$1,044.99
When SVS released the SB-3000 in 2019, it marked a significant shift in what we could expect from a mid-premium subwoofer. After extensive testing across various setups and content types, it's clear this model still holds its own against newer competitors, thanks to its thoughtful balance of technology and performance.
The subwoofer market has changed dramatically since the SB-3000's release. While basic volume and crossover controls were once standard, today's listeners expect smartphone integration and sophisticated room correction. The SB-3000 was ahead of its time here, introducing app-based control that many competitors are only now catching up to.
The heart of this subwoofer is its 13-inch aluminum driver - a sweet spot size that balances impact and speed. The aluminum construction (versus traditional paper or fiber cones) provides exceptional stiffness while keeping weight down, allowing for faster response to dynamic content. In our testing, this translated to notably cleaner bass lines in music and more precise impact during movie explosions.
The 800-watt RMS amplifier (with 2,500+ watt peaks) might seem modest compared to some competitors' claims, but SVS's implementation is remarkably efficient. During our movie sessions with challenging content like the depth charge scene in "Master and Commander," the amp showed no signs of strain, maintaining composure even at reference levels.
The SVS app deserves special mention - it's genuinely useful rather than just technically impressive. You can:
In practical terms, this means you can optimize for both afternoon jazz sessions and late-night movie watching without leaving your seat. During our testing, switching between a preset for music (slightly higher crossover, tighter response) and movies (extended low end, higher output) made a noticeable difference in performance.
With acoustic bass, the SB-3000 shows remarkable control. Testing with Stanley Clarke's bass solos revealed detail that cheaper subs often miss. Electronic music, which can overwhelm lesser subwoofers, remains composed even at high volumes. The sealed cabinet design helps here, providing tighter response than ported alternatives.
This is where the SB-3000 really shines. The 18Hz extension isn't just a number - you'll feel it during those key movie moments. Testing with films like "Blade Runner 2049" and "Dune" showed the sub's ability to pressurize a room without becoming boomy or losing definition.
Modern games demand dynamic range and precision timing. In titles like "Battlefield 2042" and "Cyberpunk 2077," the quick driver response helps place explosions and environmental effects accurately in the soundscape.
The SB-3000's room correction features are particularly valuable in challenging spaces. The parametric EQ allowed us to tame a problematic 45Hz room mode in our main testing space, something that would have required expensive external processing with many other subs.
While not inexpensive, the SB-3000 competes favorably with newer models costing significantly more. The build quality suggests longevity, and the feature set remains current. SVS's 5-year warranty adds considerable value, especially compared to typical 1-2 year coverages.
The SB-3000 is ideal for:
After extensive testing across various content types and room configurations, the SVS SB-3000 continues to impress with its versatility and performance. While newer models have emerged since its release, few offer such a complete package of features, performance, and value. The combination of sophisticated processing and robust physical engineering creates a subwoofer that serves both critical music listening and impactful home theater use.
For those considering a premium subwoofer upgrade, the SB-3000 remains a benchmark against which newer models should be measured. Its continued relevance in the market speaks to the forward-thinking design choices SVS made during its development.
Yes, the SB-3000 offers exceptional value in the premium subwoofer market. Its combination of powerful performance, advanced features, and build quality justifies the investment for both home theater and music enthusiasts. The 5-year warranty and SVS's customer support add significant value to the purchase.
The SVS SB-3000 reaches down to 18Hz (±3dB), which is impressive for a sealed subwoofer of this size. This extends well below what humans can hear (20Hz) and delivers the physical impact needed for movie special effects and deep bass music.
The SB-3000 performs optimally in rooms up to 3,000 cubic feet. For larger spaces, consider dual SB-3000s or stepping up to the ported PB series. In medium-sized rooms, a single unit provides plenty of clean, powerful bass.
Yes, the app control is genuinely practical and not just a gimmick. It allows easy adjustment of crossover, phase, and EQ settings from your listening position, with three customizable presets for different content types. This makes room optimization much more convenient than traditional rear-panel controls.
The SVS SB-3000 excels with movie content, delivering clean, powerful bass during intense action scenes. The 800W RMS amplifier and 2,500W+ peak power handling ensure it can reproduce explosive effects without distortion, even at reference levels.
The SB-3000 competes favorably with subwoofers costing significantly more, offering superior features like app control and room correction. Its sealed design provides tighter bass response than many ported competitors, though some may offer more maximum output.
Yes, the sealed cabinet design and sophisticated DSP make the SB-3000 excellent for music. It offers quick, accurate bass response that works well with all genres, from classical to electronic music, without the boominess sometimes associated with home theater subwoofers.
