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  1. Home
  2. Paradigm Speakers
  3. Powered Subwoofers
  4. Paradigm Defiance X15
Paradigm Defiance X15 Subwoofer Review
Paradigm Defiance X15 - Front View

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Main Features

  • 15" Carbon-loaded polypropylene Woofer
  • 90 watts RMS Output
  • 18-230 Hz Frequency Response
  • App Control Feature
  • Weight: 92.00 lbs / 41.82kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 24-5/8" x 23-3/16" x 26"
MSRP: $1,999 (list price)
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Paradigm Defiance X15 Subwoofer Review
Paradigm Defiance X15 Paradigm Defiance X1...
Check price atAmazon›

Made by Paradigm · Canada · since 1982 · sold through dealers

Defiance X15 is a Ported type Powered Subwoofer by Paradigm with a frequency range of 18-230 Hz. It was released in 2017. It features 1 x 15" Carbon-loaded polypropylene Woofer, and powered by a 90 watts amplifier.

Defiance X15 is a member of Paradigm's Defiance series of Powered subwoofers. The Defiance range are Paradigm's powered subwoofers with app-based Perfect Bass Kit room correction. Below you can see the main specs of these subwoofers as well as review and comparison links.

See all 7 Paradigm Defiance models compared »

Paradigm Defiance Series Subwoofers
Model Frequency Woofer Amp Power Weight
Paradigm Defiance V8
Compare
34-200 Hz 8" 75 watts 12.05kg
Paradigm Defiance X10
Compare
29-240 Hz 10" 300 watts 19.09kg
Paradigm Defiance V10
Compare
29-200 Hz 10" 120 watts 15.23kg
Paradigm Defiance X12
Compare
20-230 Hz 12" 650 watts 28.18kg
Paradigm Defiance X15
18-230 Hz 15" 90 watts 41.82kg
Paradigm Defiance V12
Compare
23-200 Hz 12" 120 watts 19.09kg
Paradigm Defiance S10
Compare
25-200 Hz 10" 500 watts 15.74kg

Frequency Response

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

Paradigm Defiance X15 has a Frequency response range of 18-230 Hz. Thanks to its 1 x 15-inch driver and 90 watts RMS amplifier, at 18Hz the Defiance X15 can generate bass levels that is even below 20Hz which is considered to be the bottom limit of Full Range sound (20Hz -20kHz) that human can hear.

Here we have a comparison of how Defiance X15'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 X15
Min
Average
Max
High Frequency
Subwoofer Speakers
Paradigm Defiance X15
Min
Average
Max

Among all subwoofers in our database with a max MSRP price of 2000$, these are the 5 Powered Subwoofer models that can reach deeper bass levels than the Paradigm Defiance X15's 18Hz:

  • KEF KC62 with Low Frequency of 11 Hz (Compare w/ Defiance X15)
  • KEF KC92 with Low Frequency of 11 Hz (Compare w/ Defiance X15)
  • GoldenEar SuperSub X with Low Frequency of 12 Hz (Compare w/ Defiance X15)
  • GoldenEar ForceField 40 with Low Frequency of 14 Hz (Compare w/ Defiance X15)
  • GoldenEar ForceField 4 with Low Frequency of 14 Hz (Compare w/ Defiance X15)

Low-Pass Crossover

Paradigm Defiance X15 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 X15 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 X15 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 X15 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 X15 External Dimensions and Weight

Paradigm Defiance X15 has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) 24-5/8inch x 23-3/16inch x 26inch (626.0 x 589.0 x 661.0mm ).

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 X15 is approximately 3893.3cm2 / 603.5inch2.

To get a better perspective on the real life size of Paradigm Defiance X15, let's compare it with a standard size Compact Disc which has a diameter of 4.7inch (120mm).

Paradigm Defiance X15 Real Life Body Size Comparison
Paradigm Defiance X15 Speaker Size Compared to a Compact Disc

Here we place the Paradigm Defiance X15 virtually next to a standard width amplifier and turntable on a media center to get a better idea about the size.

Paradigm Defiance X15 placed next to a Media Stand
Paradigm Defiance X15 Subwoofer next to a Media Stand

Find speakers that fit your shelf or alcove →

Weight

The Paradigm Defiance X15 weighs 41.82kg / 92lbs. 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 X15's weight compares with the average, max and min weights in its class.

Weight
All Subwoofer Speakers
Paradigm Defiance X15
Min
Average
Median
Weight
Subwoofer Speakers under $2000
Paradigm Defiance X15
Min
Average
Max

Cabinet type and Materials

Paradigm Defiance X15 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 X15 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 X15 come with a Grille?

