Focal Sub 12 Performance Slim Compact Shallow 12 Inch Car Subwoofer 280w RMS
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The Focal Sub 12 Slim is a shallow-mount 12 inch (30 cm) car subwoofer rated at 280W RMS (560W max), with a 4 ohm single voice coil. It belongs to Focal's Subwoofer Line and is designed for tight installation spaces such as boot sides.
This listing is the shallow-mount version. Standard-depth options are also available: the SUB 12 (single voice coil) and the SUB 12 Dual Voice Coil. The Focal 12 inch subwoofer grill fits all three variants.
Key specifications
- Size: 12 inch / 30 cm
- Power handling: 280W RMS, 560W max
- Impedance: 4 ohm single voice coil
- Sensitivity: 87 dB
- Cone: polypropylene with butyl surround
- Chassis: steel
- Enclosure: sealed, from 15 L
- Design: shallow depth for restricted spaces
Focal SUB 12 Slim: compact subwoofer, Subwoofer Line
Designed and developed in France, the Sub 12 Slim uses a 12 inch (30 cm) polypropylene cone to deliver strong bass output. Its single voice coil architecture keeps installation straightforward, and its very shallow depth makes it well suited to restricted spaces such as the sides of a car boot.
- Shallow depth; easy to install in tight spaces
- Deep and powerful bass reproduction
- Effective in sealed enclosures from 15 L
- Robust steel chassis
- 280W RMS power handling
Polypropylene cone
The polypropylene cone offers high rigidity, resisting distortion at loud volumes — a key advantage in a subwoofer application.
Simple connection
Screwable terminals make connecting the Sub 12 Slim to your audio system straightforward and secure.
Boosted bass
The polypropylene cone effectively reproduces powerful low frequencies. Adding a subwoofer to your in-car system significantly improves overall sound quality, particularly in dynamics and low-end response.
Total compatibility
Compatible with all Focal car audio products, the Sub 12 Slim is particularly recommended to complement Auditor, Access, Universal, Polyglass and Slatefiber systems. It works in sealed and bass-reflex enclosures; the slim design also suits compact sealed boxes. If you're building out a full Focal system, the Focal 165 AS3 Access Series 6.5 inch component speakers pair well with a subwoofer upgrade.
Explore the full range in Focal Performance Subwoofers.
Specification
| Sensitivity | 87dB |
|---|---|
| Cone | Polypropylene |
| Surround | Butyl |
More specs
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What's Included
- Focal SUB 12 Slim
Focal
About the Focal SUB 12 SLIM
From our tech experts at CEN
A Focal Performance 12 inch subwoofer, slim mount for vehicles where a conventional sub will not physically fit, handling 230w RMS.
Who it suits
Drivers building a system where the bass has to keep pace with a capable front stage. Performance is where Focal starts to reward proper amplification. Slim drivers open up door cards, under-seat spaces and shallow boots.
Our tech experts advise
A subwoofer is only as good as its enclosure and the amplifier behind it: volume and tuning decide what you hear. We build enclosures to suit both driver and vehicle at our Beeston workshop. Installation is priced per vehicle, so get in touch with your make, model and year and we will confirm what it needs. See car audio installation.
Explore the full Focal range at CEN, with fast UK dispatch and expert advice from our Nottingham team. Shop all Focal
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need an amplifier for this subwoofer?
A: Yes, unless it is an active (powered) subwoofer with a built-in amplifier. Passive subwoofers need an external amplifier matched to the RMS power and impedance shown in the Specification tab.
Q: What size enclosure does this subwoofer need?
A: The recommended enclosure volume is listed in the Specification tab where the manufacturer provides it. As a rule, sealed enclosures give tighter, more accurate bass while ported enclosures deliver more output. Contact CEN if you would like a recommendation for your build.
Q: What does RMS power mean?
A: RMS is the continuous power a subwoofer can handle, and it is the number that matters when matching an amplifier. Peak or max figures describe short bursts only. Match your amplifier output to the RMS rating in the Specification tab.
Q: Sealed or ported enclosure - which should I choose?
A: Sealed boxes are compact and produce tight, controlled bass suited to sound quality builds. Ported boxes are larger and produce more output at low frequencies, suited to those who want maximum impact. Either works well when built to the recommended volume.
Q: Can CEN build or supply an enclosure and fit everything?
A: Yes. CEN supplies enclosures and offers professional installation from our Nottingham premises, including amplifier wiring. Contact us to discuss your build.
Q: Where can the Focal SUB 12 Slim be installed?
A: Its very shallow depth means it can be installed in restricted spaces, such as the sides of a car boot, where a standard-depth 12 inch subwoofer would not fit.
Q: What box does the Focal SUB 12 Slim need?
A: Focal recommends a sealed box from 15 litres.
Q: How much power can the SUB 12 Slim handle?
A: It is rated at 280W RMS nominal power and 560W maximum power at 4 ohms, with a sensitivity of 87 dB.
