★ *REVIEWING:**bit.ly/3xnMlrE** ADDITIONAL INFO IN THE DESCRIPTION⬆︎* ★ *QOTD: What would rather have - one big subwoofer or multiple smaller subs?* ★ *Love our conversation/outtakes? Be sure to watch to the end* ★ *COMMENT RULES: Please be respectful. No outside links, URLs, email addresses, etc. Violations are automatically deleted.*
QOTD: This sub makes a strong case for multiple smaller. The footprint and flexibility seem like a big advantage. Also, love the washing machine puck idea for vibration.
Multi small ones for me. I like the TZero (for music, it's not got the ability for film really) for this reason. Have you tried any of the other REL T series?
I would like to mention that with stereo 8 inch subs(20 hz) at 100 watts and 3 db louder than my main full range speakers (35 hz), should be enough for anyone looking just to try sub woofers.
Here is how I got my wife onboard with my audio hobby, I supported her in her hobby [card-making] and brought alot of gear for her and in return she was more accepting of my interest. Now I have 4 x 12" subwoofers in a 2 channel stereo in lounge room, we are both happy because we both got what we wanted. Great video Andrew, cheers from Australia.
Always grateful for subwoofer reviews. Lotta people don’t realize how much that sub-market has exploded over the last fifteen years or so-we’ve never had so many terrific options before. Nothing like this has ever happened
Happy Sunday, everyone! If you are new to including subwoofers into your system, I think you'll find the post review discussion really helpful! Thanks for hanging out with us today!
This is why you guys are great reviewers. You actually take time to answer your comments. I know it's time consuming. But both of you do a great job! Cheers!
Yes to a REW video. I bought a Umik to use with Dirac and I would love to get started with REW but I'm a bit intimidated - I've found all your how-to vids excellent
What's funny is, I was thinking something similar. Even tho Andrew is more experienced, I find myself watching his reviews, waiting for the end so we can hear if Kristi agrees or disagrees. Lol
You are 100% correct about setting up subwoofers. People new to integrating subs should know that corner loading works more than it doesn't. Especially if you have dual subs. Don't just jam them in the corner. Give them room to breathe (4 or 6 inches from each wall). But if you have just a single sub, then do the sub crawl (put the sub in the spot you will sit and crawl around the room and listen for a good response) and hear where all the places are in the room that works best for the sub. You will find it works in multiple spots. The sub crawl will clearly show just how important placement is for subs.
Kristi hit it right on the head. Having a conversation with your partner is always a great beginning. I got lucky that my partner loves movies as much as I do, but I did have to with the WAF at first. Going from Def Tech 55's to Martin Logan Motion 20 towers kept me in the WAF, and now she is saying "what can we buy that will sound better?" Inspires me to show her speakers such as PSA speakers, which might not look the prettiest, but might have a better home theater sound. You're absolutely correct with subwoofers as well. Two is always better than one. Although I haven't mastered having three, two is good for now. Awesome video.
Just bought two 3000 micro and have them tuned in, running with a pair of Klipsch Heresy IV. Damn! They are good. Music never sounded better. Even movies sounds great. Small room, no need for big stuff.
I am about to get my Heresy 1 back from a refurb, and am considering starting with 1 Micro 3000 and taking it from there for bass (with the money I saved vs. buying new speakers at this time). I just hope the H1s live up to my expectations; the caps were SHOT and they need a bit of love in the tweeters as well, plus they are getting braced and foam inserts .... glad to hear someone has a similar combination ... albeit a newer Heresy ... and likes it
Being able to have multiple subs is almost always a benefit over a single sub and having the option of a small but powerful sub is the icing on the cake as you can put them in more of the places they work best. A larger sub has advantages but is often limited by placement options. I get the penchant for big bass. I was the guy who took the back seats out of his car and had four 15" woofers in their place. But in my house I want to be able to walk without tripping over speakers and while I'll make concessions to sound versus appearance that a lot of people won't I still want my living room to look good and that's a lot easier to accomplish with multiple smaller subs. Now, if I had a dedicated theater room then I'd have multiple built in large subs. Different gear to meet the need in different circumstances is always a good thing. Options are great.
I would LOVE a Room EQ Wizard video! The software is a bit scary to use and I haven’t seen a comprehensive guide yet. I would love to know how to actually translate measurements into action. How do I leverage the measurements to actually improve my system? Room treatment, placement, subwoofer arrangement, PEQ, etc. Thanks, Andrew and Kristi, you’re going a great job!
After buying a Sony 98X90L and a Sony STR AN1000 strictly because of your review videos I then took a deep dive into more of your content. I have watched most of your videos and while not all of them were necessarily important to my life I enjoyed them as they were informative, creative and taught me a thing or two. In one of the videos you made the comment of how important a subwoofer is to a surround sound system. It not only covers the low bass in music and the boom of explosions but it also frees up the other speakers to be better in the mid to high frequencies. I hadn't ever thought of that side of it. I had an in-wall subwoofer professionally installed in my last house 20 years ago and I hated it. My wife didn't want a big box sitting in the room so I went with an in-wall unit. I disconnected it after a few months because it was basically a wall rattler and detracted from the experience rather than making it more immersive and enjoyable. Your review of the Micro made me rethink the way I have always viewed subwoofers as boomers like those in the back of a car you can hear coming from 2 miles away. (You know who you are.) In my new house I installed SpeakerCraft Aim 8 in-ceiling speakers in a 7.0 configuration. I left the subwoofer out because again my wife didn't want a big box in the room. I have enjoyed my surround sound over the last 12 years and I really didn't think I was missing anything not having a subwoofer. After watching this review I purchased a Micro from SVS. You have done it again! An absolutely spot on review. The Micro is everything you said it would be. What a difference! It brought my home theater to a new level. (A much lower one). I have a good sized family room with 9 foot ceilings and it provides plenty of bass response. Music from 80's rock to the Boston Pops is totally immersive. I am hearing some subtleties and intricacies in the music that I haven't ever heard before. I am listening to songs I have heard a thousand times before with a new appreciation. Of course the Micro has no problem with the rattle of explosions or a jet taking off in the movies too. I know this is a book and a half of a comment but I wanted you to know that you are the reason my home theater has finally reached the level I dreamed of having as a teenager when I first heard of Dolby in the mid 80's. Thank you for all your efforts keeping us informed on the latest and greatest. You are the most to the point, honest and polished reviewer I have seen and trust me I have seen a lot of them. I put in over 50 hours of research on TV's and AVR's alone. Caleb Dennison does a nice job too but I love how you will give your opinion good or bad about a product. There is very little hedging. Keep up the good work. Also Kristi is great! It is really good to hear her take too. I loved your "Not Your Grandpa's Demo Playlist"! It is one of your best videos! The humor you injected is GOLD! Have a great 4th!
14:30 *Matte* white would be a wonderful finish option so it could disappear and blend in with modern walls. The glossy character of the finish works against it blending in and causes a lot of reflections and _"hey, look at me, I'm right here"_ that is counterproductive to having a small, hidden subwoofer.
Hi Andrew, I would love to see you make more videos about subwoofers. Both big and small. I find it hard to read in reviews the actual difference between subwoofers. Which ones are the best? Which ones are a good bang for buck? Which ones also work for music
Speed of a subwoofer is absolutely measurable. It's the impulse response and group decay in REW. You can improve it by ensuring you have bass absorbing materials around the room. Additionally with a raspberry pi and some tweaking flattening the phase response down to 20hz will make the sub sound "faster" as phase inversions lead to sound not feeling quite right. It's a night and day improvement
I picked the Micro 3000 for the same reason I like small driver bookshelves. Lightning fast response, super detailed and controlled. It's an ideal match with my KEF q150s ... Music is just super natural and detailed on this system.. Can listen all day and never get fatigued.
"I called France." 😂🤣 That made the video for me. Also, props for including a guilty pleasure movie. That movie isn't good, but it *is* awesomely bad. It's a great reference movie for testing home theater as well. Great video. I had hoped you guys would get a chance to review this one. Enjoy your weekend!
Best part of this video was when you went down to basics and explained that you shouldn't really be hearing a subwoofer and your speakers as separate entities, but rather as a "field experience" that blends in well together. I find that totally true (from experiencing with my setup...) Tks once more for a great video. Best, R.
What I'd like to know is how does it compare to SB-1000? Is the performance similar and the micro is just that little bit smaller, or is one of them a bit better than the other?
I bought the very tiny Cambridge Audio Minx X201 about two months ago, and I absolutely love it! It's the first sub I've ever had, and it's made such a difference to the sound my Q Acoustic 3030i speakers put out, I don't think my home will ever go back to being subless! Thanks for the great video, mate!
