Harbinger S12 Subwoofer review and teardown!

So you have a $400 budget to spend on a powered PA subwoofer BUT what Sub do you buy? Could it be this Harbinger S12 or something else?? well.. Just watch this video for the answer! .. because we gots it
Please support our channel and subscribe! Thannnnnks

[@johannjohann6523]

That is a surprising sub for $400, maybe up to $500. This is a great video and example why these teardown videos are great sources of information. Thanks for making them, appreciate it greatly

[@2DudesAudio]

Thank you for your appreciation!!! We love making useful content like this!!! If you want to help us keep creating great content for all of KZbin, check out this post: kzbin.infoUgkxcVcR9LNPgjQvQZHVhWBnMnf9s8Yr2ZWR

[@segrizzmiller]

Hey I’m late to the show but, I own 8 of these as well as the 3412 tops. Holy crap think about it, 96 inches of surface area with 3200 watts pushing. They hit like a ton of lead but with speed and accuracy. The 3412s with their new HF driver is sweet. I have this system set up in my family room and this system has incredible sound stage and unbelievable detail without harshness you would expect at this price point. Driving it direct from a topping D50 DAC via balanced line. No tone control needed, using crossover in one sub per side to feed 3412 on top at 90hz. You would be amazed to say the least, classical music is stunning with imaging and depth that you close your eyes and you are there. Classic rock, you hear details in recordings in HiRez like Tidal offers that you never knew existed. Funk and Hip Hop will shake your soul… and house to the point 2 pictures fell off the wall….nuts!!!

[@josegamboa994]

Just picked this up at Guitar Center for $349. This review sealed the deal in my mind - thanks and thumbs up 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@2DudesAudio]

Awesome to hear!!! How have they held up for you?

[@josegamboa994]

@@2DudesAudio fantastic, I have it in my 12 x 12 den that I use as my home gym. I can’t really run it hard because of the size of the room. I have it connected to two Mackie thump 12A’s and boy it cranks.

[@TruePlatform]

Well.. I bought 4 of them. No regrets at all. The time alignment delay was the major selling point for me. Fills the entire room with more pound then ever needed. A MUST for anyone looking for more than just a bang on a budget

[@isomorphic97]

Did you tried to run them cardioid? Is it possible?

[@johannjohann6523]

GOOD MAN. IF YOU ARE GOING TO DO IT, DO IT RIGHT. AT THIS PRICE POINT YOU CAN GET 4 OF THEM FOR WHAT A SINGLE 18 INCH WOULD COST FROM ONE OF THE "PREMIUM" (OR SO) BRANDS. BUT I CAN'T SEE 1 SUB MAKING UP FOR 4 SUBS, EVEN AT 18 INCHES. I'M WITH YOU REGARDING THE TIME ALIGNMENT, AND THE BOX BUILD SEEMS EXCEPTIONAL AT THIS PRICE.HOPE YOU ARE STILL ENJOYING THEM!

[@mofobos]

Good idea. How do you run them?

[@roberthoury4034]

I own 2 of these paired with Yamaha DBR12s in tandem and they work great!

[@bryandinello]

I just got one for my DXR 12s. What did you set your crossover frequencies at? Same on mains and the subs? Thanks!

[@WrongTurnMusic330]

Cool review, our 4 piece rock band actually uses the Harbinger VARI 18 subs paired w/ the 15" tops and we're extremely happy with them. Good stuff

[@DJKELLZ55]

Man great video as always, even more because I'm a beginner Dj with about 14 gigs under my belt from March of 2021. And I have been using 2 Ev Zlx 12BTs and knew I had to get a sub, I came across this sub about 2-3 months ago at my local Guitar Center on sale for $299 (a steal looking back). And like you guys I was blown away by the sound of this 12" sub, I've only had it out at 2 gigs so far and plan on getting another one for an even better sound. Thanks again for the review cause there are none on KZbin! 💯💯👍

[@DJKELLZ55]

@@JeremyPhillips_ Yeah that happened to me but as hey says in the video it does not effect the sound quality. It's the limit light, when flashing it let's you know your close to a max output at solid red your at max before distortion of sound. But I've had 4 gigs with it and each time it's been on solid red but no distortion, I'll adjust my external mixer Volume n keep on rocking lol. But that's been my experience, no issues other than light coming on.

