Sundown Audio E Series v.4 12" or Sundown Audio HZS-12 12" Shallow Subwoofer? Which Sundown Audio Model to Buy
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This comparison examines the sundown audio e series v 4 12 d4 car subwoofer vs horizon hzs 12 12. Both models are 12-inch subwoofers with dual 4-ohm voice coils designed for car audio systems. They share Sundown Audio’s focus on durability and thermal management. The main difference lies in their intended installation space and enclosure requirements. The E Series v.4 is a standard depth unit optimized for ported boxes, while the HZS-12 is a shallow mount driver built for sealed enclosures in tight spaces.
Key differences
| Aspect | Sundown Audio E Series v.4 12" D4 | Sundown Audio HZS-12 12" Shallow Subwoofer |
|---|---|---|
| Mounting Depth | 2 inches | 3.9 inches |
| Power Handling (RMS) | 750 Watts | 600 Watts |
| Recommended Enclosure | Ported | Sealed |
| Resonant Frequency (Fs) | 28.373 Hz | not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Sundown Audio E Series v.4 12" D4 if
- You have ample space for a ported enclosure and want higher power handling.
- You need a subwoofer with a deeper mounting depth of only 2 inches.
- You prioritize maximum excursion and lower resonant frequency for deep bass.
Choose Sundown Audio HZS-12 12" Shallow Subwoofer if
- You are installing the subwoofer in a truck bed or under a seat.
- You require a shallow mount design with a 3.9-inch depth.
- You prefer a sealed enclosure setup for compact installation.
Verdict: Choose the E Series v.4 if you have space for a ported box and want higher RMS power and deeper excursion. Pick the HZS-12 if you are limited by space and need a shallow mount for a sealed enclosure. Both offer dual 4-ohm impedance for flexible amplifier matching.
E Series vs HZS-12 Subwoofer Comparison
power handling
The Sundown Audio E Series v.4 12" D4 offers higher power handling than the Horizon HZS-12. It delivers 750 Watts RMS and can handle up to 1500 Watts peak. This makes it suitable for high-output systems where maximum volume is a priority. In contrast, the Sundown Audio HZS-12 12" Shallow Subwoofer is rated for 600 Watts RMS. While still robust, its lower power rating suggests it is optimized for efficiency rather than raw output. If you need more wattage for a powerful setup, the E Series v.4 provides a clear advantage in this category.
enclosure type
These subwoofers are designed for different enclosure types, which affects your installation choices. The E Series v.4 is optimized for ported enclosures. The data recommends a net volume of 1.7 cubic feet with a 26 square inch port area and a 35 Hz tuning frequency. This setup allows for deeper, more resonant bass. The HZS-12, however, is built for sealed enclosures. It performs best in a compact 1.0 cubic foot sealed box. Sealed boxes offer tighter, more controlled bass response. Your choice depends on whether you prefer the punch of a ported design or the accuracy of a sealed one.
mounting depth
Installation space is a critical factor for many car audio enthusiasts. The HZS-12 is explicitly marketed as a shallow mount subwoofer. It features a minimal 3.9-inch mounting depth, making it ideal for tight spaces like under seats or in truck beds. The E Series v.4 data lists a height of 2 inches, but its motor design and magnet structure suggest a different physical profile. The HZS-12 is purpose-built for space-saving installs where depth is the primary constraint. If you have limited vertical space, the HZS-12 offers a distinct practical advantage for easy integration.
excursion
Excursion determines how far the cone moves, impacting bass depth. The E Series v.4 boasts a class-leading 14mm Xmax, which is its one-way linear excursion. This allows the 12-inch cone to move significantly, delivering deep, impactful low-frequency performance comparable to larger drivers. The HZS-12 data mentions a high-roll surround and progressive spider for smooth, controlled movement, but it does not specify an Xmax value. Without a stated excursion figure, the E Series v.4 appears superior for those seeking maximum cone travel and deep bass extension.
resonant frequency
The resonant frequency (Fs) indicates the lowest frequency a subwoofer can naturally produce. The E Series v.4 has an extremely low Fs of 28.373 Hz. This allows it to reproduce very deep bass notes with ease, enhancing the overall low-frequency response. The HZS-12 data does not provide a specific Fs value. While it is optimized for small enclosures, the lack of a stated resonant frequency makes it difficult to compare directly on this metric. The E Series v.4 provides clear data showing its capability for deep bass reproduction.
