Woofer (Subwoofer)
The bass and lower midrange sounds are reproduced by the woofer. To operate efficiently, a woofer's cone should be made of material that is stiff, yet lightweight. Cones made of polymers, polypropylene, light metals, or poly mixed with other materials including carbon strands and metals, provide excellent sound, and stand up to the heat, cold and moisture that car speakers face daily. Paper cones treated for moisture resistance also do a good job, and are usually very efficient. For car usage, untreated cones should be avoided.

The term "Subwoofer" came into common parlance as a result of the need for marketing departments to boost the "heavy hitting" image of their woofer products. Most such subwoofers are more dependent on the accompanying electronics than on the woofer itself. It was a campaign so successful, it is now as difficult to find a woofer as it is to find a "regular strength" antacid tablet. But as far as describing a particular type of Driver, the term is virtually worthless. The ludicrous extent to which the trend has gone is illustrated in the recent appearance of 4 inch "subwoofers."
Study the ratings, specifications, and construction of any woofer you are considering, to see if will be appropriate for your system. In constructing your system, remember to start with the goal first, then the woofer and enclosure, and finally, the amplifier. Everything must work together, and fit together as one coherent system, if you are to be successful.

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