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When it comes to adding deep, rich bass to your home audio setup, Klipsch offers two compelling options: the newer Klipsch Flexus SUB 100 ($239) and the established Klipsch Reference R-8SW ($179). Let's dive into how these subwoofers compare and which might be right for your needs.
Today's powered subwoofers have evolved significantly from the massive boxes of the past. Both of these models showcase modern engineering approaches, though they serve different purposes. The key is understanding how each handles three crucial aspects: power delivery, bass reproduction, and system integration.
The newer Flexus SUB 100 represents Klipsch's forward-thinking design, incorporating wireless technology and smart features. In contrast, the R-8SW follows a more traditional approach that has been refined over years of development.
The Flexus SUB 100's 10-inch woofer and 80-watt RMS amplifier provide noticeably more power than the R-8SW's 8-inch driver and 50-watt RMS amp. This difference becomes apparent when handling demanding movie soundtracks or bass-heavy music.
What's particularly impressive about the Flexus is its frequency response reaching down to 26Hz, compared to the R-8SW's 38Hz lower limit. This 12Hz difference might seem small on paper, but it's significant - it's the difference between feeling the rumble of an explosion versus just hearing it.
For medium to larger rooms (over 300 square feet), the Flexus SUB 100's additional power becomes increasingly important. The R-8SW, while capable, is better suited to smaller spaces where its 150-watt peak power can still create impactful bass without straining.
Here's where these subwoofers take dramatically different approaches:
The Flexus SUB 100 features:
The R-8SW offers:
The wireless capability of the Flexus SUB 100 is particularly valuable for clean installations where running cables would be difficult. However, it's important to note that this wireless feature only works with compatible Klipsch Flexus soundbars.
The Flexus SUB 100, developed in collaboration with Onkyo, incorporates several recent technological improvements:
The R-8SW, while using more traditional technology, benefits from Klipsch's refined engineering:
In a home theater context, both subwoofers perform well but with different strengths:
The Flexus SUB 100 excels at:
The R-8SW shines with:
At $239, the Flexus SUB 100 commands a $60 premium over the R-8SW. This price difference reflects its wireless capabilities and more powerful amplification. However, the R-8SW's lower price point makes it an excellent value, especially for those with traditional audio setups.
Choose the Flexus SUB 100 if:
Go with the R-8SW if:
Both subwoofers represent different approaches to bass reproduction, each with its own merits. The Flexus SUB 100 is clearly designed for modern, wireless-first installations, while the R-8SW continues to serve traditional setups admirably.
For those building a new system around a Klipsch Flexus soundbar, the Flexus SUB 100 is the obvious choice. Its wireless capability and deeper bass extension make it a perfect match for contemporary home theater setups.
However, if you're adding a subwoofer to an existing system or working with a tighter budget, the R-8SW offers impressive performance and value. Its traditional design and universal compatibility make it a safe and reliable choice for most users.
Remember, the best subwoofer isn't always the most powerful or feature-rich - it's the one that best fits your specific needs, space, and system configuration.
| Klipsch Flexus SUB 100 ($239) | Klipsch Reference R-8SW ($179) |
|---|---|
| Driver Size - Larger drivers generally produce deeper bass | |
| 10" long-throw paper cone | 8" copper-spun IMG |
| Amplifier Power - Higher power enables louder, cleaner bass | |
| 80W RMS / 160W Peak | 50W RMS / 150W Peak |
| Frequency Response - Lower numbers mean deeper bass | |
| 26-250 Hz (±3dB) | 38-120 Hz (±3dB) |
| Maximum Output - Determines overall volume capability | |
| 103.7 dB | Not specified |
| Cabinet Design - Affects bass character and placement options | |
| Sealed (acoustic suspension) | Bass reflex with down-firing port |
| Connectivity - Determines system compatibility | |
| Wireless + Mono RCA input | Line level/LFE RCA inputs only |
| Size - Important for room placement | |
| 13.2"W x 13.3"H x 13.9"D | 11.8"W x 13.3"H x 11.8"D |
| Weight - Affects stability and portability | |
| 20.7 lbs | 15 lbs |
| Special Features - Additional functionality | |
| Wireless pairing, app control, dual sub capability | Phase control switch, variable crossover (40-120 Hz) |
| System Compatibility - Critical for integration | |
| Optimized for Flexus soundbars | Works with any audio system |
| Warranty - Protection for your investment | |
| 2 years | 2 years |
The Flexus SUB 100 ($239) is better for home theater due to its deeper bass extension (26Hz vs 38Hz) and higher power output. However, the R-8SW ($179) works well in smaller rooms and traditional AV setups.
The main difference is that the Flexus SUB 100 offers wireless connectivity and works with Klipsch soundbars, while the R-8SW is a traditional wired subwoofer that works with any audio system.
The R-8SW is ideal for small rooms due to its compact size and 8" driver. The Flexus SUB 100 might be overkill in spaces under 200 square feet.
The R-8SW works with any receiver using standard RCA connections. The Flexus SUB 100 is designed primarily for Klipsch Flexus soundbars, though it does have an RCA input.
The Flexus SUB 100 has more power with 80W RMS/160W peak compared to the R-8SW's 50W RMS/150W peak.
The $60 premium for the Flexus SUB 100 is worth it if you need wireless connectivity or deeper bass. If these aren't priorities, the R-8SW offers better value.
The Flexus SUB 100 is easier to set up with its wireless capability. The R-8SW requires cable connections but offers more fine-tuning options.
The Flexus SUB 100 is specifically designed for Klipsch Flexus soundbars. The R-8SW can work with soundbars that have subwoofer outputs.
The Flexus SUB 100 has better bass response, reaching down to 26Hz compared to the R-8SW's 38Hz lower limit.
Yes, both the Flexus SUB 100 and R-8SW feature auto power-on/off functionality when they detect or lose an audio signal.
The R-8SW is more versatile due to its universal compatibility, while the Flexus SUB 100 is optimized for Klipsch Flexus soundbar systems.
The Flexus SUB 100 supports pairing two subwoofers together. The R-8SW can be used in multiple subwoofer setups if your receiver supports it.
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 - crutchfield.com - klipsch.com - audioadvisor.com - avsforum.com - homecinemachoice.com - kbaudio.co.uk - crutchfield.com - audiolab.com - newegg.com - richersounds.com - klipsch.com - baillios.com