[@DJKELLZ55]

@@JeremyPhillips_ Your welcome bro enjoy your Sub👍💯

[@djromeograte8180]

I love your tear down videos and reviews. This video caused me to head out and audition this sub! I heard it and I was just amazed by its sound. I purchased two and did a KZbin video reviewing and demonstrating the subs. I quoted your review that the sub gets a nine out of ten and also mentioned that your video was the only one out there, unfortunately! I would to see a comparison video between the Harbingers and the EV 12s - as mentioned by another comment! Hurry back with great product reviews and breakdowns! 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽🤩

[@ricorengue]

I have the 18” and I was very impress thanks for your help I will buy a 12 for my small gigs

[@lauderdale77]

Was on the fence and now I’m getting an entire set tomorrow. Time for an upgrade. Thanks so much

[@logisticalstyles]

I just recently purchased this model from Guitar Center for $250. The newer version seems to be identical except for the black logo and the addition of a USB port.

[@JetKrantz]

ive gotten 129.9 db from the S12 and 125db from vari 2312 speakersFYI good video, i purchased the s12 after seeing your review thanks

[@2DudesAudio]

We love that we could help you make a better informed decision for your gear!!! Please check out this post: kzbin.infoUgkxcVcR9LNPgjQvQZHVhWBnMnf9s8Yr2ZWR

[@curtelliott3344]

I have the 2312's and the s12 subs and with this combination on each side, it's quite loud. I'm very happy with these speakers.

[@danielstevanus1711]

do you mount the 2312's on the s12 subs? is it a heavy enough base for the 2312's??

[@zaelozaelo5585]

Thanks for your very critical and objective review on the subwoofer.

[@SamuelLynnDJ]

Thank you for the review my guys. I've been looking for a lil Sub and ran across this review. Amazing job. I love the way you took it apart and really put it to the test. Again, Thank you 👍

[@2DudesAudio]

You are very welcome!!! Its why we do what we do!!! Thanks for watching!

[@stayhappy9893]

Got one. It is a good bang for your buck. Love it because it is lightweight, but with that it will move/scoot/slide on a smooth floor if you push it (crank it up). Will probably get a second one. :)

[@mrchris6684]

Looks great, bought one stopped working all of a sudden only lasted for around two years , thought it was the fuse which I change, no luck wouldn’t power on. Now I get to understand it could be the circuit board. What got me I hardly used it.

[@2DudesAudio]

I'm truly sorry to hear about your experience. Even with great quality control, these units are still mass produced and the odd unit will fail for seemingly no reason. We truly appreciate you taking time to view our content to aid in your purchasing decisions!!!

[@eiddie4108]

Love these reviews… wished you guys could get a sponsor from one of these companies and put out more reviews!!!

[@chazpozzi]

That would be sweetttt

[@woulddrow540]

love these honest reviews

[@JamesMapson]

I'm buying one tomorrow for my 12 inch 3000 tops. Not sure how to run them into my LV7 Harbinger mixer. Thanks for the great review.

[@stankarcz]

Where can i buy a cover? How deep can i drill holes in the bottom to mount four heavy duty caster wheels? I cannot find these answers anywhere.

[@mikesmusicden]

Great review! I just picked up a Harbinger V2310 to use as a floor monitor for my band. For the price, the build quality and the sound are pretty good. Obviously, not at the same level as a more expensive monitor, but well worth the money!

[@dp54_60]

They’re on clearance for $299 at guitar center rn, might pick up a couple

[@djroyal414]

Great review…I just ordered one. Will test it out on my next event 👍🏼

[@mattmoreira210]

Nice video as always, lads! A+ product right there! They mention an honest power rating, which can be verified by the speaker’s enormous motor. Just judging by the size of its magnet, I reckon it could handle 500W average power, easily. PS: "RMS power" has always been marketing BS! When you multiply *RMS current* by *RMS voltage* you obtain *average power,* not _RMS power._

[@rockman49er]

What about pmpo watts lol I've been fooled once lol 😆

[@LorenoHaunts2020]

I have 2 of these and good lord for being such a tiny subwoofer they add some serious punch to my system

[@SuAmigoElilegal]

How will they sound if I would to upgrade that speaker for a better one 🤔

[@hollywoodthedj1673]

@@SuAmigoElilegal .. it would definitely sound better that’s what I’m thinking about doing I did this same concept with my EV ETX sub and it sounded way better then what came in there originally normally they almost always cheap out on the woofers in these subs these days so you can’t go wrong with putting a way better and stronger woofer in!

[@LoVeAmBiEnT]

At least they are being honest. 400watts sounds fine. Also. Mentioned altos. Ya the alto ts3 series are great for the price. I have a bunch of the ts310s for DJ monitors etc. Great.

[@CambodianFisherman]

I bought one today because of this review. Thanks!

