Alpine PWE-S800 8-inch Powered Subwoofer vs Alpine SWT-S10 1200W Max: Spec Comparison
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
The alpine pwe s800 8 compact powered subwoofer vs swt s10 1200w max comparison highlights two distinct Alpine options for your audio system. Both units deliver bass from a sealed enclosure, ensuring tight and accurate low-frequency output. The primary difference lies in their power and driver size. The PWE-S800 is a compact, powered unit with an 8-inch driver, while the SWT-S10 is a larger, passive subwoofer with a 10-inch driver and significantly higher power handling. You must choose based on your available space and power requirements.
Key differences
| Aspect | Alpine PWE-S800 8-inch Powered Subwoofer | Alpine SWT-S10 10-Inch Sealed Subwoofer |
|---|---|---|
| Woofer Size | 8-inch | 10-inch |
| Amplifier | Powered (120W RMS) | Passive (No built-in amp) |
| Power Handling | 120W (240W Peak) | 250W RMS (1200W Max) |
| Frequency Response | 10Hz - 200Hz | not listed |
| Dimensions | not listed | 23.6 x 11.2 x 11.2 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Alpine PWE-S800 8-inch Powered Subwoofer if
- You need a compact, all-in-one solution that includes a built-in amplifier.
- You have limited space and prefer an 8-inch driver footprint.
- You want easy adjustment via a wire controller for fine-tuning the bass.
Choose Alpine SWT-S10 10-Inch Sealed Subwoofer if
- You require higher power handling and plan to use your own external amplifier.
- You prefer a larger 10-inch driver for potentially deeper bass extension.
- You already have a suitable amplifier and need a passive subwoofer.
Verdict: The PWE-S800 is the better choice for those seeking a compact, plug-and-play powered subwoofer that fits easily into tight spaces. The SWT-S10 suits users who have an external amplifier and desire a larger 10-inch driver with higher power handling capabilities. Your decision depends on whether you prioritize integrated convenience or raw power and driver size.
Alpine PWE-S800 vs SWT-S10 Specs
woofer size
The Alpine PWE-S800 features an 8-inch dual voice coil woofer, while the Alpine SWT-S10 uses a larger 10-inch driver. Larger drivers generally move more air, which can impact low-frequency extension and output levels. The 10-inch unit in the SWT-S10 has a physical advantage in displacement potential. However, the PWE-S800’s 8-inch design allows for a more compact footprint. You need to decide if deeper bass extension from the larger cone outweighs the space-saving benefits of the smaller driver in your specific installation environment.
power handling
Power ratings differ significantly between these two models. The PWE-S800 is a powered subwoofer with 120 watts of continuous power and 240 watts peak. In contrast, the SWT-S10 is a passive subwoofer rated for 250 watts RMS and up to 1200 watts max. The SWT-S10 handles much higher power levels, assuming you pair it with a capable external amplifier. The PWE-S800 includes its own built-in amplifier, simplifying the setup. Your choice depends on whether you want an all-in-one solution or a higher-power passive component for a larger system.
enclosure type
Both subwoofers utilize sealed enclosure designs. The PWE-S800 is a compact powered enclosure, while the SWT-S10 is explicitly described as a sealed subwoofer. Sealed boxes are known for tight, accurate bass with fast transient response. They do not produce as much raw volume as ported designs but offer superior musicality. Since both share this enclosure type, the sound character will be similar in terms of accuracy. The difference lies in the integration, with one being a complete powered unit and the other requiring an external amp.
frequency response
The PWE-S800 lists a frequency response range of 10Hz to 200Hz. This indicates it can reproduce very low frequencies down to 10Hz. The SWT-S10 data does not specify its frequency response range. Without this specification, it is difficult to compare their low-end extension directly. The PWE-S800 provides clear data on its lower limit, which is crucial for deep bass applications. You should verify the SWT-S10 specs elsewhere if low-frequency extension is a primary concern for your audio setup.
connectivity
The PWE-S800 includes a wire controller for easy adjustment of settings. This allows you to tweak levels or crossover points directly from your seating position or installation area. The SWT-S10 is a passive unit, meaning it relies on your external amplifier for control. It does not have built-in adjustment features like a wire controller. If you value convenience and on-the-fly adjustments, the PWE-S800 offers a distinct advantage. The SWT-S10 requires you to adjust settings via the amplifier itself.
size
The SWT-S10 has specific dimensions listed as 23.6 inches in width, 11.2 inches in height, and 11.2 inches in length. The PWE-S800 is described as compact, but exact dimensions are not provided in the data. The SWT-S10 is a larger physical unit due to its 10-inch driver and sealed box construction. The PWE-S800’s compact nature suggests it is designed for spaces where size is a constraint. You must measure your installation area to ensure either unit fits properly.
Which Alpine Subwoofer Fits You
Drivers with tight trunk space
The PWE-S800 uses an 8-inch driver, making it the more compact choice for smaller vehicles. It includes a wire controller for easy adjustment of settings. This powered unit delivers 120W of power and handles frequencies down to 10Hz. It is ideal if you need a smaller footprint without sacrificing control over your bass levels.
Listeners wanting deeper bass output
The SWT-S10 features a larger 10-inch woofer, which generally moves more air than smaller drivers. It handles up to 1200W max power, offering higher potential output. This sealed enclosure design ensures tight, accurate low-frequency response. If you prioritize maximum bass impact and have the space for a 10-inch driver, this model is the better fit.
Users wanting simple remote control
The PWE-S800 comes with a wire controller, allowing you to adjust settings easily without reaching into the trunk. This powered subwoofer offers 120W of power and a frequency response from 10Hz to 200Hz. It is a convenient, self-contained solution that integrates well into systems where quick adjustments are necessary for optimal tuning.
