SpeakerDecision
  • SPEAKERS by TYPE
    • Passive Bookshelf Speakers
    • Passive Floor-standing Speakers
    • Passive Center Channel Speakers
    • Passive In-wall Speakers
    • All Passive Speakers
    • Powered Subwoofers
    • Powered Stereo Speakers
  • AMPLIFIERS
ELAC Varro PS500-BK Subwoofer Review

Main Features

  • 15" Treated paper Woofer
  • 500 watts RMS Output
  • 16-150 Hz Frequency Response
  • App Control Feature
  • Built-in DSP with Room Correction
  • Weight: 57.10 lbs / 25.95kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 18-15/16" x 18-1/8" x 18-1/8"
CHECK PRICE

Compare To

x
Add a Subwoofer for comparison
ELAC Varro PS500-BK Subwoofer Review

Varro PS500-BK is a Ported type Powered Subwoofer by ELAC with a frequency range of 16-150 Hz. It features 1 x 15" Treated paper Woofer, and powered by a BASH 500 watts amplifier.

ELAC Varro PS500-BK Speaker Structure
ELAC Varro PS500-BK Speaker Structure

Varro PS500-BK is a member of ELAC's Varro series of Powered subwoofers. Below you can see the main specs of these subwoofers as well as review and comparison links.

ELAC Varro Series Subwoofers
Model Frequency Woofer Amp Power Weight
ELAC Varro DS1200-GB
Compare
17-150k Hz 12" 1200 watts 38.00kg
ELAC Varro RS700-SB
Compare
17-150k Hz 12" 700 watts 25.35kg
ELAC Varro RS500-SB
Compare
18-150k Hz 10" 500 watts 20.85kg
ELAC Varro PS500-BK
20-150k Hz 15" 500 watts 25.95kg
ELAC Varro PS250-BK
Compare
27-150k Hz 10" 250 watts 16.44kg
ELAC Varro DS1000-BG
Compare
18-150k Hz 10" 1000 watts 32.45kg
ELAC Varro PS350-BK
Compare
24-150k Hz 12" 350 watts 21.86kg
ELAC Varro Series Speakers
ELAC Varro Series Speakers


**This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Frequency Response

ELAC Varro PS500-BK has a Frequency response range of 16-150 Hz at ±3dB. Thanks to its 1 x 15-inch driver and 500 watts RMS ( 1000 watts MAX ) amplifier, the Varro PS500-BK can go as low as 20 Hz which means you can get a Full range (20Hz-20kHz) listening experience when coupled with almost any loudspeaker in the market. Here we have a comparison of how Varro PS500-BK's Low and High frequency values compare with the average, max and min Low and High frequency values in its class.

Low Frequency
Powered Subwoofers
ELAC Varro PS500-BK
Min
Average
Max
High Frequency
Subwoofer Speakers
ELAC Varro PS500-BK
Min
Average
Max

Among all subwoofers in our database with a max MSRP price of 1000$, these are the 5 Powered Subwoofer models that can reach deeper bass levels than the ELAC Varro PS500-BK's 20Hz:

  • GoldenEar ForceField 4 with Low Frequency of 14 Hz (Compare w/ Varro PS500-BK)
  • SVS PB-1000 Pro with Low Frequency of 17 Hz (Compare w/ Varro PS500-BK)
  • Klipsch RP-1200SW with Low Frequency of 17 Hz (Compare w/ Varro PS500-BK)
  • GoldenEar ForceField 30 with Low Frequency of 18 Hz (Compare w/ Varro PS500-BK)
  • GoldenEar ForceField 3 with Low Frequency of 18 Hz (Compare w/ Varro PS500-BK)


Low-Pass Crossover

ELAC Varro PS500-BK has a variable Low-pass filter (LFP) which lets you choose a frequency level between 40-150 Hz in order to block any frequencies above that point from reaching the amplifier.

ELAC Varro PS500-BK Back View
ELAC Varro PS500-BK Back View

App-Based Control

ELAC Varro PS500-BK can be controlled wirelessly via ELAC Sub Control 3.0 app available on iOS and Android. Considering the physical buttons are at the backside of the subwoofer, app control comes very handy when you need to change the parameters of the ELAC Varro PS500-BK frequently. Apps also provides settings that can't be placed on the body.

ELAC Sub Control 3.0 Wireless Control App
ELAC Varro PS500-BK Wireless Control App

Inputs and Outputs

  • PreampLevel Inputs: LFE, Stereo RCA
  • SpeakerLevel Inputs: No
  • SpeakerLevel Outputs: No
  • Wireless: No

ELAC Varro PS500-BK Connections
ELAC Varro PS500-BK Connections

ELAC Varro PS500-BK External Dimensions and Weight

ELAC Varro PS500-BK has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) 18-15/16inch x 18-1/8inch x 18-1/8inch (482.0 x 461.0 x 461.0mm ).