Defiance X15 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 X15?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of Defiance X15:
  • 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 X15.

  • 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.

Paradigm Defiance X15 Detailed Specifications

General
BrandParadigm
Full Model NameParadigm Defiance X15
TypePowered Subwoofer
Release Date2017
Frequency Response18-230 Hz
Enclosure TypePorted
EnclosureBass Reflex
Firing DirectionFront
Port Positionfront
Amplifier & Driver
Power (RMS)90 watts
Woofer15-inch Carbon-loaded polypropylene

Controls & Connections
Low-pass Crossover30-120 Hz
Phase ControlYes
App ControliOS,Android
WirelessOptional
Line-level InputsLFE, Stereo RCA
Speaker-level InputsBanana plugs
Speaker-level OutputsNo
Physical
Dimensions (HxWxD)24-5/8" x 23-3/16" x 26" (626.0 x 589.0 x 661.0mm)
Weight41.82 kg (92 lbs)
GrilleYes
Parts Warranty3 Years
Labor Warranty3 Years
Paradigm Defiance X15 Alternatives in Powered Subwoofer Speakers
Model Frequency Woofer Amp Power Dimensions
Polk Monitor XT12
Compare
24-160 Hz 12" 50 watts 16-7/16inch x 16-1/16inch x 19-1/16inch
SVS SB-1000 Pro
Compare
20-270 Hz 12" 325 watts 13-1/2inch x 13inch x 15-13/16inch
B&W DB4S
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10-350 Hz 10" 1000 watts 14-3/4 x 14-1/4 x 17-1/16inch
Klipsch R-121SW
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28-120 Hz 12" 200 watts 16-5/8inch x 16inch x 20-15/16inch
Klipsch R-101SW
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30-160 Hz 10" 150 watts 14-9/16inch x 14-1/16inch x 20-13/16inch
Klipsch RP-1200SW
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17-138 Hz 12" 400 watts 18-15/16inch x 17inch x 25-15/16inch
KEF KC62
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11-200 Hz 6.5" 1000 watts 9-5/8inch x 10-1/8inch x 11-1/16inch
Klipsch R-100SW
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32-120 Hz 10" 150 watts 14-5/8 x 12-9/16 x 18-1/16inch
Wharfedale SW-15
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Klipsch SPL-100
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27-125 Hz 10" 200 watts 16-7/16 x 14-1/16 x 18-13/16inch
B&W ASW610
Compare
27-140 Hz 10" 200 watts 12-5/8 x 12-1/4 x 15-1/2inch
KEF KUBE 8b
Compare
34-140 Hz 8" 300 watts 11-9/16 x 11-5/8 x 13-5/16inch
KEF KUBE 10b
Compare
24-140 Hz 10" 300 watts 14-5/8 x 14 x 15-5/8inch
B&W ASW608
Compare
32-140 Hz 8" 200 watts 10-11/16 x 10-1/4 x 13-3/4inch
JBL Stage A120P
Compare
32-150 Hz 12" 250 watts 16-5/16 x 15-7/16 x 18-11/16inch
Klipsch SPL-120
Compare
24-125 Hz 12" 300 watts 17-11/16 x 14-3/4 x 21-1/4inch
Frequently Asked Questions about Paradigm Defiance X15

How low can the Paradigm Defiance X15 go?

The Paradigm Defiance X15 has a frequency response of 18-230 Hz. It digs below 20Hz, the bottom limit of human hearing, so you get deep, physical bass you feel as much as hear.

How much power does the Paradigm Defiance X15 have?

The Paradigm Defiance X15 has a built-in 90-watt RMS amplifier.

Is the Paradigm Defiance X15 sealed or ported?

The Paradigm Defiance X15 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 Paradigm Defiance X15 use?

The Paradigm Defiance X15 has a 15-inch Carbon-loaded polypropylene driver.

Does the Paradigm Defiance X15 have app control or room correction?

Yes. The Paradigm Defiance X15 offers app control (iOS,Android), an adjustable low-pass crossover (30-120 Hz) and phase control, letting you dial the sub into your room and blend it with your speakers.

How do you connect the Paradigm Defiance X15?

The Paradigm Defiance X15 connects via line-level LFE, Stereo RCA and speaker-level Banana plugs inputs, and supports a optional wireless connection.

How big and heavy is the Paradigm Defiance X15?

The Paradigm Defiance X15 weighs 41.82kg / 92lbs and measures 24-5/8" x 23-3/16" x 26" (HxWxD).

How much does the Paradigm Defiance X15 cost?

The Paradigm Defiance X15 has a manufacturer's list price (MSRP) of $1,999.

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