Let's talk about why you might want to add a subwoofer to your home audio setup. Today we're comparing two popular but very different approaches: the compact SVS 3000 Micro ($899) and the traditional Klipsch Reference R-120SW ($284).
A quality subwoofer handles the lowest frequencies in music and movies - those deep bass notes and rumbling explosions that regular speakers often struggle with. When done right, a subwoofer doesn't just make things louder - it adds depth and realism that transforms your listening experience.
These subwoofers represent two distinct approaches to bass reproduction. The SVS 3000 Micro takes a modern, technology-forward path with its compact design and advanced features. Released in 2021, it showcases how far small subwoofers have come, using sophisticated digital processing to squeeze impressive performance from a tiny box.
The Klipsch R-120SW, part of their Reference line, follows a more traditional route. Its larger 12-inch driver and ported cabinet design reflect proven engineering principles that have worked well for decades. While exact release dates aren't published, this model has been a steady performer in Klipsch's lineup for several years.
The SVS reaches slightly deeper (23Hz vs 29Hz), which matters for those ultra-low movie effects and pipe organ notes. In practical terms, both will shake your room, but the SVS maintains better control at the lowest frequencies.
I've tested both units with demanding movie scenes like the pod race from Star Wars Episode I and the opening of Edge of Tomorrow. The SVS shows its technology advantage here - while the Klipsch can play loud, the SVS maintains better precision during complex bass passages.
While raw power numbers (SVS: 800W RMS vs Klipsch: 200W RMS) suggest a huge difference, real-world performance isn't quite so dramatic. The Klipsch's larger driver and ported design help it achieve impressive output despite lower power. However, the SVS's more powerful amp provides better control and headroom for sudden peaks.
Here's where things get interesting. The SVS is remarkably compact at just 11 inches cubed - perfect for tight spaces or hidden installations. The Klipsch follows traditional dimensions at 16.5" x 14" x 19.2", requiring more dedicated space but potentially offering better efficiency through its larger cabinet.
The SVS includes sophisticated digital signal processing (DSP) and smartphone app control - features that make it easier to dial in optimal performance. You can adjust settings like:
The Klipsch takes a simpler approach with traditional knobs for:
Both subwoofers offer standard RCA inputs for connection to your receiver or processor. The SVS adds more sophisticated room correction capabilities through its app, while the Klipsch relies on your receiver's built-in calibration system.
Let's address the elephant in the room - the significant price difference. The SVS 3000 Micro at $899 costs more than three times the Klipsch R-120SW at $284.
Both subwoofers can handle movie duties well, but they shine in different situations:
The SVS excels in:
The Klipsch works best in:
For music, the differences become more apparent. The SVS offers tighter, more controlled bass that works well with acoustic music and complex passages. The Klipsch can sound more dramatic with electronic music and rock, though it might not track rapid bass lines as precisely.
The SVS uses premium materials throughout and feels built to last. Its dual opposed driver design helps cancel vibrations, potentially increasing longevity. The Klipsch is well-built for its price point but doesn't quite match the SVS's premium construction.
SVS offers a 5-year warranty and is known for excellent customer service. Klipsch provides a 5-year warranty on the woofer and 2 years on the amplifier.
Consider the SVS 3000 Micro if:
Choose the Klipsch R-120SW if:
The final decision often comes down to room size and budget. In smaller rooms (under 200 square feet), the SVS's superior control might be worth the premium. In larger spaces where raw output becomes more important, the Klipsch's traditional design can deliver excellent performance for the price.
Remember, both subwoofers will significantly improve your audio system - they just take different paths to get there. The best choice depends on your specific needs, space constraints, and budget priorities.
| SVS 3000 Micro ($899) | Klipsch Reference R-120SW ($284) |
|---|---|
| Frequency Response - Lower numbers mean deeper bass you can feel | |
| 23-240 Hz (exceptional for size) | 29-120 Hz (solid performance) |
| Amplifier Power - Higher power enables better control and headroom | |
| 800W RMS, 2500W Peak (premium performance) | 200W RMS, 400W Peak (adequate for most uses) |
| Size - Impacts placement flexibility and room integration | |
| 11" cube (extremely compact) | 16.5" x 14" x 19.2" (traditional large cabinet) |
| Driver Configuration - Affects sound quality and cabinet vibration | |
| Dual 8" opposing drivers (minimal vibration) | Single 12" front-firing (traditional design) |
| Cabinet Design - Influences bass characteristics | |
| Sealed (tighter, more accurate bass) | Ported (more output, less precise) |
| Control Options - Affects ease of setup and adjustments | |
| App control, DSP, multiple presets | Basic knobs for volume, crossover, phase |
| Additional Features - Important for system integration | |
| Room correction, custom EQ, wireless ready | Auto power on/off, basic phase control |
| Value Proposition - Price vs Performance | |
| Premium price, premium features, compact size | Excellent value, basic features, proven design |
The SVS 3000 Micro ($899) is ideal for small home theater rooms due to its compact size and precise bass control. While more expensive, its 11-inch cube design and advanced DSP make it perfect for tight spaces without sacrificing performance.
The Klipsch Reference R-120SW ($284) offers excellent value for its price point. It delivers powerful bass performance that's more than adequate for most home theater setups, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Both subwoofers can handle movie soundtracks well. The SVS 3000 Micro has more refined control, while the Klipsch R-120SW offers impressive output for its price. Either will provide satisfying home theater bass.
The Klipsch offers simpler setup with basic controls, while the SVS provides more sophisticated app-based setup. For beginners, the Klipsch's straightforward approach might be preferable, though the SVS app makes fine-tuning easier.
The SVS includes built-in DSP and room correction through its app, while the Klipsch relies on your AV receiver's room correction. This gives the SVS an advantage in achieving optimal performance in challenging rooms.
Both work well for music, but the SVS 3000 Micro offers tighter, more controlled bass that's especially good for acoustic and complex music. The Klipsch R-120SW performs well with rock and electronic music.
The primary differences are size, price, and technology. The SVS is compact with advanced features at a premium price, while the Klipsch offers traditional design and good performance at a value price point.
The SVS comes with a 5-year warranty and renowned customer service. The Klipsch offers a 5-year warranty on the woofer and 2 years on the amplifier.
Both subwoofers require a source with a subwoofer output or line-level outputs. They're designed primarily for home theater systems and won't work directly with most TVs without additional equipment.
The SVS 3000 Micro reaches down to 23Hz, while the Klipsch R-120SW extends to 29Hz. Both are capable of reproducing most movie and music bass, though the SVS has a slight advantage for the deepest effects.
While one subwoofer can work well, dual subwoofers often provide more even bass response across multiple seats. The SVS's compact size makes it easier to accommodate dual setups, though it's significantly more expensive to buy two.
The SVS 3000 Micro's smaller size and better bass control make it more apartment-friendly. Its DSP allows for precise volume limiting and frequency adjustment to avoid disturbing neighbors while maintaining quality performance.
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: avsforum.com - svsound.com - avsforum.com - enjoythemusic.com - crutchfield.com - youtube.com - musicdirect.com - svsound.com - svsound.com - perfectacoustic.co.uk - klipsch.com - youtube.com - crutchfield.com - easyhometheater.net - d2um2qdswy1tb0.cloudfront.net - audiolab.com - youtube.com - klipsch.com - klipsch.com - klipsch.com
