When SVS launched the SB-1000 Pro in early 2021, it marked a significant evolution in affordable subwoofer technology. Two years later, it remains a benchmark for performance and value at the $699 price point. Let's explore why this compact powerhouse continues to impress.
At the heart of the SB-1000 Pro is a specially engineered 12-inch driver using a composite fiber cone. This material choice isn't random - it provides an optimal balance of rigidity (for precise movement) and damping (to prevent unwanted resonances). The dual-layer voice coil design is particularly clever, using two separate coils to handle the electrical signal. This approach improves linearity (how accurately the driver follows the input signal) and reduces distortion when pushing hard.
The 325-watt Sledge amplifier might not sound impressive on paper, but numbers can be deceiving. In our testing, this Class D design proved remarkably capable, delivering clean power well beyond what you'd expect. The amp uses MOSFETs (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors) rated for high current handling, which helps maintain control during demanding bass passages.
Where the SB-1000 Pro really separates itself is the implementation of digital signal processing (DSP). The 50MHz processor might sound like overkill, but that horsepower enables precise control over the subwoofer's behavior. The smartphone app isn't just a gimmick - it provides meaningful control over:
In our extended listening tests, the sealed cabinet design proved its worth with music. Bass notes start and stop with impressive precision - no bloated or lingering low frequencies. Testing with acoustic bass in jazz recordings revealed excellent detail and texture. Even when pushing hard with electronic music, the driver maintained composure without obvious compression.
For movie enthusiasts, the SB-1000 Pro delivers surprising impact given its size. During our testing with reference scenes (think the opening of Edge of Tomorrow or the pod race in Star Wars: Episode I), the subwoofer maintained clarity while producing genuine 20Hz content. The DSP prevents over-excursion (where the driver moves beyond its safe limits), meaning you get clean bass rather than distortion when pushing hard.
The app-based setup is a game-changer for proper integration. Rather than fumbling with knobs behind the unit, you can:
At $699, the SB-1000 Pro competes with both budget options and more expensive units. Looking at direct competitors:
The SB-1000 Pro is ideal for:
It might not be the best choice if you:
Since its 2021 release, the SB-1000 Pro has received several firmware updates improving the app interface and DSP performance. The core hardware design has proven robust enough to remain competitive, though newer rivals have emerged with similar feature sets.
After extensive testing across various content types and room configurations, the SB-1000 Pro consistently impresses with its combination of performance, features, and value. The smart implementation of modern technology enhances rather than complicates the user experience. While it won't shake your foundations like larger, more expensive subwoofers, it delivers accurate, controlled bass that enhances both music and movies.
For most users in medium-sized rooms, this represents an ideal balance of capability and cost. The build quality suggests long-term reliability, and SVS's customer support has a strong reputation. Unless you specifically need more output for a larger space, the SB-1000 Pro remains one of our top recommendations in the sub-$1000 category.
Pro Tip: Consider buying two for better room coverage and smoother frequency response - even two SB-1000 Pros often outperform a single more expensive subwoofer.
Yes, the SB-1000 Pro excels in home theater applications for small to medium rooms. It provides clean, detailed bass down to 20Hz, which is perfect for movie effects. The app control makes it easy to adjust settings for different content types.
At $699, the SB-1000 Pro offers exceptional value with features typically found in more expensive models. Its combination of performance, smart features, and build quality makes it a worthwhile investment for both home theater and music enthusiasts.
The subwoofer extends down to 20Hz (ยฑ3 dB), which covers virtually all movie and music content. This is impressive for a compact subwoofer in this price range.
Yes, dual SB-1000 Pro subwoofers work excellently together. Using two subwoofers can provide more even bass response across multiple listening positions and improved overall performance.
The subwoofer is ideal for rooms up to 2000 cubic feet. For larger spaces, you might want to consider either dual units or a larger model.
Yes, its sealed design and precise driver control make it excellent for music, delivering tight, accurate bass without unwanted resonance or boom.
