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Paradigm Defiance X12 Subwoofer Review

Main Features

  • 12" Carbon-loaded polypropylene Woofer
  • 650 watts RMS Output
  • 20-230 Hz Frequency Response
  • App Control Feature
  • Weight: 62.00 lbs / 28.18kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 19-7/16" x 18-1/16" x 20-13/16"
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Paradigm Defiance X12 Subwoofer Review
Paradigm Defiance X12 Paradigm Defiance X1...
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Defiance X12 is a Ported type Powered Subwoofer by Paradigm with a frequency range of 20-230 Hz. It features 1 x 12" Carbon-loaded polypropylene Woofer, and powered by a 650 watts amplifier.

Defiance X12 is a member of Paradigm's Defiance series of Powered subwoofers. Below you can see the main specs of these subwoofers as well as review and comparison links.

Paradigm Defiance Series Subwoofers
Model Frequency Woofer Amp Power Weight
Paradigm Defiance V8
Compare
34-200k Hz 8" 75 watts 12.05kg
Paradigm Defiance X10
Compare
29-240k Hz 10" 300 watts 19.09kg
Paradigm Defiance X12
20-230k Hz 12" 650 watts 28.18kg
Paradigm Defiance X15
Compare
18-230k Hz 15" 90 watts 41.82kg
Paradigm Defiance V10
Compare
29-200k Hz 10" 120 watts 15.23kg
Paradigm Defiance V12
Compare
23-200k Hz 12" 120 watts 19.09kg


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

Frequency Response

Paradigm Defiance X12 has a Frequency response range of 20-230 Hz at ±3dB. Thanks to its 1 x 12-inch driver and 650 watts RMS amplifier, the Defiance X12 can go as low as 20 Hz which means you can get a Full range (20Hz-20kHz) listening experience when coupled with almost any loudspeaker in the market. Here we have a comparison of how Defiance X12'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
Paradigm Defiance X12
Min
Average
Max
High Frequency
Subwoofer Speakers
Paradigm Defiance X12
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 Paradigm Defiance X12's 20Hz:

  • GoldenEar SuperSub X with Low Frequency of 12 Hz (Compare w/ Defiance X12)
  • GoldenEar ForceField 40 with Low Frequency of 14 Hz (Compare w/ Defiance X12)
  • GoldenEar ForceField 4 with Low Frequency of 14 Hz (Compare w/ Defiance X12)
  • SVS PB-2000 Pro with Low Frequency of 16 Hz (Compare w/ Defiance X12)
  • SVS PC-2000 Pro with Low Frequency of 16 Hz (Compare w/ Defiance X12)

Low-Pass Crossover

Paradigm Defiance X12 has a variable Low-pass filter (LFP) which lets you choose a frequency level between 30-120 Hz in order to block any frequencies above that point from reaching the amplifier.

App-Based Control

Paradigm Defiance X12 can be controlled wirelessly via Paradigm Subwoofer Control app available on iOS and Android. Considering the physical buttons are at the backside of the subwoofer, app control comes very handy when you need to change the parameters of the Paradigm Defiance X12 frequently. Apps also provides settings that can't be placed on the body.

Inputs and Outputs

  • PreampLevel Inputs: LFE, Stereo RCA
  • SpeakerLevel Inputs: Banana plugs
  • SpeakerLevel Outputs: No
  • Wireless: No

Wireless Connection

Paradigm Defiance X12 lets you make a wireless connection to your system with an optional adapter. Wireless connection helps to minimize the cables running on your floor.

Paradigm Defiance X12 External Dimensions and Weight

Paradigm Defiance X12 has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) 19-7/16inch x 18-1/16inch x 20-13/16inch (494.0 x 459.0 x 529.0mm ).

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 Paradigm Defiance X12 is approximately 2428.1cm2 / 376.4inch2.

To get a better perspective on the real life size of Paradigm Defiance X12, let's compare it with a standard size Compact Disc which has a diameter of 4.7inch (120mm).

Paradigm Defiance X12 Real Life Body Size Comparison
Paradigm Defiance X12 Speaker Size Compared to a Compact Disc

Here we place the Paradigm Defiance X12 virtually next to a standard width amplifier and turntable on a media center to get a better idea about the size.

Paradigm Defiance X12 placed next to a Media Stand
Paradigm Defiance X12 Subwoofer next to a Media Stand

Weight

The Paradigm Defiance X12 weighs 28.18kg / 62lbs. 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 Defiance X12's weight compares with the average, max and min weights in its class.

Weight
All Subwoofer Speakers
Paradigm Defiance X12
Min
Average
Max
Weight
Subwoofer Speakers under $1500
Paradigm Defiance X12
Min
Average
Max

How does the Paradigm Defiance X12 compare to the Paradigm Defiance X15?

One of the natural alternative to the Paradigm Defiance X12 is the Defiance X15 which is located one step higher in Paradigm's Powered Subwoofer selection.

Here is a scaled size comparison of these two speakers to give you an idea how their external dimensions compare:

Paradigm Defiance X12 vs Paradigm Defiance X15 Size Comparison - Front View
Comparison image of Paradigm Defiance X12 and Paradigm Defiance X15 Size and External Dimensions

Check the Detailed Comparison of Paradigm Defiance X12 vs Defiance X15 for more details.

Cabinet type and Materials

Paradigm Defiance X12 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

Paradigm Defiance X12 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.

Does the Paradigm Defiance X12 come with a Grille?

Defiance X12 comes with grilles. The purpose of the grille is to protect the delicate driver elements from external impacts while still allowing the sound to pass as clearly as possible.

What's in the Box of Paradigm Defiance X12?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of Defiance X12:
  • Powered subwoofer
  • Grille
  • 6-feetAC power cord
  • ARC microphone
  • 12
  • Recommended Accessories

    Here is a list of accessories that we think you may need for the Paradigm Defiance X12.

    • Vibration Isolators: IsoAcoustics isolators 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.

    Paradigm Defiance X12 Alternatives in Powered Subwoofer Speakers
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    Compare
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    Wharfedale SW-15
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    30-120k Hz 15" 400 watts 22-7/16inch x 19-3/8inch x 24-3/16inch "
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    Compare
    34-140k Hz 8" 300 watts 11-9/16 x 11-5/8 x 13-5/16inch"
    Klipsch SPL-100
    Compare
    27-125k Hz 10" 200 watts 16-7/16 x 14-1/16 x 18-13/16inch"
    KEF KUBE 10b
    Compare
    24-140k Hz 10" 300 watts 14-5/8 x 14 x 15-5/8inch"
    JBL Stage A120P
    Compare
    32-150k Hz 12" 250 watts 16-5/16 x 15-7/16 x 18-11/16inch"
    KEF KC62
    Compare
    11-200k Hz 6.5" 1000 watts 9-5/8inch x 10-1/8inch x 11-1/16inch "
    SVS PB-1000
    Compare
    19-270k Hz 10" 300 watts 18-7/8 x 15 x 20-15/16inch"
    Klipsch RP-1400SW
    Compare
    16-141k Hz 14" 500 watts 21-5/16inch x 20inch x 25-11/16inch "
    B&W ASW610
    Compare
    27-140k Hz 10" 200 watts 12-5/8 x 12-1/4 x 15-1/2inch"
    Klipsch R-100SW
    Compare
    32-120k Hz 10" 150 watts 14-5/8 x 12-9/16 x 18-1/16inch"
    Frequently Asked Questions about Paradigm Defiance X12
    What is the External Dimensions of Paradigm Defiance X12
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