The Pioneer TS-W308D4 is a 12-inch subwoofer from Pioneer’s Champion Series, known for delivering powerful and deep bass, ideal for car audio enthusiasts who demand more from their sound systems.
With a blend of high-quality materials, advanced design features, and a robust power-handling capacity, the TS-W308D4 is engineered to provide exceptional low-frequency sound reproduction.
This review will cover every aspect of the subwoofer, from its design and build quality to its performance and suitability for various audio setups.
Product Overview
The Pioneer TS-W308D4 subwoofer is designed to be a versatile and powerful component in any car audio system.
It features a dual 4-ohm voice coil configuration that allows for flexible wiring options, making it easy to customize the impedance and optimize performance with various amplifiers.
The subwoofer’s robust build and high power-handling capacity make it suitable for delivering strong, distortion-free bass across a wide range of music genres.
Pioneer TS-W308D4 Key Specifications
- Size: 12 inches (30 cm)
- Type: Dual voice coil subwoofer
- Max Power Handling: 1,400 watts
- RMS Power Handling: 400 watts
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 220 Hz
- Sensitivity: 96 dB
- Impedance: Dual 4 ohms (can be wired for 2 or 8 ohms)
- Voice Coil Material: Copper
- Cone Material: IMPP (Injection Molded Polypropylene) composite cone
- Surround Material: Dual-layer elastic polymer
- Mounting Depth: 6.9 inches (175 mm)
- Cut-Out Diameter: 11 inches
- Recommended Enclosure Volume: Sealed: 1.25 cubic feet, Ported: 1.65 cubic feet
Pioneer TS-W308D4 Design and Build Quality
IMPP Composite Cone
Pioneer TS-W308D4 uses an IMPP (Injection Molded Polypropylene) composite cone that is reinforced with carbon and mica.
This design provides a lightweight yet rigid structure, ensuring minimal distortion and improved sound accuracy.
The cone material also enhances durability, allowing the subwoofer to maintain its performance over extended periods of use.
Dual-Layer Elastic Polymer Surround
It has a surround made from a dual-layer elastic polymer, which offers both flexibility and durability.
This material allows for greater cone excursion, essential for producing deep bass frequencies without distortion.
Additionally, the surround’s elasticity also helps the cone to return to its original position quickly, improving the overall responsiveness of the subwoofer.
Dual Voice Coil Design
The dual 4-ohm voice coil configuration provides flexibility in wiring options, allowing the subwoofer to be set up for either a 2-ohm or 8-ohm impedance.
This versatility makes it easy to integrate the TS-W308D4 into different audio systems, whether you are using a single subwoofer or multiple units.
Heat Management
Pioneer has equipped the TS-W308D4 with a vented pole yoke and basket structure to improve heat dissipation.
Effective heat management is crucial for maintaining performance and preventing thermal damage during extended periods of high-power output.
Vented Pole Yoke and Basket
TS-W308D4’s subwoofer’s basket and pole yoke are vented, which helps dissipate heat more efficiently. This feature is crucial for preventing overheating during extended use at high power levels, ensuring reliable performance over time.
Aesthetic Appeal
The TS-W308D4 is designed with a sleek, modern look that complements its performance capabilities. The subwoofer’s aesthetic is understated yet aggressive, fitting well in most car interiors without drawing unnecessary attention.
Pioneer TS-W308D4 Performance
Performance is a big plus for the Pioneer TS-W308D4. It delivers an impressive performance across a variety of metrics, making it a solid choice for those looking to enhance their car audio systems:
Bass Output
The TS-W308D4 excels in producing deep, powerful bass that adds significant depth to any audio setup.
Its ability to hit low frequencies down to 20 Hz provides a rich, immersive listening experience.
The bass response is tight and controlled, avoiding the muddiness that can plague other subwoofers in this price range.
Clarity and Precision
Despite its focus on bass, the TS-W308D4 maintains clarity and precision, thanks to its rigid IMPP composite cone and dual-layer surround.
The subwoofer produces clear, undistorted sound even at higher volumes, ensuring that all bass notes are rendered with accuracy and impact.
Versatility
Its dual voice coil design allows for flexibility in wiring configurations, making the subwoofer suitable for various amplifier setups.
Whether you prefer a single 2-ohm load for maximum power or an 8-ohm load for more controlled output, the TS-W308D4 can be adapted to fit your needs.
