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Eton
Eton PW10-500 BR 10" Passive Subwoofer System | Ported
SKU: ET-PW10-500BR
$ 449.99
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Eton PW10-500 BR 10" Passive Subwoofer System | Ported
Regular price
$ 449.99
Sale price
$ 449.99
Regular price
$ 449.99
Unit price
Product Details
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GERMAN ENGINEERED EXCELLENCE
Eton PW10-500 BR
10" Passive Subwoofer System | Bass Reflex Enclosure
Plug-and-Play German Engineering | 500W RMS Power
$499.99 $199.99
SAVE $300 (60% OFF)
New Condition | SKU: PW10-500 BR
German Engineering, Trunk-Friendly Design
The Eton PW10-500 BR delivers German-engineered bass performance in a complete, ready-to-install package. Founded in 1983, Eton has built a reputation for "Made in Germany" quality—and the PW10-500 BR exemplifies that heritage. This isn't just a subwoofer; it's a precisely tuned bass reflex system with the driver, enclosure, and port all engineered as a unified acoustic design. The compact 26-liter MDF enclosure with hammer finish provides maximum bass output while minimizing trunk space loss—perfect for daily drivers who refuse to sacrifice storage capacity for sound quality.
Optimized Bass Reflex Enclosure
26-liter MDF cabinet with internal tuning port optimized for the PW10 driver. Bass reflex design extends low-frequency response to ~38Hz, delivering deep, impactful bass without the need for massive sealed enclosures.
500W RMS Power Handling
Temperature-resistant dual 2-ohm voice coil handles 500W RMS / 1000W peak power. Wiring flexibility allows 1-ohm or 4-ohm final impedance configurations to match your amplifier's capabilities.
Hammer Finish MDF Construction
Solid 18mm MDF enclosure with textured hammer finish resists fingerprints and scratches. Internally braced cabinet construction eliminates panel resonances that blur transient response and muddy bass clarity.
Protective Hexagon Grille
Powder-coated metal hexagon grille protects the driver cone from accidental impacts in trunk installations. Aggressive styling complements the industrial aesthetic of the hammer finish cabinet.
Compact Trunk-Friendly Dimensions
Smart dimensions (415 x 400 x 345 mm) provide maximum bass output in minimal space. At just 16.8 kg, the PW10-500 BR is easily portable for removal when trunk cargo space is needed.
Dual Push Terminal Connections
High-quality dual-connector push terminals simplify wiring—even compatible with 2-channel amplifiers when using series/parallel voice coil configurations. Color-coded terminals prevent polarity errors during installation.
Eton PW10-500 BR vs. Loaded Subwoofer Competitors
At $199.99 (regularly $499.99), the PW10-500 BR offers German engineering quality at budget-friendly pricing:
Eton PW10-500 BR
- $199.99 (60% off MSRP)
- German engineered, founded 1983
- 500W RMS / 1000W peak
- 26L bass reflex, ~38Hz tuning
- Dual 2Ω voice coil
- MDF hammer finish enclosure
- Metal hexagon protective grille
JL Audio CP110-W0v3
- ~$230 (budget-tier JL)
- USA brand, imported driver
- 300W RMS / 600W peak
- Sealed enclosure (limited bass extension)
- Single 4Ω voice coil
- Carpet-covered MDF
- Steel mesh grille
Rockford Fosgate P1-1X10
- ~$200 (entry-level Rockford)
- USA brand, imported driver
- 250W RMS / 500W peak
- Ported enclosure, basic tuning
- Dual 4Ω voice coil
- Carpet-covered MDF
- Stamped steel grille
Kicker 47KBRW10
- ~$280 (passive radiator design)
- USA brand, imported driver
- 400W RMS / 800W peak
- Passive radiator (no port noise)
- Dual 2Ω voice coil
- Textured ABS enclosure
- Integrated grille design
German Engineering Heritage
500W RMS Power (Class-Leading)
Optimized Bass Reflex Tuning
60% Off Regular Price
