If you're diving into the world of high-end subwoofers, you've probably encountered SVS's impressive lineup. Today, we're comparing two popular but very different models: the SVS 3000 Micro ($799) and the SVS PB-2000 Pro ($739). While both deliver impressive bass, they take distinctly different approaches to achieve their goals.
Before diving into the comparison, let's quickly cover what makes a great subwoofer. A subwoofer's job is to reproduce the lowest frequencies in music and movies - those deep bass notes you feel as much as hear. The challenge is doing this accurately and powerfully without distortion or unwanted resonance (that boomy sound nobody wants).
Modern subwoofers use sophisticated digital signal processing (DSP) to control their output and match their performance to your room. Think of DSP as a super-smart brain that helps the subwoofer perform at its best in any situation.
The 3000 Micro and PB-2000 Pro represent two different philosophies in subwoofer design. Released in 2021, the 3000 Micro showcases SVS's latest technology in creating powerful bass from an incredibly small enclosure. It uses two opposing 8-inch drivers (think speakers designed specifically for bass) that cancel out cabinet vibrations - clever engineering that helps this tiny cube punch way above its weight.
The PB-2000 Pro, launched in 2019, takes the traditional approach: a larger cabinet with a single, more powerful 12-inch driver. The "PB" stands for ported box, meaning it uses carefully tuned ports (holes) to enhance low-frequency output. This design typically allows for deeper bass and higher output levels, but requires more space.
Despite its compact size, the 3000 Micro delivers impressive performance down to 23Hz - that's low enough for most music and many movie effects. In my experience testing it, what's most impressive is how "clean" it sounds. The dual opposing driver design really works - you get tight, precise bass without the cabinet vibration that often plagues smaller subwoofers.
The 800-watt amplifier provides plenty of power for small to medium-sized rooms. I've found it particularly excellent for music, where its quick, accurate response shines. It's also a fantastic choice for near-field listening (when you're sitting close to your speakers, like at a desk).
The PB-2000 Pro takes a different approach, reaching down to 16Hz - that's getting into "feel the earthquake in movies" territory. While its 550-watt amplifier might seem less powerful on paper, the larger driver and ported design mean it can move more air, creating those really deep bass notes that you feel in your chest.
In home theater use, this extra depth makes a noticeable difference in movies with intense low-frequency effects. Think of scenes with explosions, spacecraft, or natural disasters - the PB-2000 Pro reproduces these with authority that the 3000 Micro can't quite match.
This is often the deciding factor between these two models. The 3000 Micro is just under 11 inches in each dimension - it's genuinely tiny for a subwoofer. You can place it almost anywhere: behind a couch, next to a desk, or even mounted on a wall with optional brackets. This flexibility is game-changing for many users.
The PB-2000 Pro needs dedicated floor space - at about 21x17x24 inches, it's more like a small piece of furniture. However, this size allows it to move more air, which is crucial for filling larger rooms with deep bass.
Both subwoofers share some impressive technology:
The 3000 Micro includes some newer refinements, being a more recent design, particularly in its driver control and cabinet vibration management. However, the PB-2000 Pro's more traditional design has been refined over many iterations and represents a mature, proven approach.
Here's where things get interesting. The 3000 Micro costs more than the PB-2000 Pro, despite having less raw output capability. What you're paying for is the engineering that makes such impressive performance possible from such a small enclosure. If space is at a premium, this premium is easily justified.
The PB-2000 Pro offers more pure performance per dollar - if you have the space for it, you're getting deeper bass and higher output capability for less money. It's an excellent value in the traditional subwoofer category.
Consider these key factors:
Both these subwoofers excel at what they're designed to do. The 3000 Micro represents the cutting edge of compact subwoofer design, offering impressive performance from an incredibly small package. The PB-2000 Pro delivers the traditional subwoofer advantages of deep bass and high output capability at an attractive price point.