I'm a middleaged picky audiophile and was hesitant of adding a subwoofer. But, I did, and that's the best thing I've ever done for my 2 channel system. I got the SVS SB 2000 Pro. It really gives all music a better foundation, more depth and muscles. It's a no brainer really. There are no drawbacks whats so ever. Set it up properly, adjust the cross-over and volume and you are good to go. Next step is adding a second subwoofer if you want to go all in.
Andrew If you could do an updated REW video on how to maximize your subwoofers it would be an absolute blessing. I’m ready to buy a umic but for me the program is so intimidating. It would be extremely helpful if I could follow along step-by-step. Thank you! You both have awesome videos!
Andrew, I just want to say I really appreciate your channel. Before I discovered yours, I felt like I was getting scolded or told to get off their lawn when I’d come across channels like Audioholics. Your videos are practical and inviting, which makes it much more accessible to get a home theater sound at a range of budgets. The great presentation and lack of gatekeeping is well appreciated. Thank you for your great work, and keep it up!
I love your wife adding in thoughts but it does feel very unusual with only seeing one component of the conversation. I’d personally love to see this become a table talk review after you conclude your initial thoughts. Still love the content and will continue to watch of course, but I feel like that evolution would truly round out your current content! Love you guys and what you bring to the platform!
I would love to see an updated video on the Room EQ Wizard. I’m very sure I haven’t got my Paradigm sub setup anywhere close to optimal. I’m no slouch when it comes to setting up a home theatre but subs have always confused me. Crossover points are where I really fall down. A little help would be awesome. Thanks.
I have 4 smaller subs placed in my room 10s sound really good for music but not so much movies so I have 4 10s in my room they are rated to go to 28hz but measuring them in my room 18hz is easily achieved
I find by having dual subs the integration being a whole lot smoother/easier, it's probably because i have two Rel 8" down-firing T5is positioned behind the couch, which are 6"-8" away from the corners and having them both connected to each individual stereo speaker binding posts (high level input) The biggest compliment I get is when a guest/friend ask.... "how come you get such a huge sound from at such a small speaker" 😁
Perfect for a nearfield desktop setup. The new SVS SB 1000 Pro isn't much larger, but a pair only costs $1k. However not everyone can fit subs in the decor scheme. My single sub is in my unused fireplace and sounds great there out of sight.
sold! i have a Klipschorn 5.1 system now it will be a 5.2 my 23' x 23' room is full of 15" bass drives and my front sub is a Outlaw so as i tune the room i will find the best spot for this room with the SVS mirco as it is what the Doctor ordered. Thanks Andrew. Your reviews are almost always completely on point. Cheers and i will send pics when my new room in completed. Your reviews and Audioholics and my Mark Walrep collection will be humming along with real live sound!
Great review. I was going to ask how this compares to Kef KC62 but you already answered my question. I hope you can test it soon. A bit pricier but seems like people like it much more for music listening than SVS 3000 Micro. It should be also a way faster sub.
I really hope to hear it soon as well. I don't know what makes a sub "musical" vs "home theater", just as I don't quite understand the argument about loudspeakers being good for music vs movies etc. I loved the Micro for both and I bet, or should I say I would HOPE the KEF is as good but hopefully better. But better would have to be (for me) playing deeper with better authority because from 30Hz and up the Micro is pretty darn good.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Well... I just love faster sub for music listening. For movies that don't really matter so much at long as the sub can play low frequencies and punch when needed. I would say that some subs are way better for movies than for music listening.
It is a shame that the economy is killing SVS. They keep raising their prices, and if they don't stop, I fear it might be real trouble for the company. I paid $599 for each of my subs, and today they are $899 each.
It would be super awesome if you did a video.. or two.. on integrating subs into a system. It's really kind of tricky and not everyone is as clear as and concise as you are. I'm sure you've had to do it more than a few times, so that basically makes you an expert. 😉
„Crossover question“ Hi Kristi and Andrew, following your videos i now have -Heco Aurora 700 -Heco Aurora 30 Center -SVS Micro 3000 in the front. Hooked up to a denon x1600h What would be your pick for the crossovers with this combo? Also: any thoughts on putting the towers on „large“ and running in lfe+main? Mainly for home theater and some music. Your thoughts on this are highly appreciated! ✌🏻✌🏻
Thinking about using the SVS 3000 Micro in a dual, stereo setup for my L and R stand-mounts for music. Thank you for this review. It seems like these are a good solution. I already have a HT sub so these should blend right in to the whole system.
Great review, Andrew. I've been using two 8" AR subs with my vintage (2000) Sony 5.2 channel receiver, with Infinity speakers. I was advised back then, that having two subs would make the system sound balanced for both music and movies; that was great advice!
Hello Andrew, the idea of multiple subwoofers is the best for evenly distributed bass in the room. But the problem at this point is your AVR, most of them are not able to integrate more than one sub. The AVR measures the two Subs to one. The distance between the two subs and the listening place have to be equally. Maybe you can make a video about that theme. Sry for may bad English. Greetings from Germany ✌🏻
i think videos like that are really relatable. especially with subs: its not allywas as simple as: just get the biggest thing you can afford. most people on earth dont own a house but live in apartments. they have neighbors aswell, especially outside the us. I live in an apartment. i have neighbors. would i like to own like an array of multiple badass 18inch subs that shacke my entire house? ofc... but there is NO WAY its anywhere possible this will work with neighbors. you need to take tradeoffs and find something that works but still respects the fact people live nearby aswell so smaller subs will be the better option most of the time for most people
Subwoofers are like amplifier watts: you can never have too much subwoofer, only too little. Too little subwoofer is unsatisfying in its range and sounds strained at lively levels. Too much subwoofer is actually too little Volume dial discipline. One doesn’t imply the other. You can set up bodacious bass for the sake of extension and clarity, not to earn a visit from the cops
@@andrewrobinsonreviews also another AWESOME review from you guys! I love Mrs Christies input! Your channel has had suuch a huge impact on my life and my speaker collection! I will be sending you on facebook messenger my story so far 🤗👍
This is now a product I'm interested in, especially w my limited space. I bet this would be excellent with the Klipsch Fives. Adding this to my want list for sure. QOTD:multiple smaller as to the aforementioned limited space. Thanks for another great review!
Adding a sub to the Fives allows you to better tune their bass, which may or may not be too much for some in some rooms. Thanks for answering the question and for joining us today!
I own this sub and it is everything I could want for the price, footprint, and convenience ... not to mention aesthetics. With my 11 X 21 living room, speaks on short end wall, I am limited on placement, and I have to set sub 3/4 down the room (so 10-11 feet away from my speakers). The app is great at de-localizing using phase set to 180 degrees. I definitely have nulls in my room and understand another sub would help mitigate this, but I don’t have the space, nor do I want to spend another 800 to achieve bass balance. This single sub gives me all I need, as my towers get down to 35hz. I set my xo to 42-45hz. Hope this helps.
I just bought a pair of Klipsch RF7III s and honestly with their dual 10 inch drivers I think for music, they go close enough to full range and I haven't felt the need to connect a sub. For movies yes I would straight away.
When reading or watching subwoofer reviews it's always hard to grasp what people have as a baseline (no pun intended). I often heard that a 10" sub just wouldn't cut it, doesn't go deep enough or doesn't get loud enough. I don't know if those people live in an apartment, but my 10" sub is really on the limit of what I can have and I usually just play my music between 50~65dBA. I can only imagine these people have a suburban freestanding house and can just crank it whenever they want to. My roommate for example thinks his Teufel Ultima 40 floorstanders are bass monsters (they're not bad, but they can't compare to a real sub). It's all a matter of perspective and it's really hard to figure out what that perspective is from a video or article without actually hearing the systems irl.
When I’d only heard 8” and 10” subs, I wondered the same thing. I don’t know what model you’ve got but there are mechanical reasons why it’s hard for those kinds of cones to produce appreciable output below about 35Hz. Given many years of experience with larger systems, _as an upstairs resident in an apartment,_ I can tell you that there’s a whole dimension of sound you’re missing, even at low output levels. I run six subs across three systems. The largest units are sealed 15” theater subs, the smallest are sealed 12” music subs. I could never return to smaller drive units. I never get noise complaints (literally zero, in a dozen years)
You had the SB1000 right? How did it compare? Cheaper and just a little larger, the SB1000 looks like it goes deeper too, according to the freq response graph on the Svs site.
Thank you found your channel while speaker shopping and purchased the Heresy's IV, love them and have them set up with an old Boston cr400 sub. I have it set at 50hz and it does serve as an extension of the Heresy. Since it is an extension and not an augment and because it is not heard would an upgrade sound any better? I do not get into tech much so I thank your wife for that question. My system is a 2 channel pm8006 and I listen to a wide genre of music. I almost bought an REL 1205 but decided against as I find it hard to believe something that is not heard much could impact the total sound quality of the music. You have been much help thank you and Rock on!
