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Meet the Paradigm Defiance S12, a powerful sealed-cabinet 12” subwoofer that delivers deep, clear bass for your music and movies. Equipped with an 800 W RMS Class-D amplifier and a high-excursion S-PAL™ driver, it brings tight, low-frequency performance without taking over your space. Add wireless setup, app control, and Anthem Room Correction support—this subwoofer fits smoothly into your room and your sound system.

Key Features

  • High-excursion 12″ satin-anodized aluminum bass driver delivers accurate, commanding low frequencies
  • Built-in Ultra Class-D amplifier rated at 800 W RMS (1,200 W peak) for clean and robust output
  • Sealed compact cabinet design echoes Paradigm’s premium XR and Founder Series aesthetics
  • App-based control plus wireless connectivity for simple setup and adjustment
  • Anthem Room Correction (ARC) ready to fine-tune bass to your room’s acoustics
  • Gloss black finish pairs style with performance in any setup
  • Anti-vibration feet (with carpet spikes) reduce resonance and ensure clean bass delivery

Why Buy

If you're after deep, precise bass that’s easy to set up and looks sharp, the Defiance S12 delivers. It brings rich low-end power while fitting into any room without fuss.

  • High-power amplifier and premium driver deliver deep, clean bass performance
  • App control and ARC support let you easily dial in sound to your room
  • Sleek, compact design keeps your setup stylish and space-friendly

Product Specifications

General Information
Product NameParadigm Defiance S12 Subwoofer
BrandParadigm
Model NumberDefiance S12
SeriesDefiance Series
Speaker TypeSealed Powered Subwoofer
Recommended UseHome Theater, Stereo Listening
PlacementFloorstanding (subwoofer placement)
Number of Speakers1 (sold individually)
Country of OriginDesigned and engineered in Canada
Audio
Frequency Response (On-Axis, ±3dB)23 Hz – 200 Hz
Low Frequency Extension (DIN)19 Hz
Amplifier Power800 W RMS (1,200 W Dynamic Peak)
Driver12" (305 mm) High-Excursion, Satin-Anodized Pure-Aluminum Cone
Enclosure TypeSealed MDF cabinet
Built-in AmplifierYes, Ultra-Class D
Room CorrectionYes, Anthem Room Correction (ARC)
Connectivity
InputsLFE (RCA), Left/Right Line-Level (RCA)
Wireless ConnectivityOptional with Paradigm Wireless Module
ARC Microphone InputYes (3.5 mm jack for included ARC mic)
App ControlYes, Paradigm Subwoofer Control App
Battery & Charging
Power SourceAC Mains Powered
Battery TypeNot applicable
Battery LifeNot applicable
Charging MethodNot applicable
Features
Truextent® Beryllium DriversNo
DSP Bass ControlYes
ARC Room CorrectionYes
Cabinet DesignSealed MDF with internal bracing
Magnetic GrilleYes
Dolby Atmos CompatibleN/A (Subwoofer)
Voice ControlNo
App ControlYes
Physical Specifications
Cabinet FinishGloss Black
Dimensions (WxHxD)16.25" × 16.5" × 17.88" (41.3 × 42 × 45.4 cm)
Weight53 lbs (24 kg)
Mounting OptionsFloor placement with included feet and carpet spikes
Grille TypeMagnetic cloth grille
In the Box
Subwoofer1 × Defiance S12 Subwoofer
Grille1 × Magnetic grille
Feet/Spikes4 × Rubber feet, 4 × Carpet spikes
ARC Microphone1 × ARC calibration microphone
Owner's ManualYes
Warranty InformationYes
Warranty
Warranty Period5 years (subwoofer driver & cabinet), 3 years (amplifier)
Customer Support InfoParadigm Contact

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Paradigm Defiance S12 Subwoofer - 12" Sealed 800W Powered Bass with ARC FAQs

What’s the practical difference between using LFE vs. the left/right inputs?

Use the LFE input when your AVR/processor handles bass management; set the S12’s low-pass to “Bypass.” If you’re feeding stereo line-level (no bass management), use the left/right inputs and set the low-pass in the app (typical starting point around 80 Hz).

How does auto on/off and trigger control work?

Power modes include Auto (signal-sensing on/off), On, and 12 V Trigger (3.5 mm). Auto wakes the sub when it detects signal and powers it down after inactivity.

What connections does the S12 offer, and can I daisy-chain a second sub?

Inputs include LFE (RCA), left/right line-level RCAs, and speaker-level inputs (banana required). There’s also a “Subwoofer Out” RCA so you can chain additional subs from the first S12.

Does the Defiance S12 include Anthem Room Correction (ARC), and do I need a separate microphone?

Yes, the S12 is ARC-ready. To run ARC on a PC/Mac you’ll need a compatible ARC calibration microphone (sold separately). You can then enable/disable the uploaded ARC profile from the app.