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When it comes to adding deep, room-shaking bass to your home audio system, Klipsch offers two very different solutions: the compact and wireless Flexus SUB 100 at $239 and the massive, performance-focused Reference Premiere RP-1600SW at $1,236. Let's explore how these subwoofers compare and which might be right for your setup.
Today's powered subwoofers have evolved significantly from the basic bass boxes of the past. They now incorporate sophisticated digital amplification, advanced driver materials, and smart features like room correction and wireless connectivity. Both of these Klipsch models showcase different approaches to modern subwoofer design, with the Flexus focusing on convenience and the RP-1600SW prioritizing ultimate performance.
The difference in size between these subwoofers can't be overstated. The Flexus SUB 100 is remarkably compact at just 13 inches in each dimension - about the size of a small cube ottoman. This makes it incredibly versatile for placement, whether tucked in a corner, beside a couch, or hidden behind furniture.
In contrast, the RP-1600SW commands attention with its 23-inch dimensions and 111-pound weight. This massive cabinet houses a 16-inch driver that requires substantial space to operate properly. While its front-firing port design allows for some placement flexibility, you'll need to plan your room layout around this subwoofer.
The physics of bass reproduction generally favor larger drivers and cabinets, which is clearly demonstrated here. The Flexus SUB 100's 26Hz lower limit is respectable for its size and price point, capable of reproducing most musical bass notes and movie effects. However, the RP-1600SW's ability to reach down to 14.5Hz means it can reproduce infrasonic frequencies you feel more than hear, creating that visceral impact that home theater enthusiasts crave.
The difference in maximum output (103.7dB vs 125.5dB) is equally significant. While decibels use a logarithmic scale, this roughly translates to the RP-1600SW being able to play about four times louder while maintaining clarity. This headroom isn't just about maximum volume - it allows the subwoofer to handle dynamic peaks in movies and music without strain.
The Flexus employs a 10-inch paper cone driver, which is a proven design for accurate bass reproduction. Paper cones can be very effective when properly engineered, offering good stiffness-to-weight ratio and natural damping characteristics.
The RP-1600SW's 16-inch Cerametallic driver represents a significant step up in technology. This proprietary material combines ceramic and aluminum layers for exceptional rigidity while maintaining low mass. The larger voice coil and improved motor structure allow for greater excursion (how far the cone can move) while maintaining control, resulting in lower distortion at high output levels.
The Flexus SUB 100 shines in terms of modern connectivity, featuring Klipsch's wireless Transport system that makes setup nearly plug-and-play with compatible soundbars. This wireless capability maintains high-quality audio transmission while eliminating the need to run cables across your room.
The RP-1600SW takes a more traditional approach with its wired connections but offers more precise control over crossover frequency (where the subwoofer takes over from your main speakers) and phase adjustment. The optional WA-2 wireless kit can add wireless capability, though it's an additional purchase.
For movie watching, the Flexus SUB 100 performs admirably in smaller rooms, providing enough impact for casual viewing. It handles standard action movie fare well, though it may struggle with the most demanding bass effects.
The RP-1600SW excels in home theater applications, where its extreme low-frequency extension and high output capability create a truly cinematic experience. When a movie soundtrack includes deep bass effects, this subwoofer can reproduce them with authority while maintaining clarity.
For music, the Flexus SUB 100 offers good performance with most genres, particularly those that don't demand extreme bass extension. Its sealed design can provide tight, musical bass that works well for jazz, rock, and most popular music.
The RP-1600SW's superior control and extension make it exceptional for music, capable of reproducing the lowest organ notes and electronic bass with equal precision. Its front-port design and advanced driver allow it to remain musical while delivering substantial output.
The choice between these subwoofers really comes down to your specific needs and constraints:
Choose the Flexus SUB 100 if:
Choose the RP-1600SW if:
Both subwoofers are well-built and should provide years of service. The RP-1600SW's overbuilt design and 5-year warranty on the amplifier suggest exceptional longevity. The Flexus SUB 100's simpler design and 2-year warranty are appropriate for its price point.
