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  1. Home
  2. ELAC Speakers
  3. Powered Subwoofers
  4. ELAC Varro RS500-SB
ELAC Varro RS500-SB Subwoofer Review
ELAC Varro RS500-SB - Front View

Compare To

Main Features

  • 10" Aluminum Woofer
  • 500 watts RMS Output
  • 18-150 Hz Frequency Response
  • App Control Feature
  • Built-in DSP with Room Correction
  • Weight: 45.86 lbs / 20.85kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 15" x 14-3/16" x 15-1/4"
MSRP: $1,299 (list price)
Check price atAmazon›
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ELAC Varro RS500-SB Subwoofer Review
ELAC Varro RS500-SB ELAC Varro RS500-SB
Check price atAmazon›

Made by ELAC · Germany · since 1926 · sold through dealers

Varro RS500-SB is a Sealed type Powered Subwoofer by ELAC with a frequency range of 18-150 Hz. It was released in 2023. It features 1 x 10" Aluminum Woofer, and powered by a BASH 500 watts amplifier.

ELAC Varro RS500-SB Speaker Structure
ELAC Varro RS500-SB Speaker Structure

ELAC Varro RS500-SB  Lifestyle
ELAC Varro RS500-SB Lifestyle

Varro RS500-SB is a member of ELAC's Varro series of Powered subwoofers. The Varro range is ELAC's modern powered subwoofer line with DSP and app control. Below you can see the main specs of these subwoofers as well as review and comparison links.

See all 7 ELAC Varro models compared »

ELAC Varro Series Subwoofers
Model Frequency Woofer Amp Power Weight
ELAC Varro RS700-SB
Compare
17-150 Hz 12" 700 watts 25.35kg
ELAC Varro DS1200-GB
Compare
17-150 Hz 12" 1200 watts 38kg
ELAC Varro PS250-BK
Compare
27-150 Hz 10" 250 watts 16.44kg
ELAC Varro PS500-BK
Compare
20-150 Hz 15" 500 watts 25.95kg
ELAC Varro RS500-SB
18-150 Hz 10" 500 watts 20.85kg
ELAC Varro DS1000-BG
Compare
18-150 Hz 10" 1000 watts 32.45kg
ELAC Varro PS350-BK
Compare
24-150 Hz 12" 350 watts 21.86kg
ELAC Varro Series Speakers
ELAC Varro Series Speakers

Frequency Response

Where should the crossover go? →  ·  What will your room do to this bass? →

ELAC Varro RS500-SB has a Frequency response range of 18-150 Hz. Thanks to its 1 x 10-inch driver and 500 watts RMS (1000 watts MAX) amplifier, at 18Hz the Varro RS500-SB can generate bass levels that is even below 20Hz which is considered to be the bottom limit of Full Range sound (20Hz -20kHz) that human can hear.

Here we have a comparison of how Varro RS500-SB'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 RS500-SB
Min
Average
Max
High Frequency
Subwoofer Speakers
ELAC Varro RS500-SB
Min
Average
Max

Among all subwoofers in our database with a max MSRP price of 1500$, these are the 5 Powered Subwoofer models that can reach deeper bass levels than the ELAC Varro RS500-SB's 18Hz:

  • GoldenEar SuperSub X with Low Frequency of 12 Hz (Compare w/ Varro RS500-SB)
  • GoldenEar ForceField 40 with Low Frequency of 14 Hz (Compare w/ Varro RS500-SB)
  • GoldenEar ForceField 4 with Low Frequency of 14 Hz (Compare w/ Varro RS500-SB)
  • Klipsch RP-1400CSW with Low Frequency of 15 Hz (Compare w/ Varro RS500-SB)
  • SVS PB-2000 Pro with Low Frequency of 16 Hz (Compare w/ Varro RS500-SB)

Low-Pass Crossover

ELAC Varro RS500-SB 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 RS500-SB Back View
ELAC Varro RS500-SB Back View

App-Based Control

ELAC Varro RS500-SB 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 RS500-SB frequently. Apps also provides settings that can't be placed on the body.

