Choosing studio monitors with subwoofer output is an effective way to add deeper bass without replacing your entire monitoring system. The right setup can improve music production, video editing, gaming, and everyday listening while preserving a clear near-field soundstage.
This roundup compares compact monitor pairs, dedicated studio subwoofers, and bundled systems across different room sizes, connection needs, and budgets. Pay close attention to output compatibility, crossover controls, placement, and available desk or floor space before buying.
Best 10 Studio Monitors with Subwoofer Output Picks for 2026
Best Budget Pick
- Automatic subwoofer detection and crossover
- 42W powered stereo output
- Dual RCA inputs and remote control
Best For: Desktop listening and compact home setups
Best Yamaha Match
- 8-inch bass-reflex powered subwoofer
- 150W amplifier with 22Hz–150Hz response
- Adjustable filters and phase switch
Best For: Recording and live-music monitoring systems
Best Bluetooth Subwoofer
- Bluetooth 5.0 plus wired inputs
- 100W output reaches down to 30Hz
- Adjustable highpass and lowpass crossover
Best For: Flexible production, gaming, and home audio setups
Best for Deep Bass
- 10-inch driver reaches into the 20Hz region
- 113dB peak output
- Balanced XLR and TRS connectivity
Best For: Professional studios needing powerful low-end extension
Compact Desk Pick
- Compact stereo pair with 50W amplification
- TRS, RCA, aux, and headphone connections
- Room-tuning controls for high and low frequencies
Best For: Desktop production, gaming, and everyday listening
Dedicated Bass Upgrade
- 8-inch woofer extends bass to a stated 30 Hz
- Front-firing port supports flexible placement
- Footswitch enables sub and crossover bypass
Best For: Recording studios needing deeper low-frequency monitoring
Balanced Mid-Size Pair
- 50W Class AB stereo amplification
- 4.5-inch woofers provide fuller near-field sound
- TRS, RCA, aux, headphone, and room-tuning controls
Best For: Home studios and multimedia listening with added low-end potential
Bass Expansion Pick
Mackie CR8SBT 8-inch Subwoofer
- Made for Mackie CR Series monitors
- TRS and RCA inputs with adjustable crossover
- Bluetooth and desktop remote included
Best For: CR Series users adding controlled low-end extension
Compact Monitor Pair
- Pair of compact 3.5-inch two-way monitors
- XLR/TRS, RCA, and stereo-mini inputs
- Room-control and high-trim adjustments
Best For: Small desktop studios planning to add a subwoofer
Complete 2.1 Bundle
Mackie CR3.5 and CR8SBT Bundle
- Includes CR3.5 monitor pair and CR8SBT subwoofer
- Tone control, headphone output, and Bluetooth
- Includes a 10-foot dual-RCA audio cable
Best For: Buyers wanting an all-in-one Mackie desktop 2.1 setup
Best Budget Pick – Edifier R1280Ts
The Edifier R1280Ts is a practical choice if you want studio monitors with subwoofer output for a desktop, home office, gaming setup, or casual listening space. Its dedicated subwoofer line out automatically detects a connected active subwoofer and engages a built-in crossover.
Best For: Desktop listeners who want compact powered speakers with an easy path to adding an external subwoofer.
Pros:
- Dedicated subwoofer output with automatic detection and crossover activation
- 42 watts of continuous power with a 4-inch woofer and 13mm silk-dome tweeter
- Dual RCA inputs allow two wired sources to stay connected
- Side-panel bass, treble, and volume controls plus a remote
Cons:
- Bluetooth is not included on this version
- Its 4-inch drivers are less suited to large rooms than larger studio monitors
The R1280Ts stands out for straightforward setup and flexible everyday connectivity. Choose it when a built-in subwoofer connection matters more than professional balanced inputs or high-output monitoring.
Best Yamaha Match – Yamaha HS8S
The Yamaha HS8S is a dedicated 8-inch powered subwoofer for recording and live-music applications. It complements studio monitors with a 22Hz–150Hz frequency response, a 150-watt amplifier, and adjustable filtering for integrating low frequencies into a monitoring system.
Best For: Recording setups and live-music environments that need a dedicated, adjustable low-frequency extension.
