How to Connect Subwoofer to Soundbar | Step-by-Step Guide

Are you looking to add a subwoofer to your sound system to make it louder and better? Depending on which type of soundbar you are considering, some are sold independently, while others are sold with a subwoofer. The question is how to add a subwoofer to a soundbar without one if it doesn’t come with one.

A standalone subwoofer can’t be added to most soundbars because they don’t have ports. A native connection between a sound bar and a subwoofer can usually only be made when they are sold together.

While you might be able to jerry-rig an additional subwoofer to your soundbar, you’re probably better off purchasing a package that includes both a soundbar and subwoofer, such as the Sony HT-S350 (on Amazon).

Can a Soundbar be connected to a subwoofer?

It can be a challenge to connect soundbars and subwoofers. Many soundbars come without a subwoofer when you purchase them alone or with speakers. If you want a better sound, you add a subwoofer. Unfortunately, that isn’t as easy as it seems.

Soundbars connect to native speakers.

Some soundbars are compatible with subwoofers in their brand line. Some manufacturers will let you add an extra speaker or subwoofer to your soundbar if you use the recommended products.

For example, suppose you buy a Bose soundbar. In that case, you can consider purchasing a Bose subwoofer compatible with the device to match it, such as the Bose Bass Module 500 subwoofer (on Amazon) or the Bose Bass Module 700 subwoofer (on Amazon). Similarly, Sonos soundbars are compatible with the Sonos Sub (sold on Amazon) and can also be connected to this speaker. It is almost always impossible to add a subwoofer to these soundbars.

Soundbars with subwoofers

You can also buy a soundbar and a subwoofer together if you want to connect them. The available soundbars on the market come with a subwoofer and extra speakers to produce a better stereo effect. Soundbars are often criticized for lacking bass because they have front-heavy sound and lack a good amount of front-heavy sound.

There are now a lot of soundbars from manufacturers that include both a subwoofer and external speakers since multiple-speaker packages have become increasingly popular. Many are wireless as well.

Check out our recommended soundbars if you’re looking for a soundbar with a subwoofer! These soundbars mostly have wireless subwoofers.

It is a good idea to purchase a soundbar package if you currently own a soundbar but cannot add a subwoofer. In terms of the options available at all price ranges, there are many great options to choose from, so you are sure to find one that meets your needs and produces high-quality sound.

Jerry-Rigged Subwoofer Addition to a Soundbar

To add a subwoofer to a soundbar, you must have the equipment, which is not a traditional method. To use this method, you’ll need a soundbar, subwoofer, receiver, and a mini mixer.

Your soundbar must be connected to a receiver first. A stereo mixer, like the Rolls MX42 Stereo Mini Mixer (available on Amazon), can then be connected to the left, right, and center channel pre-outs. The stereo mini mixer can then be connected to the sound bar, and the receiver can be connected to the subwoofer.

You’re sacrificing some sound quality with all these connections, so this is not the most convenient way to do it. If you do not already have these items, purchasing a soundbar and subwoofer package might be better.

Is it Necessary to Add a Subwoofer to a Soundbar?

Soundbar packages come in a wide variety, including soundbars with external speakers, soundbars with external speakers and speakers with only built-in speakers (including some with built-in subwoofers), and soundbar packages with an external subwoofer.

Depending on your type of soundbar, some will produce great sound without external speakers, and some will produce basic sound. It all depends on what you are looking for, but many people argue that a subwoofer is crucial to being able to experience the full potential of a soundbar.

You may wonder whether a soundbar needs a subwoofer if you are considering adding a subwoofer to it, in which case you will likely also need a soundbar package. 

Subwoofers Fill a Gap

Subwoofers serve various purposes, so it’s important to understand their function before deciding whether or not one is needed. Subwoofers are loudspeakers whose sole purpose is to produce lower-pitched audio frequencies, which are not produced by other speakers.

The low-pitched frequencies in your audio will be impossible to reproduce without a subwoofer. Subwoofers make a significant difference in the sound of any sound system, and members of any sound system who have used them know it.

