- Editor's Note: Want to see a different product compared? Use the menu in the solid blue header above to swap a product.
When it comes to adding impactful bass to your home entertainment system, powered subwoofers are essential - but the market spans from simple solutions to serious high-end hardware. Today we're comparing two very different approaches: Klipsch's compact wireless subwoofer designed for soundbars, and SVS's enthusiast-grade reference subwoofer targeted at dedicated home theaters.
The subwoofer landscape has evolved significantly in recent years. While traditional home theater subs focused purely on maximum performance, we've seen a growing market for wireless solutions that prioritize convenience and clean aesthetics. The Klipsch SUB 100 represents this newer category - released in 2023 as part of their Flexus soundbar ecosystem. Meanwhile, the SVS PB-3000 carries forward the time-tested approach of maximizing acoustic performance through advanced engineering and sheer displacement capability.
The fundamental distinctions between these subwoofers start with their drivers - the SUB 100 uses a 10-inch woofer in a sealed box, while the PB-3000 employs a massive 13-inch driver in a ported enclosure. This difference in driver size and cabinet design leads to dramatic contrasts in their bass capabilities.
The PB-3000's larger cone area (roughly 70% more surface area) combined with greater excursion (how far the cone can move) means it can move significantly more air. More air movement equals more bass impact. Its ported design further increases efficiency in the deep bass region, though at the expense of cabinet size.
The SUB 100 takes a different approach, using a sealed design that sacrifices some efficiency for a smaller footprint. Its 80-watt amplifier is well-matched to the driver but can't compete with the raw power of the PB-3000's 800-watt amp. However, for many users in smaller spaces, the SUB 100's output capabilities (103.7 dB maximum) will be entirely sufficient.
The ability to reproduce deep bass is a key differentiator. The SUB 100's rated response down to 26 Hz is respectable for its size and price. You'll definitely feel the impact in action movies and most music. However, the PB-3000 reaches down to a subterranean 16 Hz with authority - this means you'll experience even the lowest organ notes and movie effects that you might miss entirely with the SUB 100.
While maximum output tells part of the story, the character of the bass matters tremendously. The SUB 100 delivers punchy, musical bass that works well for both movies and music. Its sealed design helps with "tightness" - the ability to start and stop quickly without overhang.
The PB-3000 elevates every aspect of performance. Its advanced driver design with features like the edge-wound voice coil and FEA-optimized basket contribute to extraordinarily clean and detailed bass reproduction. The sophisticated DSP (Digital Signal Processing) maintains control even at extreme volumes. When watching movies, explosions and impacts have a visceral quality that smaller subs simply can't match.
The SUB 100's wireless capability is a major selling point for many users. It pairs automatically with Klipsch Flexus soundbars using the included transmitter, eliminating the need to run cables across your room. The app-based control through the soundbar system makes adjustments straightforward.
The PB-3000 takes a more traditional approach with wired connections, but offers substantially more setup flexibility through its dedicated app. Users can adjust multiple parametric EQ bands, save presets for different content types, and fine-tune every aspect of performance. Its dual-port design even allows for sealed operation by using the included port plugs.
Room size and layout significantly impact subwoofer performance. The SUB 100's compact dimensions (roughly 13-inch cube) make it easy to position almost anywhere. It's particularly effective in smaller rooms up to about 300 square feet.
The PB-3000's larger size requires more careful placement consideration, but its additional output and deeper extension make it suitable for larger spaces over 500 square feet. Its advanced room correction capabilities help optimize performance in challenging acoustic environments.
Both products represent different philosophies in terms of long-term value. The SUB 100 delivers impressive performance for its price point and size, particularly within the Klipsch ecosystem. Its wireless capability and compact form factor make it future-friendly for those prioritizing clean aesthetics and simplicity.
The PB-3000 represents a more substantial investment but delivers reference-grade performance that will satisfy even demanding enthusiasts. SVS's track record of customer support and five-year warranty add confidence to the purchase. The level of engineering in components like the massively overbuilt amplifier and premium driver materials suggests excellent longevity.
Consider your primary use case:
For Klipsch soundbar owners:
For dedicated home theater enthusiasts:
The ultimate choice depends on your priorities between convenience and absolute performance. The SUB 100 excels at delivering satisfying bass in a user-friendly package, while the PB-3000 focuses on pushing the boundaries of what's possible in home audio reproduction.