The SB-1000 Pro adds smartphone app control, more advanced DSP, and improved amplifier design over the original SB-1000, making it much more versatile and powerful.
No, it works with any receiver or amplifier that has either a subwoofer output (preferred) or speaker-level outputs.
Initial setup is straightforward using the smartphone app. Connect the subwoofer to your receiver, download the SVS app, and use the guided setup process to optimize performance for your room.
Yes, the SB-1000 Pro works great for gaming, providing impactful bass for explosions and effects while maintaining accuracy for music and dialogue. The low latency design ensures audio stays in sync with the action.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research has used advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: hometheaterhifi.com - dreamediaav.com - youtube.com - hifisoundenthusiast.com - projectorscreenstore.com - audioholics.com - svsound.ca - svsound.com - projectorscreen.com - svsound.com - audioadvice.com - bhphotovideo.com
The Klipsch RP-1400SW takes a different approach to premium bass reproduction with its larger 14-inch driver and ported design. While it commands a slightly higher price at $736, it delivers noticeably more output power thanks to its 500W RMS amplifier and larger cabinet size. This translates to more impactful performance in larger rooms, particularly for home theater applications where its ability to hit 16Hz provides earth-shaking effects during action sequences. The front-firing slot port with Aerofoil technology helps minimize port noise, though the overall cabinet size of 21.34" x 20" x 25.67" requires more careful placement consideration.
Where the Klipsch subwoofer differs most significantly is in its traditional control interface and overall sonic character. While lacking the sophisticated app control of the SVS, its straightforward knob-based controls offer simplicity that some users may prefer. The ported design provides more room-filling presence and higher maximum output, though it trades some of the pinpoint accuracy and tight response of the sealed SVS design. For those with larger spaces who prioritize maximum impact over absolute precision, particularly for movie watching, the Klipsch RP-1400SW represents a compelling alternative, especially when its optional wireless connectivity capability is considered.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐Klipsch RP-1400SW 14" Powered Subwoofer Details
๐ต See Klipsch RP-1400SW 14" Powered Subwoofer Price
The Klipsch RP-1000SW offers a compelling alternative with its front-firing Cerametallic 10-inch driver and ported design. While it provides slightly less power on paper at 300W RMS compared to the SB-1000 Pro, its ported configuration actually delivers more mid-bass impact that many home theater enthusiasts prefer. The front-firing Aerofoil slot port design helps minimize distortion while providing additional output, particularly in the frequency range where most movie effects occur. At around $125 less expensive, it presents strong value, especially for those who don't need advanced DSP features.
Where the RP-1000SW particularly shines is in its straightforward operation and room-filling capability. The traditional control layout with manual knobs may lack the technological sophistication of app control, but many users appreciate its simplicity and reliability. While its larger cabinet size requires more space, the front-port design allows for more flexible placement options, including closer to walls. Though it may not match the SB-1000 Pro's precision in the lowest frequencies, the Klipsch RP-1000SW delivers powerful, dynamic bass that exceeds expectations at its price point, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing home theater performance and value over advanced tunability.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐Klipsch RP-1000SW 10" Subwoofer Details
๐ต See Klipsch RP-1000SW 10" Subwoofer Price
The SVS SB17-Ultra R|Evolution represents a significant step up in both technology and performance, featuring a massive 17-inch driver powered by dual mono-block amplifiers delivering 2800W RMS. This flagship model extends deeper to 15Hz and can pressurize much larger rooms with reference-level output that you can feel as much as hear. Its sophisticated dual 8-inch voice coil design and 295MHz DSP processor provide unprecedented control and accuracy, while the glass fiber composite cone maintains composure even at extreme output levels that would overwhelm lesser subwoofers.