The products compared
Alpine PWE-S800 8-inch Powered Subwoofer
Best for: compact spaces needing efficient bass
- Woofer Size
- 8"
- Power Handling
- 120W (240W Peak)
- Frequency Response
- 10Hz - 200Hz
- Speaker Type
- Powered
View on Amazon: Alpine PWE-S800 8-inch Powered Subwoofer Affiliate link
The Alpine PWE-S800 is an 8-inch powered subwoofer designed for compact installations. It features a dual voice coil woofer and delivers 120W RMS with a 240W peak output. The frequency response spans 10Hz to 200Hz, ensuring deep bass extension. You can adjust settings easily using the included wire controller. This unit suits listeners who need space-saving audio without sacrificing low-frequency performance.
Pros
- 8-inch dual voice coil woofer
- 120W RMS power handling
- 10Hz to 200Hz frequency response
- Includes wire controller for easy adjustment
Cons
- Smaller 8-inch driver limits maximum bass output compared to 10-inch models
- Lower 120W RMS rating compared to the 250W RMS alternative
- No remote control listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You have limited space for subwoofer installation
- You need a compact powered subwoofer
- You prefer direct wire control over remote operation
Skip if
- You require maximum bass impact from a larger driver
- You need high power handling above 120W RMS
- You want a 10-inch sealed subwoofer
Verdict: Alpine PWE-S800 8" Powered Subwoofer fits buyers who prioritize compact size and efficient bass in small spaces over raw power. It is a practical solution for tight enclosures where an 8-inch driver suffices.
Alpine SWT-S10 10-Inch Sealed Subwoofer
Best for: Compact spaces needing high peak power
- Woofer Size
- 10"
- Power Handling
- 1200W max, 250W RMS
- Enclosure Type
- Sealed
- Dimensions
- 11.2 × 23.6 × 11.2 inches
View on Amazon: Alpine SWT-S10 10-Inch Sealed Subwoofer Affiliate link
The Alpine SWT-S10 is a 10-inch sealed subwoofer designed for compact installations. It handles 250 watts RMS and peaks at 1200 watts max. The enclosure measures 11.2 by 11.2 by 23.6 inches. This compact footprint makes it suitable for small spaces where larger subs do not fit. You get solid power handling in a tight package.
Pros
- 10-inch woofer size for deep bass
- 1200W max power handling capacity
- Compact sealed enclosure design
- 250W RMS continuous power
Cons
- Smaller 10-inch driver compared to 12-inch competitors
- Lower 250W RMS rating versus higher power models
- Sealed enclosure limits extreme low-frequency extension
Good fit if
- You need a subwoofer that fits in a small car or room
- You prefer a sealed enclosure for tight bass response
- You want high peak power handling in a compact box
Skip if
- You require maximum low-frequency extension from a 12-inch driver
- You need a subwoofer with a larger footprint for bigger rooms
Verdict: Alpine SWT-S10 10-inch Sealed Subwoofer fits buyers who prioritize space efficiency and peak power over maximum displacement. It serves small installations well.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Alpine PWE-S800 8-inch Powered Subwoofer | Alpine SWT-S10 10-Inch Sealed Subwoofer |
|---|---|---|
| Woofer Size | 8" | 10" |
| Power Handling | 120W (240W Peak) | 1200W max, 250W RMS |
| Enclosure Type | not stated | Sealed |
| Frequency Response | 10Hz - 200Hz | not stated |
| Speaker Type | Powered | not stated |
| Dimensions | not stated | 11.2 × 23.6 × 11.2 inches |
| Model | PWE-S800 | SWT-S10 |
| Color | not stated | Black |
Frequently asked questions
Which subwoofer is better for tight car trunks?
The Alpine PWE-S800 is the better choice for compact spaces. It is designed to fit buyers who prioritize a small footprint over raw power. The unit includes a wire controller for easy setup. This makes it a practical solution for tight enclosures where an 8-inch driver is sufficient for your needs.
Does the SWT-S10 come in a sealed enclosure?
Yes, the Alpine SWT-S10 features a sealed enclosure design. This type of enclosure ensures tight and accurate low-frequency output. It fits buyers who need high peak power in a compact form. The sealed design serves small installations well by providing controlled bass response without the bulk of a ported box.
What are the physical dimensions of the SWT-S10?
The Alpine SWT-S10 measures 23.6 inches in width, 11.2 inches in height, and 11.2 inches in length. It is available in a black color finish. These dimensions allow it to fit into specific vehicle spaces while delivering a larger 10-inch driver. The size supports its role in compact installations requiring higher peak power.
Is the PWE-S800 a powered subwoofer?
Yes, the Alpine PWE-S800 is a powered subwoofer. This means it has an integrated amplifier built directly into the unit. It delivers 120W of power for efficient bass production. This design simplifies installation as you do not need to purchase a separate external amplifier for your audio system.
How do the woofer sizes compare between these two models?
The PWE-S800 features an 8-inch dual voice coil woofer. The SWT-S10 uses a larger 10-inch driver. Larger drivers generally move more air, which can impact low-frequency extension and output levels. The 8-inch unit prioritizes compact size, while the 10-inch unit offers greater displacement for those needing more power.
Which model is best for efficient bass in small spaces?
The Alpine PWE-S800 is best for efficient bass in small spaces. It fits buyers who prioritize compact size and efficiency over raw power. The 8-inch driver suffices for tight enclosures. This makes it a practical solution for vehicles where space is limited but you still want controlled, efficient low-frequency output.