers consistently laud the Emotiva BasX S12 Subwoofer for its outstanding sound quality and remarkable value. Many reviewers highlight its ability to deliver deep, articulate bass that significantly enhances both music and home theater experiences. Users are particularly impressed by its powerful performance, often noting it rivals more expensive alternatives. The subwoofer's robust build and clean, impactful output make it a highly recommended choice for those seeking premium audio without a premium price tag. It truly elevates the listening experience with its impressive low end extension and clarity.
Know before you buy
With its 12-inch driver and 300W amplifier, the S12 is well-suited for small to medium-sized rooms. If you have a very large open-concept space, you may find that you need two subwoofers to achieve even bass distribution throughout the room.
Yes, you can use the line-level inputs to connect the subwoofer to your system. If your receiver or preamp lacks a dedicated sub-out, you can utilize the loop-through outputs to pass the signal along to your main speakers.
Because the port is on the rear, you should avoid placing the subwoofer flush against a wall. Leaving at least 6 to 12 inches of clearance behind the unit will prevent port noise and ensure the bass remains clean and accurate.
The S12 is designed to be a versatile performer. Its ability to produce significant midbass punch makes it excellent for the impact required in home theater, while its straightforward design provides the tight, controlled output needed for 2-channel music listening.
The crossover control determines the frequency at which the subwoofer takes over from your main speakers, while the phase control helps align the subwoofer's timing with your speakers to ensure they are 'in sync.' Adjusting these allows you to blend the subwoofer seamlessly into your specific room and speaker setup.
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$399