While the price difference between these subwoofers is substantial, both represent good value in their respective categories. The Flexus SUB 100 offers impressive performance for its size and price, while the RP-1600SW delivers reference-level performance that justifies its premium positioning. Your choice should ultimately depend on your room size, budget, and performance requirements rather than trying to stretch beyond what makes sense for your situation.
| Klipsch Flexus SUB 100 | Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1600SW |
|---|---|
| Price - Initial investment consideration | |
| $239 (entry-level but capable) | $1,236 (premium performance investment) |
| Driver Size - Larger drivers generally provide deeper bass | |
| 10" paper cone woofer | 16" Cerametallic woofer with 70% larger voice coil |
| Amplifier Power - Determines maximum clean output | |
| 80W RMS / 160W Peak | 800W RMS / 1600W Peak |
| Frequency Response - Lower numbers mean deeper bass | |
| 26-250 Hz (±3dB) | 14.5-175 Hz (±3dB) |
| Maximum Output - Higher numbers mean more impact | |
| 103.7 dB | 125.5 dB |
| Physical Size - Consider room placement | |
| 13.3" x 13.2" x 13.9" (20.7 lbs) | 23.4" x 23.5" x 27.4" (110.9 lbs) |
| Enclosure Design - Affects bass character | |
| Sealed (tighter, more controlled bass) | Ported with Aerofoil slot (deeper extension) |
| Connectivity - Integration options | |
| Wireless with Flexus Transport, RCA/LFE input | Dual RCA/LFE inputs, optional WA-2 wireless |
| Warranty - Long-term protection | |
| 2 years | 5 years on amplifier |
| Recommended Room Size - Space requirements | |
| Small to medium rooms (<200 sq ft) | Medium to large rooms (>200 sq ft) |
| Best Use Case - Primary application | |
| Casual listening, background music, TV | Critical listening, home theater, maximum impact |
The Klipsch Flexus SUB 100 is ideal for small rooms under 200 square feet due to its compact 13-inch cube design. The RP-1600SW would be overkill and physically too large for most small spaces.
The Flexus SUB 100 costs $239, while the RP-1600SW is priced at $1,236 - a difference of nearly $1,000.
The RP-1600SW is significantly better for home theater, offering deeper bass extension (14.5Hz vs 26Hz) and much higher output (125.5dB vs 103.7dB) compared to the Flexus SUB 100.
The Flexus SUB 100 includes wireless connectivity built-in, while the RP-1600SW requires an optional WA-2 wireless adapter purchased separately.
The Flexus SUB 100 is easier to set up due to its lighter weight (20.7 lbs) and wireless capability. The RP-1600SW weighs 110.9 lbs and typically requires two people for installation.
The Flexus SUB 100 provides good musical bass for casual listening, while the RP-1600SW offers superior detail and impact for critical music listening.
The RP-1600SW has a 5-year warranty on the amplifier, while the Flexus SUB 100 comes with a 2-year warranty.
The Flexus SUB 100 is more apartment-friendly due to its smaller size and lower output. The RP-1600SW may be too powerful for apartment use.
The RP-1600SW is significantly more powerful with 800W RMS/1600W peak compared to the Flexus SUB 100's 80W RMS/160W peak.
No, both the Flexus SUB 100 and RP-1600SW are powered subwoofers with built-in amplifiers, requiring only a standard power outlet.
Yes, both the Flexus SUB 100 and RP-1600SW can integrate with any speaker system, though the Flexus works best with Klipsch Flexus soundbars.
For basic needs and smaller rooms, the Flexus SUB 100 offers better value at $239. For serious home theater enthusiasts with larger rooms, the RP-1600SW's premium performance justifies its higher price.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: crutchfield.com - listenup.com - bestbuy.com - forum.planetofthevapes.co.uk - cnet.com - youtube.com - klipsch.com - av-connection.com - greentoe.com - youtube.com - bestbuy.com - audioholics.com - hifiheaven.net - listenup.com - soundandvision.com - adorama.com - crutchfield.com - audioadvice.com - youtube.com - dreamaudio.co.ke - apollohifi.com.au - assets.klipsch.com
