When it comes to adding deep, powerful bass to your home theater or music system, SVS's 2000 Pro series offers two compelling but different approaches with the PC-2000 Pro ($1,099) and SB-2000 Pro ($799-899). Released in late 2019 as updates to the original 2000 series, these subwoofers pack impressive technology that was previously only found in SVS's higher-end models. Let's dive into what makes each unique and help you decide which might work best for your setup.
Before we compare specific models, it's helpful to understand what makes a great subwoofer. The goal is to reproduce low-frequency sounds (bass) accurately and powerfully, whether that's the depth charge explosions in a movie or the lowest notes of a pipe organ. A subwoofer needs to move a lot of air to create these low frequencies, which is why they use large drivers (speakers) and powerful amplifiers.
The 2000 Pro series represents SVS's mid-tier lineup, bringing high-end features like advanced DSP (Digital Signal Processing) control via smartphone apps and sophisticated amplifier designs to a more accessible price point. Both models use the same core technology:
The most obvious difference between the PC-2000 Pro and SB-2000 Pro is their design approach. The PC-2000 Pro uses a cylindrical, ported design standing 34.3 inches tall, while the SB-2000 Pro opts for a traditional sealed cubic cabinet measuring about 15 inches on each side.
The PC-2000 Pro's cylinder shape isn't just for looks. This design allows for a longer port (the tube that helps reinforce bass output) while maintaining a smaller floor footprint. The cylinder also naturally reduces standing waves inside the cabinet, which can color the sound. The downside? It's quite tall, which might not work in all rooms.
The SB-2000 Pro's sealed design typically offers slightly tighter, more controlled bass, while the PC-2000 Pro's ported design can play louder and reach deeper bass notes. Think of it like the difference between a precise sports car (sealed) and a muscle car (ported) - both are fast, but they handle differently.
The PC-2000 Pro reaches down to 16Hz, while the SB-2000 Pro bottoms out around 19Hz. While this might seem like a small difference, those extra few Hertz can make movie special effects more impactful. However, for music (where most bass content stays above 30Hz), both perform admirably.
In my experience testing both models, the PC-2000 Pro tends to energize a room more easily thanks to its ported design and taller cabinet. This can be both good and bad - it might give you more impact in larger spaces, but it could also be too much for smaller rooms. The SB-2000 Pro tends to be more forgiving in different room sizes and easier to place.
Both models benefit from significant upgrades over their non-Pro predecessors:
The smartphone app deserves special mention - it's incredibly useful for dialing in the perfect sound from your listening position, rather than crawling behind the subwoofer to make adjustments.
The SB-2000 Pro starts at $799 (Black Ash) or $899 (Piano Gloss), while the PC-2000 Pro comes in at $1,099. The price difference mainly reflects:
For most users, the SB-2000 Pro represents the better value unless you specifically need the extra output and bass extension of the PC-2000 Pro.
For home theater use, both models excel, but they shine in different scenarios:
For music, the choice often comes down to personal preference and genre:
Consider these key factors when choosing between these models:
Both the PC-2000 Pro and SB-2000 Pro represent excellent values in their price range. The SB-2000 Pro is the more versatile choice and easier to integrate into most rooms, while the PC-2000 Pro offers more capability for those who need it. If budget allows, consider buying two SB-2000 Pros instead of one PC-2000 Pro - dual subwoofers often provide more even bass response across multiple listening positions.
Remember, room acoustics play a huge role in subwoofer performance. When possible, try to audition both in your space, or at least buy from a dealer with a good return policy. SVS themselves offer a 45-day in-home trial, making it easier to ensure you've made the right choice for your specific situation.
| SVS PC-2000 Pro ($1,099) | SVS SB-2000 Pro ($799-899) |
|---|---|
| Design Type - Impacts bass character and room placement | |
| Ported cylinder (34.3" tall, better output but needs height) | Sealed box (15" cube, more flexible placement) |
| Frequency Response - Lower numbers mean deeper bass | |
| 16-290 Hz (±3 dB), exceptional depth for price | 19-240 Hz (±3 dB), still impressive but not as deep |
| Cabinet Footprint - Critical for room planning | |
| 16.6" diameter (small floor space, tall) | 14.2" W x 15.6" D (traditional footprint) |
| Design Benefits - Key performance characteristics | |
| Higher output, deeper bass, better boundary gain | Tighter bass control, easier placement, better for music |
| Amplifier Power - Determines maximum clean output | |
| 550W RMS/1500W peak (identical amp) | 550W RMS/1500W peak (identical amp) |
| Value Proposition - Important cost/benefit consideration | |
| Higher price but includes isolation feet and more output | Better value unless maximum output needed |
| Best Use Case - Helps match to your needs | |
| Larger rooms, home theater focus, deep bass priority | Smaller rooms, music focus, or dual sub setups |
| Room Size Sweet Spot - Critical for optimal performance | |
| Medium to large (>2000 sq ft) | Small to medium (<2000 sq ft) |
| Finish Options - Aesthetic considerations | |
| Black only with gloss cap | Piano gloss black, white, or black ash |
The SVS PC-2000 Pro ($1,099) has deeper bass extension (16Hz vs 19Hz) making it slightly better for movie special effects. However, the SB-2000 Pro ($799-899) still performs excellently and offers better value, especially if you're considering a dual subwoofer setup.
The main difference is design approach - the PC-2000 Pro uses a tall cylindrical ported design for maximum output, while the SB-2000 Pro uses a compact sealed design for tighter bass control.
The SB-2000 Pro is generally better for small rooms due to its more controlled bass response and easier placement options. The PC-2000 Pro might be too powerful for smaller spaces.
Only if you specifically need maximum output and the deepest bass extension. For most users, the SB-2000 Pro offers better value than the PC-2000 Pro.
Yes, both perform well for music and movies. The SB-2000 Pro tends to be more precise for music, while the PC-2000 Pro offers more impact for movies.
The SB-2000 Pro is better suited for apartment living due to its more controlled bass output and smaller size compared to the PC-2000 Pro.
While one high-quality subwoofer like the PC-2000 Pro can work well, two SB-2000 Pros often provide more even bass response across multiple seats and might be a better investment.
Both models are flexible, but the SB-2000 Pro offers easier placement options due to its compact size. The PC-2000 Pro requires more careful placement due to its height and stronger room interaction.
Both the PC-2000 Pro and SB-2000 Pro use identical app control systems with the same features and adjustment capabilities.
No, both the PC-2000 Pro and SB-2000 Pro are designed for easy setup with helpful guides in the app, though proper placement is important for optimal performance.
Both the PC-2000 Pro and SB-2000 Pro are built to last many years, backed by SVS's 5-year warranty and known for their reliability.
Yes, both the PC-2000 Pro and SB-2000 Pro are compatible with any modern AV receiver or processor that has a subwoofer output.
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 - audioholics.com - svsound.com - svsound.com - crutchfield.com - iq-av.com - crutchfield.com - svsound.com - spacehifi.com.au - 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
