When it comes to adding powerful bass to your home audio system, SVS has earned a sterling reputation for quality subwoofers. Today, we're comparing two of their most popular models: the SB-2000 Pro ($799-899) and the PB-1000 Pro ($709). Having tested both extensively, I'll help you understand which might be the better choice for your specific needs.
Before diving into the specifics, let's talk about what makes a great subwoofer. These specialized speakers handle the lowest frequencies in your audio system - typically anything below 80 Hz. That's where you feel the rumble in movie explosions or the deep punch of a kick drum. A quality subwoofer doesn't just make noise; it adds dimension and physical impact to your listening experience.
The fundamental difference between these models lies in their cabinet design. The SB-2000 Pro uses a sealed enclosure (hence the "SB" designation), while the PB-1000 Pro employs a ported design (thus "PB"). Think of it like the difference between a closed box and one with a carefully tuned tube - each approach has distinct advantages.
Sealed designs typically offer:
Ported designs provide:
The SB-2000 Pro packs a serious punch with its 550-watt RMS amplifier (1,500+ watts peak). This higher power rating allows it to maintain composure during demanding scenes or music passages. The PB-1000 Pro, while less powerful on paper at 325 watts RMS (820+ watts peak), leverages its ported design to achieve similar output levels in real-world use.
Both subwoofers dig impressively deep:
While the PB-1000 Pro reaches slightly lower, the SB-2000 Pro typically maintains better control throughout its range. For context, most humans can't hear below 20Hz - at that point, you're feeling rather than hearing the bass.
Both models were released in early 2021 as updates to their predecessors, bringing significant improvements:
The smartphone app deserves special mention - it's remarkably intuitive and offers deep control over:
For music, I've found the SB-2000 Pro to be notably more articulate. Its sealed design helps it start and stop more quickly, which is particularly noticeable with acoustic bass or quick-paced electronic music. The bass notes are distinct and well-defined rather than blending together.
The PB-1000 Pro still performs admirably with music, but its strengths lie elsewhere. It can sound slightly less precise on complex musical passages, though many listeners might not notice without direct comparison.
Both subwoofers excel in home theater applications, but they have different characteristics:
The SB-2000 Pro offers:
The PB-1000 Pro provides:
Room size significantly impacts subwoofer performance. The SB-2000 Pro works exceptionally well in small to medium-sized rooms (up to about 2,000 cubic feet). Its smaller cabinet makes placement easier, and you're less likely to excite room resonances that can make bass sound boomy.
The PB-1000 Pro, with its larger cabinet and ported design, excels in bigger spaces. It can pressurize larger rooms more effectively, though it requires more careful placement due to its size and port location.
At $709, the PB-1000 Pro represents excellent value, especially for home theater enthusiasts. It delivers performance that competes with much more expensive subwoofers, particularly in larger rooms.
The SB-2000 Pro, while pricier at $799-899 (depending on finish), justifies its cost through:
Consider these key factors when choosing between these subwoofers:
Both the SB-2000 Pro and PB-1000 Pro represent excellent values in their respective price ranges. The SB-2000 Pro is the more refined, versatile option, especially for those prioritizing music performance or dealing with space constraints. The PB-1000 Pro offers tremendous bang for the buck, particularly for home theater enthusiasts or those with larger rooms.
Remember, either subwoofer will dramatically improve your audio system's performance. The choice ultimately comes down to your specific needs, room constraints, and budget. Both models support SVS's excellent customer service and trade-up program, so you can buy with confidence knowing you're getting a quality product backed by a respected company.
| SVS SB-2000 Pro ($799-899) | SVS PB-1000 Pro ($709) |
|---|---|
| Cabinet Design - Determines bass character and placement flexibility | |
| Sealed (tighter, more accurate, smaller footprint) | Ported (higher output, deeper extension, larger cabinet) |
| Amplifier Power - Affects headroom and dynamic capability | |
| 550W RMS, 1500W peak (excellent headroom) | 325W RMS, 820W peak (good for most uses) |
| Dimensions - Critical for room placement | |
| 14.6" x 14.2" x 15.6" (compact and flexible) | 18.9" x 15" x 20" (requires more space) |
| Low Frequency Extension - Determines deepest bass capability | |
| 19Hz-240Hz (excellent for music accuracy) | 17Hz-260Hz (slight advantage for movie effects) |
| Weight - Important for installation and mobility | |
| 38.6 lbs (easier to position) | 42.5 lbs (slightly heavier) |
| Best Use Case - Helps match to your primary needs | |
| Music and smaller rooms (superior accuracy) | Home theater and larger rooms (better value) |
| DSP Features - Affects customization ability | |
| Advanced app control, 3 presets, PEQ (identical) | Advanced app control, 3 presets, PEQ (identical) |
| Build Quality - Impacts longevity and performance | |
| Premium components, better amplifier (worth upgrade) | Excellent build, standard components (great value) |
| Room Size Sweet Spot - Crucial for optimal performance | |
| Up to 2,000 cubic feet (ideal) | Up to 3,000 cubic feet (more flexible) |
For home theater use, the PB-1000 Pro ($709) offers slightly better performance with movie effects due to its deeper bass extension and higher output in larger rooms. However, if you have a smaller room or want more placement flexibility, the SB-2000 Pro ($799-899) is still an excellent choice.
The main difference is their design: the SB-2000 Pro uses a sealed cabinet for tighter, more accurate bass, while the PB-1000 Pro uses a ported design for deeper bass extension and higher output levels.
The SB-2000 Pro is better for small rooms due to its compact sealed design and more controlled bass response. The PB-1000 Pro may be too powerful for very small spaces and requires more room for optimal placement.
If you prioritize music listening or need a more compact subwoofer, the SB-2000 Pro is worth the premium. For pure home theater use or larger rooms, the PB-1000 Pro offers better value.
The PB-1000 Pro reaches slightly lower (17Hz vs 19Hz), but the SB-2000 Pro offers tighter control throughout its range. Both provide excellent deep bass performance for most applications.
Yes, both the SB-2000 Pro and PB-1000 Pro feature identical app control through SVS's smartphone app, offering extensive DSP adjustments and preset options.
The SB-2000 Pro generally performs better with music due to its sealed design providing faster, more accurate bass response compared to the PB-1000 Pro.
The SB-2000 Pro works best in rooms up to 2,000 cubic feet, while the PB-1000 Pro can handle larger spaces up to 3,000 cubic feet effectively.
While both the SB-2000 Pro and PB-1000 Pro perform well individually, dual subwoofers can provide more even bass response throughout the room. The SB-2000 Pro's smaller size makes it easier to accommodate two units.
The SB-2000 Pro has more power with 550W RMS/1500W peak compared to the PB-1000 Pro at 325W RMS/820W peak, though the PB-1000 Pro's ported design helps compensate for the power difference.
Both subwoofers excel at gaming. The SB-2000 Pro offers more precise effects, while the PB-1000 Pro provides deeper rumble for explosive gaming moments.
The SB-2000 Pro is easier to position due to its smaller size and sealed design. The PB-1000 Pro requires more careful placement consideration due to its larger cabinet and port location.
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: 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 - avsforum.com - soundandvision.com - youtube.com - hifichicken.com - avgadgets.com - skybygramophone.com - audioadvice.com - svsound.com - svsound.com - svsound.com - summithifiusa.com - svsound.ca
