Powered ten-inch subwoofers include a built-in amplifier, which can simplify system design and placement by reducing the need for a separate amplifier channel. Passive ten-inch subwoofers require an external amplifier, so plan for amplifier capacity, wiring, impedance or 70V requirements, and crossover settings that match the rest of the system.

Low-impedance ten-inch subwoofers connect to conventional low-impedance amplifier systems, while 70V ten-inch subwoofers connect to high-impedance, distributed-audio systems. Choose the version that matches the amplifier and speaker wiring design, and check whether the subwoofer includes features such as satellite connectors or a built-in high-pass filter.

Ten-inch subwoofers are available in sealed, bass-reflex ported, and acoustic-suspension in-room enclosures, with options that include built-in amplification. Mounting choices include indoor in-room placement, surface mounting, ground placement, partial burial, and full burial for landscape installations.

Match a 10-inch subwoofer to an amplifier by confirming whether it uses a low-impedance or 70V connection, then select an amplifier that supports the subwoofer’s impedance and power requirements, or use the built-in amplifier on a powered model. Set the crossover near the point where the satellite speakers begin to lose low-frequency output, then adjust the subwoofer level and phase so the bass blends smoothly without overpowering the main speakers.