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Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

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.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

Manufacturer details

  • Design: Powered Subwoofer (Sealed)
  • Drive units: 1 x 250mm (10in.)
  • Frequency response: 24Hz - 140Hz (±3dB)
  • Max output: 111dB
  • Amplifier type: Class-D
  • Amplifier power: 300W RMS
  • Variable low pass filter: 40Hz – 140Hz, LFE
  • Input: RCA phono sockets
  • Speaker level inputs: Yes
  • Expansion port: for KW1
  • Power requirements: 100 - 240V, 50/60 Hz
  • Power consumption: 300VA
  • Dimension (H x W x D): 370 x 353 x 370 mm (14.6 x 13.9 x 14.6 in)
  • Weight: 15.4 kg
10-inch front-firing active subwoofer Kube 10 MIE features a sealed cabinet, a 10-inch bass driver, and 300 Watts of power to deliver remarkable bass extension and control. With Music Integrity Engine ®, the Kube 10 MIE is optimised to dynamically enhance bass depth and dynamics, unlocking its full potential.
Kube 10 MIE features a sealed cabinet, a 10-inch bass driver, and 300 Watts of power to deliver remarkable bass extension and control. With Music Integrity Engine ®, the Kube 10 MIE is optimised to dynamically enhance bass depth and dynamics, unlocking its full potential.
Manufacturer Site

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:

  • KEF's designs prioritize a "Single Apparent Source" through coaxial driver technology, aiming for a coherent soundstage where frequencies appear to originate from a single point, enhancing realism and spatial accuracy.
  • The brand incorporates "Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT)" into its drivers, utilizing a maze-like structure to absorb unwanted sound waves from the rear of the driver, resulting in cleaner and more defined output.
  • They offer a wide range of streaming and connectivity options, with their powered loudspeakers responding to the proprietary KEF Connect app, which delivers multiple streaming services and facilitates setup and customization.
  • KEF frequently collaborates with renowned industrial designers to create visually striking products that seamlessly blend into modern living spaces, balancing aesthetic appeal with acoustic performance.

Every KEF model is built around the Uni-Q driver, which puts the tweeter in the center of the woofer so sound leaves one point and the stereo image holds wherever you sit. The Q1 Meta has a 5.25 inch Uni-Q and fits a desk or small room. The Q Concerto Meta adds a separate 6.5 inch bass driver, so a medium room gets deeper bass while the midrange stays free for voices. The Muon, limited to 100 pair, has six 10 inch woofers that reach 20Hz in the largest rooms.

​

  • Start here. If you want KEF's Uni-Q imaging in a small room or on a desk without spending much, the Q1 Meta is the compact entry.
  • Sweet spot. The Q3 Meta gives a mid-size room a 6.5 inch Uni-Q with bass down to 49Hz, a step up in bass from the Q1 Meta, and the models above mostly add more bass drivers.
  • All in. The Muon is a limited edition far beyond the Q Series in price, and for a listener with a very large room its extra bass drivers deliver much deeper, more powerful bass than any Q model.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
594
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
1
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
95
Founding Year
1961

Our take on the brand

KEF's idea is the Uni-Q driver, which puts the tweeter in the center of the woofer so every frequency leaves from the same point and the stereo image holds together. The British company, founded in 1961 by former BBC engineer Raymond Cooke, builds almost its whole range around it. Recent models add Metamaterial Absorption Technology, a maze-like structure that absorbs the sound coming off the back of the driver, and the LS50 Wireless II and LS60 Wireless put Uni-Q in a powered cabinet with streaming built in.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
KEF
KC62
1949
1949
/
12
Reviews

KC62 is an incredibly compact subwoofer that delivers the might and magic of deep, accurate bass for a thrillingly immersive music, movie and gaming experience. Created using innovative KEF engineering including the ground-breaking Uni-Core® technology, the football-sized KC62 features two 6.5inch force cancelling drive units powered by 1,000W RMS of specially designed Class D amplification.

