Website author headshot
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.

Product Strengths

  • Provides a necessary enhancement to the MSP5 monitors, improving their low-end response
  • Integrates seamlessly with the MSP5 monitors once properly configured
  • Allows for better orientation when mixing, revealing muddiness and clarifying low cuts/boosts
  • Extends the bottom end another octave, improving low-frequency extension and power handling (with MSP10)
  • Produces a detailed stereo image

Product Considerations

  • Can sound a little brash
  • Setting up the subwoofer can be a time-consuming and frustrating process
  • Buttons for adjustments are located on the rear, making specific adjustments a bit difficult

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Some users preferred the Yamaha SW10 with MSP5 over Yamaha HS80/HS10W
  • User preferred the SW10, but noted the lack of a bypass switch compared to the KRK Systems sub

Takeaway: The Yamaha SW10 subwoofer enhances the monitoring experience by adding depth and clarity to the low end, especially when paired with Yamaha MSP5 or MSP10 monitors. It can improve the sound of your system and make mixing easier.

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.

All

SW10 Studio

reviews

[{"title":"Yamaha SW10 experience","link":"https://gearspace.com/board/so-much-gear-so-little-time/477977-yamaha-sw10-experience.html","source":"gearspace.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"User reviews: Yamaha SW10 - Audiofanzine","link":"https://en.audiofanzine.com/active-monitor/yamaha/SW10/user_reviews","source":"en.audiofanzine.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Yamaha MSP10 & SW10","link":"https://www.soundonsound.com/reviews/yamaha-msp10-sw10","source":"soundonsound.com","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Driver: 10" active bass reflex subwoofer
  • Frequency Range: 25 Hz - 150 Hz
  • Power: 180W dynamic
  • Inputs: Balanced XLR (L/R/SUBWOOFER)
  • Outputs: Balanced XLR (L/R/SUBWOOFER), parallel connected with input signals
  • Controls: Level control, LPF control 40-120 Hz (80 Hz center detent), Phase switch
  • Features: Full magnetic shielding
Yamaha's "STUDIO" series monitors have been designed with serious monitoring in mind. Emphasis is on reference-quality reproduction precision that lets you hear sonic details, rather than flattering sound. They carry on in the tradition of the venerable NS10M STUDIO monitor speaker, which was the definitive near-field speaker monitor in an overwhelming majority of professional studios throughout the world for many years from the 80s onward. But technology has evolved dramatically right throughout the audio chain, and speakers must follow suit.The new top-of-the-line MSP7 STUDIO Powered Monitor Speaker is capable of delivering consistent quality and performance that you can rely on in modern production environments that handle any combination of digital and analog sources as well as stereo and surround formats.
The MSP series is the first choice for sound engineers and producers when it comes to accurate and true-to-life reproduction of any audio material. Regardless of audio material - analog or digital - they are ideal for any production environment, whether stereo or surround.
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:

  • Yamaha leverages its deep expertise in musical instrument manufacturing to design audio equipment aiming for "True Sound," faithfully reproducing the intended sound of instruments and vocals, making them sound realistic.
  • Yamaha products, particularly amplifiers and receivers, often offer a wide range of connectivity options, including legacy inputs (like phono stages) alongside modern features, catering to both traditional and contemporary audio setups.
  • Yamaha's MusicCast ecosystem integrates seamlessly with their audio products, providing multi-room audio capabilities and access to streaming services, allowing users to easily expand their audio setups wirelessly.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
0
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
39
 of 900+
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Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
84
Founding Year
1887

Our take on the brand

Yamaha pioneered the concept of hifi with their first hifi player in 1954 and was the first to use pure beryllium diaphragms in their NS-1000M speakers, which became a benchmark for professional studios. The brand uniquely integrates their musical instrument expertise into their audio equipment design, allowing them to accurately replicate the sound of their instruments through their audio systems.

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What if you spend more?

Product image
Yamaha
NS-SW300
549
549
/
3
Reviews

A subwoofer that leaves nothing to be desired! A combination of the best usability and attractive design. The new Twisted Flare Port technology was developed for the NS-SW200 and adapts perfectly to a wide range of speakers. PWM digital amplifier and dual feedback circuit The new Twisted Flare Port offers clear and powerful bass The color of the Soavo speakers varies depending on the sales area 25 cm cone woofer with square wire magnet coil The attractive design matches a wide range of speakers and furnishings Control panel on the front facilitates operation Control Panel and Auto Standby

Yamaha pioneered the concept of hifi with their first hifi player in 1954 and was the first to use pure beryllium diaphragms in their NS-1000M speakers, which became a benchmark for professional studios. The brand uniquely integrates their musical instrument expertise into their audio equipment design, allowing them to accurately replicate the sound of their instruments through their audio systems.
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Our summary

Product Strengths

  • Great, deep bass for its size
  • Yamaha's Twisted Flare Port technology reduces air turbulence and improves bass response, resulting in cleaner bass and less distortion
  • Versatile and attractive design that complements any audio setup and decor
  • Bass timing was very precise, and the speed of the bass meant no audible lag
  • Multiple connection options are available, including line inputs, speaker outputs, and compatibility with the Yamaha YWA-10 wireless module

Product Considerations

  • The piano black finish is prone to fingerprints and dust, requiring regular maintenance
  • Some reviewers experienced rattling, indicating a potential design flaw
  • Fixed 240V mains cable (in some regions) may be inconvenient
  • Choosing to go wireless requires purchasing the wireless module separately, implying an additional cost
  • The switch for music and movies is located on the back of the sub, which can be inconvenient

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Yamaha SW50 and SW100, the NS-SW300 is far better
  • One reviewer who had rattling issues replaced it with an SVS PB1000, which they found much better for their needs
  • One reviewer who had rattling issues found the Polk HTS 10 Subwoofer performed better in every aspect

Takeaway: The Yamaha NS-SW300 delivers deep and powerful bass in a compact size and has multiple connection options. It is a great addition to any home entertainment system, immersing the listener in an exciting sound experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Yamaha pioneered the concept of hifi with their first hifi player in 1954 and was the first to use pure beryllium diaphragms in their NS-1000M speakers, which became a benchmark for professional studios. The brand uniquely integrates their musical instrument expertise into their audio equipment design, allowing them to accurately replicate the sound of their instruments through their audio systems.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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SVS
3000 Micro
899
899
/
22
Reviews

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • SVS 3000 Micro has better adjustability than Sunfire

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

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

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

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

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

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

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

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

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

What competes at this price?

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

Our Summary

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

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

Our Summary

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

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

Our Summary

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

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

Our Summary

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

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

Our Summary

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

  • Not ideal for large spaces

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

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

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