The SVS SB-3000 works well in apartments thanks to its adjustable output and room gain compensation features. The app allows you to easily create presets for different times of day, and the sealed design typically provides better control over bass output than ported designs.
For most medium-sized rooms and typical home theater applications, a single SB-3000 provides excellent performance. However, dual subwoofers can provide more even bass response across multiple seating positions and higher overall output if needed.
Initial setup is straightforward, with the app providing guided assistance for optimal placement and configuration. The automatic room compensation and parametric EQ features help achieve proper integration with your main speakers, though some basic knowledge of subwoofer setup principles is helpful.
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: audiosciencereview.com - skybygramophone.com - futureaudiophile.com - svsound.com - themasterswitch.com - 3634088.app.netsuite.com - soundstageaccess.com - crutchfield.com - youtube.com - svsound.com
| SVS SB-3000 13" Powered Subwoofer |
|---|
| Frequency Response - Determines how deep the bass can go: 18Hz-270Hz ±3dB |
| Amplifier Power - Affects how loud and controlled the bass sounds: 800W RMS, 2,500W+ peak |
| Driver Size - Larger drivers generally move more air for deeper bass: 13-inch aluminum cone |
| Cabinet Design - Sealed cabinets typically offer tighter, more accurate bass: Sealed (acoustic suspension) |
| DSP Features - Controls bass quality and room integration: 50MHz processor, 3-band PEQ, room compensation |
| App Control - Makes complex adjustments more accessible: Full iOS/Android support with 3 presets |
| Crossover Range - Determines integration flexibility with main speakers: 30-200Hz (1Hz steps) |
| Phase Control - Helps align bass timing with main speakers: 0-180° (1-degree steps) |
| Dimensions (H × W × D): 15.6" × 15.2" × 17.8" |
| Weight: 54.5 lbs |
| Warranty: 5 years |
The SVS SB17-Ultra R|Evolution ($2,499) represents a significant step up in both technology and performance, featuring SVS's largest-ever 17-inch driver and an innovative dual-amplifier design that delivers a massive 2,800 watts of total power. This flagship model reaches deeper, playing cleanly down to 15Hz, and maintains its composure at reference levels where the SB-3000 might begin to show its limits. The sophisticated DSP system, with its 295MHz processor and advanced room correction capabilities, provides more precise control over room acoustics and allows for finer adjustments to optimize performance in challenging spaces.
While the SB17-Ultra R|Evolution's premium price point places it in a different category altogether, its capabilities justify the cost for serious home theater enthusiasts with larger rooms or those seeking absolute maximum performance. The dual amplifier design and more sophisticated power supply help maintain exceptional control and clarity even during the most demanding movie scenes, while the additional headroom and deeper bass extension create a more immersive experience for both movies and music. However, these advantages are most noticeable in larger spaces or when playing at higher volumes - in typical rooms at normal listening levels, the performance gap may not justify the significant price difference for many users.
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The Klipsch RP-1000SW ($749) offers an appealing alternative for those seeking quality bass performance in a more compact and affordable package. Its 10-inch Cerametallic driver and 300W RMS amplifier provide impressive output for small to medium-sized rooms, and the front-firing design allows for flexible placement options. The simplified control scheme, while lacking the advanced features of the SVS, makes it particularly attractive for users who prefer a more straightforward setup process. Its slightly smaller cabinet dimensions can be a significant advantage in space-constrained environments.
While it can't match the SB-3000's raw output capabilities or deep bass extension, the Klipsch RP-1000SW delivers punchy, musical bass that works exceptionally well for most music genres and casual home theater use. At $276 less than the SVS, it represents solid value for those who don't need maximum output or sophisticated room correction features. It's particularly well-suited for apartments, smaller living rooms, or as part of a music-focused system where deep bass below 20Hz isn't a primary concern. The optional wireless kit also adds flexibility for challenging installation scenarios.
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The Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1200SW ($999) takes a more traditional approach with its ported design and 12-inch Cerametallic woofer, focusing on maximum output over absolute precision. It achieves an impressive 121dB maximum output, slightly higher than the SVS, making it particularly effective in larger rooms and for high-impact home theater use. The front-firing Aerofoil slot port helps reduce port noise while enhancing low-frequency extension, allowing it to reach down to 16.5Hz. While it offers less sophisticated controls than the SVS, its straightforward setup and operation will appeal to users who prefer a more plug-and-play approach.
For just $26 less than the SVS, the RP-1200SW delivers excellent performance for home theater enthusiasts, particularly those with larger spaces or who prioritize maximum output for movie effects. Its simpler control scheme and higher sensitivity mean it requires less power to achieve similar volume levels, though it doesn't offer the same degree of fine-tuning as the SVS. The trade-off is clear - you get higher maximum output and easier setup in exchange for less precise control and slightly less refined bass reproduction. For many home theater applications, especially in larger rooms, this combination of features makes the Klipsch a compelling alternative to the more technically sophisticated SVS.