KEF's idea is the Uni-Q driver, which puts the tweeter in the center of the woofer so every frequency leaves from the same point and the stereo image holds together. The British company, founded in 1961 by former BBC engineer Raymond Cooke, builds almost its whole range around it. Recent models add Metamaterial Absorption Technology, a maze-like structure that absorbs the sound coming off the back of the driver, and the LS50 Wireless II and LS60 Wireless put Uni-Q in a powered cabinet with streaming built in.
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Expand Details

Our summary

Product Strengths

  • The KC62 is a compact subwoofer, described as tiny and about the size of a soccer ball or basketball, making it easy to accommodate in various rooms and spaces
  • Delivers incredible bass for the money and size
  • The KC62 provides powerful, deep, and accurate bass reproduction, especially in the lower frequencies
  • Features unique Uni-Core technology to fit two woofers into a small cabinet, reducing unwanted resonances

Product Considerations

  • The KC62's standby mode may not always engage, requiring manual volume adjustment to wake it
  • Small subwoofers can't do what bigger subwoofers can do, although capable
  • App control does not provide direct access to remotely control the sub's own manual settings, therefore, some adjustments still need to be made on the back
  • In a big room, it'll definitely lose some steam

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The KC62 extends quite a bit lower than the SVS Micro 3000 and is going to have really good extension, especially at lower volumes
  • The KF92 has a max SPL that's double the one offered by the KC62, making it a great option for larger listening rooms or home theaters
  • The KC62 has a faster response than the REL T/9x, which enhances the vibrancy of percussions in music or exciting moments in movies

Takeaway: The KC62 is a small but mighty subwoofer that delivers impressive bass for its size, making it an ideal choice for those with limited space who still want a great listening experience. Its stylish design and innovative technology make it a standout product that can enhance both music and movie enjoyment.

Video review

Our take on the brand

KEF's idea is the Uni-Q driver, which puts the tweeter in the center of the woofer so every frequency leaves from the same point and the stereo image holds together. The British company, founded in 1961 by former BBC engineer Raymond Cooke, builds almost its whole range around it. Recent models add Metamaterial Absorption Technology, a maze-like structure that absorbs the sound coming off the back of the driver, and the LS50 Wireless II and LS60 Wireless put Uni-Q in a powered cabinet with streaming built in.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
KEF
KC92
2200
2200
/
4
Reviews
KEF's idea is the Uni-Q driver, which puts the tweeter in the center of the woofer so every frequency leaves from the same point and the stereo image holds together. The British company, founded in 1961 by former BBC engineer Raymond Cooke, builds almost its whole range around it. Recent models add Metamaterial Absorption Technology, a maze-like structure that absorbs the sound coming off the back of the driver, and the LS50 Wireless II and LS60 Wireless put Uni-Q in a powered cabinet with streaming built in.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Our summary

Product Strengths

  • Compact cabinet size allows placement where larger subwoofers might not fit
  • Delivers clean bass notes at high output due to its force-canceling design with drivers moving in sync in opposite directions, minimizing cabinet vibrations
  • Sophisticated driver material combines aluminum and paper for fast response and resistance to breakup under heavy bass
  • Features a Music Integrity Engine (MIE), a proprietary DSP algorithm, to optimize performance by maximizing the interaction of the entire system
  • Has Intelligent Bass Extension (IBX) to maximize output without distortion
  • Offers flexible setup options with five EQ preset options for different placements (Room, Wall, Corner, Cabinet, Apartment)

Product Considerations

  • At $1,999, it is a pricier option and may not offer a significantly larger output compared to less expensive subwoofers
  • Gloss finish may be prone to scratching
  • One reviewer heard a squealing noise possibly from a fan
  • Some reviewers felt that the unboxing experience didn't match its price
  • High delay on the RCA outputs might be an issue for audiophiles who do not use room correction

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • KC92 uses DSP to compensate in various ways, SB3000 has more raw output capability due to its larger driver

Takeaway: The KC92 is a compact and well-engineered subwoofer that delivers strong and clean bass for its size, making it a good option for those with limited space. Its advanced DSP and flexible setup options allow it to be customized for different room environments.

Video review

Our take on the brand

KEF's idea is the Uni-Q driver, which puts the tweeter in the center of the woofer so every frequency leaves from the same point and the stereo image holds together. The British company, founded in 1961 by former BBC engineer Raymond Cooke, builds almost its whole range around it. Recent models add Metamaterial Absorption Technology, a maze-like structure that absorbs the sound coming off the back of the driver, and the LS50 Wireless II and LS60 Wireless put Uni-Q in a powered cabinet with streaming built in.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
KEF
Kube 15 Mie
1300
1300
/
1
Reviews

Kube 15 MIE, the largest model in the Kube range, is engineered to provide the deepest bass for music and movies, giving you a ground-shaking immersion. Perfectly suited for large rooms, the 15-inch driver and 300W (RMS) Class D amplifier combine to deliver the most visceral bass performance. With Music Integrity Engine®, the Kube 15 MIE is optimised to deliver exceptional depth and dynamics.