You don't need to tell me, I own two small subs, one from Audioengine and one from Paradigm. My Audioengine S8 is an excellent little sub with an 8" driver that goes down to 27hz with a 125 watt amp. My Paradigm Ultracube 10 is about the same size but has a 10" driver and dual passive radiators with a 650 watt amp and goes down to 22hz. This sub can single-handedly turn my place into a nightclub, it's that impressive. On new years eve my neighbours told me their place was shaking except my neighbours don't live in the adjoining apartment, they live in a house next door so why anyone needs a 15" or 18" subwoofer is beyond me
It's a very different experience with a larger subwoofer. How much a large sub can change the pressure of a room is something that a small sub just can't replicate by way of basic laws of physics. This is most obvious for movies. An explosion or gun shots can literally be felt (in your bones) as if they are going off in the same space. Or low, rumbly sounds or below the the 20hz sound thresholds that can only be felt but not heard. If just wanting a loud, deep subwoofer for party music, I'm sure either are fine and not as discernible. I agree that for many people, they won't miss it unless they actually have both in the room to compare in the right context. It's clear as day when you do. Of course, you also have a large ugly box to deal with.
When I sold audio Bob Carver spent a day training us on Sunfire subs. It was one of the few trainings that kept everybody's attention for the whole training and was fascinating when he went into the other brands he had been associated with. It would be interesting if you did a series on the pioneers of audio like, Bob, Paul Klipsch, and others.
I agree that small subs can do just fine for home theater, especially when placed near field. However I disagree that this is an insane value. The problem is when people see a power spec of 800w rms and 2500w peak they think that says something about how powerful the sub will be. I think you should have explained that smaller drivers require more power to get the same SPL compared to a larger driver. A 15" ported sub with 400-600watts would have far more headroom for example. The main advantage of something like the 3000 micro is WAF and ease of placement. Not many people can fit dual 15" subs next to their sofa in the living room, at least not without it looking tacky or cramped.
I have SVS. Great subs (I have two PB1000Pro's)...just ok app. The PEQ works but is weak. If you want to take your bass to the next level, then you get a miniDSP. One miniDSP will handle 4 subs. It is a game-changer! I am flat down to 16Hz. As far as the 3000 goes it is a fantastic sub. Yes, it is pricey but you get your money worth IF you need a small sub. Otherwise, get the 1000 Pro
Andrew, you should definetly make a REW 2021 video. Also, it would be absolutely great if you could do a video on how to set up 4 subwoofers, how to tune them, how to phase align them etc. Brilliant videos btw, love your presentation style.
Great review, this little sub seams like a great option for living rooms. Dual PB2000 pros like I have definitely wouldn't be ideal for most living rooms. I don't hear the subs but I definitely know they are present when the bass extends down below 30hz or so. It just sounds like the bass is all around.
i honestly think the ported vs sealed discussion is kind of an old myth. like 10 20 years ago it was the overall impression that sealed is for music and ported is for movies and people just copy paste this argument to this date without even trying it. I do run an sb1000 on 60% gain in my 22qm room and its perfect for my taste. it blends in nicely to my speakers with music but it still can dig really low in movies if demanded, its fast, dry... i honestly prefer it over ported and movies are my main use. but i prefer balanced sound. it plays discreet enough so it kicks nicely without putting the sub in the spotlight but it still has the ability to go low and nasty in certain movie scenes if called for. i prefer the sound of a sealed sub and i think a sealed sub just is more balanced, more flexible and easier to work with and would not even bother with a ported sub within an apartment living situation whatsoever
Do you think it'd be an OK idea to put a heavy (mass loaded) monolith speaker stand on top of the Micro? Thinking about getting a second Micro and that placement seems like an obvious, aesthetically pleasing way to go. For one thing, It'd get the tweeters closer to ear level. Plus I'm thinking the extra mass could even help with driver response. (each stand is easily 50+ pounds)
Hello Andrew, and as always, a great relaxed presentation! I would also like to thank you for the nod to the Martin Logan. I have the Masterpiece electrostatics, and decided to pull the trigger on the Dynamo 1600x. According to Martin Logan and my dealer, this was the correct choice. Funny how a 15" would be fast enough to work with the quickest type of speaker their is and ML has put lots of time making a subwoofer that would be fast enough to work with their e'stats. I only purchased one for my 18x24x8' space. Using the ANTHEM room correction, and then adjusting inversion/phase the LPF (set to 35Hz.) and levels after that. You hardly know for all it's 900watts clean output, it is even working! For me, it's the lowest notes of the pedal pipe organ which underscores many orchestral works, and of course, the symphonic bass drum when tuned very low. Those were my reasons for adding the subwoofer. It is a music only rig, NO movies or screens on the system. Thanks for reading, and I look forward to your next one (O:
Thank you both again for your highly intelligible and coherent review as usual!! As for your question of 1 big or 2 small subs. I'm leaning towards 2 medium sb3000 with Forte iv. Oh and another great compatible sub for the micro would be one I own that's not talked about but pretty great in its own right klipsch c-310aswi.
Man I love SVS. Haven’t found the need or itch to switch brands. I’m pretty loyal to SVS because the value proposition in each price class, is just unmatched. Currently run a pair of SB16’s in my reference setup, a pair of SB13’s in my secondary setup, and a pair of PB2000’s in the gym. All of these have their place in the range, hopefully I’m using each in their best environment for what they’re being used for. Cheers!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I am totally a bass head. I am JUST figuring out the graphical representations of “what I like”. Would love to see your clear and concise instructional video on using REW to tune your subs, and what you like to see in your room? In both my systems, I have applied DEQ AND a house curve, with a rather tamed gain on the subs. The house curve is slopes down about 10dB from 35 to 100hz; this seems to be properly offset by the DEQ at low volumes, then at moderate towards reference volumes, the higher dB low-end persists, while DEQ tapers the rest. I have yet to see anyone apply the same curves, curious who else likes punch, tight bass at low volumes, and plentiful amounts at high volumes, without shaking your frames off the walls, while not having to change EQ or settings, in different modes... Thanks man!
I have two PB1000 Pro's and a THX 10" from Monoprice. Both are great. I actually upgraded to the SVS's from the SUB3010's. The 3010's are very impressive for the size and money.
Hi @Andrew Robinson, thanks for the review. What about the comparable subwoofer Goldenear Supersub X? This one is also a dual 8 like the SVS 3000 micro. How does the Goldenear compare in performance? I'm trying to decide between the two. Thank you. I look forward to your advice.
Does the dual opposing drivers eliminate cabinet vibrations the same way the Sonos Sub does? I have the Sonos Sub and although I'm sure it won't compete with the SVS 3000 Micro for performance, it is amazing in how it puts out bass with zero cabinet vibration when you touch it. I've used sub isolation pads, even SVS own isolation feet, and they don't compare in that regard.
How about multiple BIG (24" x 2) subwoofers. They are crossed very low and mostly for home theater... Im one of those who want to feel the atlas 5 launch in Apollo 13. I'm spoilled because i live near Vandenberg A.F.B. Yes a new version of how to use room e-q wizard I agree about the subwoofer being an extension of your main speakers. Great job you two
@@andrewrobinsonreviews neighbors might not appreciate them. Battleship has authority. I little story...a tall tale if you will. I was showing off one afternoon to friends when I first set them up. I played the affore mentioned Apollo 13 launch sequence. We heard the neighbors on either side out back in their yard looking west for the launch. I was proud chested and horrified at the same time. I might need to not demonstrate with such vigor...
Really interested in these. I hate big ugly boxes and most subs are like that. I don’t have a dedicated room. I live in the uk and my living room is my home cinema room. My small but powerful sun fire hrs12 recently gave up the ghost. I would love 2 subs but struggling for anywhere to put a second one. At 10 inches square the number of places I can put the subs open up enormously. A very interesting product indeed.
depends what you listen to and what you want out of the bass... for me I'll listen to some dance/electro tracks and rap, along with some rock from like QOTSA... so I need a little bigger bass. I got a Martin Logan 12" suwoofer and it serves me well.
Thank you so much for the review ! 🙏, Absolutely loved it 😁, Especially liked the explanation on the back of Christy's question ! 👍👍👍. Just keep being fantastic, and informative (The pair of you !!!) 👍👍👍
Man, if you could do a "small-ish" subwoofer shout-out with the likes of SVS, Kef, RSL, M.L., Monoprice, and Rel that would be a great video ! But this one was great too. 👍🏽 Btw, how many times have you thanked God for having a wife like Cristi who loves this crazy audiophile hobby? Lol
Would like to see your review of the Emotiva Airmotiv B1+ bookshelf speaker - a popular budget, smaller profile, ribbon speaker. Especially paired with the SVS 3000 micro.
