Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.

Product Strengths

  • Robust, tight, refined, and accurate bass response extending as low as 28Hz
  • Its compact size makes it suitable for smaller studios and allows for flexible placement
  • Includes a convenient remote control for adjusting volume and crossover frequency from the listening position
  • High build quality with robust cabinet construction and durable components
  • The remote control allows you to change the decibels and hertz

Product Considerations

  • Not budget-friendly
  • Some reviewers found it required a break-in period for optimal performance

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Sub7, the Sub8 pairs better with ADAM Audio A5X monitors, while the Sub7 is better suited for ADAM Audio A3X monitors
  • The ADAM Audio Sub10 Mk 2 is more powerful and better for full-scale audio studios, while the Sub8 is a good fit for smaller studios and rooms

Takeaway: The Sub8 is a compact yet powerful subwoofer that delivers accurate and refined bass, making it a valuable addition to smaller studio spaces. Its convenient remote control and solid build quality enhance the overall user experience.

How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we  discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.

Compared to their other products

We think it's helpful to understand how this product fits into the brand's full lineup (below). To learn more about these products, visit the brand's page.

T5V

  • Positioning: Entry-level line, designed for affordability and compactness.
  • Description: Offers excellent acoustic characteristics with its U-ART tweeter and HPS waveguide, providing a wide sweet spot for small control rooms. Unlike the A8H and S5H, it is optimized for budget-conscious users who need reliable performance in limited spaces, making it ideal for home studios or small professional setups.

T10S

  • Positioning: Compact subwoofer designed to complement nearfield monitors.
  • Description: Enhances low-frequency response with its down-firing 10" woofer and 130 W amplifier, making it a powerful addition to the T5V and T7V monitors. While it lacks the advanced DSP features of the A8H and S5H, its compact design and adjustable crossover make it suitable for users seeking to extend bass in smaller studio environments.

A8H

  • Positioning: High-performance midfield monitor for detailed audio representation.
  • Description: Stands out with its X-ART tweeter and rotatable HPS waveguide, offering precise sound for critical listening in mid-sized spaces. Unlike the T5V, it includes DSP-based tuning and Sonarworks integration.

S5H

  • Positioning: Flagship main monitor for expansive studio environments.
  • Description: Features dual 10" ELE bass drivers and a DCH midrange driver, delivering exceptional low-frequency control and midrange clarity. It surpasses the A8H with its extensive DSP capabilities and high SPL output.
See all the brand's products

Read the reviews

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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer's notes

The Sub8 is a small yet powerful subwoofer designed to extend the low frequency capabilities of any nearfield monitoring system down to 30Hz. It houses a robust 8.5″ woofer with a 1.5″ voice coil driven by a 160W ICE power amplifier.
The Sub8 is a small yet powerful subwoofer designed to extend the low frequency capabilities of any nearfield monitoring system down to 30Hz. It houses a robust 8.5″ woofer with a 1.5″ voice coil driven by a 160W ICE power amplifier. This amp combines low heat generation with high performance to handle maximum power levels, even during long mix sessions. The front baffle features two motorized knobs that let you tailor input level and crossover frequency settings. These settings can also be controlled via the included wireless remote, allowing you to optimize your sound reproduction from your ideal listening position. The Sub8 is designed for smaller rooms up to 20 square meters. It is an ideal match for the ADAM Audio A Series, for example.
  • Panel: Front
  • Weight: 26.5 lb (12 kg)
  • Height x Width x Depth: 16" (410 mm) x 10" (260 mm) x 15" (380 mm)
  • Amp. Power RMS / Music: 160 W / 240 W
  • Frequency Response: 28 Hz – 150 Hz
  • THD > 60 Hz: ≤1 %
  • Max. peak SPL at 1 m: ≥110 dB
  • Crossover Frequencies: 50 – 150 Hz
  • Driver Basket Diameter: 8"
  • Voice Coil Diameter: 1.5" (38 mm)
  • Cone Material: Paper
  • Input Impedance: 10 kOhm
  • Input Connectors: XLR /RCA
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Average Price
$500
Used Products
7
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Brand Popularity
66
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Products
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Founded
1999

Our take on the brand

ADAM Audio is renowned for its innovative ART tweeters, which enhance the Air Motion Transformer concept by moving air four times faster than their folds for high-definition sound. Their monitors, especially the S Series, are favored by sound engineers for their accurate and transparent sound, advanced engineering, and reduced distortion, while the T Series offers affordable, high-performance studio monitors.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi
Brand Page
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What if you spend a bit more?