Base Surface Area
Base surface area of a loudspeaker may become a determining factor when the space in your room or desk is limited. The base area of ELAC Varro PS500-BK is approximately 2125.2cm2 / 329.4inch2.

To get a better perspective on the real life size of ELAC Varro PS500-BK, let's compare it with a standard size Compact Disc which has a diameter of 4.7inch (120mm).

ELAC Varro PS500-BK Real Life Body Size Comparison
ELAC Varro PS500-BK Speaker Size Compared to a Compact Disc

Here we place the ELAC Varro PS500-BK virtually next to a standard width amplifier and turntable on a media center to get a better idea about the size.

ELAC Varro PS500-BK placed next to a Media Stand
ELAC Varro PS500-BK Subwoofer next to a Media Stand

Weight

The ELAC Varro PS500-BK weighs 25.95kg / 57.1lbs. Weight of a subwoofer is an important factor when you need to move and reposition the unit often to find the optimal positioning, also known as 'Subwoofer Crawling'. Here is a comparison of how Varro PS500-BK's weight compares with the average, max and min weights in its class.

Weight
All Subwoofer Speakers
ELAC Varro PS500-BK
Min
Average
Max
Weight
Subwoofer Speakers under $1000
ELAC Varro PS500-BK
Min
Average
Max

How does the ELAC Varro PS500-BK compare to the ELAC Varro RS500-SB?

One of the natural alternative to the ELAC Varro PS500-BK is the Varro RS500-SB which is located one step higher in ELAC's Powered Subwoofer selection.

Here is a scaled size comparison of these two speakers to give you an idea how their external dimensions compare:

ELAC Varro PS500-BK vs ELAC Varro RS500-SB Size Comparison - Front View
Comparison image of ELAC Varro PS500-BK and ELAC Varro RS500-SB Size and External Dimensions

Check the Detailed Comparison of ELAC Varro PS500-BK vs Varro RS500-SB for more details.

Cabinet type and Materials

ELAC Varro PS500-BK has a Bass Reflex type cabinet and a MDF finish. Ported subwoofers are generally accepted to be more suitable for home theatre systems whereas the sealed designs are preferred for music oriented systems.

ELAC Varro PS500-BK  - Side View
ELAC Varro PS500-BK - Side View

Speaker Feet

ELAC Varro PS500-BK comes with 4 Spikes which you can use to secure your loudspeaker on the surface that you are putting on.

It is always recommended to use some kind of feet under all types of speakers. Besides limiting the movement of the speakers, it also compensates for non-flat surfaces and limits the contact surface area of the speaker. Rubber based feet also help isolating the vibrations within certain frequency ranges.

Port Position

ELAC Varro PS500-BK is a bottom-firing port speaker

Available colors

ELAC Varro PS500-BK is available in Black.

Does the ELAC Varro PS500-BK come with a Grille?

Varro PS500-BK comes with grilles in Black color choices. The purpose of the grille is to protect the delicate driver elements from external impacts while still allowing the sound to pass as clearly as possible.

ELAC Varro PS500-BK  with Grille
ELAC Varro PS500-BK with Grille

What's in the Box of ELAC Varro PS500-BK?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of Varro PS500-BK:
  • Grill
  • Power Cord
  • 4 Spikes
  • User's Manual

    For more information about how to setup, use and maintain the ELAC Varro PS500-BK, use the direct link below to download the official manual document:
    Download User Manual for ELAC Varro PS500-BK

    Official Brochure

    Here is a link to download the official brochure for the ELAC Varro PS500-BK speaker:
    Official Brochure for ELAC Varro PS500-BK

    Official Product Page

    Official manufacturer's product page for the ELAC Varro PS500-BK speaker can be found below:
    Official Product Page for ELAC Varro PS500-BK

    Warranty

    1 year of parts warranty and 1 year of labor warranty is generally provided by the manufacturer.