Pros:
- 8-inch bass-reflex design with a stated 22Hz–150Hz frequency response
- High-power 150-watt amplifier
- Low-cut switch and adjustable low- and high-cut controls from 80Hz to 120Hz
- Phase switch supports system integration
Cons:
- It is a dedicated subwoofer, not a complete pair of studio monitors
- Its floor-standing cabinet requires more space than compact desktop options
With dedicated crossover and phase controls, the HS8S offers useful adjustment for a larger monitoring system. It is most appropriate when you already have compatible main monitors and need more controlled low-end output.
Best Bluetooth Subwoofer – PreSonus Eris Sub 8BT
The PreSonus Eris Sub 8BT adds wireless convenience to a studio monitoring system. This 8-inch powered subwoofer reaches down to 30Hz, includes highpass and lowpass crossover controls, and accepts balanced TRS, RCA, Bluetooth 5.0, and front-panel auxiliary connections.
Best For: Music production, home audio, gaming, and multimedia setups that benefit from Bluetooth alongside flexible wired inputs.
Pros:
- Bluetooth 5.0 supports convenient wireless listening
- 100-watt output and response down to 30Hz
- Highpass and lowpass controls help integrate it with main monitors
- Balanced TRS, RCA, and front-panel auxiliary inputs provide connection flexibility
Cons:
- It is a subwoofer rather than a complete monitor pair
- Its compact 8-inch design may not provide the same output as a larger 10-inch subwoofer
The Eris Sub 8BT is a versatile choice for users who move between production, casual listening, and multimedia playback. Its crossover controls and multiple inputs make system integration easier, while Bluetooth adds convenience.
Best for Deep Bass – JBL LSR310S
The JBL LSR310S is a 10-inch studio monitor subwoofer designed to extend the low end of a professional monitoring system. It combines a custom low-frequency driver, balanced XLR and TRS connections, and a selectable XLF setting intended to emulate club-style bass tuning.
Best For: Studio users who want deep, high-output bass extension and professional balanced connectivity.
Pros:
- 10-inch driver delivers low-frequency response into the 20Hz region
- 113dB peak output supports sustained high-level playback
- Balanced XLR and TRS inputs plus XLR outputs integrate with studio systems
- XLF setting provides an alternative dance-club-style bass tuning
Cons:
- It is a large dedicated subwoofer rather than a full monitor system
- Its high-output design may be excessive for small desktop spaces
The LSR310S is the strongest fit here for listeners prioritizing scale, output, and very deep bass. Its balanced connections make it especially suitable for adding low-frequency extension to a professional studio monitor chain.
Compact Desk Pick – PreSonus Eris 3.5
The PreSonus Eris 3.5 is a practical choice for shoppers seeking studio monitors with subwoofer output potential in a compact desktop setup. Its stereo pair provides balanced near-field sound, flexible wired inputs, room-tuning controls, and a front headphone connection. The supplied specifications do not identify a dedicated subwoofer output, so confirm connection requirements before pairing a subwoofer.
Best For: Desktop music production, gaming, streaming, and everyday listening in smaller spaces.
Pros:
- Sold as a complete stereo pair with 50 watts of built-in amplification.
- 3.5-inch woven-composite woofers and 1-inch silk-dome tweeters cover an 80 Hz–20 kHz range.
- Offers balanced TRS, RCA, front aux, headphone, and high- and low-frequency controls.
Cons:
- The compact 3.5-inch woofer cannot provide the low-end reach of a larger monitor or dedicated subwoofer.
- A dedicated subwoofer output is not listed in the supplied specifications.
Choose the Eris 3.5 when desk space, connection flexibility, and a complete stereo pair matter most. For a subwoofer-focused system, verify the signal path and outputs first.
Dedicated Bass Upgrade – KRK S8.4 Powered Subwoofer
The KRK S8.4 is the dedicated low-frequency option in this roundup for shoppers building a studio monitor system with subwoofer output capability. Its 8-inch glass aramid composite woofer extends bass to 30 Hz, while the wired XLR connection and footswitch-controlled crossover integration are designed for recording and production setups. The footswitch is not included.
Best For: Music production and recording studios that need deeper, more powerful bass extension.