Remember that room size, listening habits, and budget all play crucial roles in this decision. Either subwoofer can provide years of enjoyment when matched appropriately to your needs and space.
| Klipsch Flexus SUB 100 ($239) | SVS PB-3000 ($1,399) |
|---|---|
| Driver Size - Larger drivers generally move more air for deeper bass | |
| 10" paper cone woofer | 13" aluminum cone woofer with premium voice coil |
| Amplifier Power - Higher power enables greater dynamic range and output | |
| 80W RMS / 160W Peak | 800W RMS / 2,500W+ Peak |
| Frequency Response - Lower numbers mean deeper bass you can feel | |
| 26-250 Hz (±3dB) | 16-260 Hz (±3dB) standard mode, 18-260 Hz sealed mode |
| Maximum Output - Determines how loud the sub can play cleanly | |
| 103.7 dB | 120+ dB |
| Cabinet Design - Affects bass character and space requirements | |
| Sealed (acoustic suspension), 13" cube | Dual-port design, 22" x 18" x 26" |
| Weight - Indicates build quality and internal bracing | |
| 20.7 lbs | 82.2 lbs |
| Connectivity - Important for system integration | |
| Wireless via USB transmitter + RCA input | RCA inputs with advanced DSP control |
| Control Options - Affects ease of setup and adjustability | |
| Via soundbar remote or basic app | Dedicated app with parametric EQ and presets |
| Special Features - Additional capabilities that add value | |
| Dual sub capable, wireless sync with soundbar | Variable port tuning, room correction, multiple preset modes |
| Best Use Case - Helps match to your specific needs | |
| Small-medium rooms, soundbar systems | Large rooms, dedicated home theaters |
The Klipsch Flexus SUB 100 ($239) is better suited for small rooms due to its compact 13-inch cube size and 103.7 dB output. The SVS PB-3000 ($1,399) is unnecessarily powerful for small spaces and its large cabinet may be difficult to place.
There's a significant price difference - the Klipsch SUB 100 costs $239 while the SVS PB-3000 is $1,399. The price difference reflects their different target markets and performance capabilities.
The SVS PB-3000 delivers superior movie performance with deeper bass extension (16Hz vs 26Hz) and much higher output capability. However, the Klipsch SUB 100 still provides satisfying movie performance for casual viewing in smaller rooms.
The Klipsch SUB 100 offers wireless connectivity when paired with Klipsch Flexus soundbars. The SVS PB-3000 requires traditional wired connections via RCA cables.
The Klipsch SUB 100 is easier to set up with its wireless capability and simple controls. The SVS PB-3000 offers more advanced setup options but requires more technical knowledge to optimize.
Both work well for music, but in different ways. The Klipsch SUB 100 provides punchy, musical bass, while the SVS PB-3000 offers more detailed and powerful musical reproduction with better extension.
The Klipsch SUB 100 has 80 watts RMS/160 watts peak power, while the SVS PB-3000 delivers 800 watts RMS/2,500+ watts peak power - a substantial difference in capability.
The SVS PB-3000 is significantly better for large rooms due to its higher power, larger driver, and greater output capability. The Klipsch SUB 100 is best suited for small to medium rooms.
Both systems support multiple subwoofers. The Klipsch SUB 100 can pair two units wirelessly, while the SVS PB-3000 can be used in multiple configurations with proper setup.
The SVS PB-3000 reaches deeper bass notes (down to 16Hz) compared to the Klipsch SUB 100's 26Hz limit. This difference is noticeable in movies with deep bass effects.
Yes, both have app control but differ in capabilities. The Klipsch SUB 100 uses the Klipsch Connect Plus app through the soundbar, while the SVS PB-3000 has a dedicated app with more advanced controls.
Both provide good value for their intended use. The Klipsch SUB 100 offers excellent performance for basic home theater needs, while the SVS PB-3000 justifies its higher price with reference-level performance for serious enthusiasts.
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 - skybygramophone.com - bhphotovideo.com - svsound.com - svsound.com - youtube.com - paducahhometheater.com - crutchfield.com
