When it comes to adding deep, impactful bass to your home audio system, the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1200SW ($999) and SVS PB-2000 Pro ($739) are two of the most compelling options available. Let's dive into what makes each unique and help you decide which one belongs in your setup.
Today's powered subwoofers are sophisticated devices that handle the lowest frequencies in your audio system - typically anything below 80 Hz, where regular speakers start to struggle. They combine powerful amplifiers, specialized drivers (the actual speaker part), and carefully designed cabinets to reproduce everything from the deepest movie explosions to the subtle throb of a bass guitar.
Both of our contenders were released in the last few years, with the Klipsch RP-1200SW launching in 2021 and the SVS PB-2000 Pro debuting in 2020. They represent the latest thinking in subwoofer design, incorporating advanced materials and digital processing that simply wasn't available a decade ago.
These subwoofers take notably different approaches to delivering bass, which directly impacts their performance characteristics.
The Klipsch RP-1200SW uses a front-firing design with their proprietary Cerametallic woofer - a lightweight but extremely rigid copper-colored cone that helps prevent distortion. Its cabinet features a front slot port (think of it as a carefully tuned vent) that helps extend the bass while controlling airflow. The whole package is wrapped in an attractive ebony vinyl finish that looks surprisingly upscale.
The SVS PB-2000 Pro takes a more muscular approach with its high-excursion driver (meaning it can move farther in and out) and dual front-firing ports. The cabinet is larger and more utilitarian in appearance, but that extra size serves a purpose in helping generate deeper bass notes.
The frequency response numbers tell an interesting story:
While these might look similar at first glance, the SVS typically delivers more usable output at those lowest frequencies. Think of it like this: both subwoofers can technically hit those super-low notes, but the SVS can play them louder while maintaining clarity.
The power ratings reveal another key difference:
Raw power isn't everything, but the SVS's additional headroom means it can handle sudden bass peaks (like explosions in movies) with more authority. It's like having a more powerful engine - you might not need it all the time, but it's nice to have when you do.
In actual use, these differences manifest in interesting ways. The Klipsch RP-1200SW excels with music, delivering tight, controlled bass that works beautifully for everything from classical to rock. Bass notes are precise and musical, never overwhelming the rest of the system.
The SVS PB-2000 Pro is a home theater powerhouse. When a movie soundtrack calls for deep, room-shaking bass, it delivers with authority. It's equally capable with music, though some might find its presentation slightly less "tight" than the Klipsch.
Here's where we see a significant technology gap between the two. The Klipsch offers traditional manual controls for volume, crossover, and phase. It's straightforward and gets the job done.
The SVS, however, brings modern tech to bear with its smartphone app control. You can adjust virtually every aspect of the subwoofer's performance from your phone, including:
This makes it much easier to dial in perfect performance for your specific room and preferences.
Surprisingly, the more powerful SVS is actually less expensive. At $739, the SVS PB-2000 Pro represents exceptional value, especially given its feature set and performance capabilities.
The Klipsch RP-1200SW at $999 is still competitive, particularly if you prioritize musical performance and aesthetic integration. Its premium finish and slightly smaller footprint might justify the higher price for some users.
Consider these factors when deciding:
Both manufacturers have strong reputations for reliability. Klipsch offers a 5-year warranty, while SVS provides a 5-year warranty with their celebrated customer service.
The SVS's app-based control system receives regular updates, adding features and refinements over time. The Klipsch's simpler design means there's less to go wrong, but also no opportunity for improvements via software updates.
The SVS PB-2000 Pro is the overall winner in terms of pure performance and value. Its combination of power, deep bass extension, and sophisticated control options make it hard to beat, especially at its price point.
However, the Klipsch RP-1200SW remains a compelling choice for those who prioritize musical performance and aesthetic integration. Its more compact size and premium finish might be exactly what some systems need.
My personal preference? For a dedicated home theater room, I'd choose the SVS without hesitation. For a living room system that's primarily for music, the Klipsch would be my pick. Both represent significant improvements over previous generations of subwoofers, delivering the kind of performance that was only available at much higher price points just a few years ago.
