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  1. Home
  2. Klipsch Speakers
  3. Powered Subwoofers
  4. Klipsch Reference R-101SW
Klipsch Reference R-101SW Subwoofer Review
Klipsch R-101SW - Front View

Compare To

Main Features

  • 10" Spun-Copper TCP Woofer
  • 150 watts RMS Output
  • 29.5-160 Hz Frequency Response
  • Weight: 30.60 lbs / 13.91kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 14-9/16" x 14-1/16" x 20-13/16"
MSRP: $499 (list price)
Check price atAmazon›
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Klipsch R-101SW Subwoofer Review
Klipsch R-101SW Klipsch R-101SW
Check price atAmazon›

Made by Klipsch · United States · since 1946 · sold through dealers

R-101SW is a Ported type Powered Subwoofer by Klipsch with a frequency range of 29.5-160 Hz. It was released in 2021. It features 1 x 10" Spun-Copper TCP Woofer, and powered by a 150 watts amplifier.

R-101SW is a member of Klipsch's Reference (R) Subwoofer series of Powered subwoofers. These are the powered subwoofers in Klipsch's affordable Reference (R) range. Below you can see the main specs of these subwoofers as well as review and comparison links.

See all 7 Klipsch Reference (R) Subwoofer models compared »

Klipsch Reference (R) Subwoofer Series Subwoofers
Model Frequency Woofer Amp Power Weight
Klipsch R-121SW
Compare
28-120 Hz 12" 200 watts 16kg
Klipsch R-101SW
30-160 Hz 10" 150 watts 13.91kg
Klipsch R-100SW
Compare
32-120 Hz 10" 150 watts 10.91kg
Klipsch R-112SW
Compare
24-125 Hz 12" 300 watts 22.16kg
Klipsch R-8SW
Compare
38-120 Hz 8" 50 watts 6.82kg
Klipsch R-120SW
Compare
29-120 Hz 12" 200 watts 14.09kg
Klipsch R-10SWi
Compare
32-120 Hz 10" 150 watts 11.59kg


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

Frequency Response

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

Klipsch R-101SW has a Frequency response range of 29.5-160 Hz.

Here we have a comparison of how R-101SW'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
Klipsch R-101SW
Min
Average
Max
High Frequency
Subwoofer Speakers
Klipsch R-101SW
Min
Average
Max

Among all subwoofers in our database with a max MSRP price of 500$, these are the 5 Powered Subwoofer models that can reach deeper bass levels than the Klipsch R-101SW's 30Hz:

  • OSD Nero DueVoce DualX8 with Low Frequency of 17 Hz (Compare w/ R-101SW)
  • Definitive ProSub 1000 with Low Frequency of 18 Hz (Compare w/ R-101SW)
  • SVS PB-1000 with Low Frequency of 19 Hz (Compare w/ R-101SW)
  • Definitive ProSub 800 with Low Frequency of 20 Hz (Compare w/ R-101SW)
  • Klipsch SPL-120 with Low Frequency of 24 Hz (Compare w/ R-101SW)

Low-Pass Crossover

Klipsch R-101SW has a variable Low-pass filter (LFP) which lets you choose a frequency level between 40-160 Hz in order to block any frequencies above that point from reaching the amplifier.

Inputs and Outputs

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

Klipsch R-101SW External Dimensions and Weight

Klipsch R-101SW has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) 14-9/16inch x 14-1/16inch x 20-13/16inch (370.0 x 358.0 x 529.0mm ).

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 Klipsch R-101SW is approximately 1893.8cm2 / 293.5inch2.

To get a better perspective on the real life size of Klipsch R-101SW, let's compare it with a standard size Compact Disc which has a diameter of 4.7inch (120mm).

Klipsch R-101SW Real Life Body Size Comparison
Klipsch R-101SW Speaker Size Compared to a Compact Disc

Here we place the Klipsch R-101SW virtually next to a standard width amplifier and turntable on a media center to get a better idea about the size.

Klipsch R-101SW placed next to a Media Stand
Klipsch R-101SW Subwoofer next to a Media Stand

Find speakers that fit your shelf or alcove →

Weight

The Klipsch R-101SW weighs 13.91kg / 30.6lbs. 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 R-101SW's weight compares with the average, max and min weights in its class.

Weight
All Subwoofer Speakers
Klipsch R-101SW
Min
Average
Median
Weight
Subwoofer Speakers under $500
Klipsch R-101SW
Min
Average
Max

Cabinet type and Materials

Klipsch R-101SW has a Bass Reflex type cabinet. Ported subwoofers are generally accepted to be more suitable for home theatre systems whereas the sealed designs are preferred for music oriented systems.