3000 Micro
899
899
/
22
Reviews
SVS

The challenges of designing a mini subwoofer capable of chest-pounding output at the lowest frequencies, while maintaining effective thermal and energy management in a micro-sized enclosure, has always been the holy grail of subwoofer brands. Previous designs were flawed with weak output, distortion, and uncontrolled movement of the cabinet itself. 

3000 Micro is like a magic trick— small enough to fit anywhere and capable of delivering breathtaking bass from a shockingly compact 10-inch enclosure. For the first-time ever, a micro subwoofer that does not compromise on performance. 

SVS engineers had to bend the laws of physics designing a micro-sized subwoofer capable of massive, pristine output in HiFi and home theater systems. Reference amplifier technology from the flagship SVS 16-Ultra subwoofers was applied in the Sledge STA-800D2 amplifier with discrete MOSFET output for effortless, on-demand current with unerring control. 

Harnessing the colossal power are fully active dual opposing 8-inch SVS drivers connected in parallel to move in perfect unison for massive slam and output with crisp, musical transients. The usable surface area of two fully active 8-inch woofers firing in opposite directions unleashes performance on par with much larger subwoofers and the tight, punchy output obliterates multi-driver passive radiator subwoofer designs known for bloated, one-note bass. 

3000 Micro also has brains to match its brawn. A 50 MHz Analog Devices DSP enables sophisticated control and custom frequency response curves for optimized real-world output and acoustically tuned room gain. It also enables advanced tuning and control via the SVS subwoofer DSP smartphone app.

SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Compact size makes it easy to integrate into various rooms and setups
  • Delivers deep and clear bass
  • Powerful amplifier for its size
  • The SVS app allows for easy and precise tuning of the subwoofer
  • Dual opposing drivers cancel out mechanical energy, minimizing cabinet vibration
  • No speaker-level connections, limiting setup options for some stereo systems

Product Considerations

  • Can be expensive compared to other subwoofers with similar output, especially if size is not a primary concern
  • Limited output compared to larger subwoofers, potentially not ideal for large rooms or bass enthusiasts
  • Power cord length can be restrictive when finding optimal placement
  • Woofer placement can be tricky, because the opposing drivers might be too close to side walls depending on placement

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • SVS 3000 Micro has better adjustability than Sunfire

Takeaway: The SVS 3000 Micro is a small but capable subwoofer that delivers impressive bass performance for its size, enhanced by a user-friendly app for fine-tuning, and is a great option for those needing a compact solution without sacrificing sound quality. It is small and easy to integrate into a listening room.

Video review

Our take on the brand

SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
3000 Micro
page
Product Page
SB-1000 Pro
599
599
/
12
Reviews
SVS

Jaw-dropping deep bass extension down to 20Hz and massive output with stunning musicality that will delight both audiophiles and home theater fans. Reference subwoofer performance has never been available near this price from a cabinet of this size. SB-1000 Pro is a breakthrough subwoofer in every way.

Multiple innovations were deployed in the high-excursion 12-inch SVS SB-1000 Pro driver to ensure massive subwoofer performance from a relatively compact cabinet. Advances to the cone, surround, voice coil, and motor assembly maximize excursion for room-energizing SPLs at the lowest frequencies, with precision and control.

Using reference amplifier technology from the flagship SVS 16-Ultra Series, the SB-1000 Pro features a Sledge STA-325D amplifier with fully discrete MOSFET output. Harnessing the immense power while ensuring tonal accuracy and driver control for more convincing bass effects is a 50 MHz Analog Devices Audio DSP with frequency response precisely tuned for the SB-1000 Pro.

SB-1000 Pro also features the SVS subwoofer smartphone app, the most convenient way to control volume, access multiple DSP functions, and program custom presets. Adjust crossover frequencies, a three-band parametric EQ, polarity, room gain and more, all from your favorite seat.

SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
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Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Tight, responsive, and controlled bass performance across the frequency range
  • Compact size, which is helpful for those with size constraints
  • Superb adjustability and control using the SVS app
  • Powerful 325W RMS amplifier
  • The included app offers fine-tuning options, including equalization for room correction

Product Considerations

  • At the highest drive level, it can incur a fair amount of distortion
  • The PB-1000 Pro had more headroom at higher frequencies than the SB-1000 Pro, which may have been deliberately reduced to provide a cleaner sound for music
  • The feet for the subwoofer are short and may not be ideal for thick carpets

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The SB-1000Pro is a whole package upgrade compared to the Velodyne DLS-4000, with more bass down low and more impactful sound
  • The PB-1000 Pro goes deeper in frequency response and is much bigger
  • The SB-1000Pro provided more solid and richer sound with more robust bass compared to the Paradigm Premier 700F floorstanding speakers
  • SB-1000 Pro has richness and punch that the Sonos Sub cannot match
  • The SB-1000 Pro has such good control and has no weakness at reasonable listening levels compared to the Boston Acoustics VR500

Takeaway: The SVS SB-1000 Pro is a compact subwoofer that offers impressive bass performance and extensive control options. With its user-friendly app and powerful amplifier, it is an excellent choice for enhancing both music and home theater experiences.

Video review

Our take on the brand

SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
SB-1000 Pro
page
Product Page
PB-1000 Pro
799
799
/
10
Reviews
SVS

The original SVS PB-1000 rocked the subwoofer world with unparalleled performance at its price and beyond. Now, the PB-1000 Pro raises the bar even higher with greater low frequency output, deeper bass extension down to a guttural 17Hz, performance-enhancing dual port cabinet design, and a massive upgrade to the user experience.

A complete reimagination of the original 10-inch driver, the PB-1000 Pro features an all-new 12-inch high-excursion driver with dual high-grade ferrite magnets and FEA-optimized internal motor architecture for extreme excursion and massive, pristine output. With innovations to the cone, surround, voice coil, and motor assembly, the unflappable 12-inch driver unleashes room-shaking bass never-before-heard from a ported subwoofer anywhere near the price.

Using the same amplifier technology as the flagship SVS 16-Ultra Series, PB-1000 Pro features a Sledge STA-325D amplifier with fully discrete MOSFET output. Harnessing the massive power while ensuring accuracy and control is a 50 MHz Analog Devices Audio DSP with frequency response curves precisely tuned for the PB-1000 Pro.

PB-1000 Pro also features the SVS subwoofer smartphone app, the most convenient way to control volume, access multiple DSP functions, and program custom presets for one-touch tuning profiles optimized for music, movies, gaming, and more. Adjust crossover frequencies, a three-band parametric EQ, polarity, room gain and more, all from your favorite seat.

New to the PB-1000 Pro is a dual port configuration that enables greater output with much lower distortion compared to the original 1000 Series model.

SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
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Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The PB-1000 Pro can push low frequencies to reference levels without distortion
  • The PB-1000 Pro has an updated control panel and app that allows the user to adjust many parameters to get their preferred sound
  • The ported design allows for a much thicker and fuller bottom end
  • The PB-1000 Pro is able to deliver chest-rumbling subsonic frequencies

Product Considerations

  • The PB-1000 Pro may lack the punch of smaller subwoofers due to the larger driver requiring more power to move at the same speed
  • The size of the PB-1000 Pro may be an issue for some
  • The vinyl finish may not be appealing to everyone

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Klipsch 8-inch Subwoofer: The PB-1000 Pro's bass has more body and is more rounded and refined, while the Klipsch has more punch and speed

Takeaway: The PB-1000 Pro is a subwoofer that offers great value and is designed to provide deep and clean bass. It has the ability to recreate powerful effects in action movies and blends well into many systems.

Video review

Our take on the brand

SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
PB-1000 Pro
page
Product Page
RP-1200SW
999
999
/
9
Reviews
Klipsch
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
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Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Good, clean bass sound
  • Nice aesthetic design and materials
  • Vast improvement over previous Klipsch subwoofers
  • Digs deep, reaching down to 16.5 hertz
  • Rounded corners help maintain rigidity

Product Considerations

  • Port chuffing can be noticeable at high volumes around 20 hertz
  • May lack power for some users, and some felt it could benefit from more RMS power
  • The power indicator is on the front, which some may not prefer
  • Deep, which can create placement issues

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs SVS PB-1000 Pro: The RP-1200SW provides a larger cabinet, a bit more power, and fuller sound in the lower frequencies
  • Vs RSL 12s: The RSL 12s has an even larger sense of scale, but the RP-1200SW offers a more classical vented design with more rumble
  • Vs SVS PB 2000 Pro: The SVS PB 2000 Pro has more output
  • Vs SPL-120: The RP-1200SW has much less port chuffing

Takeaway: The Klipsch RP-1200SW is a good sounding subwoofer that is a big step up from older Klipsch subs. It is a worthwhile consideration if one is already in the Klipsch ecosystem or is looking for a solid home theater subwoofer.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
RP-1200SW
page
Product Page

What else competes at this price?