[@2DudesAudio]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@ericbrooker2532]

I’d love to see a comparison to the (twice as much) EV 12” sub

[@alexbozas887]

Me too i own 6 x EV zxa1 subs..use them to split systems..very impressive.

[@WeBoogie28]

Sound text is missing 😂 the only vid on youtube, just wow

[@musicistherapy2]

I have the EV ELX 200-12 SP, And I demo the harbinger S12 Pretty frequently at the music store I work at. The EV is roughly twice the price and it delivers a Lot more punch.

[@kellyaustin7487]

@@musicistherapy2 So basically just get two of these lil harbingers and have much better bang per buck ❤️

[@TheXIT]

Hi I saw that Guitar Center has these on clearance. Have you heard the new VS12 Sub and do you think it's an improvement?

[@2DudesAudio]

Yes!!! We definitely recommend the new VS12 over the old model! We'll be reviewing the VS12 in the next week! So stay tuned!!!

[@TheXIT]

@@2DudesAudio That’s good to know, I was almost going to return it and get the previous model to save a few $$. Outwardly, the only difference I could see was the built in usb port. 😬😎

[@jimilee4609]

Very nice break down ! Yeah great sub

[@Javarrol]

I love mines I’m still learning it…

[@MrMelodyCold]

How will this compare with a behringer eurolive b1200d-pro?

[@philsep7939]

Can you tear down a Behringer DR18SUB 2400W 18 inch Powered Subwoofer?

[@alexcabrera8835]

I actually have two of these and two jbl compact one. They work great for a family gathering or like a 100 people place

[@renerodriguez1876]

They are going for 300 $ right now at Guitar Center should I buy it

[@xclusivevideo]

Thanks love the reviews 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾

[@itstheseanshow3550]

I have been looking at these for 6months now and every sales person give them a thumbs down. But I will grab it and try it out. Most my gigs are about 80 guests and the 15inch subs are just too much and going without them as you say... its just not enough bass with the tops only.

[@georgegeorgio1751]

So why are you using 2 subs? just use 1 x 15”.

[@seangarrity6421]

@@georgegeorgio1751 I only use them when the gigs are bigger than avg. Now I just use the 2 fifteen tops.

[@djdocdarkside8346]

Would love your thoughts, I am using a "pair" of Harbinger MLS 1000 column speakers and was considering adding 1 or 2 of these with it.

[@ChristianForbes-qg6mr]

I’ve got a pair of Turbosound IP1000 and I picked up one S12 to try. The important feature is the variable crossover. I like it enough to keep it and add another. I can’t find any other sub, with this feature set anywhere near this price. I’m using them at winery gigs as a dj. So not trying to fill a venue with techno sub bass, but for my events I think it’s the best overall without spending a ton of $$. When I set my turbos on top, the column is 8 feet tall … easily can send sound over a crowd. It’s so terribly difficult to truly know what it’s going to sound like until the drivers have a few hundred hours on them.

[@dimitriypm]

Hey guys. Great review, thank you. Are you planning to do any reviews on EV subs? My understanding is they are quite popular.

[@tadtravis]

what a GREAT video !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! TOP notch !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@2DudesAudio]

As always, you are quite welcome!!! Check out this post: kzbin.infoUgkxcVcR9LNPgjQvQZHVhWBnMnf9s8Yr2ZWR

[@theonelazaro5173]

Thanks bro I was trying to get one for a monitor

[@AUDIBLEMAN-n1z]

Sir can you teardown the Qsc HPR 15 subwoofer? I want to know what's inside of the box

[@truestory2227]

Never heard this subwoofer in person but if I was to suggest why you would buy this is to compliment a small top-main such as a QSC CP8. Otherwise getting a 15” 2way top should have enough low end.

[@ClosedLoopMusic]

will u review the 18'' ? i have two of them would love to know more, i just subscribed to your channel !

[@IamIanMusic]

they already did a couple years ago

[@pdub623]

Any chance you’re going to take a look at the Harbinger MLS 1000?

[@teetekin4813]

great stuff as per usual

[@djbosam507]

You give a well described video lots of good information thanks

[@umeandog]

Would you recommend hooking up the power subwoofer to a keyboard amp like the motion sound amp?

[@djijspeakerguy4628]

Would this work as good in a home theater as a pro audio setup? I’m wondering, often times the home theater subs are designed to go deeper, but are usually not as punchy or powerful.

[@rodrojas4236]

Can you do a comparison video between the Harbinger VARI VS12 and the Simmons DA12S 12" Powered Drum Subwoofer? both made and sold by guitar center, both have the same specs, but the Simmons cost $100 less than the Harbinger, why?... great videos I'm hooked, thanks.