KEF's idea is the Uni-Q driver, which puts the tweeter in the center of the woofer so every frequency leaves from the same point and the stereo image holds together. The British company, founded in 1961 by former BBC engineer Raymond Cooke, builds almost its whole range around it. Recent models add Metamaterial Absorption Technology, a maze-like structure that absorbs the sound coming off the back of the driver, and the LS50 Wireless II and LS60 Wireless put Uni-Q in a powered cabinet with streaming built in.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • The 38cm woofer is beneficial for transmitting deep tones by moving a lot of air volume
  • The entire Kube series uses a 300-watt Class-D amplifier with DSP precisely tuned to the driver
  • It achieves a balance of precision and depth through the Music Integrity Engine (MIE) and Intelligent Bass Extension (iBX)
  • Multiple placement options (wall, cabinet, corner) are offered with presets to control bass power
  • It delivers deep, powerful, and well-controlled bass suitable for both music and cinema
  • Connectivity options...

Product Considerations

  • The Kube 15 MIE is not suitable for small rooms due to its size (nearly 52 centimeters edge length and 27.5 kilograms)
  • High-level inputs use plug-in terminals that require the customer to apply rather thin cables
  • The driver is shielded from view
  • Direct connection to third-party satellite speakers via an integrated crossover is not provided

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs KEF KC92 subwoofer: The Kube 15 MIE has a massive 15-inch driver, while the KC92 is the flagship of KEF's new subwoofer lineup

Takeaway: The Kube 15 MIE is a powerful and capable subwoofer, delivering impressive bass for both music and movies. With its innovative technologies and multiple placement options, it integrates well into various setups.

Video review

Our take on the brand

KEF's idea is the Uni-Q driver, which puts the tweeter in the center of the woofer so every frequency leaves from the same point and the stereo image holds together. The British company, founded in 1961 by former BBC engineer Raymond Cooke, builds almost its whole range around it. Recent models add Metamaterial Absorption Technology, a maze-like structure that absorbs the sound coming off the back of the driver, and the LS50 Wireless II and LS60 Wireless put Uni-Q in a powered cabinet with streaming built in.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
REL
T/9x
1762
1762
/
15
Reviews

Serie T/9x: Bigger and Better

​

The T/x Serie Flagship

​

The job of any range topper for REL is to deliver more of everything, particularly output and dynamics. The 9x is no different in this regard, as it delivers the goods in both music and theatre applications. 9x, however, delivers a level of intimacy, clarity and speed that means there are no longer trade-offs between the sonic balance of smaller models weighed against the power and scale of a model 9.

​

The all new 9x has even greater output than before, but the headline news is the way it sacrifices nothing in clarity and transparency to achieve this. At this price it opens the pathway for owners of high-performance European floor and stand mounted monitors and smaller panel speakers to enjoy truly full range sound.

​

Reimagined, Then Reengineered

​

A completely redesigned flagship

​

Many don't realize the intense linkage between performance and design here at REL. Performance is everything to us and so it drives physical design revisions. Our engineers, recognizing the need for greater acoustic volume to achieve the goals of greater fluidity and power, turn to the designer who works dimensions to fool the eye into seeing a smaller, more compact footprint even though cabinet volume increases. Using gently rounded corner radii that allows the eye to flow over and see less visual mass. The result is both modern and familiar with no unnecessary adornment.

​

Outsized Performance

​

Innovative Alloy/Fibre Bass Engines

​

To achieve higher output with better control requires a complete overhaul of the suspension components. Much like the suspension on a sports car, these items are responsible for the tuning and feel of our designs. By increasing the cabinet volume, efficiency is improved yielding higher output for no more amplifier power. Less back pressure inside the cabinet means we can tune for a stiffer, better controlled driver suspension. We retained the best aspects of our previous design, such as the aluminum center cap responsible for stiffening the lightweight 10" (250mm) cone while adding almost no mass. The updated combination produces considerably better attack and dynamics with greater transparency.

