Subwoofer

Definition

A loudspeaker designed to reproduce very low frequencies, typically below 80–120 Hz. The ".1" in surround formats such as 5.1 and 7.1 refers to the LFE (low-frequency effects) channel routed to the subwoofer.

In Simple Terms

A speaker dedicated to deep bass—the frequencies you feel more than hear. In surround and Atmos setups, it handles the '.1' channel: explosions, rumble, and low-end impact.

In Practice

The impact of an explosion in a film is felt physically through the subwoofer, which handles low-frequency energy below what the satellite speakers can reproduce.

Sources & Verification

• →
  Toole, F. E. — Sound Reproduction (3rd ed., bass management and subwoofer integration)
  Routledge, 2017
• →
  ITU-R BS.775-3 — Multichannel stereophonic sound system
  International Telecommunication Union, 2012
  https://www.itu.int/rec/R-REC-BS.775
• →
  Holman, T. — 5.1 Surround Sound: Up and Running (2nd ed.)
  Focal Press, 2008

Last verified: 2026-05-05

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