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
- Great low-frequency impact suitable for any size room
- The 3XR architecture with twin bass radiators effectively triples air movement without port noise distortion
- Definitive Technology made an intelligent choice of using Class D amps for smaller subs and Class H for larger ones
- Dual bass radiators offer more placement options by removing the need for ports
- Wireless connection is absent, but third-party kits can be used
Product Considerations
- The DN8 and DN10 models would benefit from having a remote and/or app control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SVS SB-1000 Pro: The DN8 provides more punch for its size, thanks to the bass radiators
- Vs SVS PB-1000 Pro: The DN8 provides more punch for its size, thanks to the bass radiators
- Vs SVS SB-3000: Definitive Technology simplifies things with its unique 3XR architecture
- Vs SVS SB-4000 and PB-4000: Definitive Technology simplifies things with its unique 3XR architecture
Takeaway: The Descend series provides excellent performance and value for a subwoofer. Depending on room size and desired bass level, there is a Descend model for everyone.
All
Descend DN8
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Transducers: 8" long-throw woofer
- Passive radiators: Dual 8"
- Bass type: Bass Radiator
- Amplifier type: Class D
- Frequency response (-/+ 3dB): 35 Hz → 200 Hz
- Low-Pass crossover freq: 60 Hz → 120 Hz
- Phase adjustment: 0 / 180°
- Dimensions: 12.8" x 12.0" x 13.1" (324.8 x 305.8 x 331.6 mm)
- Inputs: LFE Single RCA, Speaker Left/Right 5-way binding posts
- Controls: Main power Auto/Off, Volume control, Low pass control, Phase control
- Power supply: Internal IEC 3 prong jack 120V/240V switch
- Warranty: Drivers 5 years, Amplifier 3 years
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:
- The Descend series subwoofers leverage the brand's unique 3XR architecture, utilizing dual passive radiators alongside an active woofer to deliver bass extension comparable to larger ported designs, but without port noise.
- Definitive Technology integrates Class H amplifiers in their larger Descend series subwoofers, enabling efficient power delivery for both music and movie soundtracks.
- They offer Intelligent Phase Control, allowing for meticulous alignment of the subwoofer with the main speakers to achieve a seamless blend and even frequency response.
- Dymension series loudspeakers incorporate BDSS (Balanced Double Surround System) drivers and Linear Response Waveguides, aiming for linear and accurate midrange reproduction with wide dispersion.
Select products
Dymension DM40
- Positioning: A compact entry-level floor-standing speaker for smaller setups.
- Description: Offers a clean design with a simple driver layout and a streamlined crossover that yields clear midrange and controlled bass for basic listening needs. Compared to the DM60, DM70, and DM80 models, its fewer advanced features make it best for smaller rooms and limited budgets while meeting essential functionality.
Dymension DM60
- Positioning: A mid-range speaker designed to boost performance without reaching premium price levels.
- Description: Builds on a more refined driver array and improved cabinet engineering that enhance bass extension and overall balance. In direct comparison with the DM40, it raises sonic performance through enhanced clarity, yet still sits below the DM70 and DM80 in technological sophistication and dynamic range.
Dymension DM70
- Positioning: A higher-end speaker geared toward delivering a wide and engaging soundstage for mid to larger rooms.
- Description: Introduces an upgraded driver configuration paired with a more sophisticated crossover network that supports broader frequency control and refined acoustic detail. Relative to the DM60 and DM40, it offers marked improvements in clarity and bass control.
Dymension DM80
- Positioning: A flagship speaker that features the most advanced technology in the lineup for a superior acoustic experience.
- Description: Built with the most advanced driver array and optimized cabinet design that produces exceptional dynamic range and sound precision. Compared to the DM70, DM60, and DM40 models, its enhanced build quality and refined musical reproduction represent the pinnacle of the series.
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Definitive Technology
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Product Strengths
- Delivers smooth, controlled, articulate, precise, and unobtrusive bass
- Stylish design with a high Wife Acceptance Factor, due to the matte black top and clean look
- Large LED display is hidden behind the front speaker grill for easy viewing and adjustments via IR remote
- Offers multiple settings for the display and three EQ settings (flat, loud, and deep) to suit different preferences and room acoustics
- The 3XR Architecture technology triples the bass-producing resonance area that outperforms a 15" ported alternative, providing tight, deep, and accurate bass
Product Considerations
- Bass may be timid at first and may require increasing the LFE output on the AVR to make it more generous
- The speaker grills are not removable, which may disappoint users who enjoy watching their subwoofers in action
- Not wireless, requiring hard-wired connections to the receiver
- The DN12 is quite large in size, making it more suitable for larger rooms or dedicated cinema rooms
- Is on the weak side at the lowest volumes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Magnat Omega CS 12: Magnat is capable of delivering sub-bass with more power and presence, but the DN12 is more discreet with a display that can be turned off
- Vs SVS SB-2000 Pro: SVS has a more compact design and deeper, more powerful bass, but is more expensive
- Vs M&K Sound 12-inch 250-Watt sub: DN12 was easier to set up
Takeaway: The Definitive Technology Descend DN12 delivers powerful and controlled bass with multiple customization options to blend seamlessly into any home theater setup. It is an all-around great addition to any home theater for an immersive experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- 3XR architecture with twin radiators of the same size as the active woofer effectively triples air movement without port noise distortion
- Deep reach like a ported box, but with less distortion
- More placement options, due to the dual bass radiators which remove the need for ports
- Tight, articulate, and punchy bass for music, and impactful bass for movies
- Bigger performance than its size
Product Considerations
- DN8 and DN10 models lack a remote or app control for adjusting settings from the listening position
- The Descend Series lacks a wireless option
- Class H amplifiers sacrifice efficiency by requiring more power and heat sinks to run cool
- Smaller models are better suited to small to mid-size rooms, while the larger ones are suited for any size room
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SVS SB-1000 Pro, the DN8 has more punch for size thanks to the bass radiators
- Vs SVS PB-1000 Pro, the DN8 and DN10 have more punch for size thanks to the bass radiators
Takeaway: The Descend series subwoofers are a true performer, and is well worth the money if one is looking for tight bass in a small to medium-sized room. It sounds amazing and rivals many good subs in its price point.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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.
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
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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
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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
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