Sub Mini
419
/
Released
2022
Sonos
Deepen your enjoyment of TV, films, and more with bold bass when you pair Sub Mini with Beam, Ray, Era 100, One, or One SL.
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Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio with their proprietary SonosNet mesh network, which ensures synchronized streaming across multiple speakers without relying on traditional Wi-Fi. Their products feature Trueplay technology that automatically tunes speakers to room acoustics, while supporting multiple voice assistants and streaming services across their platform-agnostic ecosystem.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Compact and stylish cylindrical design allows for easy placement in various rooms
  • Easy setup process with the Sonos app
  • Delivers clean and tight bass for both cinematic experiences and music, enhancing the overall audio experience
  • Force-cancelling woofers minimize unwanted mechanical vibrations and distortion
  • Improves the quality of entire Sonos home cinema setup by handling lower frequencies and freeing up processing power for other speakers

Product Considerations

  • The build quality has a slightly insubstantial, cheap feel to the cylinder's top plate
  • Less effective in open-plan spaces, and may be overwhelmed by the Sonos Arc in larger rooms
  • The amount of SPL seems to vary quite a bit across its range, meaning that it's more prominent with certain frequencies than others
  • Sub Level may require frequent adjustment depending on content being played
  • Not compatible with Sonos S1 products or Sonos portable speakers

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sonos Sub: The Sonos Sub Mini is not designed to be better, but more convenient, smaller, and more wallet-friendly; the Sonos Sub is better for larger spaces
  • Vs Sonos Ray: The Sonos Sub Mini opens out the soundtrack to reveal the low-frequency elements underpinning much of the score that the soundbar alone could not touch
  • Vs Sonos Beam Gen 2: The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is the soundbar that gains the most from being paired with Sub Mini, the two being more evenly matched in volume and range

Takeaway: The Sonos Sub Mini is a great choice to enhance the listening experience if one wants to add extra bass to smaller rooms. It is easy to set up and will upgrade existing Sonos speakers for movies and music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio with their proprietary SonosNet mesh network, which ensures synchronized streaming across multiple speakers without relying on traditional Wi-Fi. Their products feature Trueplay technology that automatically tunes speakers to room acoustics, while supporting multiple voice assistants and streaming services across their platform-agnostic ecosystem.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Sub Mini
Page
Product Page
Sub8
329
/
Released
2022
Kanto
Updated in 2022, this sub8 gives you the speed and accuracy that only a sealed subwoofer can deliver. An 8" woofer driven by a 300W amp responds quickly to transients and keeps distortion to a minimum. Its compact size provides full-range sound without sacrificing floor space and a crossover filter and phase control allow for easy integration into any audio system.
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Kanto Audio stands out in the hifi speaker market with its vibrant color options and unique bamboo finishes, departing from the typical black and grey designs seen across the industry. Their speakers, like the YU series, are known for excellent stereo imaging and surprisingly full sound from compact sizes, while the REN model is the first to include HDMI ARC for TV audio, effectively competing with soundbars.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Clean, detailed, and very user-friendly
  • Compact and cleanly designed
  • Well-controlled and offers a tight bass presentation

Product Considerations

  • Limited sub-bass extension
  • Can be a touch tubby at higher volumes
  • In larger spaces, the SUB8 can struggle to provide the same extension

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The SUB8 is substantially more detailed and controlled, with better definition, and is less boomy than the Energy E:XL-S8

Takeaway: The SUB8 is a user-friendly subwoofer that enhances any audio setup without costing too much, making it a great choice for music and games in smaller spaces. It provides a high-quality, tactile sound that adds depth and impact.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Kanto Audio stands out in the hifi speaker market with its vibrant color options and unique bamboo finishes, departing from the typical black and grey designs seen across the industry. Their speakers, like the YU series, are known for excellent stereo imaging and surprisingly full sound from compact sizes, while the REN model is the first to include HDMI ARC for TV audio, effectively competing with soundbars.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Sub8
Page
Product Page
SW-150
233
/
Released
Wharfedale
The SW series of subwoofers offer a level of performance previously unheard of in their class. Revolutionary drive units, amplifier modules and filter stages feature on every model. They strike the perfect balance between power and sound quality, offering remarkable sound pressure levels, yet retaining enough control to be considered audiophile in quality.
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Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Plenty of weight and low-frequency presence
  • Bass has detail and definition, and it's delivered in a controlled and cohesive manner
  • Agility and rhythmic capabilities exist, and it's equally at home with both movies and with music
  • Quality piece of budget equipment—excellent value for money

