SVS SB12-Plus v. 2 X-Subs

I would expect the SB12 to out-perform two x-subs in both output and depth, but not by a huge margin. The main advantage of the twin x-subs would be the possible evening out of the room response that two non-colocated subs will give.

If you don't listen at high levels, then the main advantage of the x-sub is you can even out the room response for more seating locations. The main appeal of the SVS is that it's small and has lots of adjustments for best possible sound in a smallest box that can fill a small to medium room

Your two choices will not give you much response below 25-30Hz, especially with any number of X-Subs. Just not designed to do justice to the 16-25Hz with authority. I guess you know that. Since you are 80% HT, I thought I would mention that. If you have room an SVS PB-10NSD will get you down to at least 19Hz with authority, and with significant output for your not so small room.

I agree. For HT, the PB-10 is a better choice than either of the others. With an $800 budget, you can even move up to a PB12.

Not if...


I think the SB12 is fine given his requirements. With some room gain, it should be flat down to 25Hz no problem. I'll speak from my experience....my room is actually a little larger than his and the SB12 works well. The X-sub a little less so in terms of extension but with more even response.

I don't disagree. The SB12 certainly can do the job pretty well. I know because I have two of 'em, but we are talking about 80% HT. When I think of primarily HT, I think of capabilties to 20hz and lower which is something the PB10 can do better. Yes, is is certainly larger which might be a turn-off.

I was watching some movies on the SB12 and had it turned up a bit louder than usual....and man, I was almost surprised by how well the SB12 rocked my room (Die Hard 4 in DTS-HD and all its explosions). Sure if you don't mind a big sub, the PB12 is the way to go, but if you still want a smaller/nicer box, the SB12 can be more than adequate. This was in my room about the same size as the OP's. If I was missing output below 25Hz, I sure didn't miss it much because the SB12 still provided the needed punch.

I have a used PB12-Plus in piano black in your price range.... PM me if your interested.

I bet my Rosie can grovel, grumbel down low with the best of them.

Sourbeef, Rosie is great little sub, but don't put money on that wager. Do bet on physics. Size matters.