If you want strong bass without buying a separate subwoofer, a tower speaker with a built-in sub is one of the simplest upgrades you can make. These floor-standing units pack the main speakers, the bass drivers, and often the amplifier into one cabinet. That means fewer cables, less guesswork about placement, and a cleaner setup for a living room, bedroom, game room, or home office. The trade-off is that the design choices vary a lot from model to model. Some focus on big home-theater power and karaoke features, while others aim for a slimmer footprint or a more refined sound. This guide covers five strong options so you can match a speaker to the way you actually listen.
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Brand | Built-In Bass Setup | Rated Power | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rockville TM150D Dark Wood Tower Speakers | Rockville | Two 10-inch subwoofers | 250W RMS / 1000W Peak | Home theater and karaoke |
| GOgroove BlueSYNC STW Bluetooth Tower Speaker | GOgroove | Built-in powered subwoofer with dual drivers | 60W RMS / 120W Peak | Small rooms and apartments |
| Rockville TM80B Black Tower Speakers | Rockville | Two 8-inch subwoofers | 200W RMS / 800W Peak | Budget-minded home theater setups |
| Definitive Technology Dymension DM80 Flagship Tower | Definitive Technology | Four BDSS mid/bass woofers in the listed configuration | Not listed in product data | Premium music and immersive surround systems |
| Rockville TM150B Bluetooth Home Theater Tower System | Rockville | Two 10-inch subwoofers | 250W RMS / 1000W Peak | Expandable home theater systems |
Our Picks: Best Tower Speakers With Built In Subwoofer reviews
Rockville TM150D: A Feature-Packed Dark Wood System for Movie Nights
The Rockville TM150D is built as an all-in-one home theater hub. Its cabinet combines two 10-inch subwoofers with six full-range drivers and two silk dome tweeters. That layout gives it a lot of bass and a wide sound stage for its size. It also includes Bluetooth, USB, SD card playback, FM radio, and several input options, so you can connect a TV, a phone, or an MP3 player without extra gear. The listed output of 250W RMS and 1000W peak is strong for a single tower, which is why this model suits larger rooms better than most compact towers.
The design leans toward a modern look. The dark wood MDF finish, chrome accents, rounded edges, and glass LCD panel give it a polished feel that blends into most living rooms. The control side is also practical. Eight EQ presets, adjustable bass and treble, and a remote let you tune the sound without crawling behind the cabinet. The two 1/4-inch microphone inputs with volume and echo controls add a karaoke feature that many party-focused buyers will find useful.
In everyday use, the strongest appeal is the bass. Movie action scenes and bass-heavy music carry real weight, and the system stays composed when you turn it up. Many owners appreciate that it can fill a family room without needing a separate subwoofer. Because the bass comes from a sealed-in-one cabinet, placement matters less than it would with a separate sub, though you still want some space from walls to avoid boomy low end. Treble is clear, although the overall tone is more about punch and excitement than fine detail.
This speaker suits people who want a single purchase for movies, music, and parties. It is less ideal for listeners who want a subtle, understated sound in a small bedroom, since the bass output can overwhelm a tight space. Compared with the GOgroove option below, the TM150D is larger and more powerful. Compared with the Rockville TM80B, it offers a bigger bass setup and more power, but it also takes up more floor space.
Pros:
- Two 10-inch subwoofers deliver deep, room-filling bass
- Wide range of inputs, including Bluetooth, USB, SD, and FM
- Karaoke-ready with two mic inputs and echo control
- Eight EQ presets and a remote make tuning straightforward
Cons:
- Large footprint may overwhelm small rooms
- Bass-heavy tuning can feel aggressive for quiet listening
Verdict: The Rockville TM150D is a strong pick if you want big bass and party-ready features in one cabinet. Choose it for a family room or media space where size is not a concern.
GOgroove BlueSYNC STW: A Slim Tower for Smaller Spaces
The GOgroove STW, sold under the BlueSYNC name in its listing, is a much smaller and more modest tower. It stands about 38 inches tall with a narrow profile, and it is designed for apartments, dorms, studios, and offices where floor space is limited. The cabinet houses two 15W drivers and a 30W subwoofer, for a listed output of 60W RMS and 120W peak. Those numbers are far below the Rockville models, so this is a speaker for everyday listening rather than a theater system.
Its strongest feature is convenience. You get Bluetooth streaming, a 3.5mm AUX input, FM radio, and an MP3 mode that plays files from a USB flash drive. A built-in dock slot holds a phone or tablet, and a side USB port can charge your device while it plays. That dock feature is handy for kitchen counters or desks, where you want your phone visible and powered. The 3-year manufacturer warranty listed in the product data is also a useful safety net.
