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Focal Sub Air Subwoofer Review
Focal Sub Air - Image 1

Main Features

  • 8" Cellulose Pulp Woofer
  • 110 watts RMS Output
  • 40-200 Hz Frequency Response
  • Weight: 17.00 lbs / 7.73kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 16-1/8" x 14-1/4" x 6-3/8"
MSRP: $1,299 (list price)
Check price atAmazon›
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Focal Sub Air Subwoofer Review
Focal Sub Air Focal Sub Air
Check price atAmazon›

Sub Air is a Ported type Powered Subwoofer by Focal with a frequency range of 40-200 Hz. It was released in 2013. It features 1 x 8" Cellulose Pulp Woofer, and powered by a 110 watts amplifier.


**This post contains affiliate links, and we will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through our links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Frequency Response

Where should the crossover go? →  ·  What will your room do to this bass? →

Focal Sub Air has a Frequency response range of 40-200 Hz.

Here we have a comparison of how Sub Air's Low and High frequency values compare with the average, max and min Low and High frequency values in its class.
Low Frequency
Powered Subwoofers
Focal Sub Air
Min
Average
Max
High Frequency
Subwoofer Speakers
Focal Sub Air
Min
Average
Max

Among all subwoofers in our database with a max MSRP price of 1500$, these are the 5 Powered Subwoofer models that can reach deeper bass levels than the Focal Sub Air's 40Hz:

  • GoldenEar SuperSub X with Low Frequency of 12 Hz (Compare w/ Sub Air)
  • GoldenEar ForceField 40 with Low Frequency of 14 Hz (Compare w/ Sub Air)
  • GoldenEar ForceField 4 with Low Frequency of 14 Hz (Compare w/ Sub Air)
  • SVS PB-2000 Pro with Low Frequency of 16 Hz (Compare w/ Sub Air)
  • SVS PC-2000 Pro with Low Frequency of 16 Hz (Compare w/ Sub Air)

Low-Pass Crossover

Focal Sub Air has a variable Low-pass filter (LFP) which lets you choose a frequency level between 50-200 Hz in order to block any frequencies above that point from reaching the amplifier.

Inputs and Outputs

  • PreampLevel Inputs: Stereo RCA/LFE
  • SpeakerLevel Inputs: No
  • SpeakerLevel Outputs: No
  • Wireless: No

Wireless Connection

Focal Sub Air lets you make a wireless connection to your system without the need for an external adapter which is great way to minimize the cables running around.

Focal Sub Air External Dimensions and Weight

Focal Sub Air has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) 16-1/8 x 14-1/4 x 6-3/8inch (410.0 x 362.0 x 162.0mm ).

Base Surface Area
Base surface area of a loudspeaker may become a determining factor when the space in your room or desk is limited. The base area of Focal Sub Air is approximately 586.4cm2 / 90.9inch2.

To get a better perspective on the real life size of Focal Sub Air, let's compare it with a standard size Compact Disc which has a diameter of 4.7inch (120mm).

Focal Sub Air Real Life Body Size Comparison
Focal Sub Air Speaker Size Compared to a Compact Disc

Here we place the Focal Sub Air virtually next to a standard width amplifier and turntable on a media center to get a better idea about the size.

Focal Sub Air placed next to a Media Stand
Focal Sub Air Subwoofer next to a Media Stand

Find speakers that fit your shelf or alcove →

Weight

The Focal Sub Air weighs 7.73kg / 17lbs. Weight of a subwoofer is an important factor when you need to move and reposition the unit often to find the optimal positioning, also known as 'Subwoofer Crawling'. Here is a comparison of how Sub Air's weight compares with the average, max and min weights in its class.

Weight
All Subwoofer Speakers
Focal Sub Air
Min
Average
Median
Weight
Subwoofer Speakers under $1500
Focal Sub Air
Min
Average
Max

Cabinet type and Materials

Focal Sub Air has a Bass Reflex type cabinet. Ported subwoofers are generally accepted to be more suitable for home theatre systems whereas the sealed designs are preferred for music oriented systems.

Port Position

Focal Sub Air is a front-firing port speaker, which gives you more flexibility compared to rear firing speakers when you need to place it close against a wall or other surfaces.

What's in the Box of Focal Sub Air?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of Sub Air:
  • Wireless powered subwoofer
  • Wireless transmitter
  • AC power adapter (attached 6-feet DC cord)
  • AC power plug insert (2-prong)
  • 8-feet AC power cord
  • 4 Rubber feet
  • 2 Brackets
  • Four M4 x 10mm machine screws
  • Four M4 x 17mm machine screws
  • 4 Wood-screws
  • 4 Wall-anchors
  • User Manual

Recommended Accessories

Here is a list of accessories that we think you may need for the Focal Sub Air.

