When setting up a home theater or audio system, getting great bass often comes down to both the subwoofer's performance and where you can place it. Today we're looking at two different approaches to solving subwoofer integration challenges: the Klipsch WA-3 Wireless Subwoofer Kit ($206) and the SVS PC-2000 Pro Cylinder Subwoofer ($972).
Home theater enthusiasts face a common dilemma: how to get deep, impactful bass while dealing with real-world room constraints and aesthetics. The traditional approach requires running cables across floors or through walls, which can be both costly and visually disruptive. These two products offer different solutions to this challenge.
The WA-3 focuses on adding wireless capability to existing Klipsch subwoofers, while the PC-2000 Pro represents a complete high-performance subwoofer solution with its own unique design approach to room integration.
The WA-3, released in 2021, uses the 2.4GHz frequency band - the same used by WiFi networks - but employs advanced channel selection to avoid interference. The system automatically finds the clearest channel, which is particularly important in today's wireless-saturated homes. The 50-foot range seems conservative; users report reliable performance at greater distances in real-world conditions.
What's particularly impressive is the system's ability to handle multiple subwoofers - up to three can be connected to a single transmitter. This feature becomes especially valuable when implementing more advanced home theater setups where multiple subwoofers help achieve more even bass distribution throughout the room.
The PC-2000 Pro, an update to the original PC-2000 from 2016, brings several significant technological advances. The Sledge STA-550D amplifier (delivering 550 watts RMS and over 1,500 watts peak) combines Class D efficiency with discrete MOSFET output devices. In plain English, this means it can produce massive power while remaining energy efficient and maintaining precise control.
The 50MHz Digital Signal Processor (DSP) represents a major upgrade from earlier models, allowing for incredibly precise frequency control and room correction. The smartphone app interface, which wasn't available on the original model, provides unprecedented control over various parameters including a 3-band parametric equalizer (which lets you adjust specific frequency ranges to compensate for room acoustics).
The WA-3's wireless implementation is particularly impressive in how it maintains signal quality. Users report no audible difference between wired and wireless operation - a significant achievement given how demanding subwoofer signals can be. The system's low latency means there's no noticeable delay between the main speakers and the subwoofer, which is crucial for maintaining accurate sound.
The PC-2000 Pro's performance is where it really shines. The frequency response of 16-290 Hz (±3 dB) isn't just marketing - independent measurements confirm its ability to produce clean, powerful bass down to 16 Hz. To put this in perspective, that's deep enough to reproduce the lowest notes in pipe organ music or the deepest special effects in action movies.
The cylinder design, while unusual, serves an acoustic purpose. The uniform internal air pressure helps reduce distortion, and the down-firing port arrangement makes placement easier as it's less sensitive to boundary effects (how close it is to walls).
The WA-3 at $206 represents excellent value if you already own a compatible Klipsch subwoofer. The cost of professional cable installation alone often exceeds this price, making it an economical solution for clean installation.
The PC-2000 Pro at $972 might seem expensive in isolation, but it competes with subwoofers costing significantly more. Its performance capabilities, build quality, and feature set make it a strong value in the high-performance subwoofer market.
The WA-3's flexibility shines in multi-subwoofer setups. Being able to connect three subwoofers wirelessly opens up possibilities for sophisticated bass management without complex wiring. However, the limitation to Klipsch C-series subwoofers is a significant constraint.
The PC-2000 Pro's cylinder design offers unique placement options - it can work in corners, along walls, or even as room decor. The sophisticated DSP and app control allow for precise integration with any speaker system, and the variable port tuning modes let you optimize for either maximum output or deeper extension depending on your preferences.
For home theater applications, both products excel in different ways. The WA-3 solves the practical problem of subwoofer placement in complex theater layouts, especially when running cables would be problematic or impossible.
The PC-2000 Pro delivers the kind of performance that home theater enthusiasts crave. Its ability to handle both massive explosions and subtle low-frequency effects with equal precision makes it particularly well-suited to modern movie soundtracks.
For music, the PC-2000 Pro's precision and control become even more apparent. Its ability to start and stop quickly (what audiophiles call "transient response") makes it excellent for music genres with complex bass lines. The WA-3, while not directly affecting sound quality, allows for optimal subwoofer placement which can significantly improve musical performance.
The decision between these products really comes down to your starting point and objectives:
Choose the WA-3 if:
Choose the PC-2000 Pro if:
Some users might even benefit from combining both approaches - using the PC-2000 Pro as a main subwoofer and adding additional Klipsch subwoofers with the WA-3 for multi-sub optimization.