    ELAC Varro PS500-BK  Lifestyle
    ELAC Varro PS500-BK Lifestyle

    ELAC Varro PS500-BK Alternatives in Powered Subwoofer Speakers
    Model Frequency Woofer Amp Power Dimensions
    Polk Monitor XT12
    Compare
    24-160k Hz 12" 50 watts 16-7/16inch x 16-1/16inch x 19-1/16inch "
    Klipsch R-121SW
    Compare
    28-120k Hz 12" 200 watts 16-5/8inch x 16inch x 20-15/16inch "
    B&W DB4S
    Compare
    10-350k Hz 10" 1000 watts 14-3/4 x 14-1/4 x 17-1/16inch"
    SVS SB-1000 Pro
    Compare
    20-270k Hz 12" 325 watts 13-1/2inch x 13inch x 15-13/16inch "
    Klipsch R-101SW
    Compare
    30-160k Hz 10" 150 watts 14-9/16inch x 14-1/16inch x 20-13/16inch "
    KEF KC62
    Compare
    11-200k Hz 6.5" 1000 watts 9-5/8inch x 10-1/8inch x 11-1/16inch "
    Wharfedale SW-15
    Compare
    30-120k Hz 15" 400 watts 22-7/16inch x 19-3/8inch x 24-3/16inch "
    KEF KUBE 8b
    Compare
    34-140k Hz 8" 300 watts 11-9/16 x 11-5/8 x 13-5/16inch"
    Klipsch SPL-100
    Compare
    27-125k Hz 10" 200 watts 16-7/16 x 14-1/16 x 18-13/16inch"
    Klipsch R-100SW
    Compare
    32-120k Hz 10" 150 watts 14-5/8 x 12-9/16 x 18-1/16inch"
    Jamo S 808 SUB
    Compare
    39-180k Hz 8" 50 watts 18-1/16 x 7 x 14inch"
    SVS PB-1000
    Compare
    19-270k Hz 10" 300 watts 18-7/8 x 15 x 20-15/16inch"
    KEF KUBE 10b
    Compare
    24-140k Hz 10" 300 watts 14-5/8 x 14 x 15-5/8inch"
    Wharfedale SW-12
    Compare
    35-120k Hz 12" 300 watts 18-7/8inch x 15-13/16inch x 20-1/8inch "
    Klipsch SPL-120
    Compare
    24-125k Hz 12" 300 watts 17-11/16 x 14-3/4 x 21-1/4inch"
    Klipsch RP-1600SW
    Compare
    15-175k Hz 16" 800 watts 23-7/16inch x 23-1/2inch x 27-3/8inch "
    Frequently Asked Questions about ELAC Varro PS500-BK
    What is the External Dimensions of ELAC Varro PS500-BK


    LATEST BLOG POSTS

    Buchardt Celebrates 10 years with A10 Active Standmount Loudspeakers
    New Deals on Klipsch Reference Premier Mark II Speakers
    Monitor Audio Unveils Flagship PlatinumĀ 3G Series Loudspeakers
    MoFi SourcePoint 8 vs SourcePoint 10 Size and Specs Comparison
    MoFi Unveils the new SourcePoint 8 Passive Loudspeaker by Andrew Jones
    Q Acoustics Unveiled 5000 Series Passive Loudspeakers


    Latest Powered Subwoofers
    ELAC Varro DS1200-GB
    ELAC Varro DS1200-GB
    12-inch Woofer | 14-150 Hz | 1200 watts
    ELAC Varro DS1000-BG
    ELAC Varro DS1000-BG
    10-inch Woofer | 15-150 Hz | 1000 watts
    ELAC Varro RS700-SB
    ELAC Varro RS700-SB
    12-inch Woofer | 14-150 Hz | 700 watts
    ELAC Varro RS500-SB
    ELAC Varro RS500-SB
    10-inch Woofer | 15-150 Hz | 500 watts
    ELAC Varro PS500-BK
    ELAC Varro PS500-BK
    15-inch Woofer | 16-150 Hz | 500 watts
    ELAC Varro PS350-BK
    ELAC Varro PS350-BK
    12-inch Woofer | 21-150 Hz | 350 watts
    ELAC Varro PS250-BK
    ELAC Varro PS250-BK
    10-inch Woofer | 24-150 Hz | 250 watts
    Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1600SW
    Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1600SW
    16-inch Woofer | 14.5-175 Hz | 800 watts
    Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1400SW
    Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1400SW
    14-inch Woofer | 16-141 Hz | 500 watts
    Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1200SW
    Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1200SW
    12-inch Woofer | 16.5-138 Hz | 400 watts


    Most Popular Speakers
    Klipsch Reference R-51M
    Klipsch R-51M
    2-way Bookshelf | 93 dB | 8 ohms
    Wharfedale Elysian 2
    Wharfedale Elysian 2
    3-way Bookshelf | 89 dB | 4 ohms
    Bowers & Wilkins 606
    B&W 606
    2-way Bookshelf | 88 dB | 8 ohms
    ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2
    ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2
    2-way Bookshelf | 87 dB | 6 ohms
    Bowers & Wilkins 606 S2 Anniversary Edition
    B&W 606 S2
    2-way Bookshelf | 88 dB | 8 ohms
    Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M
    Klipsch RP-500M
    2-way Bookshelf | 93 dB | 8 ohms
    Wharfedale EVO4.1
    Wharfedale EVO4.1
    2-way Bookshelf | 87 dB | 8 ohms
    Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-400M
    Klipsch RP-400M
    2-way Bookshelf | 93 dB | 8 ohms
    Klipsch Reference R-620F
    Klipsch R-620F
    2-way Floor-standing | 96 dB | 8 ohms
    KEF Q150
    KEF Q150
    2-way Bookshelf | 86 dB | 8 ohms

    Copyright © 2023 by SpeakerDecision
    About Privacy Camera Decision