Great Vid! I’d like to suggest a review of Definitive Technology subwoofers. Particularly, the 8” 300 watt “ProSub 800” ($399.00) and their 7.5” “SuperCube” rated at 650 watts ($499.00). Both go down to 20Hz. Just a suggestion.
Placement is everything. Moved a (very much overkill) SVS PC-4000 from one system to another in a different room and had the bass completely sucked out of the system. The room is one of the most important and often overlooked elements of any system. Keep up the great work Andrew! Fun to see these from a fellow Austinite!
I see handsome man, i clicks video. Great vid. Well handled. My only real comment, is when the app stops working, or being supported, and the sub still functions, what is a user to do then? I think a small display on the sub and physical digital controls would be a nice backup for the day the app stops working, but at the tradeoff, of additional cost. That said, i stick to my old school subs and let my receiver do the calibration.
I have decent transmission line floor-standing tower speakers, they measure down to 27 Hz at -3dB. I'm not sure about 27, but they do play 30 Hz very confidently, which is deeper than many expensive speakers (mine are cheap). Yesterday I added a subwoofer. I always knew I need one and it will add the missing substance to drums, double bass and electronic music, but I am blown away by how much the subwoofer adds to listening enjoyment after tuning it for just 15 minutes! Half of which I spent listening to 30-40-50 Hz test tones and looking for a good spot to put the sub in. As I said, my towers do not have measly bass, they're quite full and confident, but with a sub it's a whole new game now. And for how much audible difference it's making, it barely plays! I don't see any movement of the speaker diaphragm, and according to the wall watt meter I'm powering the sub through, it's barely pulling extra 2 watts of power when playing a 30 Hz tone pretty loudly (comparing to idle power). I'm saying this to emphasize that it's not about high volume and rattling the windows, and now I'm thinking that even a 100 W sub, which is a very low power in subwoofer world, is plenty for a small to medium size room (mine is 20 meters sq.).
Love the vids. If you are looking for a bit more of a punch, why not try reviewing a bass transducer to your system. I have been using one for years and it just adds to the big feeling of the bass punch that you are looking for without huge subs.
Try the new/updated martin logan abyss? Id love to hear a comparison between the micro 3000 and the abyss 8". For my setup, it's between these 2 options. Would love to hear your opinion.
Back in the day ( late eighties early nineties) bass production seemed to be the enemy of HiFi systems, and I figured it was because of the old guys that dominated the industry and listened to chamber music while sipping tea. When in a brick and mortar store demoing a system , if you turned that bass knob up, you would get side eye from the salesman. Home theater to the rescue , then Carver came out with the Sunfire True Sub which I quickly plopped 1500 dollars for in 98. Still have that sub and another Sunfire EQ 10. Used with my new Heresy IVs it’s close to endgame for me, I say close because Cornwall may be in my future. Bass is essential in any system IMHO.
Bass is very essential in ANY setup be it for music or movies. I have never understood many audiophiles' aversion to subwoofers. I have always used subs in my 2 channel setups. The Sunfire was game changing back in the day!
Room EQ Wizzard (REW) guides - yes please. But not the basic ones. There are enough of those tbh. REW has been all my life, since I discovered it a few weeks ago. I have a real Inspector Gadget setup: Front: DALI Spector 5 Center: DALI Lector LCR Surround & Back: DALI Spector 1 Receiver: Denon AVR-2400H Sub: I had none, until a few weeks ago. I tried the DALI Sub E-9F on test a few years ago, but I always got tired in my ears, after a few minutes on having it on - like I was about to get plugs in my ears. And yes, the setup was properly calibrated via the AVR & Audyssey mic. Then I wanted to try something out. My old bi-wired Mission 763 to an old Sony ~100W stereo receiver from late 80s or early 90s as "subs" for the satellite speakers. Output wires goes only to the subs in the speakers. Those 763s only goes ~10 Hz deeper, than the DALI Spector 1 surrounds, but hey - why not try it. After calibration - now with the Audyssey MultiEQ app, I got a decent result. But they barely played. And here comes the gadget part. I tried calibrating all speakers with my phone and an app. But the mic. in smartphones don't go very low, apparently. After setting the level of the sub via the app, and then playing a movie on "normal" level, the subs in the 763s were clipping. Back to default -8 db from MultiEQ measurements. In the mean time, I'd also played with REW, mostly to find out how much echo there is in my room. That's part two of the gadget part. I only have a Sound Blaster Z audio card in my PC, and the Audyssey mic. But after calibrating the audio card in REW and disabling all enhancements on the mic. input, I got decent, trustable curves. Easy now, I'll be buying the MiniDSP USB mic. at some point ;) But I also don't have a SPL meter - one that measures C-weighted and down to 30 Hz. But for now, I'd like to figure out, if I can use the Audyssey mic., and REW for better leveling of the speakers. But I can't figure out, if this is even possible. Test: Play a pink noise via REW and using either the "Levels" or "RTA" feature in REW, to measure the result (HDMI from PC to receiver). Result: Subs clipped really bad, and I'm already at -8 dB in the AVR receiver. Bad! Test 2: play the pink noise from the AVR speaker level feature instead, and measure the result via HDMI. Result: The 763 "subs" are very quiet, even at +8 dB (max. is +-12 dB in the AVR). Test 3: Level the 763s via listening. I first had it on +8 dB, but eventually lowered to +4 dB, after a day or two. Result: Nice! surround + center speakers now sound "full", like the front ones do. Fronts are set to "Full". So I now have a pleasant and way better (fuller) surround stage. It's day and night. And I'm not going over board, with the subs! It's pleasant and notable! And with 4 "fake" subs - the bass in the front speakers, and the 763s in each back corner - I'm now fully "surrounded", for the first time :D But I'm just bothered that I can't find the right way to precisely level the Mission 763 "subs" via REW. That was a long one! Now you'll have to read it all again, cause you made it this far, and didn't understand everything the first time. Sorry!
★ *REVIEWING:**bit.ly/3xnMlrE** ADDITIONAL INFO IN THE DESCRIPTION⬆︎*
★ *QOTD: What would rather have - one big subwoofer or multiple smaller subs?*
★ *Love our conversation/outtakes? Be sure to watch to the end*
★ *COMMENT RULES: Please be respectful. No outside links, URLs, email addresses, etc. Violations are automatically deleted.*
QOTD: This sub makes a strong case for multiple smaller. The footprint and flexibility seem like a big advantage. Also, love the washing machine puck idea for vibration.
@@Gnawcx Thanks for answering our QOTD. Oh, and the washing machine pucks WORK!
R and L smaller subs
Multi small ones for me. I like the TZero (for music, it's not got the ability for film really) for this reason. Have you tried any of the other REL T series?
I would like to mention that with stereo 8 inch subs(20 hz) at 100 watts and 3 db louder than my main full range speakers (35 hz), should be enough for anyone looking just to try sub woofers.
Here is how I got my wife onboard with my audio hobby, I supported her in her hobby [card-making] and brought alot of gear for her and in return she was more accepting of my interest. Now I have 4 x 12" subwoofers in a 2 channel stereo in lounge room, we are both happy because we both got what we wanted. Great video Andrew, cheers from Australia.
Give a little and get a lot. So long as we all feel seen and heard in our relationships I think we all can get what we want. Thanks for tuning in!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Just an update, my wife paid for 2 of my subwoofers.
Always grateful for subwoofer reviews. Lotta people don’t realize how much that sub-market has exploded over the last fifteen years or so-we’ve never had so many terrific options before. Nothing like this has ever happened
Happy Sunday, everyone! If you are new to including subwoofers into your system, I think you'll find the post review discussion really helpful! Thanks for hanging out with us today!
Please do a video on the “wife acceptance factor” in hi-fi. It’s such a funny industry specific term that I’ve never heard from any other hobby.
@@dcvg1241
This is why you guys are great reviewers. You actually take time to answer your comments. I know it's time consuming. But both of you do a great job! Cheers!
Thank you so much for tuning in, Dale!
Yes to a REW video. I bought a Umik to use with Dirac and I would love to get started with REW but I'm a bit intimidated - I've found all your how-to vids excellent
Another vote for a new REW video. Got it!
Kristi is a “subwoofer“ of this channel,i mean her commenting gets you the full range. You guys are just great
LOL. That's a great compliment. Thank you!
What's funny is, I was thinking something similar. Even tho Andrew is more experienced, I find myself watching his reviews, waiting for the end so we can hear if Kristi agrees or disagrees. Lol
@@Larwiz Thank you for hanging out to watch!!