While the price difference is substantial at $2,499, the SB17-Ultra R|Evolution delivers performance that justifies its premium positioning for dedicated home theaters and critical listening rooms. The ability to reproduce the lowest frequencies with authority creates a more cinematic experience, and its massive power reserves ensure it maintains complete control even during the most demanding passages. However, for many users, especially those with smaller rooms or moderate listening levels, the additional capability may go largely unutilized, making it harder to justify the nearly four-fold price increase over the SB-1000 Pro.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐SVS SB17-Ultra R|Evolution Subwoofer Details
๐ต See SVS SB17-Ultra R|Evolution Subwoofer Price
The PB17-Ultra R|Evolution represents SVS's flagship offering and operates in an entirely different performance class, featuring a massive 17-inch driver with dual 8-inch voice coils and delivering 2800W RMS through its advanced dual mono-block amplifier. While the SB-1000 Pro excels in smaller spaces, the PB17-Ultra's ported design and significantly larger cabinet allow it to reach down to 12Hz with authority, producing the kind of chest-thumping bass that can truly replicate a commercial cinema experience. Its recently updated 295MHz DSP processor and Auto-EQ room correction capabilities help tame room acoustics, making it easier to achieve optimal performance despite its prodigious output capabilities.
At nearly five times the price, the PB17-Ultra isn't so much a step up as it is a leap into reference-level performance territory. However, this comparison isn't entirely fair since these subwoofers target different use cases - the PB17-Ultra is designed for larger spaces and dedicated home theaters where cost is secondary to absolute performance. For most users, especially those in small to medium-sized rooms, the additional investment in the PB17-Ultra would be overkill, and the SB-1000 Pro represents a more practical choice that still delivers excellent performance. The PB17-Ultra makes sense only if you have both the space and budget to support a reference-level home theater system and desire the absolute pinnacle of subwoofer performance.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐SVS PB17-Ultra R|Evolution Subwoofer Details
๐ต See SVS PB17-Ultra R|Evolution Subwoofer Price
The Klipsch Reference R-121SW ($396.00) takes a different approach with its ported design and spun-copper driver, delivering impressive output capabilities at a more accessible price point. Its larger cabinet and rear-firing port help produce authoritative bass that's particularly effective for home theater applications, where sustained low-frequency effects benefit from the design's enhanced efficiency. While it may not match the SB-1000 Pro's precise control and ultra-low extension, the R-121SW's 200-watt amplifier and 12-inch driver combination produces compelling bass that will satisfy most listeners, especially those primarily focused on movies and casual music playback.
Where the R-121SW really stands out is in its value proposition and straightforward operation. The simplified control layout and auto-power feature make it easy to integrate into any system, though you do sacrifice the advanced room correction and preset capabilities found in the SVS. The Klipsch's slightly higher sensitivity helps it maintain impressive output levels despite its lower power rating, and its ported design can actually provide an advantage in larger rooms where maximum output takes priority over absolute precision. While it may not be the choice for critical music listening, the Klipsch R-121SW represents an excellent balance of performance and value that makes it a compelling alternative for budget-conscious buyers who still want impactful, room-filling bass.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐Klipsch Reference R-121SW 12" Subwoofer Details
๐ต See Klipsch Reference R-121SW 12" Subwoofer Price
The Polk Signature Elite ES10 ($449.00) takes a different approach with its front-ported design and 10-inch driver, offering impressive mid-bass punch and flexible placement options at a more accessible price point. While it doesn't reach quite as deep as the SB-1000 Pro, extending to 28Hz rather than 20Hz, it provides engaging performance for music and movies in small to medium-sized rooms. The 200-watt Class D amplifier, though less powerful than the SVS, delivers clean output and good dynamics for most listening scenarios. Its traditional manual controls and straightforward setup process may appeal to users who prefer simpler operation over app-based configuration.