ELAC Sub Control 3.0 Wireless Control App
ELAC Varro RS500-SB Wireless Control App

Inputs and Outputs

  • PreampLevel Inputs: Stereo RCA/LFE
  • SpeakerLevel Inputs: Binding posts
  • SpeakerLevel Outputs: No
  • Wireless: No

ELAC Varro RS500-SB Connections
ELAC Varro RS500-SB Connections

Wireless Connection

ELAC Varro RS500-SB lets you make a wireless connection to your system with an optional ELAC AirX2 wireless transmitter adapter. Wireless connection helps to minimize the cables running on your floor.

ELAC Varro RS500-SB External Dimensions and Weight

ELAC Varro RS500-SB has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) 15inch x 14-3/16inch x 15-1/4inch (381.0 x 361.0 x 388.0mm ).

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 RS500-SB is approximately 1400.7cm2 / 217.1inch2.

To get a better perspective on the real life size of ELAC Varro RS500-SB, let's compare it with a standard size Compact Disc which has a diameter of 4.7inch (120mm).

ELAC Varro RS500-SB Real Life Body Size Comparison
ELAC Varro RS500-SB Speaker Size Compared to a Compact Disc

Here we place the ELAC Varro RS500-SB virtually next to a standard width amplifier and turntable on a media center to get a better idea about the size.

ELAC Varro RS500-SB placed next to a Media Stand
ELAC Varro RS500-SB Subwoofer next to a Media Stand

Find speakers that fit your shelf or alcove →

Weight

The ELAC Varro RS500-SB weighs 20.85kg / 45.9lbs. 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 RS500-SB's weight compares with the average, max and min weights in its class.

Weight
All Subwoofer Speakers
ELAC Varro RS500-SB
Min
Average
Median
Weight
Subwoofer Speakers under $1500
ELAC Varro RS500-SB
Min
Average
Max

How does the ELAC Varro RS500-SB compare to the ELAC Varro RS700-SB?

One of the natural alternative to the ELAC Varro RS500-SB is the Varro RS700-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 RS500-SB vs ELAC Varro RS700-SB Size Comparison - Front View
Comparison image of ELAC Varro RS500-SB and ELAC Varro RS700-SB Size and External Dimensions

Check the Detailed Comparison of ELAC Varro RS500-SB vs Varro RS700-SB for more details.

Cabinet type and Materials

ELAC Varro RS500-SB has a Acoustic Suspension type cabinet and a MDF finish. Acoustic suspension aka Sealed subwoofers are preferred for music oriented systems whereas the Ported subwoofers are generally accepted to be more suitable for home theatre systems.

ELAC Varro RS500-SB  - Side View
ELAC Varro RS500-SB - Side View

Speaker Feet

ELAC Varro RS500-SB 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.

ELAC Varro RS500-SB  Feet
ELAC Varro RS500-SB Feet

Available colors

ELAC Varro RS500-SB is available in Gloss Black.

Does the ELAC Varro RS500-SB come with a Grille?

Varro RS500-SB 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 RS500-SB  with Grille
ELAC Varro RS500-SB with Grille

What's in the Box of ELAC Varro RS500-SB?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of Varro RS500-SB:
  • Grill
  • Power Cord
  • 4 Spikes

Recommended Accessories

Here is a list of accessories that we think you may need for the ELAC Varro RS500-SB.

  • Vibration Isolators: IsoAcoustics isolators are our favorite isolators but you may find more affordable options too.
  • Acoustic Panels and Treatments: Your room is as important as your stereo equipment so acoustic treatments goes a long way in improving the overall performance.

User's Manual

For more information about how to setup, use and maintain the ELAC Varro RS500-SB, use the direct link below to download the official manual document:
Download User Manual for ELAC Varro RS500-SB

Official Brochure

Here is a link to download the official brochure for the ELAC Varro RS500-SB speaker:
Official Brochure for ELAC Varro RS500-SB

Official Product Page

Official manufacturer's product page for the ELAC Varro RS500-SB speaker can be found below:
Official Product Page for ELAC Varro RS500-SB

Warranty

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

ELAC Varro RS500-SB Detailed Specifications

General
BrandELAC
Full Model NameELAC Varro RS500-SB
TypePowered Subwoofer
Release Date2023
Frequency Response18-150 Hz
Enclosure TypeSealed
EnclosureAcoustic Suspension
Firing DirectionDown
Max SPL108 dB
Amplifier & Driver
Power (RMS)500 watts
Power (Peak)1000 watts
Amplifier TypeBASH
Woofer10-inch Aluminum