@@KristiWright You're welcome! It's my pleasure!
Haha, so true. They're a great duo!
You are 100% correct about setting up subwoofers. People new to integrating subs should know that corner loading works more than it doesn't. Especially if you have dual subs. Don't just jam them in the corner. Give them room to breathe (4 or 6 inches from each wall). But if you have just a single sub, then do the sub crawl (put the sub in the spot you will sit and crawl around the room and listen for a good response) and hear where all the places are in the room that works best for the sub. You will find it works in multiple spots. The sub crawl will clearly show just how important placement is for subs.
Kristi hit it right on the head. Having a conversation with your partner is always a great beginning. I got lucky that my partner loves movies as much as I do, but I did have to with the WAF at first. Going from Def Tech 55's to Martin Logan Motion 20 towers kept me in the WAF, and now she is saying "what can we buy that will sound better?" Inspires me to show her speakers such as PSA speakers, which might not look the prettiest, but might have a better home theater sound. You're absolutely correct with subwoofers as well. Two is always better than one. Although I haven't mastered having three, two is good for now. Awesome video.
Thanks so much for weighing in Ray and for watching through to the end!
your woman said, "what can we buy that will sound better?" She's a keeper!
Just bought two 3000 micro and have them tuned in, running with a pair of Klipsch Heresy IV.
Damn! They are good. Music never sounded better.
Even movies sounds great.
Small room, no need for big stuff.
I am about to get my Heresy 1 back from a refurb, and am considering starting with 1 Micro 3000 and taking it from there for bass (with the money I saved vs. buying new speakers at this time). I just hope the H1s live up to my expectations; the caps were SHOT and they need a bit of love in the tweeters as well, plus they are getting braced and foam inserts .... glad to hear someone has a similar combination ... albeit a newer Heresy ... and likes it
Being able to have multiple subs is almost always a benefit over a single sub and having the option of a small but powerful sub is the icing on the cake as you can put them in more of the places they work best. A larger sub has advantages but is often limited by placement options. I get the penchant for big bass. I was the guy who took the back seats out of his car and had four 15" woofers in their place. But in my house I want to be able to walk without tripping over speakers and while I'll make concessions to sound versus appearance that a lot of people won't I still want my living room to look good and that's a lot easier to accomplish with multiple smaller subs. Now, if I had a dedicated theater room then I'd have multiple built in large subs. Different gear to meet the need in different circumstances is always a good thing. Options are great.
100% agree! I don't want to live among my gear, I want to live with it! Thanks for watching.
I want to see an updated video on how to use Room EQ Wizard in 2021
I’ve only used SVS subs in my system and Have been overwhelmingly impressed so far. Currently using two SB3000s.
I bet bass is not an issue for you 😉. SVS makes a great sub for sure!
Yup! Updated Room EQ wizard video please!
I would LOVE a Room EQ Wizard video! The software is a bit scary to use and I haven’t seen a comprehensive guide yet. I would love to know how to actually translate measurements into action. How do I leverage the measurements to actually improve my system? Room treatment, placement, subwoofer arrangement, PEQ, etc. Thanks, Andrew and Kristi, you’re going a great job!
After buying a Sony 98X90L and a Sony STR AN1000 strictly because of your review videos I then took a deep dive into more of your content. I have watched most of your videos and while not all of them were necessarily important to my life I enjoyed them as they were informative, creative and taught me a thing or two. In one of the videos you made the comment of how important a subwoofer is to a surround sound system. It not only covers the low bass in music and the boom of explosions but it also frees up the other speakers to be better in the mid to high frequencies. I hadn't ever thought of that side of it. I had an in-wall subwoofer professionally installed in my last house 20 years ago and I hated it. My wife didn't want a big box sitting in the room so I went with an in-wall unit. I disconnected it after a few months because it was basically a wall rattler and detracted from the experience rather than making it more immersive and enjoyable. Your review of the Micro made me rethink the way I have always viewed subwoofers as boomers like those in the back of a car you can hear coming from 2 miles away. (You know who you are.) In my new house I installed SpeakerCraft Aim 8 in-ceiling speakers in a 7.0 configuration. I left the subwoofer out because again my wife didn't want a big box in the room. I have enjoyed my surround sound over the last 12 years and I really didn't think I was missing anything not having a subwoofer. After watching this review I purchased a Micro from SVS. You have done it again! An absolutely spot on review. The Micro is everything you said it would be. What a difference! It brought my home theater to a new level. (A much lower one). I have a good sized family room with 9 foot ceilings and it provides plenty of bass response. Music from 80's rock to the Boston Pops is totally immersive. I am hearing some subtleties and intricacies in the music that I haven't ever heard before. I am listening to songs I have heard a thousand times before with a new appreciation. Of course the Micro has no problem with the rattle of explosions or a jet taking off in the movies too. I know this is a book and a half of a comment but I wanted you to know that you are the reason my home theater has finally reached the level I dreamed of having as a teenager when I first heard of Dolby in the mid 80's. Thank you for all your efforts keeping us informed on the latest and greatest. You are the most to the point, honest and polished reviewer I have seen and trust me I have seen a lot of them. I put in over 50 hours of research on TV's and AVR's alone. Caleb Dennison does a nice job too but I love how you will give your opinion good or bad about a product. There is very little hedging. Keep up the good work. Also Kristi is great! It is really good to hear her take too. I loved your "Not Your Grandpa's Demo Playlist"! It is one of your best videos! The humor you injected is GOLD! Have a great 4th!
14:30 *Matte* white would be a wonderful finish option so it could disappear and blend in with modern walls. The glossy character of the finish works against it blending in and causes a lot of reflections and _"hey, look at me, I'm right here"_ that is counterproductive to having a small, hidden subwoofer.
Hi Andrew, I would love to see you make more videos about subwoofers. Both big and small. I find it hard to read in reviews the actual difference between subwoofers. Which ones are the best? Which ones are a good bang for buck? Which ones also work for music
ONE VOTE for more subwoofer videos. Got it! Well, this is one great subwoofer to kick things off with. Thanks for watching.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews thank you for all you review videos.
Speed of a subwoofer is absolutely measurable. It's the impulse response and group decay in REW. You can improve it by ensuring you have bass absorbing materials around the room.
Additionally with a raspberry pi and some tweaking flattening the phase response down to 20hz will make the sub sound "faster" as phase inversions lead to sound not feeling quite right. It's a night and day improvement
I picked the Micro 3000 for the same reason I like small driver bookshelves. Lightning fast response, super detailed and controlled. It's an ideal match with my KEF q150s ... Music is just super natural and detailed on this system.. Can listen all day and never get fatigued.
"I called France." 😂🤣
That made the video for me. Also, props for including a guilty pleasure movie. That movie isn't good, but it *is* awesomely bad. It's a great reference movie for testing home theater as well.
Great video. I had hoped you guys would get a chance to review this one. Enjoy your weekend!
Thanks Nick! No, Battleship is not a "great" film but it is fun. I love the AC/DC sequence and use it ALL THE TIME for testing any system's dynamics.
Best part of this video was when you went down to basics and explained that you shouldn't really be hearing a subwoofer and your speakers as separate entities, but rather as a "field experience" that blends in well together. I find that totally true (from experiencing with my setup...) Tks once more for a great video. Best, R.
What I'd like to know is how does it compare to SB-1000?
Is the performance similar and the micro is just that little bit smaller, or is one of them a bit better than the other?
I bought the very tiny Cambridge Audio Minx X201 about two months ago, and I absolutely love it! It's the first sub I've ever had, and it's made such a difference to the sound my Q Acoustic 3030i speakers put out, I don't think my home will ever go back to being subless! Thanks for the great video, mate!
I'm a middleaged picky audiophile and was hesitant of adding a subwoofer. But, I did, and that's the best thing I've ever done for my 2 channel system. I got the SVS SB 2000 Pro. It really gives all music a better foundation, more depth and muscles. It's a no brainer really. There are no drawbacks whats so ever. Set it up properly, adjust the cross-over and volume and you are good to go. Next step is adding a second subwoofer if you want to go all in.
I enjoy my 20yr old 12" Velodyne over most of the newer units that are currently on the market. The Velodyne brings the business downtown!!
I would like to see an updated video with room EQ software.
same
Me too
Same
Andrew If you could do an updated REW video on how to maximize your subwoofers it would be an absolute blessing. I’m ready to buy a umic but for me the program is so intimidating. It would be extremely helpful if I could follow along step-by-step. Thank you! You both have awesome videos!
She made a great comment about a walnut finish. That would look amazing!