[@Grommet2007]

Looks interesting. BTW, the Dayton Audio PA310 looks just as impressive motor-wise (the motor looks very similar to that Harbinger driver BTW), and it's rated for 450W RMS. However it's only got 5mm of Xmax so there ain't no way that it's going to take 450W at low frequencies and be happy about it, and I suspect the same for the Harbinger 12" driver. A few sine sweeps with REW to look at how both the FR changes with power level and also what the distortion looks like would really shed some light on what the subwoofer is capable of.

[@LoVeAmBiEnT]

I use the pa255-10 in my Bassmaxx horn hybrid boxes. . Each box has four 10’s and they are great. Seriously. Djs abusing em all night haven’t blown one ever. 3years now. Faital pros went in originally (10 inch w a 4 inch coil). . But they are super expensive The Daytons are $50. Ya they aren’t as loud. But that’s fine.

[@Grommet2007]

Hmmm.... Having had another closer look at the motor, it seems that the front plate looks a bit thicker and the magnet looks a bit wider than the ones in the PA310 motor, so maybe it does have a greater Xmax. Would love to know what the other parameters (Fs, Qts, Vas) are for it.

[@kensimon4478]

@@Grommet2007 we'll never know because they have an agreement with harbinger not to disclose who the manufacturer is. but you may be able to find it on parts express website by comparing drivers.

[@hollywoodthedj1673]

@@kensimon4478 I may grab two and swap woofers and see what they do with a quality stronger one!

[@jitbass.]

Can u guys do the ev etx 18

[@DSLRMAN01]

can you use this S12 with a 10" top for an electronic drum kit?

[@Djdannyb305]

Question does the vs12 have the same quality and power as the s12 you reviewed?? Thinking on buying one but l want to make the right choice . Because l seen some new versions not as good as the older models?? Please let me know

[@juliochavez3350]

I'm going to pick up this sub on Friday

[@2DudesAudio]

How did it perform for you?

[@RyKoMedia]

Standard stamped steel basket...."HOLY CRAP LOOK AT THIS MAGNET" lmaoooo

[@jitbass.]

Do the rcf 708 as-ii

[@Beluel]

So what you are saying is that this sub is a lot better than the v2318 according to your own review! Is that correct or I missed something?

[@frankpulumbarit8624]

What would be the proper hookup if I wanted to use this sub with an old Yamaha powered mixer (emx 512 sc) that feeds two passive yorkville elite 15s as mains? We use both the main and monitor channels during our gigs…thank you for your thorough review! I just subscribed!

[@dewdude2112]

Impressive excursion but will that last? Looks like it will destroy itself.

[@nextworldaction8828]

Difference between VS12 and S12?

[@taihenvlog8332]

what best hz for crossover to us music, karaoke and movie?

[@Les_Gõr]

test the RCF tts12 it’s a 12” sub that is no longer in production but it kicks harder and goes lower than most of the 15” subs on the market. (seems impossible but it’s true)

[@baumi9831]

Did u check the max SPL 130db is for real? Nice review thank u.

[@KendallHarrison-cq1jr]

have two alto 10 inch speakers will this sub sound good for dj gig around 50 to 100 people

[@randalscandal1588]

very very nice review!!!

[@MrMetalpunx]

Any experience with Alto Professional TX212S-900?

[@mallkrawlerz620]

Have you tried out the new alto ts12s?

[@gerocampana6191]

Nice video guys. Can u test the mackie Srm 212 V class?

[@thatonespeakerguy8412]

You should review the proreck pr18

[@rootzilla9399]

I am a dubstep DJ,, I wonder if these would be good in a small bar venue & could they handle the low end?

[@2DudesAudio]

I don't think the old 12 inch model would be the way to go, at the very least I would recommend grabbing their new 12 inch model which we will be reviewing in a couple days, or check out our review of the new VS18 here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n3bLd3WrqrOml80

[@2DudesAudio]

The 18 inch is really the way to go if you have the extra coin!

[@coreymoeller451]

Great review! I'm just starting to look at Harbinger as a legit option for small gigs. Have you done a review of the MLS 1000? I was thinking of picking one up and maybe pairing the s12 to it.

[@2DudesAudio]

We just got our hands on the MLS1000's and we'll be making a review video for them in the next month! Stay tuned!!! and Thanks for Watching!!!

[@lifeisbeautiful3898]

Can a person connect a subwoofer to the Harbinger M-200 BT?

[@garyalexander212]

Can you PLEASE review Proreck PR18, please please, I wanna see if all the good reviews are from people who knows nothing about great sound...