Power Handling
With a maximum power handling of 1,400 watts and RMS power of 400 watts, the TS-W308D4 is capable of delivering substantial bass output without distortion.
This makes it suitable for a wide range of music genres, from bass-heavy hip-hop and electronic dance music to rock and pop.
Compatibility with Enclosures
The TS-W308D4 is versatile in terms of enclosure compatibility, performing well in both sealed and ported enclosures.
Sealed enclosures offer tighter, more accurate bass, while ported enclosures enhance the subwoofer’s low-end output, making it ideal for those who prefer a more booming bass.
User Experience
Installation
The TS-W308D4 is designed for ease of installation, fitting standard 12-inch subwoofer openings while the dual voice coil design provides flexibility in wiring, allowing for various impedance configurations based on your specific audio setup.
While installation is straightforward, those unfamiliar with car audio systems may benefit from professional installation to optimize performance.
Durability
Built with high-quality materials like the IMPP composite cone and dual-layer elastic polymer surround, the TS-W308D4 is designed to withstand the rigors of car interiors, including temperature fluctuations and vibrations.
Furthermore, its robust construction ensures that it can handle the demands of daily use without compromising sound quality.
Sound Quality
Users report that the TS-W308D4 offers a noticeable improvement over factory-installed subwoofers, delivering a deeper and more impactful bass response.
The subwoofer’s ability to handle high power levels without distortion ensures a satisfying listening experience, even at higher volumes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful Bass Output: Delivers deep, impactful bass that enhances the overall audio experience.
- Durable Construction: High-quality materials ensure longevity and consistent performance.
- Flexible Wiring Options: Dual voice coil design allows for various impedance configurations.
- Good Heat Management: Vented pole yoke and basket help prevent overheating during extended use.
- Versatile Enclosure Compatibility: Performs well in both sealed and ported enclosures.
Cons:
- Requires Adequate Amplification: To fully utilize its potential, the subwoofer requires a powerful amplifier.
- Large Mounting Depth: The 6.9-inch mounting depth may not be suitable for all vehicles.
- Professional Installation Recommended: Users unfamiliar with subwoofer installation may need professional assistance.
Conclusion
The Pioneer TS-W308D4 is a powerful and versatile subwoofer that offers excellent value for car audio enthusiasts looking to enhance their sound systems.
With its deep bass response, robust build quality, and flexible wiring options, it is well-suited for a variety of audio setups and music genres.
While it requires a compatible amplifier and sufficient space for installation, the TS-W308D4 delivers a compelling mix of performance and durability, making it a top choice for those seeking to upgrade their car audio experience.
Rating:
9/10
The Pioneer TS-W308D4 subwoofer earns a 9 out of 10 rating due to its impressive combination of power, build quality, and sound performance.
Additionally, the subwoofer delivers deep, impactful bass and is capable of handling high power levels, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their car’s audio system with powerful low-frequency output.
Its dual 4-ohm voice coil design adds versatility for different wiring configurations, and its durable construction ensures longevity.
However, to achieve the best performance, a proper enclosure and a powerful amplifier are recommended, which could add to the overall cost.
Overall, the TS-W308D4 is a top-notch subwoofer that offers excellent value for both casual listeners and car audio enthusiasts.
Pioneer TS-W308D4 Price
The price of this top-rated subwoofer depends on the shop you buy it from. It could range from $160 to $200. The speaker is unavailable at the moment.
We shall notify you when the speaker is available…
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The TS-W308D4 performs well in both sealed and ported enclosures. Sealed enclosures offer tighter, more accurate bass, while ported enclosures provide enhanced low-end output, making them ideal for bass-heavy music.
Yes, as long as your amplifier can handle the subwoofer’s power requirements and impedance options. The dual 4-ohm voice coils allow you to wire the subwoofer for either a 2-ohm or 8-ohm load, providing flexibility based on your amplifier’s capabilities.
Due to its 12-inch size and 6.9-inch mounting depth, the TS-W308D4 may not be suitable for all small vehicles. Ensure that your vehicle has sufficient space for installation before purchasing.
While installation is straightforward for those familiar with car audio systems, professional installation is recommended for those who are not. This ensures optimal performance and prevents potential damage to the subwoofer or vehicle.
The TS-W308D4 has an RMS power handling of 400 watts and can handle up to 1,400 watts of peak power. A compatible amplifier that can provide sufficient power at the subwoofer’s impedance will ensure optimal performance and sound quality.
Check out other Pioneer Subwoofers below…