Andrew, I just want to say I really appreciate your channel. Before I discovered yours, I felt like I was getting scolded or told to get off their lawn when I’d come across channels like Audioholics. Your videos are practical and inviting, which makes it much more accessible to get a home theater sound at a range of budgets. The great presentation and lack of gatekeeping is well appreciated. Thank you for your great work, and keep it up!
I love your wife adding in thoughts but it does feel very unusual with only seeing one component of the conversation. I’d personally love to see this become a table talk review after you conclude your initial thoughts. Still love the content and will continue to watch of course, but I feel like that evolution would truly round out your current content! Love you guys and what you bring to the platform!
It's been my decision to remain off camera. I appreciate you watching very much!
I would love to see an updated video on the Room EQ Wizard. I’m very sure I haven’t got my Paradigm sub setup anywhere close to optimal. I’m no slouch when it comes to setting up a home theatre but subs have always confused me. Crossover points are where I really fall down. A little help would be awesome. Thanks.
Sean, I got you down for a new REW video. Thanks!
"I even called France!" LOL. This is a sweet sweet sub - you describe it well.
The SVS 3000 Micro looks like a good candidate for my computer room. I have a strong feeling that you better do an updated video of Room EQ Wizard.
I love my single SVS SB16-Ultra. 👍🏻 The perfect blend of tight bass, and infrasonic low frequency effects.
You should definitely do an updated REW video! There are a few out there but we need one from YOU!
Placing several small subwoofers around your house instead of one or two massive ones is such a clever idea that it never even occured to me.
It's actually a better way to go. I'm working on a new multiple subwoofer placement video but don't have an ETA for when that video will be out.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I look forward to it!
I have 4 smaller subs placed in my room 10s sound really good for music but not so much movies so I have 4 10s in my room they are rated to go to 28hz but measuring them in my room 18hz is easily achieved
Wonder if they will make a dual 10” version? That would be very interesting…
I find by having dual subs the integration being a whole lot smoother/easier, it's probably because i have two Rel 8" down-firing T5is positioned behind the couch, which are 6"-8" away from the corners and having them both connected to each individual stereo speaker binding posts (high level input)
The biggest compliment I get is when a guest/friend ask.... "how come you get such a huge sound from at such a small speaker" 😁
Perfect for a nearfield desktop setup. The new SVS SB 1000 Pro isn't much larger, but a pair only costs $1k. However not everyone can fit subs in the decor scheme. My single sub is in my unused fireplace and sounds great there out of sight.
sold! i have a Klipschorn 5.1 system now it will be a 5.2 my 23' x 23' room is full of 15" bass drives and my front sub is a Outlaw so as i tune the room i will find the best spot for this room with the SVS mirco as it is what the Doctor ordered. Thanks Andrew. Your reviews are almost always completely on point. Cheers and i will send pics when my new room in completed. Your reviews and Audioholics and my Mark Walrep collection will be humming along with real live sound!
Thank you so much Glen! Glad you found the review helpful and please do share your system with us when it's all fleshed out.
Thanks for watching, Glen!
Will you ever review the KC62 and compare the 3000 micro with the KC62?
Great review. I was going to ask how this compares to Kef KC62 but you already answered my question. I hope you can test it soon. A bit pricier but seems like people like it much more for music listening than SVS 3000 Micro. It should be also a way faster sub.
I really hope to hear it soon as well. I don't know what makes a sub "musical" vs "home theater", just as I don't quite understand the argument about loudspeakers being good for music vs movies etc. I loved the Micro for both and I bet, or should I say I would HOPE the KEF is as good but hopefully better. But better would have to be (for me) playing deeper with better authority because from 30Hz and up the Micro is pretty darn good.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Well... I just love faster sub for music listening. For movies that don't really matter so much at long as the sub can play low frequencies and punch when needed. I would say that some subs are way better for movies than for music listening.
You need to try the KEF Kc62 in comparison to the SVS. I would like to hear your opinion on them.
It is a shame that the economy is killing SVS. They keep raising their prices, and if they don't stop, I fear it might be real trouble for the company. I paid $599 for each of my subs, and today they are $899 each.
You can thank Joe Biden for that.
It would be super awesome if you did a video.. or two.. on integrating subs into a system. It's really kind of tricky and not everyone is as clear as and concise as you are. I'm sure you've had to do it more than a few times, so that basically makes you an expert. 😉
A video on Room EQ Wizard would be amazing!
„Crossover question“
Hi Kristi and Andrew,
following your videos i now have
-Heco Aurora 700
-Heco Aurora 30 Center
-SVS Micro 3000
in the front. Hooked up to a denon x1600h
What would be your pick for the crossovers with this combo? Also: any thoughts on putting the towers on „large“ and running in lfe+main? Mainly for home theater and some music.
Your thoughts on this are highly appreciated! ✌🏻✌🏻
Thinking about using the SVS 3000 Micro in a dual, stereo setup for my L and R stand-mounts for music. Thank you for this review. It seems like these are a good solution. I already have a HT sub so these should blend right in to the whole system.
SVS - Please make a dual 10". That would be perfect.
Great review, Andrew. I've been using two 8" AR subs with my vintage (2000) Sony 5.2 channel receiver, with Infinity speakers. I was advised back then, that having two subs would make the system sound balanced for both music and movies; that was great advice!
Go Mets
ROOM EQ WIZZARD IN 2021 PLS !
Hello Andrew, the idea of multiple subwoofers is the best for evenly distributed bass in the room. But the problem at this point is your AVR, most of them are not able to integrate more than one sub. The AVR measures the two Subs to one. The distance between the two subs and the listening place have to be equally.
Maybe you can make a video about that theme.
Sry for may bad English.
Greetings from Germany ✌🏻
i think videos like that are really relatable. especially with subs: its not allywas as simple as: just get the biggest thing you can afford.
most people on earth dont own a house but live in apartments. they have neighbors aswell, especially outside the us.
I live in an apartment. i have neighbors. would i like to own like an array of multiple badass 18inch subs that shacke my entire house? ofc... but there is NO WAY its anywhere possible this will work with neighbors. you need to take tradeoffs and find something that works but still respects the fact people live nearby aswell so smaller subs will be the better option most of the time for most people
Subwoofers are like amplifier watts: you can never have too much subwoofer, only too little.
Too little subwoofer is unsatisfying in its range and sounds strained at lively levels.
Too much subwoofer is actually too little Volume dial discipline. One doesn’t imply the other.
You can set up bodacious bass for the sake of extension and clarity, not to earn a visit from the cops
Yes an Svs review! I just went Dual Pb12-nsd last week! Crazy lows! Totally blown away! Love the movies experience that i now have! ❤️
That's awesome! They make truly amazing subwoofers. Thanks for joining us this morning!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews also another AWESOME review from you guys! I love Mrs Christies input! Your channel has had suuch a huge impact on my life and my speaker collection! I will be sending you on facebook messenger my story so far 🤗👍
This is now a product I'm interested in, especially w my limited space. I bet this would be excellent with the Klipsch Fives. Adding this to my want list for sure. QOTD:multiple smaller as to the aforementioned limited space. Thanks for another great review!
Adding a sub to the Fives allows you to better tune their bass, which may or may not be too much for some in some rooms. Thanks for answering the question and for joining us today!
Andrew "I even called France" Robinson
I own this sub and it is everything I could want for the price, footprint, and convenience ... not to mention aesthetics. With my 11 X 21 living room, speaks on short end wall, I am limited on placement, and I have to set sub 3/4 down the room (so 10-11 feet away from my speakers). The app is great at de-localizing using phase set to 180 degrees. I definitely have nulls in my room and understand another sub would help mitigate this, but I don’t have the space, nor do I want to spend another 800 to achieve bass balance. This single sub gives me all I need, as my towers get down to 35hz. I set my xo to 42-45hz. Hope this helps.
I just bought a pair of Klipsch RF7III s and honestly with their dual 10 inch drivers I think for music, they go close enough to full range and I haven't felt the need to connect a sub. For movies yes I would straight away.
When reading or watching subwoofer reviews it's always hard to grasp what people have as a baseline (no pun intended). I often heard that a 10" sub just wouldn't cut it, doesn't go deep enough or doesn't get loud enough. I don't know if those people live in an apartment, but my 10" sub is really on the limit of what I can have and I usually just play my music between 50~65dBA. I can only imagine these people have a suburban freestanding house and can just crank it whenever they want to. My roommate for example thinks his Teufel Ultima 40 floorstanders are bass monsters (they're not bad, but they can't compare to a real sub). It's all a matter of perspective and it's really hard to figure out what that perspective is from a video or article without actually hearing the systems irl.
When I’d only heard 8” and 10” subs, I wondered the same thing.
