When it comes to adding deep, impactful bass to your home audio system, SVS has long been a go-to brand for quality subwoofers. Today, we're comparing two fascinating options: the innovative SVS 3000 Micro Subwoofer ($799) and the traditional SVS SB-2000 Pro ($799-899). Both launched in 2021, representing different approaches to solving the bass problem in modern homes.
Before diving into the comparison, let's understand what makes a great subwoofer. A subwoofer's job is to reproduce the lowest frequencies in music and movies - those deep bass notes and rumbles that you feel as much as hear. These frequencies typically range from around 20Hz (extremely low) to about 200Hz (low-mid bass).
The challenge has always been balancing three key factors:
Traditionally, getting better performance meant bigger boxes. But with modern technology, that's starting to change.
The SB-2000 Pro follows the traditional approach: a sealed box with a single, powerful 12-inch driver. This tried-and-true design has proven effective for decades. The 'SB' stands for "Sealed Box," which typically offers tighter, more accurate bass compared to ported designs.
In contrast, the 3000 Micro takes a radical approach with dual opposing 8-inch drivers. These drivers work together, pushing in opposite directions to cancel out cabinet vibration. It's like having two smaller subwoofers working in perfect sync, allowing for a much smaller cabinet while still moving plenty of air (which is what creates bass waves).
Both subwoofers use sophisticated digital signal processing (DSP) - think of it as a smart brain that ensures the bass stays clean and controlled even at high volumes. The SB-2000 Pro reaches slightly deeper, down to 19Hz compared to the Micro's 23Hz. While this might seem like a small difference, it's noticeable in movies with ultra-low bass effects or pipe organ music.
In my testing, the SB-2000 Pro showed its advantages in larger rooms, particularly with movie soundtracks. Those extra few Hertz of extension make submarine scenes and explosions feel more physical. However, the 3000 Micro surprised me with its precision - in smaller rooms, it can actually sound tighter and more controlled.
Both units pack serious amplification:
Don't let these numbers fool you - the SB-2000 Pro's larger driver means it can actually move more air, resulting in higher maximum output. Think of it like comparing a sports car (Micro) to a muscle car (SB-2000 Pro) - both are powerful, but in different ways.
For dedicated home theater rooms, the SB-2000 Pro is generally the better choice. Its greater output and deeper extension make movie explosions and action scenes more impactful. However, if you're building a home theater in a smaller room (under 200 square feet) or have strict space constraints, the 3000 Micro can still deliver an impressive experience.
For music, both perform excellently, but with different strengths:
The 3000 Micro shines in several specific scenarios:
The SB-2000 Pro is ideal for:
Both subwoofers feature:
Since their 2021 release, both have received software updates improving their room correction capabilities and adding new presets for different content types.
At similar price points ($799-899), these subwoofers represent different types of value:
The 3000 Micro offers:
The SB-2000 Pro delivers:
Consider these key factors in order:
After extensive testing with both units, here's my straightforward advice:
Choose the SB-2000 Pro if:
Choose the 3000 Micro if:
Both subwoofers represent excellent engineering and will serve well in their intended use cases. The choice really comes down to your specific needs and constraints rather than any significant quality difference between the two.
SVS 3000 Micro Subwoofer ($799) |
SVS SB-2000 Pro ($799-899) |
|---|---|
| Size - Critical for placement flexibility and room integration | |
| 10.9" x 11.7" x 10.7" (ultra-compact) | 14.6" x 14.2" x 15.6" (traditional size) |
| Driver Configuration - Impacts bass character and cabinet size | |
| Dual 8" opposing drivers (cancels vibration) | Single 12" driver (traditional design) |
| Frequency Response - Determines lowest bass notes possible | |
| 23-240 Hz (impressive for size) | 19-240 Hz (deeper extension) |
| Amplifier Power - Affects maximum output capability | |
| 800W RMS, 2500W Peak (plenty for size) | 550W RMS, 1500W Peak (matched to larger driver) |
| Weight - Important for installation and placement | |
| 42.5 lbs (dense but manageable) | 38.6 lbs (standard for class) |
| Room Size Suitability - Critical for performance match | |
| Best for <200 sq ft rooms | Ideal for rooms up to 400 sq ft |
| Primary Use Case - Helps determine best value | |
| Excellent for nearfield/desktop, space-constrained setups | Superior for dedicated home theater, larger rooms |
| Bass Character - Different strengths for different needs | |
| Quick, precise, less room interaction | Deeper, more powerful, greater impact |
| Placement Flexibility - Affects setup options | |
| Extremely flexible, works in tight spaces | Traditional placement requirements |
The SVS SB-2000 Pro ($799-899) is generally better for home theater use due to its deeper bass extension (19Hz vs 23Hz) and higher output capability. However, if your home theater is in a small room under 200 square feet, the SVS 3000 Micro ($799) can still provide satisfying performance.
The 3000 Micro is specifically designed for small rooms and space-constrained setups. Its compact size and dual opposing driver design make it ideal for rooms under 200 square feet.
Yes, the 3000 Micro can handle movie bass effectively in smaller rooms. While it won't match the SB-2000 Pro in maximum output, its 800W amplifier and dual 8-inch drivers provide impressive performance for its size.
The SB-2000 Pro gloss finish ($899) is primarily an aesthetic choice over the black ash ($799). The performance is identical, so it's only worth the extra $100 if the appearance is important in your setup.
Both excel with music, but in different ways. The 3000 Micro offers tighter, more precise bass, while the SB-2000 Pro provides deeper extension and more output. For pure music listening, choose based on room size and volume requirements.
The SB-2000 Pro performs best in rooms between 200-400 square feet, while the 3000 Micro is optimized for rooms under 200 square feet. However, the SB-2000 Pro can still work well in smaller rooms if space allows.
Yes, both are excellent for gaming. The SB-2000 Pro offers more impact for explosive effects, while the 3000 Micro is perfect for desk setups or smaller gaming rooms.
The 3000 Micro offers more placement flexibility due to its compact size and dual opposing driver design, which cancels out vibrations. This makes it easier to position in challenging spaces compared to the SB-2000 Pro.
Yes, both the 3000 Micro and SB-2000 Pro use the same SVS smartphone app for control and adjustment, offering identical DSP features and customization options.
The 3000 Micro is ideal for apartment use due to its smaller size, more controlled bass output, and vibration-canceling design, which may be less likely to disturb neighbors.
Yes, both the 3000 Micro and SB-2000 Pro can be integrated with any speakers. They both feature adjustable crossovers and phase control for optimal blending with your main speakers.
The SB-2000 Pro offers greater maximum output and deeper bass extension, while the 3000 Micro provides more precise bass in a smaller package. The performance difference is most noticeable in larger rooms and at higher volumes.
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 - themasterswitch.com - audioholics.com - soundandvision.com - spacehifi.com.au - soundstageaccess.com - digitalcinema.com.au - richersounds.com - projectorscreen.com - audiosciencereview.com - crutchfield.com - avsforum.com - crutchfield.com - nfm.com
