Denon DSW-37
A discontinued compact powered subwoofer with basic performance overshadowed by better-value current alternatives
Overview
The Denon DSW-37 is a compact, bass-reflex powered subwoofer released as part of Denon’s 17/37 series systems. Manufacturer-facing materials and retailer catalogs indicate a 16 cm (≈8-inch) cone driver and a stated playback frequency range of 20–400 Hz (manufacturer spec) [3][4]. It provides basic controls—variable low-pass crossover, phase switch (0°/180°), and auto-standby—and line-level RCA inputs [1]. Denon’s bundle sheet for the 17/37 set lists the DSW-37 dimensions as about 216 (W) × 300 (H) × 400 (D) mm and weight ≈5.5 kg [2]. As a discontinued model now found primarily on secondary markets, it lacks modern conveniences found on current subwoofers.
Scientific Validity
\[\Large \text{0.5}\]No credible third-party acoustic measurements were located for the DSW-37. Key manufacturer/retailer specifications are: stated frequency range 20–400 Hz and 16 cm driver [3][4], with the 17/37-series sheet confirming physical size [2]. The product manual documents only basic functions (variable low-pass, phase, auto-standby) without performance data [1]. With no verified FR linearity or THD/SPL limits, the audible performance claims cannot be validated beyond catalog specs; thus the baseline score is maintained.
Technology Level
\[\Large \text{0.4}\]Conventional design for its era: a single driver in a bass-reflex enclosure with analog low-pass, phase switch, and auto-standby [1]. There is no DSP, room EQ, or wireless integration. This is behind contemporary powered subs offering app-based control, EQ, or auto-calibration.
Cost-Performance
\[\Large \text{0.9}\]Using a current, equal-or-better comparator: Monoprice 12-inch 150 W RMS powered subwoofer (model 9723) lists a frequency response of 25–250 Hz (manufacturer spec) with higher amplifier power and the same core functions (RCA line-in, variable low-pass), representing equal-or-better user functionality and output capability in typical small/medium rooms at a current price of 173.99 USD [5].
CP calculation (review target price is the denominator): 173.99 USD ÷ 200 USD = 0.86995 → 0.9.
Note: DSW-37 prices reflect secondary-market availability, while the comparator price is a current new-retail market price.
Reliability & Support
\[\Large \text{0.5}\]As a discontinued model, warranty support is effectively unavailable. Denon still hosts manuals and legacy information in its product archive, which is useful for setup but not a substitute for support [6]. The simple analog design generally favors longevity, but parts/service risk remains typical for discontinued gear.
Rationality of Design Philosophy
\[\Large \text{0.5}\]A straightforward, no-nonsense small powered sub concept with reasonable controls and without extravagant claims. However, lack of measurable transparency data and absence of modern features limit how rationally it addresses today’s user needs versus current competitors.
Advice
If you want a budget new unit with clearly higher output headroom and comparable low-frequency reach by spec, the Monoprice 12-inch 150 W model is a practical baseline [5]. If you prefer to stay within Denon’s ecosystem and want current-generation convenience (wireless), consider Denon’s DSW-1H, noting it serves specific HEOS-based setups rather than general analog sub duties [7]. Consider the DSW-37 only if you find it at a substantially lower price than current alternatives and accept the support limitations of a discontinued product.
References
- Denon, “DSW-37 (JP) Owner’s Manual (features/controls),” accessed Aug 2025, https://assets.denon.com/DocumentMaster/JP/DSW-37JP_IM.pdf
- Denon, “DHT-683XP Home Theater Package (includes DSW-37) – Product Sheet,” accessed Aug 2025, https://assets.denon.com/documentmaster/us/dht683xp_productsheet.pdf
- Kakaku.com, “Denon DSW-37-K — key specs (16 cm driver, 20–400 Hz),” accessed Aug 2025, https://kakaku.com/item/K0000913244/
- Yamada Denki, “Denon DSW-37-M — product listing (peak power, form factor),” accessed Aug 2025, https://www.yamada-denkiweb.com/4214637014/
- Monoprice, “12in 150-Watt Powered Subwoofer, Black (Model 9723) — price & specs,” accessed Aug 2025, https://www.monoprice.com/category/audio-video/speakers/subwoofers (Product ID: 9723)
- Denon Support, “Owner’s Manuals / Product Archive portal,” accessed Aug 2025, https://support.denon.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/22/~/denon-owners-manuals
- Denon (Archive), “DSW-1H — Subwoofer with HEOS Built-in,” accessed Aug 2025, https://www.denon.com/en-us/product/archive-sound-bars/dsw1h/137290.html
(2025.8.26)