For my personal setup, I actually use the 3000 Micro in my office system where space is tight and mostly listen to music. In my living room home theater, I opted for the PB-2000 Pro for its superior movie performance and ability to fill the larger space.
Remember, the "best" choice depends entirely on your specific needs. Consider your space, primary use case, and budget - then choose accordingly. Either way, you'll be getting a highly capable subwoofer from one of the most respected names in the business.
SVS 3000 Micro ($799) |
SVS PB-2000 Pro ($739) |
|---|---|
| Size (HxWxD) - Critical for placement flexibility and room integration | |
| 10.9" x 11.7" x 10.7" (ultra-compact) | 20.9" x 17.3" x 23.6" (traditional large box) |
| Frequency Response - Determines how low the bass can go, crucial for movies | |
| 23-240 Hz (great for music, adequate for movies) | 16-290 Hz (exceptional for both music and movies) |
| Amplifier Power - Affects maximum volume and dynamic capability | |
| 800W RMS, 2500W Peak (impressive for size) | 550W RMS, 1500W Peak (plenty for most uses) |
| Driver Configuration - Impacts sound character and placement options | |
| Dual 8" opposing drivers (reduces vibration) | Single 12" driver (maximum air movement) |
| Cabinet Design - Affects bass character and room interaction | |
| Sealed (tighter, more controlled bass) | Ported (deeper extension, higher output) |
| Room Size Suitability - Critical for matching to your space | |
| Small to medium rooms, near-field listening | Medium to large rooms, home theater |
| Primary Use Case Strength - Helps match to your needs | |
| Music and space-constrained setups | Home theater and maximum bass impact |
| App Control Features - Affects ease of setup and adjustments | |
| Full DSP control, 3 presets, parametric EQ | Same features, slightly older interface |
The PB-2000 Pro ($739) is generally better for home theater use due to its deeper bass extension (down to 16Hz) and higher output capability. However, if space is extremely limited, the 3000 Micro ($799) can still provide satisfying home theater performance in small to medium rooms.
The biggest difference is size and design approach. The 3000 Micro is an ultra-compact sealed design with dual 8" drivers, while the PB-2000 Pro is a traditional large ported subwoofer with a single 12" driver.
While the 3000 Micro is impressively powerful for its size, it's best suited for small to medium rooms. For larger spaces over 300 square feet, the PB-2000 Pro would be a better choice.
Yes, the PB-2000 Pro offers exceptional value at $739, delivering performance that competes with much more expensive subwoofers. It's particularly worth it for home theater enthusiasts who want deep, powerful bass.
The 3000 Micro often edges out for pure music listening due to its tight, precise bass response and sealed design. However, the PB-2000 Pro is also excellent for music, especially genres with very deep bass content.
No, both the 3000 Micro and PB-2000 Pro work with any modern AV receiver or processor that has a subwoofer output (also called LFE output).
Yes, both models can connect directly to powered speakers or pre-amps using their line-level inputs, making them versatile for various setups beyond traditional home theater.
The 3000 Micro is ideal for apartment living due to its compact size and sealed design, which typically provides better control over bass output to avoid disturbing neighbors.
Yes, both the 3000 Micro and PB-2000 Pro support the SVS smartphone app for easy adjustment of settings, though the 3000 Micro has a slightly newer interface.
Yes, both models can be used in dual configurations for more even bass response across the room. However, the 3000 Micro is often chosen for dual setups due to its smaller size.
Both the 3000 Micro and PB-2000 Pro come with SVS's excellent 5-year unconditional warranty and 45-day in-home trial period.
The 3000 Micro at $799 is more expensive than the PB-2000 Pro at $739, but the price premium is justified if you need its compact size and placement flexibility. If space isn't a constraint, the PB-2000 Pro offers more performance per dollar.
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 - avnirvana.com - dreamediaav.com - audioholics.com - spacehifi.com.au - hometheaterreview.com - audiosciencereview.com - content.abt.com - avsforum.com - youtube.com - svsound.com - crutchfield.com