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The SVS 3000 Micro ($899) represents an innovative approach to subwoofer design, utilizing dual opposing 8-inch drivers in a remarkably compact 11-inch cube cabinet. This configuration cleverly cancels out unwanted vibrations, allowing for flexible placement options that aren't possible with traditional subwoofers. While it shares the same 800W amplifier platform as the SB-3000, the 3000 Micro's engineering focuses on maximizing performance in space-constrained environments. Its frequency response extends down to 23Hz, which, while not matching the SB-3000's depths, still provides impressive bass for most music and movie content in small to medium rooms.
Where the 3000 Micro really shines is in its versatility and installation flexibility. Its compact size and reduced vibration transfer make it ideal for apartments, small rooms, or situations where a traditional subwoofer simply won't fit. It can be placed in cabinets, on shelves, or tucked into corners without the typical placement compromises of larger subwoofers. While it commands a premium price for its size and can't match the raw output capabilities of the SB-3000, it delivers remarkable performance that will satisfy most listeners who prioritize space efficiency over maximum output. The choice between the two models ultimately depends on room size, placement flexibility needs, and whether the trade-off in ultimate performance is worth the significant space savings.
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The SVS SB-2000 Pro offers an impressive 90% of the SB-3000's performance for about 80% of the price, making it an excellent value proposition for many users. With its 12-inch driver and 550 watts RMS amplifier, it delivers remarkably clean, detailed bass that easily fills smaller to medium-sized rooms up to 2,000 cubic feet. The more compact cabinet and lighter weight (38.6 lbs) make it easier to position in space-constrained environments, while still maintaining the same sophisticated app control and DSP features as its bigger brother.
For those with typical-sized living rooms or primarily focused on music listening, the SB-2000 Pro represents the sweet spot in SVS's lineup. While it can't quite match the SB-3000's ultimate output capability or maintain the same composure during the most demanding movie scenes, the real-world performance difference in smaller spaces is less significant than the price gap might suggest. The SB-2000 Pro's tighter, more musical bass response makes it particularly appealing for those who prioritize music over maximum home theater impact, especially when cost is a consideration.
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The SB-1000 Pro ($499-$599) stands out as an impressive value proposition in SVS's lineup, offering many of the same advanced features as its larger sibling, including the sophisticated DSP control system and smartphone app integration. Despite its more modest 12-inch driver and 325-watt RMS amplifier, it delivers remarkably clean and authoritative bass that belies its compact size and entry-level price point. In smaller rooms under 2,000 cubic feet, many listeners might not even notice the output capability difference in real-world listening situations.
Where the SB-1000 Pro really shines is in its ability to deliver 90% of the sound quality and features of the SB-3000 at roughly half the price. While it can't quite match the extreme low-end extension or effortless headroom of its bigger brother, its sealed design provides tight, musical bass that works equally well for both music and movies. For those with space constraints or more modest power requirements, the SB-1000 Pro represents an excellent balance of performance and value that's hard to beat in its price range, especially considering its advanced feature set and build quality.
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The SVS PB-1000 Pro ($799) takes a different approach to delivering deep bass, using a ported design that helps it achieve impressive low-frequency output despite its lower power rating. While it doesn't match the SB-3000's refinement for music, it actually delivers more impact for movie effects and gaming, particularly in larger rooms. The PB-1000 Pro's ability to play down to 17Hz in ported mode means you'll feel every explosion and rumble, though you'll need to be more mindful of placement due to its larger cabinet size and port requirements.
For those prioritizing home theater performance and maximum output per dollar, the PB-1000 Pro represents an excellent value proposition. It delivers about 80% of the SB-3000's overall performance at roughly 70% of the cost, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious enthusiasts. While it lacks some of the premium features like advanced DSP controls and higher power handling, these differences mainly matter for critical music listening or in very large spaces. For most home theater applications, the PB-1000 Pro's performance is more than sufficient, and its ported design actually gives it an advantage when it comes to high-output movie soundtracks.
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The SVS PB17-Ultra R|Evolution represents SVS's ultimate expression of subwoofer technology, featuring a massive 17-inch driver and 2,800-watt amplifier that dwarf the SB-3000's specifications. Released in late 2024, it introduces several groundbreaking features, including a dual 8-inch voice coil design and advanced 295MHz DSP processing, enabling it to reach a sub-sonic 12Hz while maintaining exceptional control. The ported design and significantly larger cabinet allow it to produce bass you can physically feel, with output capabilities that exceed 137dB - a level that transforms movie watching into a truly cinematic experience.