Pros:
- 8-inch woofer reaches down to a stated 30 Hz and supports up to 112 dB maximum SPL.
- Front-firing bass port allows more flexible placement.
- Class D amplification provides a powerful, lightweight design, and the footswitch can bypass the sub and crossover filter.
Cons:
- This is a subwoofer rather than a complete pair of studio monitors.
- The footswitch control accessory is not included.
- Its 26.5-pound cabinet and larger dimensions require more space than compact desktop monitors.
The S8.4 makes sense when accurate monitoring needs a serious low-end extension rather than another pair of small speakers. Match its XLR connectivity and crossover arrangement to your existing monitor chain.
Balanced Mid-Size Pair – PreSonus Eris E4.5
The PreSonus Eris E4.5 suits buyers looking for studio monitors with subwoofer output potential while retaining a compact stereo format. Its 4.5-inch woven-composite woofers deliver more low-end presence than the smaller Eris 3.5, and balanced TRS, RCA, and aux inputs make it easy to connect production and consumer equipment. The supplied notes mention compatibility with the Eris Sub 8BT, but do not clearly list a dedicated subwoofer output on the monitors.
Best For: Home studios, hi-fi listening, gaming, and multimedia setups that need fuller sound from a stereo pair.
Pros:
- 50 watts of Class AB amplification provides 25 watts per side.
- 4.5-inch woven-composite woofers and 1-inch silk-dome tweeters support tight bass and wide stereo imaging.
- Includes balanced TRS, RCA, front aux, headphone, and high- and low-frequency controls.
Cons:
- The product is a monitor pair, not a complete subwoofer-equipped system.
- A dedicated subwoofer output is not explicitly listed in the supplied specifications.
- The larger drivers and enclosure need more desk or shelf space than the Eris 3.5.
The Eris E4.5 is a sensible middle ground for listeners who want fuller near-field sound without jumping to larger monitors. If adding a subwoofer is central to your plan, confirm the required connection method before purchase.
Bass Expansion Pick – Mackie CR8SBT 8-inch Subwoofer
If your desktop monitors lack convincing low end, the Mackie CR8SBT is a practical add-on for building a system of studio monitors with subwoofer output. It connects to CR Series monitors through TRS or RCA, adds an adjustable crossover, and includes a desktop remote for convenient level control and subwoofer bypass.
Best For: CR Series monitor users who want deeper bass, Bluetooth playback, and easy desktop control.
Pros:
- Designed to pair with Mackie CR Series monitors.
- TRS and RCA connectivity supports flexible wired setups.
- Adjustable crossover helps blend the subwoofer with your monitors.
- Desktop remote provides volume and subwoofer-bypass control.
Cons:
- Its 32.4-pound, floor-standing cabinet may be substantial for a small desk.
- It is a subwoofer rather than a complete pair of monitors.
The CR8SBT is a focused way to extend a compatible desktop monitoring setup. Its Bluetooth input adds convenience, while the crossover and remote make it easier to manage bass without reaching behind the equipment.
Compact Monitor Pair – Yamaha HS3 Powered Monitors
The Yamaha HS3 is a compact pair for shoppers assembling studio monitors with subwoofer output in a smaller workspace. Its 3.5-inch woofers, 0.75-inch dome tweeters, wired XLR/TRS and RCA connectivity, and room-control and high-trim adjustments provide a straightforward foundation for studio monitoring.
Best For: Small desktop studios that need compact powered monitors with wired connectivity and subwoofer compatibility.
Pros:
- Includes a pair of two-way powered monitors.
- Compact 3.5-inch woofer design suits tabletop placement.
- Offers XLR/TRS, RCA, and stereo-mini connectivity.
- Room control and high-trim response controls support placement adjustments.
Cons:
- The stated 70 Hz–22 kHz response leaves bass extension to a separate subwoofer.
- It has 26 watts of output power, so it may not suit listeners seeking high output.
The HS3 makes sense when space is limited and you want a compact monitor pair that can serve as the main speakers in a subwoofer-augmented system. Its wired inputs and adjustment controls keep the setup flexible without adding wireless complexity.