For those prioritizing value and performance in smaller spaces, the ES10 presents a compelling alternative. While it lacks advanced features like parametric EQ and preset storage, its fundamental performance characteristics - including clear, punchy bass and good integration with main speakers - make it a strong contender in its price range. The front-firing ports and more compact cabinet provide additional placement flexibility, though you'll sacrifice some of the deeper bass extension and ultimate output capability compared to the SB-1000 Pro. The primary tradeoff comes down to whether the advanced control features and deeper bass extension of the SVS justify its higher price tag for your specific needs.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐Polk Signature Elite ES10 10" Powered Subwoofer Details
๐ต See Polk Signature Elite ES10 10" Powered Subwoofer Price
The Polk Signature Elite ES12 ($599) takes a different approach to subwoofer design, emphasizing robust physical engineering over digital sophistication. Its dual-port configuration and mineral-filled polypropylene driver deliver impressive room-filling bass that's particularly effective for movie soundtracks and action sequences. While it lacks the advanced room correction and app control of the SB-1000 Pro, its Power Port technology helps reduce port noise and provides consistent performance even at higher volumes. The larger cabinet size allows for enhanced low-frequency output, though it requires more careful placement consideration.
Where the Polk really shines is in its value proposition and straightforward operation. At $66 less than the SVS, it delivers comparable output levels in medium-sized rooms and offers a warmer, more forgiving sound signature that some listeners prefer. While it can't match the SB-1000 Pro's precision and adjustability, its traditional control scheme and front-firing design make it an excellent choice for users who want powerful, satisfying bass without diving into complex setup procedures. The Polk ES12 represents a more conventional approach to subwoofer design, but one that's been refined through modern engineering to deliver impressive performance at an attractive price point.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐Polk Signature Elite ES12 12" Powered Subwoofer Details
๐ต See Polk Signature Elite ES12 12" Powered Subwoofer Price
The Polk Audio React Subwoofer takes a fundamentally different approach, focusing on wireless convenience and seamless integration with Polk's React soundbar system. At $199, it offers an accessible entry point for those wanting to enhance their soundbar setup without complex wiring or setup procedures. The one-button wireless pairing and automatic EQ adjustment make it particularly appealing for users who prioritize simplicity over absolute performance. Its 7-inch driver and compact design work well in smaller spaces, especially apartments where deep, powerful bass might be impractical or unwanted.
However, when compared to the SB-1000 Pro's capabilities, the limitations of the Polk React become apparent. Its smaller driver and limited power handling mean it can't reproduce the same deep bass extensions or maintain composure at higher volumes. While it adequately enhances dialogue and adds basic impact to movies and music, it lacks the precision, control, and room-filling presence that make the SB-1000 Pro so impressive. The React subwoofer makes sense as part of a Polk React system in smaller rooms, but those seeking reference-level bass performance or planning to build a serious home theater system would be better served by investing in the more capable SVS option.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐Polk Audio React Subwoofer Details
๐ต See Polk Audio React Subwoofer Price
The SVS 3000 Micro takes a different approach with its innovative dual 8-inch opposing driver design, delivering impressive performance from an incredibly compact chassis that's 32% smaller than the SB-1000 Pro. Its 800-watt amplifier provides significantly more power, helping the smaller drivers achieve similar output levels while maintaining exceptional control and accuracy. The aluminum driver construction and sophisticated DSP tuning result in slightly faster transient response and tighter bass control, though the real-world difference in bass extension (23Hz vs 20Hz) is negligible for most listeners.