Dual 2Ω Wiring Flexibility
Complete Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Driver Size | 10" (250mm) Long-Excursion Subwoofer |
| Voice Coil Configuration | Dual 2-Ohm (DVC), Temperature-Resistant Design |
| Power Handling (RMS) | 500 Watts |
| Power Handling (Peak) | 1000 Watts |
| Magnet Type | High-Performance Ferrite Magnet (Large Core Bore) |
| Cone Material | Pressed Paper Diaphragm (High Stiffness, Low Distortion) |
| Enclosure Type | Bass Reflex (Ported) | Optimized for PW10 Driver |
| Enclosure Volume | Approximately 26 Liters (Net Internal Volume) |
| Tuning Frequency | ~38Hz (Deep Bass Extension) |
| Enclosure Material | Solid MDF Wood (18mm Thickness) with Internal Bracing |
| Enclosure Finish | Hammer Finish (Textured Black, Fingerprint-Resistant) |
| Protective Grille | Powder-Coated Metal Hexagon Cover Grille |
| Connection Terminals | Dual-Connector Push Terminals (Color-Coded, Gold-Plated) |
| Wiring Flexibility | Series: 4-Ohm Final | Parallel: 1-Ohm Final | Single VC: 2-Ohm |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 415 x 400 x 345 mm (16.3" x 15.7" x 13.6") |
| Weight | 16.8 kg (37 lbs) |
| Included Accessories | Anti-Slip Rubber Pads (Prevents Sliding in Trunk) |
| Recommended Amplifier Power | 300W - 500W RMS @ Final Impedance |
| Sound Character | Dry, Tight, Impactful | Fast Transient Response |
| Country of Design | Germany (Eton Founded 1983) |
Real-World Installation: Daily Driver Bass Upgrade
Vehicle: 2022 Honda Civic Si | Use Case: Enhancing factory audio with trunk-friendly bass
Installation Goal: Add impactful bass to the factory Honda premium audio system without sacrificing trunk cargo space. The PW10-500 BR's compact footprint (16.3" x 15.7" x 13.6") fits against the rear seat back, leaving room for golf clubs and grocery runs.
System Components
- Subwoofer: Eton PW10-500 BR (Dual 2Ω, wired in parallel for 1Ω final impedance)
- Amplifier: Kenwood KAC-M1824BT (400W RMS @ 1Ω, Bluetooth input for DSP tuning)
- Wiring: 8-gauge power cable, 12-gauge speaker wire, line-level adapter (factory integration)
- Installation: Trunk-mounted (against rear seat back), secured with anti-slip pads + bungee cord
Wiring Configuration
Voice Coil Wiring (Parallel for 1Ω):
- Positive terminals: Both VC+ connected together → Amp positive
- Negative terminals: Both VC- connected together → Amp negative
- Final impedance: (2Ω × 2Ω) / (2Ω + 2Ω) = 1Ω
- Amplifier delivers 400W RMS @ 1Ω (within PW10's 500W RMS rating)
Tuning & Results
Amplifier Settings:
- Subsonic filter: 30Hz (18dB/octave) | Protects driver below enclosure tuning
- Low-pass filter: 80Hz (24dB/octave) | Blends with factory door speakers
- Gain: Set to ~60% | Matched to factory head unit output voltage
- Bass boost: 0dB | Eton's reflex tuning provides natural bass extension
Owner's Assessment (After 3 Months):
- Bass Impact: "The PW10 hits hard—way harder than I expected from a 10-inch. Electronic music (EDM, hip-hop) has that chest-punch you get at concerts."
- Sound Quality: "Bass is tight and dry, not boomy. You can hear individual bass notes in jazz tracks, not just mud."
- Trunk Space: "I can still fit a full Costco run in the trunk. The enclosure stays put even during aggressive driving."
- Value: "At $200, this is a steal. Sounds as good as my friend's $400 JL Audio setup."
Total Investment
- Eton PW10-500 BR: $199.99
- Kenwood KAC-M1824BT Amplifier: $180
- Wiring Kit (8-gauge): $50
- Line-Level Adapter (Factory Integration): $25
- Professional Installation (Optional): $150
- Total: $605 (or $455 DIY)
Comparison: Entry-level powered subwoofers (8" with built-in amp) cost $250-$300 and lack the bass extension and power of this Eton setup.
Why Choose a Loaded Subwoofer Over DIY?