​

Tried and True Amplifiers

​

The Brains Behind the Brawn

​

We have retained our signature Class A/B amplifiers used in every generation of Serie T since 2006. Reliability is the key to happy ownership and with some 200,000 and counting of this range leading long happy lives, Serie T/x owners can feel certain of REL's standard setting reliability. The powerful 300 watt mosfet amplifier used in the T/9x remains an icon with huge reserves of current, massive power supplies but small upgrades are found everywhere. New driver mosfets that open up performance and transparency and new methods for securing the toroidal transformers mean better performance and superior strength.

​

REL's legendary High Level Input connection and fast filters are a significant part of the REL story. Connecting via the speaker outputs of your amplifier without drawing any power from it may seem like magic, but the real magic lies in the way the sound takes on a natural character. Unique tuning and special limiters mean the T/x range sounds fresher, faster and more dynamic than before.

​

Standby Mode switch is only included on 220V units.

​

Wireless that Doesn't Compress the Sound

​

Unlimited Possibilities

​

At REL, we've developed a sterling reputation for building the finest sounding, fastest wireless systems available in the industry. We never rely upon digital compression as it results in dull, lifeless sound. Instead, we have perfected an (optional) Arrow™ wireless system so fast and dynamic we're comfortable encouraging the use of wireless on one channel of a pair of RELs while the other channel may be connected conventionally with cable.

REL's idea is that a subwoofer should take its signal from the same amplifier that drives the main speakers. The company dates to 1990 and makes subwoofers and the cables that connect them. Its high-level Speakon connection carries the sonic character of the main system into the bass, and reviewers say a REL widens the sound field and improves midrange resolution rather than simply adding more bass. The range climbs from the compact Tzero MKIII to the Reference Series No.32, and the Classic 98 and Classic 99 are styled for owners of vintage gear.
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Product Strengths

  • Excellent sound quality, suitable for music listening with great articulation and detail
  • Easier integration into a room visually, due to its compact/medium size
  • Attention to detail in the design, including the fit and finish, and quality components
  • Speed and transient response are praised, allowing it to start and stop quickly
  • Multiple connection options, including high-level, low-level, and LFE inputs, increasing its versatility

Product Considerations

  • May not provide the same level of 'body rock' and tactile feel as larger subwoofers
  • May not be ideal for very large rooms where more output is needed
  • The finish, while high quality, is only available in a limited number of colors
  • The TX range is not designed to be stacked, limiting options for increasing bass output

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The T/9x has slightly better fidelity, while the SVS Micro 3000 has more SPL and extension
  • The T/9x provides a more consistent experience overall, while the KEF KC62 is more versatile
  • Performance rivals REL S3.

Takeaway: The REL T/9x is a well-designed subwoofer that can enhance the sound quality of a music system, especially in small to medium-sized rooms. It brings detail, clarity, and extension to the bass, making it a worthwhile addition for those who appreciate high-fidelity audio.

Video review

Our take on the brand

REL's idea is that a subwoofer should take its signal from the same amplifier that drives the main speakers. The company dates to 1990 and makes subwoofers and the cables that connect them. Its high-level Speakon connection carries the sonic character of the main system into the bass, and reviewers say a REL widens the sound field and improves midrange resolution rather than simply adding more bass. The range climbs from the compact Tzero MKIII to the Reference Series No.32, and the Classic 98 and Classic 99 are styled for owners of vintage gear.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

KEF
Kube 8 Mie
660
/
Released
2024
The compact Kube 8 MIE may not take up much space, but the bass it delivers is far from small. With an 8-inch driver, it is ideally suited for smaller rooms. By sharing the same 300 Watts Class D amplifier from it's larger siblings, Kube 8 MIE exhibits unprecedented levels of control. With Music Integrity Engine ®, the Kube 8 MIE is optimised to dynamically extend the bass depth.
Check Amazon
KEF's idea is the Uni-Q driver, which puts the tweeter in the center of the woofer so every frequency leaves from the same point and the stereo image holds together. The British company, founded in 1961 by former BBC engineer Raymond Cooke, builds almost its whole range around it. Recent models add Metamaterial Absorption Technology, a maze-like structure that absorbs the sound coming off the back of the driver, and the LS50 Wireless II and LS60 Wireless put Uni-Q in a powered cabinet with streaming built in.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Video review