Controls & Connections
Low-pass Crossover40-150 Hz
Phase ControlYes
Room CorrectionYes
Built-in DSPYes
App ControliOS,Android
WirelessOptional
Line-level InputsStereo RCA/LFE
Speaker-level InputsBinding posts
Speaker-level OutputsNo
Physical
Dimensions (HxWxD)15" x 14-3/16" x 15-1/4" (381.0 x 361.0 x 388.0mm)
Weight20.85 kg (45.9 lbs)
FinishMDF
Available ColorsGloss Black
GrilleYes
Parts Warranty1 year
Labor Warranty1 year
ELAC Varro RS500-SB Alternatives in Powered Subwoofer Speakers
Model Frequency Woofer Amp Power Dimensions
Polk Monitor XT12
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24-160 Hz 12" 50 watts 16-7/16inch x 16-1/16inch x 19-1/16inch
SVS SB-1000 Pro
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20-270 Hz 12" 325 watts 13-1/2inch x 13inch x 15-13/16inch
B&W DB4S
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10-350 Hz 10" 1000 watts 14-3/4 x 14-1/4 x 17-1/16inch
Klipsch R-121SW
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28-120 Hz 12" 200 watts 16-5/8inch x 16inch x 20-15/16inch
Klipsch R-101SW
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30-160 Hz 10" 150 watts 14-9/16inch x 14-1/16inch x 20-13/16inch
Klipsch RP-1200SW
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17-138 Hz 12" 400 watts 18-15/16inch x 17inch x 25-15/16inch
KEF KC62
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Klipsch R-100SW
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32-120 Hz 10" 150 watts 14-5/8 x 12-9/16 x 18-1/16inch
Wharfedale SW-15
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30-120 Hz 15" 400 watts 22-7/16inch x 19-3/8inch x 24-3/16inch
Klipsch SPL-100
Compare
27-125 Hz 10" 200 watts 16-7/16 x 14-1/16 x 18-13/16inch
B&W ASW610
Compare
27-140 Hz 10" 200 watts 12-5/8 x 12-1/4 x 15-1/2inch
KEF KUBE 8b
Compare
34-140 Hz 8" 300 watts 11-9/16 x 11-5/8 x 13-5/16inch
KEF KUBE 10b
Compare
24-140 Hz 10" 300 watts 14-5/8 x 14 x 15-5/8inch
B&W ASW608
Compare
32-140 Hz 8" 200 watts 10-11/16 x 10-1/4 x 13-3/4inch
JBL Stage A120P
Compare
32-150 Hz 12" 250 watts 16-5/16 x 15-7/16 x 18-11/16inch
Klipsch SPL-120
Compare
24-125 Hz 12" 300 watts 17-11/16 x 14-3/4 x 21-1/4inch
Frequently Asked Questions about ELAC Varro RS500-SB

How low can the ELAC Varro RS500-SB go?

The ELAC Varro RS500-SB has a frequency response of 18-150 Hz. It digs below 20Hz, the bottom limit of human hearing, so you get deep, physical bass you feel as much as hear.

How much power does the ELAC Varro RS500-SB have?

The ELAC Varro RS500-SB has a built-in 500-watt RMS (1000-watt peak) BASH amplifier.

Is the ELAC Varro RS500-SB sealed or ported?

The ELAC Varro RS500-SB uses a Sealed enclosure. Sealed subwoofers trade a little output for tighter, more accurate bass and a smaller cabinet, which many listeners prefer for music.

What driver does the ELAC Varro RS500-SB use?

The ELAC Varro RS500-SB has a 10-inch Aluminum driver.

Does the ELAC Varro RS500-SB have app control or room correction?

Yes. The ELAC Varro RS500-SB offers app control (iOS,Android), room correction, onboard DSP, an adjustable low-pass crossover (40-150 Hz) and phase control, letting you dial the sub into your room and blend it with your speakers.

How do you connect the ELAC Varro RS500-SB?

The ELAC Varro RS500-SB connects via line-level Stereo RCA/LFE and speaker-level Binding posts inputs, and supports a optional wireless connection.

How big and heavy is the ELAC Varro RS500-SB?

The ELAC Varro RS500-SB weighs 20.85kg / 45.9lbs and measures 15" x 14-3/16" x 15-1/4" (HxWxD).

How much does the ELAC Varro RS500-SB cost?

The ELAC Varro RS500-SB has a manufacturer's list price (MSRP) of $1,299.

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