Product Considerations

  • Bass rolls off pretty quickly once it gets down to 35Hz
  • Base port is on the bottom, which might not be ideal if you live in a flat
  • Finish is just a veneer, not painted
  • No remote control or electronic display

Takeaway: The Wharfedale Diamond SW150 subwoofer is a quality product for a very reasonable price, offering good bass detail and control for both music and movies. It is a good choice if you want to add bass to bookshelf speakers or a budget home cinema setup.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
SW-150
Page
Product Page
Monitor XT12
399
/
Released
2021
Polk
Monitor XT12 provides Polk's loud, low, effortless bass so you can enjoy movies, music and gaming with more impact and excitement. Easily integrated into any home theater or music listening environment, and featuring new woofer, amplifier, and cabinet designs—the affordably priced MXT12 fulfills the Polk promise of great sound for all.
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Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers quick and authoritative bass that can be felt in a medium-sized room
  • Integrates nicely into a variety of systems and doesn't sound monotone
  • Offers a three-year warranty on the amplifier and a 60-day in-home trial period
  • Good value for the money when on sale, offering better sound than other subwoofers at the same price point
  • Has a Class A/B amplifier which offers sonic benefits like superior fidelity

Product Considerations

  • Cabinet construction is a bit on the cheap side and displays some resonance
  • Included grill feels cheap
  • Polk compromised the strength of the front baffle by recessing the driver

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Klipsch Reference R-8SW: The Polk XT12 has a larger woofer, deeper bass extension, more powerful output, and is better for home theater
  • Vs SVS SB-1000 Pro: The Polk XT12 is more affordable, but the SVS SB-1000 Pro has deeper bass, more power, and better control options

Takeaway: The Polk Monitor XT12 is a good subwoofer to buy if you want better sound on a budget for your home theater. It delivers quality bass and integrates well with different speakers.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Monitor XT12
Page
Product Page
R-80SWi
449
/
Released
Klipsch
The Klipsch R-80SWi wireless subwoofer delivers incredible, room-filling bass without the need for a subwoofer cable. Regardless of your room's current (or future) layout, the R-80SWi gives you complete freedom to find the optimal location for maximum output and aesthetics. Connect the compact, pre-paired transmitter to the subwoofer or LFE out on your favorite component, then place the R-80SWi wireless subwoofer anywhere you choose and plug it into an outlet – it's that simple.
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Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Ideal for small rooms
  • Offers wireless input, avoiding cable clutter
  • Delivers deep bass
  • The wooden cabinet and dark finish add aesthetic value
  • Easy to pair with other speakers

Product Considerations

  • Not ideal for large spaces

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The R-80SWi got our pick as the best for small rooms in the look at the best Klipsch subwoofers

Takeaway: The Klipsch R-80SWI is a good choice for those with smaller rooms, giving an almighty punch without taking up too much space. Its wireless connectivity and aesthetic design make it a convenient and visually appealing addition to a home theater system

Video review

Our take on the brand

Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
R-80SWi
Page
Product Page

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.

Product Strengths

  • Robust, tight, refined, and accurate bass response extending as low as 28Hz
  • Its compact size makes it suitable for smaller studios and allows for flexible placement
  • Includes a convenient remote control for adjusting volume and crossover frequency from the listening position
  • High build quality with robust cabinet construction and durable components
  • The remote control allows you to change the decibels and hertz

Product Considerations

  • Not budget-friendly
  • Some reviewers found it required a break-in period for optimal performance

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Sub7, the Sub8 pairs better with ADAM Audio A5X monitors, while the Sub7 is better suited for ADAM Audio A3X monitors
  • The ADAM Audio Sub10 Mk 2 is more powerful and better for full-scale audio studios, while the Sub8 is a good fit for smaller studios and rooms

Takeaway: The Sub8 is a compact yet powerful subwoofer that delivers accurate and refined bass, making it a valuable addition to smaller studio spaces. Its convenient remote control and solid build quality enhance the overall user experience.

How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we  discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.

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