Hertz DS30-3 12" 4-Ohm Single Voice Coil Subwoofer

The Hertz DS30-3 is a 12-inch, 4-ohm single voice coil car subwoofer designed to add low-frequency output to a custom mobile audio system. It is a component subwoofer, so it is intended for installation in a properly built enclosure rather than use as a self-contained powered subwoofer. Its 250-watt continuous power handling suits systems using a dedicated compatible subwoofer amplifier.

This model is a practical choice for listeners building an entry-level or mid-level bass upgrade with a conventional 12-inch woofer format. It is designed for compact sealed or reflex enclosures, allowing installers to prioritize enclosure size, bass character, and available cargo space. The single 4-ohm voice coil provides a straightforward load for an amplifier channel rated to operate at 4 ohms.

The DS30-3 covers a rated 28 to 300 Hz frequency response and has a 91 dB SPL sensitivity specification. Its polypropylene cone with mica injection is paired with a high-excursion butyl rubber surround for controlled cone movement. These materials support the woofer's intended role in reproducing bass while maintaining a durable moving assembly.

Hertz uses a high-density flux ferrite motor and a 38 mm voice coil in the DS30-3. The voice coil is pure copper wound on an aluminum former, while the motor structure incorporates venting to support thermal dissipation. Deep ribbing in the cone surface adds stiffness to the polypropylene diaphragm.

A correctly matched enclosure and amplifier are essential to getting the intended results from this subwoofer. Hertz provides both sealed and reflex enclosure recommendations, making the DS30-3 suitable for a compact custom box project. It can be used as the low-frequency foundation of a system with aftermarket speakers, a compatible amplifier, and an appropriate low-pass crossover.

Key Features

• 12-Inch Subwoofer: Provides a conventional 300 mm woofer format for custom bass enclosures.
• 250 W Continuous Handling: Supports matching with an amplifier delivering appropriate continuous power at 4 ohms.
• 4-Ohm Single Voice Coil: Creates a simple, fixed nominal impedance load for compatible amplification.
• Mica-Injected Polypropylene Cone: Uses a stiff, lightweight cone material for bass reproduction.
• Butyl Rubber Surround: Supports the woofer's excursion while providing a durable suspension element.
• Ferrite Motor With Venting: Uses a high-density ferrite magnet and venting for thermal management.

Design & Installation

The DS30-3 combines a polypropylene cone reinforced with mica injection, a butyl rubber surround, and a high-density flux ferrite magnet. Its 38 mm pure copper voice coil is wound on an aluminum former, and the cone incorporates deep ribbing for added rigidity. The driver measures 306 mm overall and has a 4.0 kg net component weight.

Plan for a 279 mm cutout diameter and at least 120 mm of mounting-depth clearance behind the baffle. Hertz specifies a 21 L sealed enclosure or a 23.9 L reflex enclosure; the recommended enclosure volumes include driver displacement. Use it with a 4-ohm-stable amplifier channel, observe amplifier manufacturer wiring requirements, and set a suitable low-pass crossover during system tuning.