  • Vibration Isolators: IsoAcoustics isolators are our favorite isolators but you may find more affordable options too.
  • Acoustic Panels and Treatments: Your room is as important as your stereo equipment so acoustic treatments goes a long way in improving the overall performance.

Warranty

3 Years of parts warranty and 3 Years of labor warranty is generally provided by the manufacturer.

Focal Sub Air Detailed Specifications

General
BrandFocal
Full Model NameFocal Sub Air
TypePowered Subwoofer
Release Date2013
Frequency Response40-200 Hz
Enclosure TypePorted
EnclosureBass Reflex
Firing DirectionFront
Port Positionfront
Amplifier & Driver
Power (RMS)110 watts
Woofer8-inch Cellulose Pulp

Controls & Connections
Low-pass Crossover50-200 Hz
Phase ControlYes
WirelessYes
Line-level InputsStereo RCA/LFE
Speaker-level InputsNo
Speaker-level OutputsNo
Physical
Dimensions (HxWxD)16-1/8" x 14-1/4" x 6-3/8" (410.0 x 362.0 x 162.0mm)
Weight7.73 kg (17 lbs)
Mounting BracketNo
Parts Warranty3 Years
Labor Warranty3 Years
Focal Sub Air Alternatives in Powered Subwoofer Speakers
Model Frequency Woofer Amp Power Dimensions
Polk Monitor XT12
Compare
24-160k Hz 12" 50 watts 16-7/16inch x 16-1/16inch x 19-1/16inch"
SVS SB-1000 Pro
Compare
20-270k Hz 12" 325 watts 13-1/2inch x 13inch x 15-13/16inch"
B&W DB4S
Compare
10-350k Hz 10" 1000 watts 14-3/4 x 14-1/4 x 17-1/16inch"
Klipsch R-121SW
Compare
28-120k Hz 12" 200 watts 16-5/8inch x 16inch x 20-15/16inch"
Klipsch R-101SW
Compare
30-160k Hz 10" 150 watts 14-9/16inch x 14-1/16inch x 20-13/16inch"
Klipsch RP-1200SW
Compare
17-138k Hz 12" 400 watts 18-15/16inch x 17inch x 25-15/16inch"
KEF KC62
Compare
11-200k Hz 6.5" 1000 watts 9-5/8inch x 10-1/8inch x 11-1/16inch"
Klipsch R-100SW
Compare
32-120k Hz 10" 150 watts 14-5/8 x 12-9/16 x 18-1/16inch"
Wharfedale SW-15
Compare
30-120k Hz 15" 400 watts 22-7/16inch x 19-3/8inch x 24-3/16inch"
Klipsch SPL-100
Compare
27-125k Hz 10" 200 watts 16-7/16 x 14-1/16 x 18-13/16inch"
B&W ASW610
Compare
27-140k Hz 10" 200 watts 12-5/8 x 12-1/4 x 15-1/2inch"
KEF KUBE 8b
Compare
34-140k Hz 8" 300 watts 11-9/16 x 11-5/8 x 13-5/16inch"
KEF KUBE 10b
Compare
24-140k Hz 10" 300 watts 14-5/8 x 14 x 15-5/8inch"
B&W ASW608
Compare
32-140k Hz 8" 200 watts 10-11/16 x 10-1/4 x 13-3/4inch"
JBL Stage A120P
Compare
32-150k Hz 12" 250 watts 16-5/16 x 15-7/16 x 18-11/16inch"
Klipsch SPL-120
Compare
24-125k Hz 12" 300 watts 17-11/16 x 14-3/4 x 21-1/4inch"
Frequently Asked Questions about Focal Sub Air

How low can the Focal Sub Air go?

The Focal Sub Air has a frequency response of 40-200 Hz. Its low-end extends to 40Hz.

How much power does the Focal Sub Air have?

The Focal Sub Air has a built-in 110-watt RMS amplifier.

Is the Focal Sub Air sealed or ported?

The Focal Sub Air uses a Ported enclosure. Ported (bass-reflex) designs use a tuned vent to move more air, giving deeper, louder output for the same driver, which suits home theater.

What driver does the Focal Sub Air use?

The Focal Sub Air has a 8-inch Cellulose Pulp driver.

Does the Focal Sub Air have app control or room correction?

Yes. The Focal Sub Air offers an adjustable low-pass crossover (50-200 Hz) and phase control, letting you dial the sub into your room and blend it with your speakers.

How do you connect the Focal Sub Air?

The Focal Sub Air connects via line-level Stereo RCA/LFE inputs, and supports a yes wireless connection.

How big and heavy is the Focal Sub Air?

The Focal Sub Air weighs 7.73kg / 17lbs and measures 16-1/8" x 14-1/4" x 6-3/8" (HxWxD).

How much does the Focal Sub Air cost?

The Focal Sub Air has a manufacturer's list price (MSRP) of $1,299.

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