Polk Audio PSW10

Polk Audio PSW10

Polk Audio PSW10 10-inch Powered Subwoofer Review

Polk Audio has made significant improvements over the years in providing users with better sound quality at an affordable price. The company offers a range of audio products that are engineered to be accessible to a wide range of consumers. One such product is the Polk Audio PSW10, which we had the opportunity to test and evaluate over the course of a month. We can confidently say that this subwoofer is a quality offering from an industry leader.

In this review, we will delve into various aspects of the Polk Audio PSW10 10-inch subwoofer, including its design, sound performance, packaging, accessories, specifications, and more. We will also provide alternative subwoofer options for those interested in exploring different wireless subwoofer.

Design

Build Quality & Controls

In terms of aesthetics, the Polk PSW10 has a simple and sleek design, which is typical for most subwoofers. It features a compact size with dimensions of 14.5 inches in length, 14 inches in width, and 15 inches in height (LxWxH). The subwoofer is primarily constructed using MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) material, known for its durability and acoustic properties.

The front face of the subwoofer has a metallic silver color, giving it a modern and stylish look. Additionally, the package includes a black mesh cover that can be used to cover the front of the subwoofer, providing an alternative aesthetic option.

Polk Audio PSW10 10-inch

POLK AUDIO PSW10 10-INCH WITHOUT THE FRONT MESH | SOUND GEAR LAB

The Polk PSW10 subwoofer provides users with a choice of two elegant finish options: sleek black and a stylish cherry-colored vinyl wrap. For the purpose of our review, we opted for the black variant. The subwoofer’s controls are thoughtfully placed on the back, ensuring convenient access while maintaining a clean and uncluttered aesthetic.

The control panel on the rear panel offers a range of options to fine-tune your audio experience. These include volume control, a low pass frequency adjustment knob with a substantial range from 80Hz to 160Hz, power control with three distinct positions (On, Auto, and Off), and phase adjustment ranging from 0º to 180º.

The power control operates as a toggle, enabling users to effortlessly switch between different power settings to suit their preferences. In Auto mode, the subwoofer displays a smart feature by automatically powering on when it detects an incoming signal or when the volume level is increased. It also has a power-saving function wherein it remains active for approximately 15 minutes after inactivity before powering off. This eco-conscious feature not only conserves power but also contributes to reduced energy costs.

However, it’s worth noting that the PSW10 lacks a magnetic shield. This absence means that if you place the subwoofer in close proximity to a CRT (tube) TV or computer, you might encounter some electrical interference. This interference can manifest as distorted colors or screen disruptions. It’s essential to emphasize that while this interference might affect the visual display, it doesn’t compromise the overall audio quality of the subwoofer. Users with DLP, LCOS, LCD, or Plasma TVs and computers can rest assured that the subwoofer’s magnets won’t interfere with their displays, offering a hassle-free listening experience.

Polk Audio PSW10 10-inch

POLK AUDIO PSW10 10-INCH WITH FRONT GRILL | SOUND GEAR LAB

Inputs and Technology

The Polk PSW10 features input and output connections on the back of the subwoofer. These connections include the RCA line in L and R connectors for audio input, as well as stereo speaker inputs and outputs located below the other controls.

However, it’s worth noting that the subwoofer does not have an LFE (Low-Frequency Effects) input. While this may be slightly inconvenient, it’s not a significant issue as you can easily work around it by bypassing it with a good receiver. By connecting the receiver’s subwoofer output to the line-level inputs on the PSW10, you can still achieve the desired audio setup without the dedicated LFE input.

Polk Audio PSW10

POLK AUDIO PSW10 INPUTS | SOUND GEAR LAB

Sound

When it comes to sound performance, the Polk PSW10 delivers an immersive experience. During my testing, I used the subwoofer for movies, music, and even played my all-time favorite first-person-shooter game, “Call of Duty: Ghosts,” on my PS4.

The subwoofer excelled in reproducing deep and powerful bass frequencies, enhancing the overall impact of action-packed movie scenes and intensifying the low-end elements in music tracks. Explosions and rumbling effects were rendered with a satisfying punch, while the subtle nuances in music were faithfully reproduced.