Choose Your Sundown Audio 12-Inch Subwoofer
You need deep bass in a ported box
The E Series v.4 is optimized for ported enclosures. It features a low resonant frequency of 28.373 Hz and a class-leading 14mm Xmax. This design delivers deep, impactful low-frequency performance. It handles 750 Watts RMS, making it ideal for systems that require high efficiency and maximum excursion in a compact package.
You have limited space under a seat
The HZS-12 is built for shallow mounts. It has a minimal 3.9-inch mounting depth, fitting easily under seats or in tight truck areas. It performs best in sealed enclosures with a recommended volume of 1.0 cubic feet. This model provides reliable output in space-restricted environments without sacrificing durability.
You want maximum power handling capability
If you drive your system hard, the E Series v.4 offers superior power handling. It delivers 750 Watts RMS and 1500 Watts peak. This higher rating supports high-output setups. The dual 4-ohm voice coil and robust construction ensure it can sustain performance under demanding conditions better than the 600-Watt alternative.
The products compared
Sundown Audio E Series v.4 12" D4
Best for: High-output car audio in ported enclosures
- Woofer Size
- 12"
- Power Handling
- 750W RMS / 1500W Peak
- Impedance
- Dual 4-ohm
- Application
- Cars
- Enclosure Type
- Ported
- Size
- 12" - Dual 4 Ohm
View on Amazon: Sundown Audio E Series v.4 12" D4 Affiliate link
The Sundown Audio E Series v.4 12" D4 is a car subwoofer designed for deep, impactful bass. It features a 750W RMS power handling and a 14mm Xmax excursion. The dual 4-ohm voice coil allows for flexible amplifier matching. With a low resonant frequency of 28.373 Hz, it performs well in ported enclosures. This model suits listeners who prioritize high output and durability in a 12-inch format.
Pros
- 750W RMS power handling for high output
- 14mm Xmax for deep bass excursion
- Dual 4-ohm voice coil for flexibility
- Low 28.373 Hz resonant frequency (Fs)
- High-temp 4-layer copper voice coil wire
Cons
- Dual 4-ohm configuration limits impedance options
- Requires ported enclosure for optimal performance
- Larger physical depth compared to shallow mounts
Good fit if
- You need high power handling for loud bass
- You prefer dual 4-ohm wiring flexibility
- You have space for a standard depth enclosure
Skip if
- You require a shallow-mount design
- You need a dual 2-ohm configuration
- You are building a sealed box only
Verdict: Sundown Audio E Series v.4 12" D4 delivers high-output bass with its 750W RMS rating and 14mm Xmax. It is the right choice for car audio enthusiasts seeking deep impact in a ported setup.
Sundown Audio HZS-12 12" Shallow Subwoofer
Best for: tight spaces and sealed enclosures
- Woofer Size
- 12"
- Power Handling
- 600W RMS
- Enclosure Type
- Sealed
- Impedance
- Dual 4Ω
- Application
- Cars
- Dimensions
- 11.2 × 12.5 × 12 inches
View on Amazon: Sundown Audio HZS-12 12" Shallow Subwoofer Affiliate link
The Sundown Audio HZS-12 is a 12-inch shallow subwoofer designed for tight spaces. It delivers 600W RMS power through a dual 4-ohm voice coil. The unit features a minimal 3.9-inch depth, making it ideal for truck beds or under-seat installations. Its vented motor and high-roll surround ensure controlled excursion and thermal stability. You get reliable bass output in a compact 12.5-inch diameter package.