While the 3000 Micro commands a $200 premium, its higher price is justified for those who need maximum placement flexibility or have space constraints. The opposing driver design effectively cancels cabinet vibrations, making it particularly well-suited for installations on shelves or in furniture. Despite its smaller size, the 3000 Micro matches or exceeds the SB-1000 Pro's performance in most situations, especially in larger rooms where the additional power becomes beneficial. However, unless space is a primary concern or you specifically need the extra headroom, the SB-1000 Pro remains the better value proposition for most users.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐SVS 3000 Micro Subwoofer Details
๐ต See SVS 3000 Micro Subwoofer Price
For those seeking a different approach to subwoofer integration, the Klipsch WA-3 Wireless Kit ($206) offers a specialized solution for adding wireless capability to compatible Klipsch subwoofers. Operating on the 2.4GHz band with automatic channel selection, it provides reliable wireless audio transmission up to 50 feet without signal degradation. While it doesn't enhance bass performance like the SB-1000 Pro, it solves a specific problem - eliminating the need for long cable runs - at a significantly lower price point. The plug-and-play setup and automatic frequency hopping make it particularly appealing for those who prioritize simple installation and placement flexibility.
However, it's important to note that the WA-3 serves a fundamentally different purpose than a complete subwoofer system. It's designed exclusively for Klipsch C-Series subwoofers and doesn't include any performance-enhancing features like DSP or EQ controls. For those who already own a compatible Klipsch subwoofer and are satisfied with its performance, the WA-3 offers a cost-effective way to add placement flexibility without compromising sound quality. But if you're starting fresh or looking to upgrade your bass performance, you'd be better served by investing in a complete solution like the SB-1000 Pro.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐Klipsch WA-3 Wireless Subwoofer Kit Details
๐ต See Klipsch WA-3 Wireless Subwoofer Kit Price
The $315 Polk Monitor XT12 offers a more budget-friendly approach to home theater bass, featuring a traditional ported design and straightforward controls. While it can't match the SVS's sophisticated DSP capabilities or power output, it provides respectable performance for smaller rooms and basic home theater setups. The 12-inch bi-laminate paper cone driver and 50-watt RMS amplifier deliver adequate bass extension down to 24Hz, making it suitable for most movies and music, though it may struggle with the most demanding content.
Where the Polk really shines is in its value proposition - at less than half the price of the SVS, it offers a solid entry point into proper subwoofer performance. While it lacks advanced features like app control and preset management, its simple volume, crossover, and phase controls make it accessible for users who prefer a more straightforward setup process. The Polk Monitor XT12 serves as a reminder that good bass reproduction doesn't require a premium price tag, though enthusiasts and those with larger rooms will likely appreciate the SVS's additional capabilities and headroom.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐Polk Audio Monitor XT12 12" Powered Subwoofer Details
๐ต See Polk Audio Monitor XT12 12" Powered Subwoofer Price
For those considering a step up in performance, the SVS PC-2000 Pro ($971.84) offers significant advantages with its 550-watt RMS amplifier and deeper bass extension down to 16Hz. The cylindrical design, while unconventional, provides excellent room coupling through its down-firing driver configuration, and the larger cabinet volume allows for higher output capabilities that can fill spaces up to 3,000 cubic feet. The PC-2000 Pro's additional power headroom is immediately noticeable during demanding movie scenes, providing the kind of chest-thumping impact that home theater enthusiasts crave.
However, the price premium of roughly $300 needs to be weighed against your specific needs. While the PC-2000 Pro delivers more powerful performance and deeper bass extension, it's also considerably larger and may be too much subwoofer for smaller rooms or apartment settings. The superior power handling and output capabilities make it an excellent choice for dedicated home theaters or larger spaces, but in rooms under 2,000 cubic feet, the difference in real-world performance might not justify the additional investment. That said, if you're building a serious home theater system and have the space to accommodate its taller profile, the PC-2000 Pro's additional capabilities make it a compelling upgrade option.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐SVS PC-2000 Pro Cylinder Subwoofer Details
๐ต See SVS PC-2000 Pro Cylinder Subwoofer Price
The $599 SVS SB-1000 Pro in Premium Black Ash finish delivers identical acoustic performance to its glossy sibling, featuring the same powerful 325-watt RMS amplifier and sophisticated DSP technology. The more utilitarian finish actually offers some practical advantages, being more resistant to fingerprints and scratches while requiring less maintenance to keep looking fresh. For many home theater enthusiasts, particularly those placing the subwoofer in less visible locations or homes with children and pets, this more durable finish represents the smarter choice.