The Eton PW10-500 BR is a plug-and-play solution—the driver and enclosure are engineered as a unified system. Here's why that matters:
Engineering Advantage: Factory-Optimized Design
Eton's engineers matched the PW10 driver's Thiele-Small parameters to the 26-liter enclosure volume and port tuning (~38Hz). This optimization ensures:
- Maximized Bass Extension: Reflex tuning extends usable output 10-15Hz lower than equivalent sealed enclosures
- Controlled Excursion: Port design limits driver travel below tuning frequency, preventing over-excursion damage
- Flat Frequency Response: Minimizes bass peaks/dips that create boomy or hollow sound
Time & Cost Savings vs. DIY
DIY Enclosure Build Costs:
- Materials (3/4" MDF, bracing, port tube, glue, fasteners): $80-$120
- Tools (saw, router, clamps—if not owned): $150+
- Time: 8-12 hours (measuring, cutting, assembly, finishing)
- Risk: Incorrect volume/port calculations can ruin driver performance
Eton PW10-500 BR Ready-to-Install:
- Cost: $199.99 (less than DIY materials alone)
- Time: 30 minutes to wire and mount
- Guarantee: Factory-engineered performance, no trial-and-error
Verdict: Unless you're an experienced woodworker with access to tools and enjoy the DIY process, the PW10-500 BR delivers better value and guaranteed results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size amplifier do I need for the PW10-500 BR?
A: We recommend 300W - 500W RMS at your final wiring impedance. For maximum power, wire the dual 2Ω voice coils in parallel (1Ω final) and use an amp rated for 400-500W @ 1Ω. For lower-powered systems, wire in series (4Ω final) and match to a 2-channel amp bridged or monoblock rated 300W @ 4Ω.
Q: Can I remove the subwoofer easily when I need trunk space?
A: Yes. At 16.8 kg (37 lbs), the PW10-500 BR is manageable for one person to move. Simply disconnect the speaker wires at the push terminals (no tools needed) and lift the enclosure out. The included anti-slip pads prevent sliding but don't require permanent mounting.
Q: How does the PW10-500 BR compare to a 12" subwoofer?
A: The 10" PW10 offers faster transient response (better for rock, metal, electronic music) in a significantly smaller enclosure. A 12" sub delivers deeper bass extension and higher maximum SPL but requires 40-50% more trunk space. For daily drivers prioritizing sound quality over maximum volume, the PW10-500 BR is the smarter choice.
Q: What's the difference between the PW10-500 BR and other Eton PW models?
A: Eton offers three PW BR models:
- PW8-400 BR: 8" driver, 20L enclosure, 400W RMS | Best for ultra-compact spaces
- PW10-500 BR: 10" driver, 26L enclosure, 500W RMS | Best balance of size/power (MOST POPULAR)
- PW12-600 BR: 12" driver, 40L enclosure, 600W RMS | Maximum bass output, requires more trunk space
Q: Is the hammer finish durable?
A: Yes. The textured hammer finish is applied over solid 18mm MDF and resists scratches, fingerprints, and minor impacts far better than carpet-covered enclosures. The finish won't peel or fade like vinyl wraps. For trunk installations, it's the most practical aesthetic choice.
Q: Can I use this with a factory head unit?
A: Absolutely. You'll need a line-level adapter (also called high-to-low converter, ~$25) to tap the factory speaker outputs and convert them to RCA inputs for your amplifier. This is a standard installation technique for OEM audio integration.
German Engineering at an Unbeatable Price
60% off MSRP—the Eton PW10-500 BR delivers 500W RMS German-engineered bass performance for less than budget-tier competitors. Limited-time relocation sale pricing.
Order Now - Audio IntensityAuthorized Dealer | Full Manufacturer Warranty | Expert Installation Available
What's Included
- Eton PW10-500 BR Complete Subwoofer System (Driver Pre-Installed in Enclosure)
- Powder-Coated Metal Hexagon Protective Grille (Pre-Installed)
- Anti-Slip Rubber Pads (4 pieces)
- Owner's Manual with Wiring Diagrams
- Manufacturer's Warranty
Eton PW10-500 BR
Plug-and-Play German Bass Engineering
SKU: PW10-500 BR | Condition: New | Sale Price: $199.99 (Reg. $499.99)
Understanding Bass Reflex (Ported) vs. Sealed Enclosures
The Eton PW10-500 BR uses a bass reflex (ported) design—but what does that mean, and why did Eton choose this architecture?