I don’t know what model you’ve got but there are mechanical reasons why it’s hard for those kinds of cones to produce appreciable output below about 35Hz. Given many years of experience with larger systems, _as an upstairs resident in an apartment,_ I can tell you that there’s a whole dimension of sound you’re missing, even at low output levels.
I run six subs across three systems. The largest units are sealed 15” theater subs, the smallest are sealed 12” music subs. I could never return to smaller drive units. I never get noise complaints (literally zero, in a dozen years)
You had the SB1000 right? How did it compare? Cheaper and just a little larger, the SB1000 looks like it goes deeper too, according to the freq response graph on the Svs site.
Yes to a REW tutorial!
I definitely would prefer multiple smaller subs.....but I might include one big one in the mix to augment below 40Hz if space allowed.
Thank you found your channel while speaker shopping and purchased the Heresy's IV, love them and have them set up with an old Boston cr400 sub. I have it set at 50hz and it does serve as an extension of the Heresy. Since it is an extension and not an augment and because it is not heard would an upgrade sound any better? I do not get into tech much so I thank your wife for that question. My system is a 2 channel pm8006 and I listen to a wide genre of music. I almost bought an REL 1205 but decided against as I find it hard to believe something that is not heard much could impact the total sound quality of the music. You have been much help thank you and Rock on!
You don't need to tell me, I own two small subs, one from Audioengine and one from Paradigm. My Audioengine S8 is an excellent little sub with an 8" driver that goes down to 27hz with a 125 watt amp. My Paradigm Ultracube 10 is about the same size but has a 10" driver and dual passive radiators with a 650 watt amp and goes down to 22hz. This sub can single-handedly turn my place into a nightclub, it's that impressive. On new years eve my neighbours told me their place was shaking except my neighbours don't live in the adjoining apartment, they live in a house next door so why anyone needs a 15" or 18" subwoofer is beyond me
It's a very different experience with a larger subwoofer. How much a large sub can change the pressure of a room is something that a small sub just can't replicate by way of basic laws of physics. This is most obvious for movies. An explosion or gun shots can literally be felt (in your bones) as if they are going off in the same space. Or low, rumbly sounds or below the the 20hz sound thresholds that can only be felt but not heard. If just wanting a loud, deep subwoofer for party music, I'm sure either are fine and not as discernible. I agree that for many people, they won't miss it unless they actually have both in the room to compare in the right context. It's clear as day when you do. Of course, you also have a large ugly box to deal with.
I have a energy esw m8 8in active with 2 8in passive radiators. 9x9x9 total size. 300rms going low and strong for 10 years.
When I sold audio Bob Carver spent a day training us on Sunfire subs. It was one of the few trainings that kept everybody's attention for the whole training and was fascinating when he went into the other brands he had been associated with. It would be interesting if you did a series on the pioneers of audio like, Bob, Paul Klipsch, and others.
Not a bad idea. I've met Bob on several occasions. He's quite the personality. Thanks for joining us this morning!
Sounds like a great idea. No pun intend.
I agree that small subs can do just fine for home theater, especially when placed near field. However I disagree that this is an insane value. The problem is when people see a power spec of 800w rms and 2500w peak they think that says something about how powerful the sub will be. I think you should have explained that smaller drivers require more power to get the same SPL compared to a larger driver. A 15" ported sub with 400-600watts would have far more headroom for example. The main advantage of something like the 3000 micro is WAF and ease of placement. Not many people can fit dual 15" subs next to their sofa in the living room, at least not without it looking tacky or cramped.
another smallish option, but with more punch is the Martin Logan 800x...works great in my HT. 18 x 10 x 7.5ft room
I have SVS. Great subs (I have two PB1000Pro's)...just ok app. The PEQ works but is weak. If you want to take your bass to the next level, then you get a miniDSP. One miniDSP will handle 4 subs. It is a game-changer! I am flat down to 16Hz. As far as the 3000 goes it is a fantastic sub. Yes, it is pricey but you get your money worth IF you need a small sub. Otherwise, get the 1000 Pro
Andrew, you should definetly make a REW 2021 video. Also, it would be absolutely great if you could do a video on how to set up 4 subwoofers, how to tune them, how to phase align them etc.
Brilliant videos btw, love your presentation style.
Great review, this little sub seams like a great option for living rooms. Dual PB2000 pros like I have definitely wouldn't be ideal for most living rooms. I don't hear the subs but I definitely know they are present when the bass extends down below 30hz or so. It just sounds like the bass is all around.
i honestly think the ported vs sealed discussion is kind of an old myth. like 10 20 years ago it was the overall impression that sealed is for music and ported is for movies and people just copy paste this argument to this date without even trying it. I do run an sb1000 on 60% gain in my 22qm room and its perfect for my taste. it blends in nicely to my speakers with music but it still can dig really low in movies if demanded, its fast, dry... i honestly prefer it over ported and movies are my main use. but i prefer balanced sound. it plays discreet enough so it kicks nicely without putting the sub in the spotlight but it still has the ability to go low and nasty in certain movie scenes if called for. i prefer the sound of a sealed sub and i think a sealed sub just is more balanced, more flexible and easier to work with and would not even bother with a ported sub within an apartment living situation whatsoever
MULTIPLE SUBS!! I have one 15” and I would rather have 2 x 12” because it is very very obvious where the subwoofer is located
I have Def Tech supercube II , it's a 10" sub with a 1200w amp its a killer sub with a small footprint and its fast and tight.
Do you think it'd be an OK idea to put a heavy (mass loaded) monolith speaker stand on top of the Micro? Thinking about getting a second Micro and that placement seems like an obvious, aesthetically pleasing way to go. For one thing, It'd get the tweeters closer to ear level. Plus I'm thinking the extra mass could even help with driver response. (each stand is easily 50+ pounds)
Hello Andrew, and as always, a great relaxed presentation! I would also like to thank you for the nod to the Martin Logan. I have the Masterpiece electrostatics, and decided to pull the trigger on the Dynamo 1600x. According to Martin Logan and my dealer, this was the correct choice. Funny how a 15" would be fast enough to work with the quickest type of speaker their is and ML has put lots of time making a subwoofer that would be fast enough to work with their e'stats.
I only purchased one for my 18x24x8' space. Using the ANTHEM room correction, and then adjusting inversion/phase the LPF (set to 35Hz.) and levels after that.
You hardly know for all it's 900watts clean output, it is even working! For me, it's the lowest notes of the pedal pipe organ which underscores many orchestral works, and of course, the symphonic bass drum when tuned very low. Those were my reasons for adding the subwoofer. It is a music only rig, NO movies or screens on the system. Thanks for reading, and I look forward to your next one (O:
Thank you both again for your highly intelligible and coherent review as usual!! As for your question of 1 big or 2 small subs. I'm leaning towards 2 medium sb3000 with Forte iv. Oh and another great compatible sub for the micro would be one I own that's not talked about but pretty great in its own right klipsch c-310aswi.
Good tip on the C-310. A pair of SB3000s with Forte speakers! That's going to rock!
Man I love SVS. Haven’t found the need or itch to switch brands. I’m pretty loyal to SVS because the value proposition in each price class, is just unmatched. Currently run a pair of SB16’s in my reference setup, a pair of SB13’s in my secondary setup, and a pair of PB2000’s in the gym. All of these have their place in the range, hopefully I’m using each in their best environment for what they’re being used for. Cheers!
Man, you are a SVS super fan. I bet there is no shortage of bass in your house! Thanks for watching!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I am totally a bass head. I am JUST figuring out the graphical representations of “what I like”. Would love to see your clear and concise instructional video on using REW to tune your subs, and what you like to see in your room?
In both my systems, I have applied DEQ AND a house curve, with a rather tamed gain on the subs. The house curve is slopes down about 10dB from 35 to 100hz; this seems to be properly offset by the DEQ at low volumes, then at moderate towards reference volumes, the higher dB low-end persists, while DEQ tapers the rest. I have yet to see anyone apply the same curves, curious who else likes punch, tight bass at low volumes, and plentiful amounts at high volumes, without shaking your frames off the walls, while not having to change EQ or settings, in different modes...
Thanks man!
I have two PB1000 Pro's and a THX 10" from Monoprice. Both are great. I actually upgraded to the SVS's from the SUB3010's. The 3010's are very impressive for the size and money.
Which you prefer the pb1000 or monolith 10"?
Hi @Andrew Robinson, thanks for the review. What about the comparable subwoofer Goldenear Supersub X? This one is also a dual 8 like the SVS 3000 micro. How does the Goldenear compare in performance? I'm trying to decide between the two. Thank you. I look forward to your advice.
You guys are AWESOME! More couples should be like this.