In the gaming realm, the PSW10 added a new level of immersion to my gameplay experience. The thunderous explosions and impactful gunshots truly brought the game to life, creating a more engaging and realistic feel.

Overall, the Polk PSW10 proved to be a capable performer across various audio applications, delivering impressive bass response and enhancing the overall audio experience in movies, music, and gaming.

Bass

The Polk PSW10 delivers detailed and clear bass output without being overpowering. It may not have an excessively boomy character, which can be a positive aspect for some listeners. However, it’s important to consider the size of the room in which the subwoofer will be used. In moderate to small-sized rooms, the PSW10 performs well and provides a satisfying bass experience. However, in larger rooms, the punch and impact of the bass may be lacking.

For those seeking a fuller bass experience in larger rooms, I recommend considering the Polk Audio PSW12, which performed admirably in our testing. The PSW12 offers sufficient volume and clarity when reproducing bass frequencies in both music and movies. However, at the lower end of the frequency range, it may exhibit some loss of control. Nevertheless, overall, it remains a great option for most people.

In terms of gaming, the PSW12 enhances the gaming experience by delivering a more natural sound output with plenty of bass, particularly noticeable during explosions and gunshots. It manages to maintain a balance with the higher frequencies, ensuring they are not drowned out.

Packaging and Accessories

Upon arrival, the Polk Audio PSW10 10-inch subwoofer was well-packaged, ensuring its protection during shipping. The package showed no signs of deformation or damage, and there were no scratches on the subwoofer itself.

 

Polk Audio PSW10 10-inch package

POLK AUDIO PSW10 10-INCH PACKAGE

When unboxing the PSW10, it appeared larger than expected, which came as a pleasant surprise. The size added to its overall presence and aesthetics. Inside the box, the subwoofer was accompanied by a removable front grill. Users have the option to use the subwoofer with or without the grill, depending on their preferences. Personally, I found that the subwoofer looked better and complemented my current setup when the front grill was attached.

Pros
  • Affordable price: The Polk Audio PSW10 offers a more budget-friendly option compared to other subwoofers on the market.
  • Improved sound: The subwoofer delivers detailed and clear bass without overpowering the audio experience.
  • Easy setup: Setting up the PSW10 is a straightforward process, making it convenient for users.
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Cons
  • Lack of LFE input: The subwoofer does not include an LFE input, which can be slightly disappointing for some users. However, this can be bypassed by using a compatible receiver.
  • Absence of magnetic shielding: The PSW10 lacks a magnetic shield, which may result in electrical interference when placed near CRT-based TVs or computers. However, this issue is not applicable to DLP, LCOS, LCD, or Plasma displays.

The Polk PSW10 Alternatives:

 

  • Polk PSW10 vs. Klipsch Reference R-10SW 10″

The Polk PSW10 is a budget-friendly subwoofer that offers great bass performance at an affordable price. However, if you’re looking for an alternative with even higher standards, I would recommend the Klipsch Reference R-10SW 10″ 300w Powered Subwoofer. Although it comes at a higher price, it delivers exceptional sound quality and has an impressive design that matches the Polk PSW10.

  • Polk PSW10 vs. Monoprice 109723

While Monoprice may not be known for their exciting designs, the Monoprice 109723 subwoofer offers superior sound quality with powerful and clear bass. If you can overlook the uninspiring design, this Monoprice subwoofer is a good and affordable alternative to the Polk PSW10.

  • Polk PSW10 vs. Sony SACS9

For those willing to spend a little more, the Sony SACS9 is another alternative to consider. This subwoofer delivers ample bass and offers flexibility and capacity to meet most user needs. If you have a few extra dollars to spare, the Sony SACS9 is worth considering.

  • Polk PSW10 vs. Yamaha NS-SW100BL 10″

The Yamaha NS-SW100BL 10″ subwoofer, priced just under $150, is a close competitor to the Polk PSW10. It boasts good build quality and, according to online user reviews, offers satisfying sound performance. While I have not personally tested this subwoofer yet, I will update this article with a review of the NS-SW100BL once my team has had the opportunity to test it. Overall, the Polk PSW10 remains a solid budget-friendly choice, delivering excellent sound and build quality at an affordable price, particularly suitable for small to medium-sized rooms and apartments.