The sound is clean and balanced for a compact unit, though it does not deliver the chest-thumping bass of the larger towers. Buyers often note that the speaker handles podcasts, background music, and casual listening well. Some owners find that it needs to be placed near a wall or in a corner to sound fuller, which is common for compact floor-standing speakers. At higher volumes, expect the bass to lose some control in a larger room.
This is a good fit for renters, students, and anyone who wants a tidy, self-contained speaker that doubles as a charging and streaming station. It is not the right choice for movies in a large living room or for parties that need serious volume. Compared with the Rockville TM80B, it trades power and bass for a far smaller footprint and extra convenience features.
Pros:
- Slim, 38-inch tower suits apartments and tight spaces
- Device dock and side USB port keep a phone charged while playing
- Bluetooth, AUX, FM, and USB playback cover most sources
- Listed 3-year manufacturer warranty adds peace of mind
Cons:
- Modest 60W RMS output limits volume and bass depth in larger rooms
Verdict: The GOgroove STW is a practical choice for small rooms and everyday listening. If you need home theater power, look at the Rockville options instead.
Rockville TM80B: Compact Bass Power for Budget Home Theater
The Rockville TM80B follows the same basic formula as the TM150D but scales it down. The cabinet uses two 8-inch subwoofers, four full-range drivers, and two silk dome tweeters. It is rated at 200W RMS and 800W peak, which is still a meaningful jump over the GOgroove model. The black MDF finish with chrome accents is more understated than the dark wood version, which may suit a bedroom, den, or office better.
Feature-wise, the TM80B is nearly the same as its larger sibling. You get Bluetooth, USB, SD card playback, FM radio, and multiple inputs. It also offers eight EQ presets, adjustable bass and treble, and a remote. The karaoke mic inputs with echo control are included as well, so it is a capable option for casual parties. The smaller 8-inch drivers mean the bass is a bit tighter and less massive than the 10-inch setup, which some listeners prefer in a medium-sized room.
In daily use, the TM80B gives you a balanced, energetic sound for movies and music. Many owners appreciate that it fills a room without needing a separate subwoofer, and the rounded edges and glass LCD panel make it easy to place in a living space. Bass is noticeable but not overwhelming, which can be an advantage if your room is not large. Like other powered towers, it benefits from being set up away from corners, where bass can build up unevenly.
This speaker suits buyers who want real home theater punch on a tighter budget and in a moderately sized room. It is a sensible step up from a soundbar for movie nights. If your room is large or you expect frequent party use, the TM150D or TM150B will deliver more headroom.
Pros:
- Strong 200W RMS and 800W peak output for a mid-size setup
- Dual 8-inch subwoofers offer a tighter, more controlled bass character
- Black finish blends easily into bedrooms and offices
- Includes karaoke mic inputs, EQ presets, and a remote
Cons:
- Less bass extension than the 10-inch models in larger spaces
Verdict: The Rockville TM80B is a solid middle-ground choice for buyers who want genuine home theater bass without the size of the larger towers. It is best for medium-sized rooms.
Definitive Technology Dymension DM80: A Premium Tower for Immersive Sound
The Definitive Technology Dymension DM80 is a different kind of speaker from the three Rockville models. It is positioned as a flagship tower in the Dymension line, built around adjustable bipolar arrays and BDSS woofers. The listing describes four BDSS mid/bass woofers, which points to a more refined, engineering-focused design than the budget-oriented powered towers in this roundup. It is intended for listeners who care about sound quality, dynamic range, and a spacious stereo or surround presence.
An important note: the Dymension line includes models with built-in subwoofers, passive radiators, and a design called 3XR Architecture that pairs built-in subs with passive radiators. The product data does not clearly confirm which configuration applies to the DM80, so check the product page for the exact bass setup before you buy if a built-in subwoofer is a must. The line is also designed to work as a system, with Dolby Atmos-certified towers, center channels, and height modules, along with timbre-matched in-wall and in-ceiling speakers. If you plan to expand later, that ecosystem is a major advantage.
Buyers who prioritize sound quality often note that the Dymension design is detailed and open, with a wide sense of space that works well for both music and movies. The DM80 is not a plug-and-play powered unit with Bluetooth and USB inputs like the Rockville models. It is meant to be paired with a quality amplifier or receiver, so you should budget for that equipment. Setup takes more planning, including amplifier matching and speaker placement, and that is a realistic consideration for many shoppers.
This speaker suits listeners who already own, or plan to build, a dedicated audio or home theater system. It is a strong choice for a serious media room or a high-end two-channel listening space. It is less suitable if you want a single box with everything built in or a budget-friendly party speaker.