While the PB17-Ultra R|Evolution comes at a premium price point of $2,999, it delivers performance that justifies the investment for dedicated home theater enthusiasts and those with larger rooms. The ability to tune its response through different port configurations offers flexibility not found in the SB-3000, and its massive headroom means it never struggles with demanding content. However, its considerable size (165 pounds and nearly 30 inches deep) and power make it best suited for dedicated spaces rather than typical living rooms. For those seeking the absolute pinnacle of home theater bass performance and have the space to accommodate it, the PB17-Ultra represents the current state of the art in consumer subwoofers.
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The Polk Audio React Subwoofer ($179) takes a significantly different approach, focusing on simplicity and wireless integration specifically for Polk's React soundbar system. With its 7-inch driver and down-firing port design, it provides a noticeable bass enhancement for everyday TV and movie watching, though it can't approach the depth and impact of the SVS. The wireless-only connectivity eliminates cable clutter, and the two-button pairing process makes setup virtually foolproof, appealing to users who prioritize convenience over maximum performance.
While the Polk React can't match the SVS's reference-grade output or extensive control options, it serves its intended purpose well as an affordable soundbar enhancement. For basic home theater use in small to medium rooms, particularly when paired with the Polk React soundbar, it delivers satisfying bass performance that significantly improves upon TV speakers or a standalone soundbar. The price point makes it an accessible upgrade for casual users who want better bass without the complexity or cost of a premium subwoofer, though enthusiasts will notice its limitations in terms of depth, power, and adjustment capabilities.
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The SVS SB-1000 Pro offers remarkable value at $599, delivering much of the SB-3000's DNA in a more compact and affordable package. Built around a 12-inch composite fiber driver and 325-watt Sledge amplifier, it maintains SVS's high standards for performance while making necessary compromises to hit a lower price point. Most importantly, it features the same sophisticated DSP platform and smartphone app control as its bigger sibling, allowing precise tuning and room optimization that was previously unavailable at this price point.
For rooms under 2,000 cubic feet, the SVS SB-1000 Pro provides enough output and extension (down to 20Hz) to satisfy most users' needs. While it can't match the SB-3000's extreme low-frequency capability or maximum output, the differences become less noticeable in smaller spaces where the extra headroom isn't necessary. The SB-1000 Pro's more compact cabinet (13.5" x 13" x 14.76") also makes it easier to integrate into tight spaces, and its lighter 26-pound weight simplifies installation. For many users, especially those primarily focused on music or mixed-use applications in smaller rooms, the SB-1000 Pro represents the sweet spot of performance and value in SVS's lineup.
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For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Klipsch Flexus SUB 100 ($239) offers impressive value with some notable conveniences. Its wireless connectivity provides excellent placement flexibility, and the compact 10-inch design fits easily into smaller spaces where the SVS might be overwhelming. While its 80-watt amplifier and paper cone driver can't match the SVS's raw power and precision, it still delivers satisfying bass response down to 26Hz, which is perfectly adequate for most music and movie content in small to medium-sized rooms. The ability to pair two units wirelessly is particularly appealing for those wanting to experiment with dual subwoofer setups without complex wiring.
However, the Flexus SUB 100 makes some clear compromises to achieve its attractive price point. The simpler DSP and control options mean less ability to fine-tune the sound to your room, and the smaller driver and lower power rating limit its ultimate output capability and dynamic range. While these limitations won't matter in many typical living room setups, they become more apparent during demanding passages or in larger spaces where the subwoofer needs to move more air. Still, at less than a quarter of the SVS's price, it represents excellent value for users who want to enhance their system's bass response without investing in a premium solution.
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The $206 Klipsch WA-3 Wireless Subwoofer Kit serves a distinctly different purpose as a wireless connectivity solution for compatible Klipsch subwoofers. Its standout feature is the ability to eliminate unsightly cables while maintaining signal quality, with an impressive 50-foot wireless range and support for up to three subwoofers simultaneously. For Klipsch subwoofer owners dealing with challenging room layouts or installation constraints, this kit provides a elegant solution that doesn't compromise audio performance, using advanced 2.4GHz wireless technology with automatic channel selection to prevent interference.
While the WA-3 doesn't compete directly with the SB-3000's performance capabilities, it offers compelling value for its intended purpose. The WA-3 shines in multi-subwoofer setups, where running multiple cables would be particularly challenging or unsightly. However, its functionality is limited to the Klipsch C-Series ecosystem, and it doesn't offer any sound enhancement features or control options beyond its wireless transmission capability. For those specifically needing wireless subwoofer connectivity within the Klipsch family, it's a cost-effective solution that solves a common installation challenge without introducing audio quality compromises.
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