Choosing Between Modern Powered Subwoofers: A Detailed Comparison

When it comes to adding deep, powerful bass to your home audio system, the SVS SB-1000 Pro ($665) and Klipsch Reference R-120SW ($285) represent two different approaches to the same goal. Let's dive into what makes each unique and help you decide which might be right for your setup.

Understanding Powered Subwoofers

Before we compare these specific models, it's helpful to understand what makes a good subwoofer. A powered subwoofer combines a speaker designed for low frequencies (the woofer) with its own built-in amplifier. This design allows it to produce the deep bass that regular speakers typically can't handle.

The main things that determine a subwoofer's performance are:

• How low it can play (frequency response)
• How loud it can play cleanly (power handling)
• How accurately it reproduces bass (distortion and control)
• How well it can integrate with your other speakers (adjustability)

Design Philosophy and Technology

The SVS SB-1000 Pro was released in 2021 as part of SVS's updated Pro series. It uses what's called a "sealed" design, meaning the speaker enclosure is completely closed. This approach typically provides tighter, more controlled bass at the expense of maximum output. SVS has packed this subwoofer with modern technology, including a 50 MHz digital signal processor (DSP) that helps clean up the sound and prevent distortion.

The Klipsch R-120SW takes a different route with its "ported" design, which includes a tube that helps the speaker produce more bass output for a given amount of power. While this design can play louder, it sometimes sacrifices some precision in bass reproduction. The R-120SW represents a more traditional approach to subwoofer design, focusing on proven technologies rather than cutting-edge features.

Performance Deep Dive

Bass Extension and Quality

The SVS can reach down to 20Hz, which is about as low as human hearing goes. This means you'll feel the deepest rumbles in movie soundtracks and hear the lowest notes in pipe organ music. The Klipsch starts rolling off around 29Hz, which is still respectable but means you'll miss some of those lowest frequencies.

In practice, this difference is noticeable when:

• Watching movies with deep explosions or earthquake scenes
• Listening to pipe organ music or electronic music with very deep bass
• Playing video games with dramatic sound effects

Power and Volume

While the Klipsch offers 200 watts RMS (continuous power), the SVS provides 325 watts RMS with peaks up to 820 watts. However, raw power numbers don't tell the whole story. The Klipsch can actually play slightly louder in some cases due to its ported design, reaching a maximum output of 116dB.

Control and Adjustment

Here's where the SVS really pulls ahead. Its smartphone app lets you:

• Fine-tune the crossover frequency (where the subwoofer takes over from your main speakers)
• Adjust the phase (how the subwoofer's sound aligns with your other speakers)
• Create custom presets for different types of content
• Apply room correction to improve sound quality

The Klipsch offers basic controls through physical knobs and switches, which is simpler but less precise.

Real-World Usage

Home Theater Performance

In a home theater setting, the SVS shows its strengths with precise, impactful bass that can handle everything from quiet scenes to explosive action sequences. The extra low-frequency extension makes a real difference in movies with complex soundtracks.

The Klipsch performs admirably for its price point, providing good impact for action movies and decent musical performance. However, it doesn't have quite the same level of refinement or control as the SVS.

Music Listening

For music, the sealed design of the SVS typically provides more accurate bass reproduction, especially important for genres like jazz or classical where timing and precision matter. The Klipsch can sound somewhat looser but still provides enjoyable performance for most popular music.

Value Consideration

At $285, the Klipsch represents solid value for those wanting to add bass to their system without breaking the bank. It's particularly suitable for:

• Medium-sized rooms
• Basic home theater setups
• Casual music listening
• Budget-conscious buyers

The SVS SB-1000 Pro at $665 requires a bigger investment but offers:

• Superior technology and features
• Better low-frequency extension
• More precise control
• Higher build quality
• Room correction capabilities

How to Decide

Choose the SVS if:

• You want the best possible sound quality
• Your room is larger or acoustically challenging
• You watch lots of action movies or listen to bass-heavy music
• You value precise control and adjustment options
• Budget allows for the investment

Choose the Klipsch if:

• You're working with a tighter budget
• Your room is small to medium-sized
• You primarily watch TV and occasional movies
• You prefer simple setup and operation
• Maximum output is more important than ultimate precision

Both subwoofers will significantly improve your system's bass performance, but they target different users. The Klipsch R-120SW provides good bang for the buck, while the SVS delivers premium performance for those willing to pay for it.

SVS SB-1000 Pro Subwoofer Deals and Prices

Klipsch Reference R-120SW Powered Subwoofer Deals and Prices