Pros:
- Flagship engineering with adjustable bipolar arrays and BDSS woofers
- Detailed, wide soundstage suited to music and cinema
- Part of a larger Dymension ecosystem for future expansion
- Dolby Atmos-certified line supports immersive setups
Cons:
- Requires an external amplifier or receiver and more setup planning
Verdict: The Definitive Technology Dymension DM80 is the premium pick in this list for listeners who want refined sound and room to grow. Confirm the exact bass configuration on the product page, and plan for a separate amplifier before you buy.
Rockville TM150B: The Expandable Home Theater Tower System
The Rockville TM150B is the most connection-rich speaker in this lineup. Like the TM150D, it uses two 10-inch subwoofers and six full-range drivers, rated at 250W RMS and 1000W peak. Its listing adds more inputs, including two pairs of RCA inputs, a 3.5mm AUX input, and an optical input for TV connections. It also has front-panel USB and SD inputs, and two RCA outputs that let you link additional equipment. For a household that uses a TV, a game console, and a music source, that flexibility is a real advantage.
The control and display features are thoughtful. A digital display on the front panel has adjustable brightness, and the system can be operated from the front panel or the included remote. An 8-band equalizer with preset curves and adjustable bass and treble gives you plenty of tuning room. The listing also describes built-in high and low pass crossovers and a 70-foot Bluetooth range. The cabinet uses 0.472-inch MDF, and the silver plates around each driver and the rounded edges give it a clean, modern look.
In everyday listening, the TM150B delivers the same energetic character as its sibling. Movie soundtracks and bass-heavy genres have plenty of impact, and the system stays clear at higher levels. Buyers often mention that the optical and RCA connections make it easy to bring a TV into the system, which is one of its most practical strengths. The bass is powerful enough that you will want to position it carefully, especially in smaller rooms, to avoid boominess.
This speaker suits households that want a single, well-connected home theater tower with room to grow. It is ideal for a living room with a TV and a mix of music sources. It is less suitable for minimalist listeners who want a slim, understated speaker, since its size and bass output demand space. Compared with the TM150D, it offers more connection options and a more flexible setup, while the overall performance is very similar.
Pros:
- Optical and dual RCA inputs make TV integration simple
- RCA outputs allow the system to be expanded
- Eight-band equalizer and adjustable bass and treble offer detailed tuning
- Front-panel display and remote add convenience
Cons:
- Large cabinet and powerful bass need a dedicated space and careful placement
Verdict: The Rockville TM150B is the best choice in this roundup for TV-focused households that want strong bass and plenty of connection options. It is a practical centerpiece for a family room.
How to Choose the Right Tower Speaker With a Built-In Subwoofer
Understand Power Ratings and What They Really Mean
Manufacturers list two power figures for many speakers: RMS and peak. RMS power is a better measure of continuous output, while peak power describes short bursts the speaker can handle. A model with 250W RMS, like the Rockville TM150D or TM150B, has far more continuous headroom than one rated at 60W RMS, like the GOgroove STW. When you read specs, focus on RMS numbers first. Higher RMS usually means the speaker can play loudly and cleanly in a larger room without strain. That said, a higher number does not guarantee better sound, so pair the power figure with the room size and listening habits you have.
Match the Subwoofer Size to Your Room
Driver size affects how bass feels in your space. Two 10-inch subwoofers can move a lot of air and fill a big room, which suits action movies and bass-heavy music. Two 8-inch subwoofers, like those in the Rockville TM80B, offer a tighter and more compact low end that often works better in medium rooms. Larger drivers are not automatically better, because a big bass output in a small space can overwhelm the rest of the sound. Think about the size of the room, the distance to your seating, and how loud you usually listen before choosing a driver size.
Decide Between Built-In Power and Separate Components
Powered towers with built-in amplifiers and subwoofers are the easiest route to a complete system. You plug them in, connect a source, and start listening. The Rockville and GOgroove models follow this approach. Passive or component-style speakers, such as the Definitive Technology Dymension DM80, need an external amplifier or receiver. That setup offers more control and potential for growth, but it also adds cost and complexity. If you want simplicity, a powered tower is the better fit. If you already own a receiver or plan to build a larger system, a component-style tower may suit you better.
Check the Connections You Actually Need
Before buying, list every device you want to connect. A TV usually calls for an optical or RCA input, a phone or tablet works well with Bluetooth, and an older MP3 player or radio may need AUX, USB, or FM. The Rockville TM150B covers the widest range of connections, including optical, RCA, AUX, USB, and SD. The GOgroove STW focuses on Bluetooth, AUX, FM, and USB playback, which is enough for most personal listening. Matching inputs to your daily devices will save you from buying adapters later.
