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.
All
SX120
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Sensitivity: 180mV for full power output
- Frequency response: 34Hz - 150Hz
- Rated output power: 70W
- Drive units: 1 x 8" (203mm) long throw woofer
- Crossover: 50 - 150Hz continuous/active
- Max. power consumption: 100W
- Colour: Black Matte
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 300 x 300 x 310mm (11.8 x 11.8 x 12.2")
- Weight: 7.7kg (17lbs)
Our SX120 subwoofer adds rich sub-bass textures to listening, when used in combination with other speakers in the SX Series. The integrated 70W RMS amplifier and custom designed 203mm (8") driver, come into their own for home cinema applications. Films move from a passive to immersive experience, as SX120 brings deep atmospheric drama to soundtracks.
Power on Demand
SX120 benefits from an internal 70W amplifier that draws on our experience gained from designing award-winning amps over many years. Subwoofer amps should produce their power in a completely linear way to avoid distortion, which can trouble low frequencies. SX120 does just that, meaning that your movie soundtracks have the explosive power they need, when you need it.
Solid as The Rock
Home theatre speaker engineering starts with the cabinet. Computer-aided design (CAD) was used extensively to refine SX120's internal structures, to ensure that while the driver is vibrating with your soundtrack, the cabinet isn't. This means that every millimetre of movement from the sub-bass is directed where it should be.
SX120 Subwoofer Detail
How Low Can you Go?
SX120 has a large 203mm (8") long-throw woofer, made from specially treated paper. Audio manufacturers have been using it for years, as paper's impressive strength-to-weight ratio is matched by excellent tonality – allowing movie soundtr...
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:
- Cambridge Audio incorporates high-quality components, such as toroidal transformers and ESS Sabre DAC chips, but they make sure that the components are chosen for their sonic character, rather than measured performance.
- With some lines receiving 5-year warranties with product registration, they convey a commitment to product durability, even when their products are sold through hifi stores, which are not generally known for high-end clientele.
Select products
AXA25
- Positioning: The entry-level integrated stereo amplifier in Cambridge Audio's lineup.
- Description: Offers a straightforward design with 25 watts per channel, making it ideal for small rooms and budget-conscious users. Unlike the more advanced models like the EXA100, it lacks digital inputs and Bluetooth connectivity, focusing instead on simplicity and analog connections, which suits users who prioritize basic functionality over advanced features.
Evo 75
- Positioning: The mid-range streaming amplifier in the Evo series.
- Description: Combines streaming capabilities with a powerful 75-watt amplifier, offering a compact solution for modern audio needs. It features the StreamMagic Gen 4 module for seamless streaming, unlike the AXA25, which lacks streaming capabilities.
EXA100
- Positioning: The high-end integrated amplifier in the EX series, offering advanced features and performance.
- Description: Delivers 100 watts per channel with Class AB amplification, providing a wide and detailed soundstage. It includes digital inputs like HDMI eARC and Bluetooth aptX HD, unlike the AXA25, which focuses on analog connections.
Edge A
- Positioning: The flagship integrated amplifier in Cambridge Audio's lineup, representing the pinnacle of their audio engineering.
- Description: Features proprietary Class XA amplification and twin toroidal transformers for exceptional power and clarity. It offers a more refined sound than the EXA100, with a focus on musicality and detail.
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Used
Cambridge Audio
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 size makes it ideal for smaller spaces
- Digital Signal Processing (DSP) aims to provide better range and prevent distortion at high volumes
- The 8-inch passive radiator enhances bass output relative to its size
- Piano black finish can match some existing systems
Product Considerations
- The review unit had scratches on the piano black top
- May not be suitable for larger rooms unless used in pairs
- Lacks speaker level inputs, requiring a subwoofer output on the amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The MINX provides a more cohesive and tighter bass, while the SW150 is more room-filling but can sound boomy
Takeaway: The MINX subwoofer is a compact option that delivers decent bass, especially suitable for small to medium-sized rooms where space is a concern. Its design aims to provide controlled and tight bass output.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Compact design allows it to fit in small spaces without compromising sound quality
- Delivers amazing, clear sound quality, exceeding expectations for its size
- Provides a rich, full-bodied bass that enhances the listening experience for music and movies
- Versatile and suitable for vinyl records, streaming digital music, and blockbuster movies
- Easy to set up with clear instructions and automatic features
- Easy setup with clear instructions and automatic features
Product Considerations
- More suitable for smaller to medium rooms, a larger room may require an additional subwoofer or a larger model
- It is a wired subwoofer and does not support wireless connectivity without adapters
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Minx X201 is a great choice for those needing a compact yet powerful subwoofer that provides impressive sound quality without taking up a lot of space. It is versatile and easy to use, making it a valuable addition to any home sound system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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
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