1. Introduction
The Polk HTS 10 powered subwoofer is engineered to enhance your home audio experience by delivering powerful, deep bass. It features a 10-inch long-throw driver, Polk's patented Power Port technology, and a 200W Class D amplifier, designed to provide clear bass response with minimal distortion. Its modern design with curved edges allows it to seamlessly integrate into various home décors.
2. What's in the Box
- Polk Audio HTS 10 Subwoofer
- Power Cord
- Quick Start Guide
- Registration Card
3. Key Features
- High Efficiency Design: Optimized for small to medium-sized rooms, delivering immersive, three-dimensional sound.
- Powerful Performance: Features a 10-inch front-firing long-throw woofer and an in-built 100-watt amplifier (200W peak) for deep, rumbling bass.
- Patented Power Port Technology: A turbulence-smoothing diffuser that transitions air flow from the speaker into your listening area, minimizing distortion and delivering rich, full-range sound.
- Universal Compatibility: Equipped with LFE and stereo line level inputs for versatile connection with various audio systems, including Polk's Signature series speakers.
- Accessible Controls: Volume, low pass filter, and phase toggle (0 to 180 degrees) controls are conveniently located on the rear panel for optimal bass adjustment.
- Modern Aesthetic: Sleek design with rounded corners and a detachable grille for a clean, rich look that complements any home decor.
4. Product Overview

Figure 1: Front view of the Polk Audio HTS 10 Subwoofer with the grille attached.

Figure 2: Front view of the Polk Audio HTS 10 Subwoofer with the grille removed, revealing the 10-inch long-throw woofer.

Figure 3: Dimensions of the Polk Audio HTS 10 Subwoofer, highlighting its compact size.
5. Setup and Connections
5.1 Placement
For optimal performance, place the subwoofer in a corner of the room or along a wall. Experiment with different placements to find the best bass response for your listening environment. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit.
5.2 Connecting Your Subwoofer
The HTS 10 offers two primary connection methods:
- LFE (Low-Frequency Effects) Input: Connect a single RCA cable from your AV receiver's LFE or Subwoofer Pre-Out to the LFE input on the subwoofer. This is the recommended connection for home theater systems as it allows the receiver to manage bass management.
- Stereo Line Level Inputs: For receivers without an LFE output, connect stereo RCA cables from your receiver's Front Left and Right Pre-Outs to the Line In (Left/Right) inputs on the subwoofer.
After connecting, plug the power cord into the subwoofer and then into a wall outlet.
Video 1: An overview of the Polk HTS Series subwoofers, demonstrating their features and design. This video highlights the Power Port technology and control panel.
6. Operating Your Subwoofer
6.1 Power Control
The subwoofer features a power toggle switch with an "Auto" setting. When set to "Auto," the subwoofer will automatically turn on when it detects an audio signal and enter standby mode after a period of inactivity. This provides convenient power management.
6.2 Adjusting Settings
The rear panel controls allow for fine-tuning of the subwoofer's output:
- Volume: Adjusts the overall output level of the subwoofer. Start with a moderate level and adjust to blend with your main speakers.
- Low Pass Filter: Controls the upper frequency limit of the subwoofer. If using an AV receiver with bass management, set this to its highest setting (LFE/Bypass). If using stereo line level inputs, adjust this to blend smoothly with your main speakers' low-frequency cutoff.
- Phase: A toggle switch (0° or 180°) that helps blend the subwoofer's output with your main speakers. Experiment with both settings to find which provides the most cohesive and impactful bass in your listening position.
7. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Polk Audio HTS 10 Subwoofer, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the cabinet. Avoid using harsh chemicals, cleaning sprays, or abrasive materials, as they may damage the finish.
- Ventilation: Ensure that the subwoofer's vents are not obstructed to prevent overheating. Do not place the subwoofer in an enclosed cabinet without proper airflow.
- Placement: Avoid placing the subwoofer in direct sunlight, near heat sources, or in areas with high humidity.
- Grille Care: The detachable grille can be gently cleaned with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner attachment to remove dust.
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Polk Audio HTS 10 Subwoofer, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Sound | Power cord disconnected, Auto power mode not activating, incorrect input connection, volume too low. | Check power connections. Ensure power switch is set to "Auto" or "On". Verify RCA cable connections. Increase subwoofer volume. Check receiver's subwoofer output settings. |
| Distorted or Boomy Bass | Volume too high, incorrect low pass filter setting, poor room acoustics, incorrect phase setting. | Reduce subwoofer volume. Adjust low pass filter. Experiment with subwoofer placement. Toggle phase switch (0°/180°). |
| Subwoofer Not Turning On Automatically | Input signal too low, power switch not in "Auto" mode. | Increase the output level of the subwoofer channel on your receiver. Ensure the power switch is set to "Auto". |
For more detailed troubleshooting or persistent issues, please refer to the official Polk Audio support website or contact customer service.
9. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | HTS SUB 10 |
| Speaker Type | Subwoofer |
| Subwoofer Diameter | 10 Inches |
| Speaker Maximum Output Power | 200 Watts (Peak) |
| Impedance | 8 Ohm |
| Product Dimensions (D x W x H) | 16.68"D x 15.13"W x 18.06"H |
| Item Weight | 37.75 Pounds |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired (RCA) |
| Color | Black Walnut |
| Power Source | AC |
10. Warranty and Support
Polk Audio products come with a limited warranty. For specific warranty details, registration, and technical support, please visit the official Polk Audio website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.
For additional resources and FAQs, visit: Polk Audio Support





