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
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Crucial part of the Trio G3 system's success
- A big step up in performance, and a step down in size, compared to the earlier Avantgarde horn-loaded subs
- An improved driver and its revised relationship to the longer horn have resulted in an 8dB increase in efficiency in the range between 40 and 150Hz
- The SpaceHorn does not just work really well, it is easy to work with
Product Considerations
- Wall-proximity loading makes positional tuning not just a nicety, but a necessity
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Avantgarde horn-loaded subs: The SpaceHorn is a big step up in performance, and a step down in size
- Vs Tidal Akira or the Wilson XVX (with subs): Matching or bettering its performance requires speakers like the Tidal Akira or the Wilson XVX (with subs), along with the amplification to match
Takeaway: The SpaceHorn is a great addition to the Trio G3 system because it improves the bass and is easier to set up. Satisfaction with its musical improvement is likely.
All
Spacehorn
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Frequency range: 20 - 200 Hz
- Crossover frequencies: active crossover 40 - 400 Hz
- Recommended room size: > 25 sqm
- Horn type: expo-spherical horn
- Horn aperture angle: 180 degrees
- Horn length: 1,898 mm
- Horn mouth size Single Drive: 0.650 sqm
- Horn mouth size Twin Drive: 0.850 sqm
- Driver type: XB12
- Driver size: 300 mm / 12 inches
- Voice coil diameter: 153 mm
- Flux density: 1.15 Tesla / 480 mm
- Output power (RMS) Single Drive: 1 x 500 Watt
- Output power (RMS) Twin Drive: 2 x 500 Watt
- Digital crossover: DSP
- Parametric equalizer: 8 Band Equalizer
- Digital room adjustment: Yes
- Inputs: 1 x SPKR Input, 1 x XLR Line Input
- Width: 1,018 mm
- Depth: 1,165 mm
- Height (including feet) Single-Drive: 492 mm
- Height (including feet) Twin Drive: 748 mm
- Weight Single Drive: 243 lbs
- Weight Twin Drive: 331 lbs
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Avantgarde Acoustic distinguishes itself by using horn-loaded drivers across the frequency spectrum in many of their designs, prioritizing efficiency and dynamic range over traditional driver configurations.
- They offer a modular upgrade path with their speakers, allowing users to transition from passive crossovers and traditional amplification to fully active systems utilizing Avantgarde's proprietary iTRON current-drive technology.
- A core design principle is achieving seamless integration between drivers, particularly between the horn-loaded components and powered subwoofers, using DSP and careful design to create a cohesive soundstage.
- Avantgarde allows extensive aesthetic customization options, including a wide array of colors for the horns and finishes for the cabinets, enabling customers to tailor their speakers to suit individual tastes and room décor.
Select products
Zero Itron:
- Positioning: The entry-level active speaker in Avantgarde Acoustic's lineup.
- Description: Features a compact design and iTRON amplifier technology, providing seamless integration and ease of use. Unlike the larger models like the Uno SD, it is ideal for smaller spaces and offers a more budget-friendly option while still delivering the signature Avantgarde sound. Its full-active design with a 3-way system and integrated Class D bass amplifier makes it a versatile choice for those seeking high performance without the need for additional amplifiers.
Uno SD:
- Positioning: A compact version of the Duo series, designed for smaller rooms while maintaining high performance.
- Description: Features a compact size and high sensitivity, making it suitable for smaller spaces without compromising on sound quality. It includes a 500mm midrange horn and a newly developed tweeter, offering a natural and clear sound. Compared to the larger Duo GT, the Uno SD is more accessible in terms of space and budget, yet it still provides a rich audio experience with its advanced driver technology and integrated bass amplifier.
Duo GT:
- Positioning: The most advanced model in the Duo series, offering superior performance and features.
- Description: Features dual 12-inch bass drivers and 670mm horn, providing exceptional dynamic range and bass response. It incorporates the same tweeter as the Trio G3, ensuring top-tier sound quality. Compared to the Duo SD, the GT offers enhanced bass performance and a more powerful amplifier.