Polk Audio PSW10 Review

The Polk Audio PSW10 is indeed a popular subwoofer known for its compact size, affordable price, and impressive sound quality. It offers up to 100 watts of dynamic power, allowing it to deliver deep bass for a variety of setups that require enhanced low-frequency performance.

When searching for a subwoofer, it’s important to consider factors such as power output, sound quality, and individual preferences. Subwoofers come in various sizes and shapes, and their ability to reproduce bass can vary significantly depending on the power they possess and the desired sound quality.

The Polk Audio PSW10 aims to strike a balance between affordability and performance, making it an attractive option for those seeking a budget-friendly subwoofer that still delivers satisfying bass response. However, it’s essential to evaluate your specific needs and preferences to ensure the subwoofer you choose will meet your expectations. Additionally, researching and comparing different models can help you find the right subwoofer that satisfies your specific requirements for sound quality and power output.

polk audio psw10 subwoofer

A subwoofer is indeed a crucial component for enhancing the audio experience when listening to music or watching movies. By reproducing low-frequency sounds, subwoofers can greatly improve the overall audio quality and provide a more immersive and impactful experience.

The bass produced by a subwoofer adds depth and richness to music, making it more enjoyable and dynamic. It allows you to feel the low-end frequencies, enhancing the rhythm and intensity of the tracks. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or simply enjoy watching movies, a subwoofer can greatly enhance your overall enjoyment and immersion.

In the context of movies, a subwoofer plays a vital role in reproducing deep and rumbling sound effects, such as explosions, thunder, or the powerful rumble of a car engine. These low-frequency effects can add a whole new dimension to your movie-watching experience, making it more realistic and engaging. The impact and intensity of such effects are greatly enhanced with the presence of a subwoofer in your audio setup.

Overall, a subwoofer is an essential addition to any audio or home theater setup, as it significantly improves the audio quality, provides a more immersive experience, and allows you to enjoy the full range of sounds in your favorite music or movies.

Design

The PSW10 subwoofer from Polk Audio showcases a classic wooden appearance complemented by an innovative titanium baffled design. The enclosure of the subwoofer has been meticulously braced and damped to eliminate any distortions, standing waves, or other disruptive elements that could impact your audio experience negatively. This attention to detail ensures a clean and immersive sound reproduction.

Measuring at a compact size, the PSW10 subwoofer stands 14.5 inches tall, 15 inches wide, and has a depth of only 14 inches. Despite its small footprint, it weighs a solid 26 pounds, owing to its sturdy construction with a Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF) cabinet. The MDF cabinet material helps to minimize vibrations and resonance, allowing for accurate and distortion-free bass performance.

The subwoofer is available in two aesthetically pleasing options: black or cherry colored vinyl. It features a matching titanium finish on the front baffle, which complements other speakers from the same series. This cohesive design makes it an ideal addition to your home cinema system, ensuring both audio excellence and visual harmony.

With its combination of sleek design, robust construction, and optimized audio performance, the Polk Audio PSW10 subwoofer is a suitable choice for enhancing your home theater setup and delivering impressive bass reproduction.

polk audio psw10

The Polk Audio PSW10 subwoofer incorporates a distinctive bass port that has been carefully tuned and positioned to maximize bass output. This design feature helps to optimize the low-frequency performance, delivering deep and impactful bass.

The subwoofer includes a removable front grill, allowing you to choose whether to showcase the 10-inch driver with its high-roll foam surrounds or keep it protected behind the grill. The driver’s foam surrounds contribute to improved durability and flexibility, enabling precise and controlled bass response.

Thanks to the enclosure’s unique design, the subwoofer remains securely in place even when operating at high volume levels. This ensures stability and prevents any unwanted movement or vibrations that could affect the audio performance.

The Polk Audio PSW10 subwoofer also comes with an extended warranty for added peace of mind. With five years of protection for the woofer and three years for the electronics, you can enjoy the subwoofer’s performance with confidence. This warranty coverage is noteworthy as some warranties offered by other manufacturers may only provide limited coverage of up to 12 months.