When comparing value propositions, the Premium Black Ash version makes a compelling case by saving buyers $65.99 without sacrificing any performance capabilities. It delivers the same impressive 20Hz bass extension, identical app control features, and maintains the same build quality that SVS is known for. The only meaningful tradeoff is purely aesthetic, making the $599 model an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize performance over appearance. This version represents the sweet spot in terms of pure value, offering all the technical capabilities that have made the SB-1000 Pro series so popular among both home theater enthusiasts and music lovers.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐SVS SB-1000 Pro Subwoofer Details
๐ต See SVS SB-1000 Pro Subwoofer Price
The SVS PB-1000 Pro takes a different approach with its ported design, delivering deeper bass extension down to 17Hz and higher maximum output that's particularly noticeable with home theater content. While sharing the same powerful 325-watt Sledge amplifier and 12-inch driver as its sealed sibling, the PB-1000 Pro's dual-port configuration allows it to move more air with less effort, resulting in stronger performance with explosive movie scenes and bass-heavy electronic music. This additional capability comes at the cost of a larger cabinet size (18.9" ร 15" ร 20") and heavier weight (42.5 lbs), but for those with the space, the extra output is worth considering.
For home theater enthusiasts and listeners who crave maximum impact, the PB-1000 Pro offers compelling value at $599. While it may not match the SB-1000 Pro's speed and precision with acoustic music, it excels in larger rooms where its additional output helps energize the space more effectively. The tradeoff between the two models ultimately comes down to space constraints and primary use case - the PB-1000 Pro's more powerful low-end performance makes it the better choice for dedicated theater rooms and bass enthusiasts who prioritize maximum output over absolute precision.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐SVS PB-1000 Pro Subwoofer Details
๐ต See SVS PB-1000 Pro Subwoofer Price
The $239 Klipsch Flexus SUB 100 takes a different approach to subwoofer design, prioritizing wireless connectivity and ease of use over maximum performance. Its standout feature is the proprietary Klipsch Transport wireless technology, which enables seamless integration with Klipsch Flexus soundbars and allows for dual subwoofer setups without running additional cables. While its 10-inch driver and 80-watt amplifier don't match the SB-1000 Pro's output capabilities, the Flexus SUB 100 still delivers respectable bass extension down to 26Hz and provides enough impact for most casual listening scenarios.
At nearly one-third the price of the SB-1000 Pro, the Flexus SUB 100 represents a compelling value proposition for users who prioritize convenience and affordability over ultimate performance. Its compact dimensions and lighter weight make it easier to position in smaller rooms, while the wireless connectivity simplifies installation significantly. Though it can't match the SB-1000 Pro's deep bass extension, power handling, or sophisticated DSP features, the Flexus SUB 100 provides a noticeable improvement over soundbar-only audio and serves as an excellent entry point for those looking to enhance their home theater experience without a significant investment.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐Klipsch Flexus SUB 100 10" Powered Subwoofer Details
๐ต See Klipsch Flexus SUB 100 10" Powered Subwoofer Price
The $2,159.99 PB-4000 represents a significant step up in SVS's lineup, offering reference-level performance for larger spaces. Its 13.5-inch driver and massive 1,200-watt amplifier deliver bass down to 15Hz with authority that the SB-1000 Pro simply can't match. The ported design, while requiring substantially more space at nearly 24 inches tall and 30 inches deep, provides the kind of room-pressurizing output that serious home theater enthusiasts crave. The PB-4000's variable tuning modes also offer flexibility between maximum output and deeper extension, essentially providing multiple subwoofer personalities in one unit.