Mezzo:
- Positioning: A high-end model designed for those who desire top-tier performance without the space requirements of the Trio with SpaceHorn.
- Description: Inspired by classic designs and offers a full-range horn system with a unique bass reflex configuration. It features dual 12-inch drivers and a 670mm horn, providing a rich and immersive sound. While it approaches the performance of the Trio G3, it is more compact and suitable for those who cannot accommodate the larger Trio setup. Its advanced bass system and modular design make it a standout choice.
Trio G3:
- Positioning: The flagship model, representing the pinnacle of Avantgarde Acoustic's speaker technology.
- Description: Features a groundbreaking 3-way horn system with a 109 dB sensitivity. It includes the innovative SpaceHorn for bass, offering an expansive and distortion-free sound. Compared to other models like the Mezzo, the Trio G3 provides the most comprehensive audio experience. Its modular design allows for future upgrades, ensuring long-term value and performance.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
Firstly: Most prominently, our spherical horn technology with its precisely calculated wave-launch accounts for a unique appearance, outstanding (typically 104+ dBs/W/m) efficiency, and a favorably controlled sound dispersion in any room and environment. This gives our speakers an objet d'art character and makes amplifier choice a straightforward task: it’s all about sound quality, not about wattage.
Secondly: With launching the G3 series speakers, the range is optionally available in fully active versions, with the horn section powered by a breakthrough innovation regarding the membranes' displacement control: the proprietary iTRON current-drive amplifier technology. Executed in single-ended push-pull, fully Class-A, and zero-feedback topology, iTRON is the ideal and logical choice for offering not just conveniently connectable powered speakers but to consequently provide a musical experience beyond what is possible with customary voltage amplifier technology.
What's your approach to customer support?
Our customer support consists of a network of stipulated regional service providers and a central coordinating office at the factory for prompting the most effective procedures. Standardly, our local instances will be the recommended and most effective support channel (e.g., because of a time zone offset to Germany), while in specific cases, e.g., with "vintage support," our own team of experienced specialists may of course be addressed for appropriate advice and servicing.
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
Showcasing the famous Allman Brothers Band in an astonishingly intimate frame, on stage in a rather small club (while filling stadiums, usually), is the track "In Memory Of Elizabeth Reed" from the record An Evening With The Allman Brothers Band – 2nd Set, recorded live in LA around 1992. Listened to by a dynamically capable and highly resolving speaker like from our range, the skillful, fun-driven playing, the vibrant atmosphere, and the cheering public make a "be there" experience par excellence. Ten minutes and fifteen seconds that fly.
Leopold Stokowski's famous Rhapsodies collection from 1960 (on Living Stereo, recorded at Manhattan Center) still holds surprises! While considered to be a "nice recording" anyway by many, especially true for the Liszt "Hungarian Rhapsody No.2," listeners who become exposed to the recording through our speakers realize far greater "ebb and flow" contrast in the orchestra's fantastic playing. At realistic concert level? As you please!
Meraki's "La Fong" track has driven people to tears (of joy…) where one would never think that this is the kind of music they'd fancy. Powerhouse electronic music that combines thrilling dynamics with a wonderful sense of space that does not merely scatter sounds into thin air but makes them glitter. A special, almost limitless trip when listened to by the right set of speakers.
What other products pair best with yours?
Especially in combination with our iTRON amplifiers, the co-branding question does not need an "exclusive" answer. Rather, it deserves an "inclusive" answer, as the high degree of control over the musical result ensured by horns and current-drive has generated feedback from our network that attests many excellent (no matter if praised for a specific strength or for an overall sound balance) source components to make a truly "shining" contribution.
Used
Avantgarde
What if you spend more?
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.
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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
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.
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
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.
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
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
What competes at this price?
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
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
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
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
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
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