Does the dual opposing drivers eliminate cabinet vibrations the same way the Sonos Sub does? I have the Sonos Sub and although I'm sure it won't compete with the SVS 3000 Micro for performance, it is amazing in how it puts out bass with zero cabinet vibration when you touch it. I've used sub isolation pads, even SVS own isolation feet, and they don't compare in that regard.
How about multiple BIG (24" x 2) subwoofers.
They are crossed very low and mostly for home theater...
Im one of those who want to feel the atlas 5 launch in Apollo 13. I'm spoilled because i live near Vandenberg A.F.B.
Yes a new version of how to use room e-q wizard
I agree about the subwoofer being an extension of your main speakers.
Great job you two
You can definitely do multiple BIG subs. 24s are HUGE DUDE! Wow.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews neighbors might not appreciate them. Battleship has authority.
I little story...a tall tale if you will. I was showing off one afternoon to friends when I first set them up. I played the affore mentioned Apollo 13 launch sequence. We heard the neighbors on either side out back in their yard looking west for the launch. I was proud chested and horrified at the same time. I might need to not demonstrate with such vigor...
Really interested in these. I hate big ugly boxes and most subs are like that. I don’t have a dedicated room. I live in the uk and my living room is my home cinema room. My small but powerful sun fire hrs12 recently gave up the ghost. I would love 2 subs but struggling for anywhere to put a second one. At 10 inches square the number of places I can put the subs open up enormously. A very interesting product indeed.
depends what you listen to and what you want out of the bass... for me I'll listen to some dance/electro tracks and rap, along with some rock from like QOTSA... so I need a little bigger bass. I got a Martin Logan 12" suwoofer and it serves me well.
Thank you so much for the review ! 🙏, Absolutely loved it 😁, Especially liked the explanation on the back of Christy's question ! 👍👍👍. Just keep being fantastic, and informative (The pair of you !!!) 👍👍👍
Thanks Eddie! Appreciate you watching until the end!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I watch all of them to the end if I can, I love the out takes too ! ❤❤❤
@@eddietoft3747 Thank you!
Man, if you could do a "small-ish" subwoofer shout-out with the likes of SVS, Kef, RSL, M.L., Monoprice, and Rel that would be a great video ! But this one was great too. 👍🏽 Btw, how many times have you thanked God for having a wife like Cristi who loves this crazy audiophile hobby? Lol
Would like to see your review of the Emotiva Airmotiv B1+ bookshelf speaker - a popular budget, smaller profile, ribbon speaker. Especially paired with the SVS 3000 micro.
I have a Yamaha NS SW300 and it sounds really good in this room thats 11' wide by 12' long
Nice subwoofer!
Try a pair of VMPS Larger Subwoofers with a good electronic crossover/dsp. A pair of these will play 16 Hertz at 121 DB.
Great Vid!
I’d like to suggest a review of Definitive Technology subwoofers.
Particularly, the 8” 300 watt “ProSub 800” ($399.00)
and their 7.5”
“SuperCube” rated at 650 watts ($499.00). Both go down to 20Hz.
Just a suggestion.
Placement is everything. Moved a (very much overkill) SVS PC-4000 from one system to another in a different room and had the bass completely sucked out of the system. The room is one of the most important and often overlooked elements of any system.
Keep up the great work Andrew! Fun to see these from a fellow Austinite!
I see handsome man, i clicks video. Great vid. Well handled.
My only real comment, is when the app stops working, or being supported, and the sub still functions, what is a user to do then?
I think a small display on the sub and physical digital controls would be a nice backup for the day the app stops working, but at the tradeoff, of additional cost. That said, i stick to my old school subs and let my receiver do the calibration.
I have decent transmission line floor-standing tower speakers, they measure down to 27 Hz at -3dB. I'm not sure about 27, but they do play 30 Hz very confidently, which is deeper than many expensive speakers (mine are cheap). Yesterday I added a subwoofer. I always knew I need one and it will add the missing substance to drums, double bass and electronic music, but I am blown away by how much the subwoofer adds to listening enjoyment after tuning it for just 15 minutes! Half of which I spent listening to 30-40-50 Hz test tones and looking for a good spot to put the sub in. As I said, my towers do not have measly bass, they're quite full and confident, but with a sub it's a whole new game now. And for how much audible difference it's making, it barely plays! I don't see any movement of the speaker diaphragm, and according to the wall watt meter I'm powering the sub through, it's barely pulling extra 2 watts of power when playing a 30 Hz tone pretty loudly (comparing to idle power). I'm saying this to emphasize that it's not about high volume and rattling the windows, and now I'm thinking that even a 100 W sub, which is a very low power in subwoofer world, is plenty for a small to medium size room (mine is 20 meters sq.).
Love the vids. If you are looking for a bit more of a punch, why not try reviewing a bass transducer to your system. I have been using one for years and it just adds to the big feeling of the bass punch that you are looking for without huge subs.
Try the new/updated martin logan abyss? Id love to hear a comparison between the micro 3000 and the abyss 8". For my setup, it's between these 2 options. Would love to hear your opinion.
Back in the day ( late eighties early nineties) bass production seemed to be the enemy of HiFi systems, and I figured it was because of the old guys that dominated the industry and listened to chamber music while sipping tea. When in a brick and mortar store demoing a system , if you turned that bass knob up, you would get side eye from the salesman. Home theater to the rescue , then Carver came out with the Sunfire True Sub which I quickly plopped 1500 dollars for in 98. Still have that sub and another Sunfire EQ 10. Used with my new Heresy IVs it’s close to endgame for me, I say close because Cornwall may be in my future. Bass is essential in any system IMHO.
Bass is very essential in ANY setup be it for music or movies. I have never understood many audiophiles' aversion to subwoofers. I have always used subs in my 2 channel setups. The Sunfire was game changing back in the day!
Andrew, what do you think of RSL Speedwoofer 10?
I have the space and am thinking of getting either the SVS SB 3000 or the SVS 3000 micro. What would you recommend?
Room EQ Wizzard (REW) guides - yes please. But not the basic ones. There are enough of those tbh. REW has been all my life, since I discovered it a few weeks ago.
I have a real Inspector Gadget setup:
Front: DALI Spector 5
Center: DALI Lector LCR
Surround & Back: DALI Spector 1
Receiver: Denon AVR-2400H
Sub: I had none, until a few weeks ago. I tried the DALI Sub E-9F on test a few years ago, but I always got tired in my ears, after a few minutes on having it on - like I was about to get plugs in my ears.
And yes, the setup was properly calibrated via the AVR & Audyssey mic.
Then I wanted to try something out. My old bi-wired Mission 763 to an old Sony ~100W stereo receiver from late 80s or early 90s as "subs" for the satellite speakers. Output wires goes only to the subs in the speakers. Those 763s only goes ~10 Hz deeper, than the DALI Spector 1 surrounds, but hey - why not try it.
After calibration - now with the Audyssey MultiEQ app, I got a decent result. But they barely played. And here comes the gadget part. I tried calibrating all speakers with my phone and an app. But the mic. in smartphones don't go very low, apparently. After setting the level of the sub via the app, and then playing a movie on "normal" level, the subs in the 763s were clipping. Back to default -8 db from MultiEQ measurements.
In the mean time, I'd also played with REW, mostly to find out how much echo there is in my room. That's part two of the gadget part. I only have a Sound Blaster Z audio card in my PC, and the Audyssey mic. But after calibrating the audio card in REW and disabling all enhancements on the mic. input, I got decent, trustable curves. Easy now, I'll be buying the MiniDSP USB mic. at some point ;)
But I also don't have a SPL meter - one that measures C-weighted and down to 30 Hz. But for now, I'd like to figure out, if I can use the Audyssey mic., and REW for better leveling of the speakers. But I can't figure out, if this is even possible.
Test: Play a pink noise via REW and using either the "Levels" or "RTA" feature in REW, to measure the result (HDMI from PC to receiver).
Result: Subs clipped really bad, and I'm already at -8 dB in the AVR receiver. Bad!
Test 2: play the pink noise from the AVR speaker level feature instead, and measure the result via HDMI.
Result: The 763 "subs" are very quiet, even at +8 dB (max. is +-12 dB in the AVR).
Test 3: Level the 763s via listening. I first had it on +8 dB, but eventually lowered to +4 dB, after a day or two.
Result: Nice! surround + center speakers now sound "full", like the front ones do. Fronts are set to "Full".
So I now have a pleasant and way better (fuller) surround stage. It's day and night. And I'm not going over board, with the subs! It's pleasant and notable! And with 4 "fake" subs - the bass in the front speakers, and the 763s in each back corner - I'm now fully "surrounded", for the first time :D
But I'm just bothered that I can't find the right way to precisely level the Mission 763 "subs" via REW.
That was a long one! Now you'll have to read it all again, cause you made it this far, and didn't understand everything the first time. Sorry!