Both the WA-3 and PC-2000 Pro excel at their intended purposes. The WA-3 solves a specific problem - wireless subwoofer connectivity - with elegant simplicity, while the PC-2000 Pro delivers reference-grade bass performance with sophisticated control options. Understanding your specific needs, existing equipment, and future plans will guide you to the right choice between these two distinct approaches to better bass.
| Klipsch WA-3 Wireless Kit ($206) | SVS PC-2000 Pro Cylinder ($972) |
|---|---|
| Product Type - Determines core functionality | |
| Wireless adapter for existing subwoofers | Complete powered subwoofer system |
| Primary Use Case - Helps identify best fit for needs | |
| Adding wireless capability to Klipsch subs | High-performance bass reproduction |
| Frequency Response - Determines bass depth and range | |
| 15-150 Hz (passes through existing sub's range) | 16-290 Hz (±3 dB) |
| Power Output - Impacts maximum volume and headroom | |
| N/A (uses existing sub's amp) | 550W RMS, 1500W+ peak |
| Connectivity - Affects setup flexibility | |
| Wireless 2.4GHz, up to 3 subs | RCA line/LFE inputs, balanced XLR |
| Signal Range - Important for room placement | |
| 50 feet wireless range | Direct connection required |
| Control Options - Affects fine-tuning ability | |
| Basic volume matching | App control, 3-band PEQ, variable tuning modes |
| Compatibility - Limits or expands usage options | |
| Klipsch C-Series subs only | Universal compatibility |
| Size Considerations - Impacts room placement | |
| Small wireless receiver unit | 16.6" x 16.6" x 34" cylinder |
| Special Features - Adds value beyond basic function | |
| Multi-sub wireless support, auto-channel selection | DSP processing, smartphone app, isolation feet |
| Installation Complexity - Affects setup time and cost | |
| Plug-and-play wireless setup | Standard subwoofer installation |
| Long-term Value - Important for investment planning | |
| Adds flexibility to existing investment | Complete high-performance solution |
The SVS PC-2000 Pro ($972) is better for pure home theater performance with its powerful 550W amplifier and deep bass extension to 16Hz. The Klipsch WA-3 ($206) is only a wireless adapter that adds convenience to existing Klipsch subwoofers.
The WA-3 is a wireless adapter that connects compatible Klipsch subwoofers, while the PC-2000 Pro is a complete powered subwoofer. They serve different purposes - one adds wireless capability, the other provides actual bass performance.
No, the WA-3 only works with Klipsch C-Series subwoofers and cannot be used with the PC-2000 Pro. They are separate solutions for different needs.
The SVS PC-2000 Pro delivers superior bass performance with its dedicated 12-inch driver and powerful amplifier. The WA-3 doesn't affect bass performance as it's only a wireless connection device.
The Klipsch WA-3 costs $206, while the SVS PC-2000 Pro is $972. However, they serve different purposes, so comparing prices directly isn't meaningful.
The WA-3 is simpler to set up with plug-and-play wireless connectivity. The PC-2000 Pro requires traditional subwoofer setup including placement and cable connections.
The WA-3 requires a compatible Klipsch C-Series subwoofer to function. The PC-2000 Pro works with any home theater receiver or amplifier with a subwoofer output.
Only the WA-3 offers wireless functionality with a 50-foot range. The PC-2000 Pro requires a physical connection to your receiver.
The WA-3 can support up to three subwoofers wirelessly, making multi-room setups possible. The PC-2000 Pro is designed for single-room use unless multiple units are purchased.
The PC-2000 Pro typically offers better long-term value as a complete high-performance subwoofer. The WA-3 is valuable only if you already own compatible Klipsch subwoofers.
The PC-2000 Pro offers more control options with its smartphone app, DSP processing, and variable tuning modes. The WA-3 only provides basic wireless connectivity without additional controls.
Neither product requires professional installation, though the PC-2000 Pro might benefit from professional setup for optimal performance. The WA-3 is designed for simple DIY installation.
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: klipsch.com - allthissound.com - snapav.com - audioholics.com - youtube.com - klipsch.com - klipsch.com - homeavdirect.co.uk - audiojunction.com.au - klipsch.com - avsforum.com - svsound.com - audioholics.com - svsound.com - svsound.com - crutchfield.com - iq-av.com - crutchfield.com - svsound.com - spacehifi.com.au