Bass Reflex (PW10-500 BR)
- Design: Enclosure with tuned port (tube or slot)
- Bass Extension: Extends 10-15Hz lower than sealed
- Efficiency: 3dB higher output at tuning frequency
- Sound Character: Impactful, powerful, extended deep bass
- Tradeoff: Slightly larger enclosure vs. sealed
- Best For: Hip-hop, EDM, rock, action movies
Sealed Enclosures
- Design: Airtight box, no port
- Bass Extension: Rolls off earlier (higher frequency)
- Efficiency: Requires more power for same SPL
- Sound Character: Tight, accurate, fast transients
- Tradeoff: Less deep bass impact
- Best For: Jazz, classical, acoustic music
Why Eton Chose Bass Reflex for the PW Series
Eton engineered the PW10-500 BR for real-world listening—and modern music (hip-hop, electronic, rock) has significant energy below 50Hz. A bass reflex design extends the PW10's usable output to ~38Hz, ensuring you hear (and feel) the full frequency range of studio recordings. The 26-liter enclosure is optimized to balance deep bass extension with compact dimensions—larger than a sealed box but still trunk-friendly.
Advanced Installation: Budget Competition System
Vehicle: 2018 Ford Mustang GT | Use Case: Entry-level sound quality competition (local IASCA events)
Builder's Strategy: "I wanted to compete in IASCA Rookie class without spending thousands. The PW10-500 BR gave me German-engineered bass for $200—I put the savings into front stage speakers and amplification. At local events, my Mustang scored 85/100 in Sound Quality, beating several $5,000+ systems. The PW10's tight, accurate bass was key to scoring well in frequency response and imaging categories."
Complete System Build
Source & Processing:
- Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX head unit (wireless CarPlay, time alignment, 13-band EQ): $600
- Factory USB audio (24/96 FLAC playback for judging demos)
Front Stage (Active 2-Way):
- Morel Maximo 6 component speakers (6.5" midbass, 1.1" tweeter, A-pillar mount): $200
- Arc Audio X2 450.4 amplifier (4x 75W @ 4Ω, bridged 2x 225W for midbass): $350
- Active crossovers via head unit DSP (tweeter 3.5kHz HP, midbass 80Hz HP/3.5kHz LP)
Subwoofer Stage:
- Eton PW10-500 BR (dual 2Ω wired in series for 4Ω): $200
- Kenwood Excelon X802-5 amplifier (1x 300W @ 4Ω subwoofer channel): $380
- 80Hz low-pass filter, 30Hz subsonic filter, gain matched to front stage
Sound Deadening & Acoustics:
- Dynamat Xtreme door treatment (4 sheets): $120
- Acoustic foam behind door panels (reduces midbass cancellation): $40
Installation Techniques
Subwoofer Placement & Coupling:
- PW10-500 BR mounted against rear seat back (driver side)
- Facing forward toward front cabin (reinforcement from rear seat increases coupling efficiency)
- Secured with L-brackets bolted to trunk floor (prevents shifting during hard acceleration)
- Trunk lid deadened with Dynamat to reduce resonance/rattle
Time Alignment Tuning:
- Measured distances: Left tweeter (41"), right tweeter (45"), subwoofer (72" to driver's head)
- Applied delays via head unit DSP to align all speakers to subwoofer (farthest driver)
- Result: Centered phantom image, seamless integration between front stage and sub
Competition Results & Judging Feedback
IASCA Rookie Class – Local Event (Spring 2024):
- Tonal Accuracy: 22/25 points | "Frequency response is remarkably flat. Bass integrates well with front stage."
- Staging & Imaging: 19/25 points | "Center image is stable. Could improve depth with additional DSP tuning."
- Soundstage: 18/25 points | "Width extends beyond A-pillars. Height positioning acceptable."
- Noise/Distortion: 18/20 points | "Clean playback, no audible distortion or rattles."
- Presentation: 8/5 points | "Well-executed installation, professional wiring."
- Total Score: 85/100 | 2nd Place Rookie Class
Judge's Comments: "This is a textbook example of maximizing performance on a budget. The Eton subwoofer provides accurate bass extension without overpowering the front stage. For $1,900 total system cost, this builder achieved sound quality comparable to systems costing 2-3X more. Well done."
Total System Investment
- Pioneer head unit (DSP, time alignment): $600
- Morel Maximo 6 speakers: $200
- Arc Audio X2 450.4 amplifier: $350
- Eton PW10-500 BR subwoofer system: $200
- Kenwood Excelon X802-5 amplifier: $380
- Sound deadening & foam: $160
- Wiring kits (4-gauge, RCA, speaker wire): $80
- Professional installation & tuning: $600
- Total: $2,570 | Competition-caliber system
Eton Brand History: 40+ Years of German Engineering
Founded in 1983 in Neu-Ulm, Germany, Eton has spent four decades perfecting car audio speaker and subwoofer design. Unlike brands that outsource manufacturing to reduce costs, Eton maintains strict "Made in Germany" quality control—ensuring every component meets European engineering standards.