Now, soundbars produce high-quality sound that’s an excellent alternative to traditional surround sound setups. They used to boost the sound of flat-screen TVs, but now, they’re an upgrade to basic flat-screen TV sound.

Movie and music enthusiasts know that subwoofers are essential to enjoy a full sound experience. In addition to being wireless and compact, subwoofers no longer resemble these big, bulky towers.

Soundbars Need Subwoofers

Most soundbars produce front-heavy audio, making sense since they are located in the front of the room, and that’s typically where your audio comes from unless you have external speakers. Most soundbars lack strong bass, too.

A subwoofer is essential to achieving a fuller, more robust sound with a soundbar. Using a subwoofer and a soundbar can make your living room, home theater, or media room sound better.

Subwoofers are typically placed in a corner or at the front of a room, depending on the room. In our guide on subwoofer placement, you can find some pointers on how to place each subwoofer based on the room size.

Conclusion

A broad range of sound quality is available for soundbars on the market. As soundbars have become more popular, manufacturers have worked hard to perfect ideal soundbars for consumers. This has resulted in more options, and many consumers consider pairing their soundbar with a subwoofer important.

We hope this article helped you see the different subwoofer options you have – whether you’re in the market for a new subwoofer, considering upgrading to a better soundbar/subwoofer package, or still undecided.

No matter what kind of subwoofer you choose, it’s essential to know how they fit into a sound system and how they work.

You probably won’t regret upgrading to a subwoofer/soundbar package, even if you’re not ready to upgrade your soundbar yet, especially if you’re a full-bodied music and movies fan.

FAQ’s of How to Connect Subwoofer to Soundbar

---

What is the best way to connect a subwoofer to a soundbar?

The best way to connect a subwoofer to a soundbar depends on the soundbar’s compatibility with a subwoofer. If the soundbar is compatible with a subwoofer in its brand line, it is best to purchase the recommended subwoofer. If the soundbar does not have native ports, adding a subwoofer to the soundbar can be challenging. One method is to use a receiver, a stereo mixer, and a mini mixer to connect the subwoofer to the soundbar. However, this method can sacrifice sound quality, and it may be better to purchase a soundbar and subwoofer package.

Is it necessary to add a subwoofer to a soundbar?

Adding a subwoofer to a soundbar depends on the soundbar’s built-in speakers and the user’s preference. Some soundbars have built-in subwoofers, while others produce basic sound. Subwoofers are designed to fill the gap in the lower-pitched audio frequencies that are not produced by other speakers. Therefore, adding a subwoofer to a sound system can significantly enhance the sound quality, providing a more immersive sound experience, especially for movie and music enthusiasts.

Can any subwoofer be connected to a soundbar?

Not all subwoofers can be connected to a soundbar. Many soundbars lack native ports, making it impossible to connect a subwoofer. Some soundbars are compatible with subwoofers in their brand line, and some manufacturers will allow users to add an extra speaker or subwoofer to their soundbar if they use the recommended products. However, it is generally challenging to add a subwoofer to most soundbars, and it is best to purchase a soundbar and subwoofer package.

What are the benefits of adding a subwoofer to a soundbar?

Adding a subwoofer to a soundbar can significantly enhance sound quality by filling the gap in the lower-pitched audio frequencies that are not produced by other speakers. Subwoofers make a significant difference in the sound of any sound system, providing a more immersive sound experience, especially for movie and music enthusiasts. Furthermore, subwoofers are wireless and compact, making them an excellent addition to any sound system.

Are soundbars with subwoofers available in the market?

Yes, many soundbars with subwoofers are available in the market. Soundbars with subwoofers produce a better stereo effect, providing a better sound experience than soundbars without subwoofers. Soundbars with subwoofers also produce less front-heavy audio, which is common in soundbars without subwoofers. Many soundbars with subwoofers are wireless and compact, making them an excellent addition to any sound system.

---