Port Position

Klipsch R-101SW is a front-firing port speaker, which gives you more flexibility compared to rear firing speakers when you need to place it close against a wall or other surfaces.

Does the Klipsch R-101SW come with a Grille?

R-101SW comes with grilles. 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.

What's in the Box of Klipsch R-101SW?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of R-101SW:
  • Powered subwoofer
  • Grille
  • 6.5-feet AC power cord
  • User Manual
  • Important Safety Instructions
  • Warranty Information

Recommended Accessories

Here is a list of accessories that we think you may need for the Klipsch Reference R-101SW.

  • 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.

Warranty

2 Years of parts warranty and 2 Years of labor warranty is generally provided by the manufacturer.

Klipsch R-101SW Detailed Specifications

General
BrandKlipsch
Full Model NameKlipsch Reference R-101SW
TypePowered Subwoofer
Release Date2021
Frequency Response29.5-160 Hz
Enclosure TypePorted
EnclosureBass Reflex
Firing DirectionFront
Port Positionfront
Amplifier & Driver
Power (RMS)150 watts
Woofer10-inch Spun-Copper TCP

Controls & Connections
Low-pass Crossover40-160 Hz
Phase ControlYes
WirelessNo
Line-level InputsStereo RCA/LFE
Speaker-level InputsNo
Speaker-level OutputsNo
Physical
Dimensions (HxWxD)14-9/16" x 14-1/16" x 20-13/16" (370.0 x 358.0 x 529.0mm)
Weight13.91 kg (30.6 lbs)
GrilleYes
Parts Warranty2 Years
Labor Warranty2 Years
Klipsch Reference R-101SW Alternatives in Powered Subwoofer Speakers
Model Frequency Woofer Amp Power Dimensions
Polk Monitor XT12
Compare
24-160 Hz 12" 50 watts 16-7/16inch x 16-1/16inch x 19-1/16inch
SVS SB-1000 Pro
Compare
20-270 Hz 12" 325 watts 13-1/2inch x 13inch x 15-13/16inch
B&W DB4S
Compare
10-350 Hz 10" 1000 watts 14-3/4 x 14-1/4 x 17-1/16inch
Klipsch R-121SW
Compare
28-120 Hz 12" 200 watts 16-5/8inch x 16inch x 20-15/16inch
Klipsch RP-1200SW
Compare
17-138 Hz 12" 400 watts 18-15/16inch x 17inch x 25-15/16inch
KEF KC62
Compare
11-200 Hz 6.5" 1000 watts 9-5/8inch x 10-1/8inch x 11-1/16inch
Klipsch R-100SW
Compare
32-120 Hz 10" 150 watts 14-5/8 x 12-9/16 x 18-1/16inch
Wharfedale SW-15
Compare
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
SVS PB-1000 Pro
Compare
17-260 Hz 12" 325 watts 18-13/16inch x 15inch x 20-15/16inch
Frequently Asked Questions about Klipsch Reference R-101SW

How low can the Klipsch R-101SW go?

The Klipsch R-101SW has a frequency response of 29.5-160 Hz. It reaches down to 30Hz, deep enough for the low end of most music and movie effects.

How much power does the Klipsch R-101SW have?

The Klipsch R-101SW has a built-in 150-watt RMS amplifier.

Is the Klipsch R-101SW sealed or ported?

The Klipsch R-101SW uses a Ported enclosure. Ported (bass-reflex) designs use a tuned vent to move more air, giving deeper, louder output for the same driver, which suits home theater.

What driver does the Klipsch R-101SW use?

The Klipsch R-101SW has a 10-inch Spun-Copper TCP driver.

Does the Klipsch R-101SW have app control or room correction?

Yes. The Klipsch R-101SW offers an adjustable low-pass crossover (40-160 Hz) and phase control, letting you dial the sub into your room and blend it with your speakers.

How do you connect the Klipsch R-101SW?

The Klipsch R-101SW connects via line-level Stereo RCA/LFE inputs.

How big and heavy is the Klipsch R-101SW?

The Klipsch R-101SW weighs 13.91kg / 30.6lbs and measures 14-9/16" x 14-1/16" x 20-13/16" (HxWxD).

How much does the Klipsch R-101SW cost?

The Klipsch R-101SW has a manufacturer's list price (MSRP) of $499.

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