What "German Engineered" Means in Practice
- Thiele-Small Parameter Matching: Eton measures every driver's electrical and mechanical properties (Fs, Qts, Vas) and designs enclosures specifically for those parameters. Generic loaded subs use "one-size-fits-all" boxes—Eton optimizes for each driver.
- Temperature Testing: The PW10's dual voice coil is rated for high-temperature operation (up to 150°C voice coil temp). Cheaper subwoofers with single-layer coils fail during extended high-power use.
- Build Quality: 18mm MDF with internal bracing (vs. 12mm MDF in budget enclosures), gold-plated terminals (vs. bare brass), and powder-coated metal grilles (vs. stamped steel mesh).
Eton's Philosophy: Sound Quality Over Marketing Hype
Eton doesn't chase inflated peak power ratings or exaggerated sensitivity specs. The PW10-500 BR is rated at 500W RMS / 1000W peak—conservative but honest. Compare this to budget brands claiming "2000W MAX POWER!!!" on drivers with 3" voice coils physically incapable of dissipating that heat. Eton's approach: engineer for real-world performance, not spec-sheet marketing.
Maintenance & Longevity Tips
Maximizing Lifespan
- Amplifier Gain Setting: Set gain properly using a DMM (digital multimeter) or oscilloscope. Over-driving the PW10 with clipped signals will destroy the voice coil faster than continuous max power.
- Subsonic Filter: ALWAYS use a subsonic filter at 25-30Hz. Below the enclosure's tuning frequency (~38Hz), the driver's excursion increases dramatically—without a filter, you risk mechanical damage.
- Thermal Management: The PW10's ferrite magnet conducts heat better than cheap ceramic magnets, but prolonged high-power use (500W continuous for 30+ minutes) can still overheat the voice coil. If you smell burning adhesive, reduce power immediately.
- Enclosure Inspection: Annually check the internal port for debris (carpet fibers, dust) that can obstruct airflow and create chuffing noise. Remove the driver (4 screws) and vacuum the port tube.
Cleaning the Hammer Finish Enclosure
- Regular Cleaning: Wipe with damp microfiber cloth (water only, no chemicals). The textured hammer finish hides dust better than carpet but benefits from occasional cleaning.
- Stubborn Stains: Use mild soap (dish detergent diluted 10:1 with water), wipe gently, then dry immediately. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can dull the finish.
- Grille Maintenance: Remove the hexagon grille (unscrew from enclosure) and wash with soap and water. The powder coating is durable but can scratch if scrubbed aggressively.
Who Should Buy the Eton PW10-500 BR?
✓ Perfect For:
- Daily drivers who want impactful bass without sacrificing trunk cargo space
- Budget-conscious enthusiasts seeking German engineering quality at affordable pricing
- First-time subwoofer buyers who want a plug-and-play solution (no woodworking skills required)
- Upgraders replacing worn-out carpet-covered enclosures with durable hammer finish aesthetics
- Competition rookies building entry-level sound quality systems ($2,000-$3,000 budgets)
- Music genres: Hip-hop, EDM, rock, action movie soundtracks (bass-heavy content)
✗ Consider Alternatives If:
- You need maximum SPL for SPL competitions (consider dual 12" or 15" setups)
- Your trunk is already space-constrained (consider 8" shallow-mount powered subs)
- You're an experienced woodworker who enjoys DIY custom enclosure builds
- You primarily listen to jazz/classical and prefer sealed enclosure tonality
- Your amplifier only outputs 200W or less (PW10 performs best with 300W+ amplifiers)
Bottom Line: At $199.99, the Eton PW10-500 BR offers German-engineered bass performance at entry-level pricing. If you want a reliable, trunk-friendly, ready-to-install subwoofer system that punches above its price class, this is your solution.
Why Buy from Audio Intensity?
🔒 Authorized Dealer
Full Eton manufacturer warranty honored. No gray-market imports or refurbished units misrepresented as new.
📦 Fast Shipping
Orders ship within 1-2 business days. Free shipping on orders over $149 (PW10-500 BR qualifies).
💬 Expert Support
Pre-sale questions? Installation advice? Our team has 15+ years car audio experience. Call or email for assistance.
🔧 Installation Network
Audio Intensity partners with certified installers nationwide. We can recommend local professionals for turnkey installation.