Remember, the best subwoofer is the one that fits your specific needs, space, and budget. Either of these excellent options could be the perfect choice, depending on your particular situation.
| Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1200SW $999 | SVS PB-2000 Pro $739 |
|---|---|
| Amplifier Power - Higher power allows for more headroom and cleaner bass at high volumes | |
| 400W RMS / 800W Peak | 550W RMS / 1500W Peak (noticeably more powerful) |
| Frequency Response - Determines how deep the bass can go and how high it can blend with main speakers | |
| 16.5Hz - 138Hz | 16Hz - 290Hz (more flexible for system integration) |
| Driver Design - Affects sound quality and output capability | |
| 12" Cerametallic (optimized for musical accuracy) | 12" High-excursion SVS (designed for maximum output) |
| Cabinet Design - Impacts bass character and room placement options | |
| Front-firing slot port, smaller cabinet (better for tight spaces) | Dual front ports, larger cabinet (better for raw output) |
| Control Options - Affects ease of setup and fine-tuning | |
| Basic manual controls | Sophisticated app control with DSP and presets (much more adjustable) |
| Size (HxWxD) - Consider your available space | |
| 18.89" x 17.00" x 25.92" | 20.9" x 17.3" x 23.6" (slightly larger footprint) |
| Primary Strength - What each does best | |
| Superior musical accuracy and aesthetic finish | Deeper, more powerful bass and better value for home theater |
| Warranty - Important for long-term ownership | |
| 5 years | 5 years with renowned customer service |
The SVS PB-2000 Pro ($739) is generally better for home theater use due to its higher power output, deeper bass extension, and superior DSP controls. While the Klipsch RP-1200SW is capable, the SVS delivers more impactful performance for movies.
The SVS PB-2000 Pro has more power with 550W RMS/1500W peak compared to the Klipsch RP-1200SW's 400W RMS/800W peak. This extra power helps with dynamic movie soundtracks.
The Klipsch RP-1200SW ($999) typically performs better with music, offering tighter bass control and more accurate musical reproduction. The SVS is still good with music but optimized more for home theater impact.
The Klipsch RP-1200SW has simpler manual controls, making it easier for basic setup. The SVS PB-2000 Pro offers more sophisticated app-based controls that provide better fine-tuning but require more learning.
The Klipsch RP-1200SW is better suited for smaller rooms due to its more compact cabinet size and front-slot port design. The SVS PB-2000 Pro may be too powerful for very small spaces.
Yes, the SVS PB-2000 Pro offers exceptional value at $739, especially considering its power, features, and performance. It's actually less expensive than the Klipsch RP-1200SW while offering more features.
Both the Klipsch RP-1200SW and SVS PB-2000 Pro offer 5-year warranties, but SVS is known for superior customer service and support.
The Klipsch RP-1200SW has an optional wireless adapter (WA-2) available. The SVS PB-2000 Pro requires a wired connection but offers more connection options.
The SVS PB-2000 Pro has slightly deeper bass extension to 16Hz compared to the Klipsch's 16.5Hz, but more importantly, it maintains higher output levels at these low frequencies.
The Klipsch RP-1200SW has a more premium appearance with its ebony vinyl finish and spun copper woofer. The SVS PB-2000 Pro has a more utilitarian design focused on performance.
No, both the Klipsch RP-1200SW and SVS PB-2000 Pro work with any receiver that has a subwoofer output (also called LFE output), which includes most modern AV receivers.
The SVS PB-2000 Pro is superior for action movies due to its higher power handling, deeper bass extension, and ability to maintain clean output at high volumes. The Klipsch RP-1200SW is capable but not as powerful for explosive movie effects.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses 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: audioadvisor.com - safeandsoundhq.com - listenup.com - youtube.com - listenup.com - klipsch.ca - cinebels.com - abt.com - nfm.com - adorama.com - forums.audioholics.com - avsforum.com - avnirvana.com - dreamediaav.com - audioholics.com - spacehifi.com.au - hometheaterreview.com - audiosciencereview.com - content.abt.com - avsforum.com - youtube.com - svsound.com - crutchfield.com