The Control and Inputs

The Polk Audio PSW10 subwoofer features a set of controls conveniently located on the back of the unit. These controls allow you to adjust various settings according to your preferences and setup requirements.

The volume control allows you to adjust the overall output level of the subwoofer, allowing you to find the desired balance between the bass and the rest of your audio system.

The low pass control enables you to set the frequency range over which the subwoofer reproduces sound. This adjustable range typically spans from 80Hz to 160Hz, allowing you to tailor the subwoofer’s response to seamlessly integrate with your main speakers.

The power control is a toggle-type switch with three positions: On, Auto, and Off. When set to On, the subwoofer remains powered continuously. In the Auto mode, the subwoofer will automatically power on when it detects an audio signal or when you increase the volume level. This feature provides convenience and energy efficiency, as the subwoofer only activates when needed. When set to Off, the subwoofer remains powered off until manually switched on.

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Lastly, the phase control allows you to adjust the phase alignment of the subwoofer relative to the other speakers in your setup. This control typically offers a range of 0º to 180º, allowing you to fine-tune the synchronization between the subwoofer and the main speakers for optimal bass integration.

By offering these controls, the Polk Audio PSW10 subwoofer provides flexibility in customizing the subwoofer’s performance to suit your specific audio preferences and room acoustics.

POLK AUDIO PSW10 active subwoofer

 

The Driver

The Polk Audio PSW10 subwoofer is an excellent choice for those seeking powerful and impactful bass. Its 10-inch driver utilizes a durable and resonance-free Dynamic Balance polymer composite material, ensuring superior performance and the ability to produce deep, distortion-free low frequencies even at higher volumes.

Equipped with a 100-watt amplifier, this subwoofer delivers clean and robust bass that adds depth and richness to your audio experience. The amplifier’s power output allows for significant bass impact, making it suitable for those who enjoy immersive and dynamic sound reproduction.

The Polk PSW10 incorporates Klippel Distortion measurement technology, which employs a laser-based system to minimize sound distortion. This technology contributes to accurate and precise playback, ensuring that the subwoofer faithfully reproduces low-frequency content without unwanted artifacts or inaccuracies.

Polk Audio, known for their quality audio products, designs their speakers and subwoofers to handle high volume levels without compromising audio quality. This means that even when pushing the subwoofer to its limits, you can expect it to maintain its performance and deliver impactful bass without distortion.

Polk Audio PSW10 10-inch, 100W Powered Subwoofer reveiw

Sound Performance

The Polk Audio PSW10 is a fantastic option for individuals seeking to enhance their audio setup with powerful and detailed bass. It offers ample output power to ensure that every detail in the percussion instrument range is audible, while maintaining clarity and precision without distortion. The subwoofer is meticulously designed and engineered to deliver superb sound quality.

The driver materials, speaker geometry, and enclosure design all contribute to creating impactful and immersive sound effects. The PSW10 is specifically crafted to produce sound with a clear and clean tone, ensuring that the bass reproduction remains faithful to the original audio source. The internal bracing of the subwoofer helps reduce distortion, particularly in low-frequency sounds, resulting in a more accurate and enjoyable listening experience.

Furthermore, the resonance-free dynamic balance driver materials used in the PSW10 eliminate unwanted effects and contribute to overall audio excellence. This ensures that the subwoofer produces deep, accurate bass without compromising on volume or impact. The sound quality is impressive, allowing percussion instruments to be heard distinctly without overpowering or detracting from the overall listening experience.

Polk Audio PSW10 10-inch, 100W Powered Subwoofer

The Polk Audio PSW10 is an ideal choice for smaller rooms such as apartments, where space limitations require a compact subwoofer without sacrificing precise detail. Despite its smaller size, the PSW10 is still capable of delivering an immersive audio experience within the confines of those walls.

When it comes to gaming, having the right sound output can greatly enhance the gaming experience. The PSW10 subwoofer provides an excellent level of bass response, ensuring that explosions and other low-frequency effects in games have the necessary impact and depth. At the same time, the subwoofer maintains clarity in higher frequencies, allowing you to hear important in-game details without any muddiness or distortion in between.