Pros
- 600W RMS power handling for strong output
- Shallow 3.9-inch depth for space-constrained installs
- Dual 4-ohm impedance offers wiring flexibility
- Vented motor gap aids thermal management
- Optimized for sealed enclosures under 1.0 cuft
Cons
- Lower RMS power compared to the 750W E Series v.4
- Requires a sealed enclosure, limiting ported options
- Limited to 12-inch size for deep bass impact
Good fit if
- You need a subwoofer for a truck bed or under-seat location
- You prefer sealed enclosure designs for tight spaces
- You want a dual 4-ohm configuration for amplifier compatibility
Skip if
- You require a high-power subwoofer exceeding 600W RMS
- You plan to use a ported enclosure for maximum volume
- You have ample space for a standard-depth subwoofer
Verdict: Sundown Audio HZS-12 Shallow Subwoofer fits buyers who prioritize space-saving installation over raw power output. It is the right choice for truck owners or those with limited enclosure volume who still want reliable, controlled bass.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Sundown Audio E Series v.4 12" D4 | Sundown Audio HZS-12 12" Shallow Subwoofer |
|---|---|---|
| Woofer Size | 12" | 12" |
| Power Handling | 750W RMS / 1500W Peak | 600W RMS |
| Enclosure Type | not stated | Sealed |
| Impedance | Dual 4-ohm | Dual 4Ω |
| Application | Cars | Cars |
| Size | 12" - Dual 4 Ohm | not stated |
| Dimensions | 4 × 5 × 2 inches | 11.2 × 12.5 × 12 inches |
| Color | black | not stated |
| Model | E-12v4D4 | HZS-12 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the Sundown Audio E Series v.4 and HZS-12?
The E Series v.4 is a high-output subwoofer designed for ported enclosures, while the HZS-12 is a shallow model built for tight spaces and sealed boxes. The E Series features a 14mm Xmax and 750W RMS rating for deep impact. The HZS-12 prioritizes space-saving installation with a shallow height, making it ideal for trucks with limited volume.
Does the Sundown Audio E Series v.4 fit in a sealed box?
The E Series v.4 is optimized for ported enclosures. Its design emphasizes high-output bass and deep impact, which ported boxes enhance. While you might physically install it in a sealed box, it will not perform at its best. For sealed applications, the HZS-12 is the more suitable choice due to its specific tuning for controlled, tight bass in smaller volumes.
Is the HZS-12 a shallow subwoofer?
Yes, the HZS-12 is a shallow subwoofer. It measures 11.2 inches in length, which is significantly lower than the E Series v.4. This shallow profile allows it to fit in tight spaces where standard subwoofers cannot. It is designed for buyers who need to save space without sacrificing reliable, controlled bass performance in their vehicle.
What size is the Sundown Audio E Series v.4?
The Sundown Audio E Series v.4 is a 12-inch subwoofer. It has a Dual 4-Ohm impedance configuration. The physical dimensions are 5 inches in width, 4 inches in length, and 2 inches in height. This compact footprint allows for flexible mounting options, particularly in ported enclosures where high-output performance is the primary goal.
Can the HZS-12 handle high power?
The provided data does not specify the power handling for the HZS-12. It is described as a shallow subwoofer for tight spaces and sealed enclosures. The E Series v.4, by contrast, is rated for 750W RMS. If high power handling is your main requirement, the E Series v.4 is the superior option based on its published specifications.
Which subwoofer is better for a truck?
The HZS-12 is better for trucks with limited space. Its shallow design, measuring 11.2 inches in length, fits easily into tight enclosures often found in truck beds or under seats. It delivers reliable, controlled bass for sealed setups. The E Series v.4 is larger and optimized for ported boxes, which may not fit well in typical truck installations.
Does the E Series v.4 have dual voice coils?
Yes, the Sundown Audio E Series v.4 features Dual 4-Ohm voice coils. This configuration allows for flexible wiring options, enabling you to match the subwoofer to various amplifiers. It is a standard feature for high-output car audio subwoofers, providing the versatility needed for complex car audio system builds.