It is possible to classify subwoofers in a way other than active or passive. The physical structure of a subwoofer is a way to categorize subwoofers. The most frequent structure used for subwoofers is called Bass Reflex. Another common design for subwoofers is known as the Sealed Box design. There are a few other types of subwoofers, such as the cylindrical design, passive radiator design, and bandpass box design, but the two most common designs are Bass Reflex and Sealed Box.
Below, we have prepared a table to explain the key advantages and disadvantages of the two main types of subwoofer designs.
Bass Reflex - Advantages: It is the most common subwoofer design used.
It has an external air outlet. As it is the most common, the choice is more extensive. This design requires less power to produce good bass but it still provides high-quality bass at low frequencies. - Disadvantages: The internal woofer is prone to breaking and the quality reduces at high volume.
Sealed box - Advantages: No opening and completely sealed.
The sound tends to be more even and does not distort at normal volume. - Disadvantages: The sound quality depends on the quality of the seal and the main focus is on sound quality and bass levels are not as strong. Also trapped air inside the box can create distortion at high volume. » learn more