The combination of precise bass reproduction and clear higher frequencies offered by the PSW10 subwoofer helps create a more immersive gaming environment. You’ll be able to feel the low-end oomph of explosions and other effects, while still enjoying accurate sound reproduction throughout the game.

 

What Buyers Say About Polk Audio PSW10?

I’m glad to hear that you are enjoying the Polk Audio PSW10 subwoofers! It seems like they have greatly enhanced your audio experience across various forms of entertainment, including games, music, and movies.

The impact and depth provided by the PSW10 subwoofers are particularly noticeable when watching movies like The Dark Knight, where the gunshots, car sounds, and punches gain a new level of intensity. Music from soundtracks like Tron Legacy, Planet Earth, and Inception also sound incredible with the enhanced bass response.

In gaming, the PSW10 subwoofers deliver powerful performance, allowing the explosions and weapon sounds in games like Battlefield 1 to shake the walls if desired. The improvement compared to your previous subwoofer is clearly evident.

The Polk Audio PSW10 active subwoofer is well-designed for stereo setups. By connecting the speaker wires from your amplifier to the subwoofer and using the variable crossover, you can determine which frequencies are sent to the subwoofer and which are routed to your main speakers. The powered nature of the subwoofer allows you to adjust the volume relative to the main speakers according to your preference. Once you find the right settings, they typically don’t need adjustment even as you change the overall volume from your amplifier.

The PSW10 subwoofer offers various features, including crossover frequency selection, volume control, automatic on/off based on signal input, manual on/off, and multiple input options. Considering its price, it appears to provide excellent value for the quality it delivers. While it may not satisfy the most discerning audiophiles, for the average person looking to enhance their audio setup and fill in the bass range that bookshelf speakers or soundbars may not reach, the Polk Audio PSW10 subwoofer is a worthy consideration.

Here are the specifications for the Polk Audio PSW10 subwoofer:

  • Height: 14.375 inches (36.51 cm)
  • Width: 14 inches (35.56 cm)
  • Depth: 16.125 inches (40.96 cm)
  • Weight: 26 pounds (11.79 kg)
  • Subwoofer Array Driver Enclosure Type: Vented via front panel flared port
  • Subwoofer Array Driver Complement: 10-inch (25.4 cm) dynamic balance polymer composite cone (round)
  • Amplifier Distortion: Less than 1%
  • Amplifier Bandwidth: 40Hz – 200Hz
  • Amplifier 220V Availability: Yes
  • Amplifier Type: Subwoofer
  • Amplifier Power: 50 watts
  • Amplifier Dynamic Power: 100 watts
  • Lower and Upper -3dB Limits: 40 Hz to 160 Hz
  • Audio Inputs: Stereo line-level RCA / Pair (L/R) analog RCA
  • Speaker Inputs: Pair of spring terminals – Gold-plated
  • Audio Outputs: Speaker outputs (2) – Pair of spring terminals – Gold-plated

These specifications provide information about the physical dimensions, driver characteristics, amplifier power, frequency response, and connectivity options of the Polk Audio PSW10 subwoofer.

Conclusion

The Polk Audio PSW10 is designed to deliver a frequency response that ensures a pleasing listening experience. With up to 100 watts of power, the subwoofer provides ample amplification to drive the bass effectively. The bass response remains balanced and free from distortion even at high volume levels, making it suitable for various genres of music. Considering its performance and features, the PSW10 offers great value for your money.

In addition to enhancing music listening, the PSW10 can significantly improve your movie-watching experience. The sound effects become more immersive and captivating, while the bass reproduction remains solid and impactful. The 100-watt RMS amplifier integrated into the system plays a crucial role in delivering powerful and accurate bass performance.

The enclosure of the PSW10 is constructed using resonance-proof MDF (medium-density fiberboard), which is internally reinforced to minimize any unwanted vibrations or resonances. This construction enhances clarity and ensures that the low-frequency sounds are reproduced with superior accuracy. The subwoofer’s performance in delivering rich audio impact is unparalleled, making it a standout option in its class.

Overall, the Polk Audio PSW10 subwoofer offers a well-rounded audio experience, whether you are enjoying music or immersing yourself in movies. Its powerful amplifier, balanced bass response, and high-quality construction make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking to enhance their audio setup.

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