Focal Sub12 Review: Should you buy them for the studio?

Alistair Vance
Written by Alistair Vance

April 27, 2026

Focal Sub12

Focal Sub12 Review: Should you buy them for the studio?

Studio monitoring functions of Focal

  • 13″ Woofer
  • Frequency response (-3 dB): 28 Hz – 400 Hz
  • Maximum SPL (30 – 200 Hz, free field @ 1m): 124.5 dB
  • Amplifier power (RMS): 600 W
  • Adjustable high-pass crossover, low-pass filter, phase and level
  • Switchable stand-by function and phase inversion
  • Adjustable input sensitivity (+4 dBu / -10 dBV)
  • Inputs and outputs for LFE, left and right: XLR
  • Inputs and outputs for focus and bypass: 6.3 mm jack
  • MDF cabinet with veneered sides and carrying handles
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 600 x 487 x 568 mm
  • Weight: 58 kg

Images

Focal Sub12 Review: Should you buy them for the studio?

Focal Sub12 Review: Should you buy them for the studio?

Focal Sub12 Review: Should you buy them for the studio?

Focal Sub12 Review: Should you buy them for the studio?

Focal Sub12 Review: Should you buy them for the studio?

Focal Sub12 Review: Should you buy them for the studio?

Focal Sub12 Review: Should you buy them for the studio?

Focal Sub12 Review: Should you buy them for the studio?

Focal Sub12 Review: Should you buy them for the studio?

Additional Information

Customer Review Summary

The Focal Sub12 is an outstanding product that significantly enhances the audio experience when paired with the Trio11 and another Sub12. The sound quality is magnificent, showcasing Focal’s commitment to excellence in manufacturing, proudly made in France.

Having deliberated for quite some time about expanding my stereo system, which features ATC 110 speakers, I finally decided to incorporate a subwoofer. My main speakers were already impressive, but I found that they struggled to reach the desired levels when played loudly. As a former user of the Focal Sub6, I was confident that the Sub12 would meet my needs perfectly.

Utilising the Trinnov ST2 Pro as a crossover, I made a few adjustments and was very pleased with the resulting sound. After consulting with Focal, I opted to keep all the settings on the back of the subwoofer at zero, which worked remarkably well for me.

See also  Genelec 8341 AW Review: Complete breakdown of capabilities

However, I did encounter a minor issue: I received two subwoofers that had different colour tones. Given the price point of around £5000, this discrepancy was somewhat disappointing, which is why I’ve rated the build quality slightly lower.

All in all, I am extremely happy with my purchase and the performance of the Focal Sub12!



Read more…
Alistair Vance

Based in Bristol, Al has spent over a decade mixing local bands before specialising in hybrid studio consulting. He’s obsessed with the price-to-performance ratio, helping musicians achieve a "Radio Ready" sound without the need for a £50,000 Neve console. No fluff, just honest gear reviews to get your tracks sounding professional on a real-world budget.

×
Produit
Lowest price spotted:
See the deal
The lowest price, spotted by our partner See the deal
×