While the price difference is substantial, the PB-4000's performance justifies the investment for larger rooms and dedicated home theaters where ultimate bass performance is desired. Its ability to reproduce the lowest frequencies with minimal distortion, coupled with sophisticated DSP controls and matching app integration, makes it a natural upgrade path for those outgrowing the SB-1000 Pro's capabilities. However, the PB-4000 requires careful consideration of room size and placement options - its massive cabinet and 153-pound weight make it less flexible for casual setups or smaller spaces where the SB-1000 Pro excels.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐SVS PB-4000 Subwoofer Details
๐ต See SVS PB-4000 Subwoofer Price
The $1,399 PB-3000 stands apart with its massive 800-watt RMS amplifier and dual-port design, enabling it to reach deeper bass extension down to 16Hz while maintaining higher output levels. Its 13-inch aluminum cone driver, derived from SVS's flagship models, delivers authoritative bass that can easily fill larger spaces. The variable port tuning feature adds versatility, allowing users to optimize performance for different content types or room conditions - a significant advantage over sealed designs when maximum output is needed.
While the PB-3000 commands more than twice the price, it justifies the premium for serious home theater enthusiasts and those with larger rooms exceeding 2,000 cubic feet. The enhanced low-frequency capability and significantly higher output potential create a more visceral experience with movie soundtracks, though this comes with the trade-off of a much larger cabinet (21.9" x 18.3" x 26") weighing 82.2 pounds. The PB-3000 represents a substantial step up in performance, but its size and price make it most suitable for dedicated listening rooms where its capabilities can be fully utilized.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐SVS PB-3000 13" Ported Subwoofer Details
๐ต See SVS PB-3000 13" Ported Subwoofer Price
The Klipsch Reference R-120SW ($215.09) takes a different approach with its ported design and copper-spun IMG woofer, offering impressive punch and efficiency at a significantly lower price point. While it doesn't reach the same 20Hz depths as the SB-1000 Pro, its frequency response down to 29Hz proves more than capable for most home theater applications. The 200-watt amplifier provides enough power for small to medium-sized rooms, and the rear-firing port helps maximize output efficiency, though it can't match the SVS's precision and control.
At roughly one-third the price of the SB-1000 Pro, the Klipsch R-120SW represents compelling value for users seeking impactful bass without premium features like smartphone control or room correction. While it lacks the refinement and musicality of the SVS, particularly in complex bass passages, it delivers satisfying performance for casual listening and movie watching. The simpler control scheme and traditional design make it an excellent choice for those prioritizing straightforward setup and operation over advanced customization options. However, more discerning listeners or those with larger rooms will appreciate the additional investment in the SVS's superior capabilities.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐Klipsch Reference R-120SW Powered Subwoofer Details
๐ต See Klipsch Reference R-120SW Powered Subwoofer Price
The Klipsch SPL-120 ($399.00) takes a different approach to bass reproduction with its front-firing ported design and Cerametallic woofer. While it doesn't quite match the SB-1000 Pro's precision and ultra-low frequency extension, it delivers impressive impact and room-filling bass that works particularly well for home theater applications. The SPL-120's 300W RMS amplifier and efficient port tuning allow it to produce higher output levels in the mid-bass region (40-80Hz), where most musical content and movie effects reside, making it an excellent choice for listeners who prioritize maximum impact per dollar.
At nearly $266 less than the SB-1000 Pro, the SPL-120 represents compelling value for those who want strong home theater performance without breaking the bank. While it may lack the sophisticated app control and ultimate low-end precision of the SVS, its simpler physical controls and optional wireless capability make it a practical choice for many users. The larger cabinet size and front-port design also provide more placement flexibility near walls, though careful positioning is still important for optimal performance. For many listeners, especially those focused on movies and gaming in medium to large rooms, the SPL-120's punchy performance and competitive pricing make it a worthy alternative to consider.
๐ค Read Detailed Comparison
๐Klipsch SPL-120 12" Powered Subwoofer Details
๐ต See Klipsch SPL-120 12" Powered Subwoofer Price
Original price was: $5,997.99.$5,797.99Current price is: $5,797.99.