[@hacksolot2]

at this price point, ill just buy two to make up for any lack in volume

[@gunturmarpaung7196]

Are sure character the speaker match with box character

[@charliemyrick]

They’re back!

[@chazpozzi]

always more to come! :)

[@0hAngelMyGOAT]

I’m considering getting one of these with my harbinger 12 tops. But not sure if it would be a waste to get a 12inch sub

[@2DudesAudio]

Its never a waste getting a sub to carry your low end!!! Thanks for watching!!!

[@user-sn3cs2hd8r]

I trust you guys- what is a good powered monitor 12 or 15” on a budget?

[@2DudesAudio]

I would definitely recommend these: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z3rWfpRtYqeoh9U

[@rhandyyaya9053]

Hello. Just bought one VS12 and trying to hook it up on my Harbinger M200BT. Could you please help me. Thanks.

[@RFToob]

This is very helpful thank you!

[@johnralphromero9650]

Can we have the measurement box😊

[@malmazan2124]

Would this be good paired with a 15 inch harbinger v4115 series?

[@IamIanMusic]

nope. tops will completely outdo the subs. i dont even recommend the 18in v2318s sub. tops are going to be way louder than the sub

[@dezfyah]

Get Yorkville Subs any size... those things bang💪🏿

[@SuAmigoElilegal]

@@IamIanMusic they have a crossover frequency to cut off the tops from getting the lows

[@wparch]

If HARBINGER had a way to pair the MLS tops with this sub... IT WOULD BE A GAME CHANGER.... HARBINGER FAN RIGHT HERE.... I ALWAYS ROOT FOR THE UNDERDOG

[@2DudesAudio]

This might be a video topic that is right up Chaz's alley!!! I'll pitch the idea to wire them to a larger sub tonight!!!

[@mattblack118]

Nice review. Thanks!

[@keokiheller4351]

Flippn great vid man thanks🤙🏽😎🏝

[@braxtonferrell7982]

Alright I need help I got the 12 in sub and I have the harbinger speaker but I can’t get the sub to play along with the speaker I’m using one cord to link the two speakers and it just won’t work please help

[@heathatkins2837]

Nice vid. Thanx. Going to check out ur channel now

[@djilyaz]

Id like to see a comparison to seismic audio mini tremor and rockville rpg??12?? You know the 12" which are cheaper....

[@AUDIBLEMAN-n1z]

Always watching your teardowns dudes

[@chazpozzi]

you are awesome!!

[@oilbaserecordings]

My left output stopped working on mine so I had to go out of the right output to power both of my monitors not too happy about that and don't know how I can get it fixed either anybody know

[@rcb_matt]

What app are you using?

[@SadieAtCollege]

I’ve got a friend who uses this to run his bass through for band practice

[@SuAmigoElilegal]

How will they sound if I would to upgrade that speaker for a better one 🤔

[@garrycuthbertson9520]

Would they work with 12" zlx speakers?

[@bigmo19741]

I just bought two Harbinger MLS 900 about a month ago. I just purchased this subwoofer yesterday Should it sound great any advice? A very simple three system setup that should Rock a midsize venue

[@leonpaurillo1170]

Hey I'd like to how's the s2 sub sounds with the 2 mls900

[@SuAmigoElilegal]

How will they sound if I would to upgrade that speaker for a better one 🤔

[@Cj_DaDj334]

I have this set up, if you’re going to do anything as far as a sub get the “Osc”18 sub.. you won’t be disappointed

[@zoohuman]

Your comment is basically saying you don't like your sub, to get a different one, is that correct?

[@dmjazz]

@@zoohuman I have no doubt that the QSC 18" sub is a higher quality sub than this Harbinger 12" sub. I dont think a 12" sub in general is going to compete with an 18". However, the real question is: Is the QSC 18 worth $1700 more for you and your system than this sub? This little Harbinger is a great entry level sub and has good sound quality for its price. $300 is a steal for what it is. My band got 2 and we love them for smaller indoor gigs. Way lighter than the EV 18's we have...

[@hollywoodthedj1673]

@@dmjazz and that is exactly what this little 12” sub is for small indoor gigs and rooms just to have a little bass to offset your tops I don’t know why people trying to compare these to 18” subs of course they won’t sound better then any 18” but for the money they are good enough for the small little gigs on the go!

[@TimothyMcGilvary]

Niceee

[@Arilovesyou-]

I have 2 of these in my room😂

[@2DudesAudio]

That's awesome!

[@Arilovesyou-]

@2DudesAudio it's so loud even the neighbors hate it they wanted to file a complaint one time. A complaint against a 14 yr old playing with Harbingers PA speakers I give these subs a 11/10!

[@elfaani7627]

nice