Think About Placement and Room Layout
Built-in subwoofers respond strongly to the room around them. Placing a tower close to a wall or in a corner can boost bass, which may sound full at first but can become boomy if pushed too far. Keep some distance from walls where possible, and experiment with a few positions before settling in. Because the subwoofer is inside the cabinet, you do not have the same freedom to move it separately, so the speaker’s location matters more than it would with a standalone sub. Measure the floor space and make sure there is room for the cabinet’s full height and depth.
Consider Karaoke, Party Use, and Extra Features
If you plan to host parties or sing along, look for microphone inputs, echo controls, and volume controls. The Rockville TM150D, TM80B, and TM150B all include two 1/4-inch mic inputs with adjustable settings. These features are useful but not essential for quiet listening. Equalizer presets, remote control, LCD or digital displays, and FM radio are also helpful extras. Choose the features you will use most, rather than paying attention only to the largest specs.
Balance Sound Goals With Practical Limits
Strong bass is appealing, but it is not the only measure of a good speaker. Clarity, balance, and how the speaker handles mid-range vocals matter just as much for podcasts, dialogue, and acoustic music. Premium designs such as the Definitive Technology Dymension DM80 emphasize detail and spaciousness, while the Rockville models lean toward punchy, energetic sound. Consider your priorities honestly. If you mostly watch movies, bass and power will matter most. If you mostly listen to music in a quiet room, detail and balance may be more important.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a tower speaker with a built-in subwoofer?
A tower speaker with a built-in subwoofer is a tall, floor-standing cabinet that includes both the main speaker drivers and a bass driver in one unit. Many of these models also include an amplifier, so you can connect a TV, phone, or other source directly. They are a good choice for people who want fuller bass without buying and placing a separate subwoofer.
Do built-in subwoofers in towers sound as good as separate subwoofers?
Separate subwoofers can offer more placement flexibility and deeper control in large rooms. However, a well-designed tower with a built-in subwoofer can sound very good in a typical living room. The main advantage is simplicity: one cabinet, fewer cables, and less setup work. For most households, that convenience outweighs the benefits of a separate sub.
Which model is best for a small apartment?
The GOgroove BlueSYNC STW is the most suitable option in this roundup for small spaces. It stands about 38 inches tall with a narrow profile, and it includes a device dock and USB charging port. Its output is modest, so it works best for background music, podcasts, and casual listening rather than loud movie nights.
Are these speakers good for karaoke?
The Rockville TM150D, TM80B, and TM150B all include two 1/4-inch microphone inputs with volume and echo controls. Those features make them practical for home karaoke and small gatherings. The 250W RMS models offer more headroom for crowd-sized parties, while the TM80B is better suited to smaller groups in medium-sized rooms.
Do I need an amplifier for these towers?
The Rockville and GOgroove models are powered units with built-in amplification, so you do not need a separate amplifier. The Definitive Technology Dymension DM80 is designed to work with an external amplifier or receiver. Check the product page for setup details before buying if you are choosing a component-style speaker.
Which speaker connects best to a TV?
The Rockville TM150B has the widest set of TV-friendly connections in this lineup. It includes optical, RCA, and 3.5mm AUX inputs, and it also has RCA outputs for expanding the system. The TM150D and TM80B offer Bluetooth, USB, SD, FM, and multiple inputs, which work well for many TV setups, but the TM150B is the most flexible option for direct connection.
Which tower should I buy overall?
For most people looking for a complete home theater tower with strong bass and plenty of features, the Rockville TM150B is the best all-around pick. It combines powerful dual 10-inch subwoofers, flexible connections, and useful tuning controls. If you have a smaller room, the Rockville TM80B is a more balanced choice, and if you want premium sound and plan to build a larger system, the Definitive Technology Dymension DM80 deserves a close look. Compare the features that matter most to your room and listening habits, and you will find a speaker that fits.
Final Recommendation
Tower speakers with built-in subwoofers offer a simple and effective way to add real bass to your home. The Rockville TM150B is our top overall recommendation for its strong power, dual 10-inch subwoofers, and excellent connection options. The Rockville TM150D is a close alternative with a sleeker dark wood look and the same core power. Choose the Rockville TM80B if your room is medium-sized and you want a more controlled bass sound. The GOgroove BlueSYNC STW fits small spaces and everyday listening, while the Definitive Technology Dymension DM80 is the premium choice for listeners who want refined sound and room to expand. Compare the power, bass setup, connections, and space in your room, and the right speaker will become clear.