Our take on the brand

KEF's idea is the Uni-Q driver, which puts the tweeter in the center of the woofer so every frequency leaves from the same point and the stereo image holds together. The British company, founded in 1961 by former BBC engineer Raymond Cooke, builds almost its whole range around it. Recent models add Metamaterial Absorption Technology, a maze-like structure that absorbs the sound coming off the back of the driver, and the LS50 Wireless II and LS60 Wireless put Uni-Q in a powered cabinet with streaming built in.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
SVS
3000 Micro
899
/
Released
2021
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.
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SVS is the subwoofer most people end up with. The American company, founded in 1998 and based in Youngstown, Ohio, designs its own woofers with light, rigid cones and powerful motors, and builds them into sealed, ported and cylinder enclosures for different rooms and goals, with the sealed models the usual choice for music. Many of its subwoofers are set up from a phone app that handles the crossover, parametric EQ and room gain compensation. Its customer service, with long trial periods and a five-year unconditional warranty, gets as much praise as the subwoofers.
Expand Details

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 the subwoofer most people end up with. The American company, founded in 1998 and based in Youngstown, Ohio, designs its own woofers with light, rigid cones and powerful motors, and builds them into sealed, ported and cylinder enclosures for different rooms and goals, with the sealed models the usual choice for music. Many of its subwoofers are set up from a phone app that handles the crossover, parametric EQ and room gain compensation. Its customer service, with long trial periods and a five-year unconditional warranty, gets as much praise as the subwoofers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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SVS
SB-1000 Pro
599
/
Released
2021
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.
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SVS is the subwoofer most people end up with. The American company, founded in 1998 and based in Youngstown, Ohio, designs its own woofers with light, rigid cones and powerful motors, and builds them into sealed, ported and cylinder enclosures for different rooms and goals, with the sealed models the usual choice for music. Many of its subwoofers are set up from a phone app that handles the crossover, parametric EQ and room gain compensation. Its customer service, with long trial periods and a five-year unconditional warranty, gets as much praise as the subwoofers.
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 the subwoofer most people end up with. The American company, founded in 1998 and based in Youngstown, Ohio, designs its own woofers with light, rigid cones and powerful motors, and builds them into sealed, ported and cylinder enclosures for different rooms and goals, with the sealed models the usual choice for music. Many of its subwoofers are set up from a phone app that handles the crossover, parametric EQ and room gain compensation. Its customer service, with long trial periods and a five-year unconditional warranty, gets as much praise as the subwoofers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
SVS
PB-1000 Pro
799
/
Released
2021
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.
Check Amazon
SVS is the subwoofer most people end up with. The American company, founded in 1998 and based in Youngstown, Ohio, designs its own woofers with light, rigid cones and powerful motors, and builds them into sealed, ported and cylinder enclosures for different rooms and goals, with the sealed models the usual choice for music. Many of its subwoofers are set up from a phone app that handles the crossover, parametric EQ and room gain compensation. Its customer service, with long trial periods and a five-year unconditional warranty, gets as much praise as the subwoofers.
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 the subwoofer most people end up with. The American company, founded in 1998 and based in Youngstown, Ohio, designs its own woofers with light, rigid cones and powerful motors, and builds them into sealed, ported and cylinder enclosures for different rooms and goals, with the sealed models the usual choice for music. Many of its subwoofers are set up from a phone app that handles the crossover, parametric EQ and room gain compensation. Its customer service, with long trial periods and a five-year unconditional warranty, gets as much praise as the subwoofers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Klipsch
RP-1200SW
999
/
Released
2023
The new high-performance Klipsch subwoofers worthy of the Reference Premiere moniker are built with our groundbreaking acoustic technology and are, pound for pound, some of the best subwoofers Klipsch has ever created.
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Klipsch's idea is the horn, built on its founder's rule that a more efficient speaker produces less distortion. Paul W. Klipsch started the American company in 1946 with the Klipschorn, and the Heritage models, from the Heresy IV to the Klipschorn AK6, are still hand built to order at his original factory in Hope, Arkansas. Their efficiency makes them a natural match for low-powered tube amplifiers, and the Heresy IV heads our Best Speakers for Tube Amps list. The Fives are powered speakers with a phono input, so a turntable plugs straight in.
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's idea is the horn, built on its founder's rule that a more efficient speaker produces less distortion. Paul W. Klipsch started the American company in 1946 with the Klipschorn, and the Heritage models, from the Heresy IV to the Klipschorn AK6, are still hand built to order at his original factory in Hope, Arkansas. Their efficiency makes them a natural match for low-powered tube amplifiers, and the Heresy IV heads our Best Speakers for Tube Amps list. The Fives are powered speakers with a phono input, so a turntable plugs straight in.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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