Complete 2.1 Bundle – Mackie CR3.5 and CR8SBT Bundle
This Audiosavings bundle offers a ready-made route to studio monitors with subwoofer output, combining a pair of Mackie CR3.5 monitors, a CR8SBT 8-inch powered subwoofer, and a 10-foot dual-RCA cable. The monitors add tone control and a headphone output, while the subwoofer provides Bluetooth, adjustable crossover, and desktop remote control.
Best For: Buyers who want a matched Mackie monitor-and-subwoofer package for music, gaming, movies, or casual listening.
Pros:
- Includes monitors, subwoofer, and a dual-RCA cable in one package.
- CR3.5 monitors provide tone control and desktop or bookshelf placement modes.
- CR8SBT offers Bluetooth, RCA/TRS inputs, and a 40–180 Hz crossover range.
- Front headphone output and desktop remote add everyday convenience.
Cons:
- The bundle’s listed 45-pound weight may make it less convenient to reposition.
- It is built around RCA connectivity for the included cable, so buyers should verify interface compatibility.
For shoppers who prefer a single purchase over piecing together a 2.1 system, this bundle covers the essential hardware and cable. Its controls support both practical monitoring and more relaxed listening, while the subwoofer supplies the low-frequency extension missing from small monitors.
How We Picked These Studio Monitors with Subwoofer Output
We selected products that cover the main ways shoppers build a bass-capable monitoring system: powered monitor pairs with subwoofer connections, standalone studio subwoofers, and matched bundles. We considered driver size, rated power, crossover and level controls, wired or wireless connectivity, included accessories, and compatibility with common desktop and recording setups.
Because these products serve different roles, a compact monitor pair is not directly comparable to a dedicated subwoofer. Use the table below to identify whether you need a complete system, an upgrade to existing monitors, or a flexible combination.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | Recommended Type | What to Prioritize |
|---|---|---|
| Small desks and bedrooms | 3.5- or 4.5-inch powered monitors | Compact size, front-panel controls, modest bass extension |
| Adding bass to existing monitors | Dedicated 8- or 10-inch subwoofer | Inputs, outputs, adjustable crossover, phase control |
| Balanced music production | Matched monitors and subwoofer | Neutral response, integration controls, placement flexibility |
| Casual listening and multimedia | Powered bookshelf or Bluetooth system | Convenience, remote control, wireless features |
Key Buying Factors for Studio Monitors with Subwoofer Output
Connection and Signal Routing
Check whether your monitors provide a dedicated subwoofer output or whether the subwoofer accepts the same source through line-level inputs and outputs. Balanced XLR or TRS connections are preferable for longer cable runs and lower noise, while RCA and 3.5mm inputs are common on desktop systems. If you use an audio interface, confirm that its outputs can feed both the monitors and subwoofer correctly.
Size, Power, and Room Balance
Larger drivers and higher wattage can deliver deeper, louder bass, but they are not automatically better in a small room. An 8-inch subwoofer may be excessive for a compact desk unless its level and crossover are carefully adjusted. Smaller monitors can work well with a subwoofer because the sub handles demanding low frequencies while the main speakers focus on mids and highs.
Crossover, Phase, and Placement
Adjustable crossover and volume controls make integration much easier. Start with a low subwoofer level and increase it until bass sounds full but not dominant. Phase adjustment helps align the sub with the monitors, while placement near a wall or corner can increase bass dramatically. Use familiar reference tracks and avoid judging the system only from one listening position.
Who Should Buy Which Studio Monitors with Subwoofer Output?
Choose Compact Powered Monitors If You Need a Simple Desktop Setup
Small PreSonus, Yamaha, or similar monitor pairs suit bedrooms, home offices, and light production work. They are easy to place and usually provide enough output for near-field listening, with a subwoofer available later if you need more low end.
Choose a Standalone Subwoofer If Your Monitors Already Sound Good
Dedicated options from Yamaha, JBL, KRK, Mackie, and PreSonus are the practical choice when you already own compatible monitors. Prioritize matching connections and useful crossover controls over maximum rated power.
Choose a Bundle for the Fastest Complete System
A monitor-and-subwoofer bundle reduces compatibility guesswork and can be economical for first-time buyers. Confirm the bundle includes every required cable, then plan enough space for proper speaker spacing and subwoofer placement.