Best powered subwoofers under $400

Powered subwoofers have one job: to produce deep, hard-hitting bass. They're especially important for home theater systems, because they produce deep, rumbling effects that "regular" speakers can't. Some music lovers also find powered subwoofers to be great additions to their stereo music systems.

Bass waves spread out in all directions, which means you have some flexibility in placing your subwoofer. Placing your sub near a wall gives you strong bass, and placing it in a corner gives you even more. Try your sub in different spots to see where it sounds the best.

There are two main considerations: speaker size, and room size. If you have small speakers in a small room, an 8" or 10" sub is a good choice. Have big speakers in an open floorplan? A 12" or larger sub might be a better match. If you really love bass, go for the biggest, baddest sub your room will allow.

Some customers choose a subwoofer from the same brand as their main speakers, to keep everything matching. However, we've found that mixing brands works just fine, and plenty of folks do that, too.

Absolutely! Using two subs gives you more even, consistent sound around your room by filling in gaps where bass response may be weak. A second sub also gives you more bass impact. We especially recommend two subs if you love cranking up action movies or have a large room.