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  1. Home
  2. Klipsch Speakers
  3. Powered Subwoofers
  4. Klipsch Reference R-8SW
Klipsch Reference R-8SW Subwoofer Review
Klipsch R-8SW - Front View

Compare To

Main Features

  • 8" Copper IMG Woofer
  • 50 watts RMS Output
  • 38-120 Hz Frequency Response
  • Weight: 15.00 lbs / 6.82kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 13-3/16" x 11-3/4" x 13-9/16"
MSRP: $349 (list price)
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Klipsch R-8SW Subwoofer Review
Klipsch R-8SW Klipsch R-8SW
Check price atAmazon›

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

R-8SW is a Ported type Powered Subwoofer by Klipsch with a frequency range of 38-120 Hz. It was released in 2018. It features 1 x 8" Copper IMG Woofer, and powered by a 50 watts amplifier.

R-8SW 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
Compare
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
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

Frequency Response

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

Klipsch R-8SW has a Frequency response range of 38-120 Hz.

Here we have a comparison of how R-8SW'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-8SW
Min
Average
Max
High Frequency
Subwoofer Speakers
Klipsch R-8SW
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-8SW's 38Hz:

  • OSD Nero DueVoce DualX8 with Low Frequency of 17 Hz (Compare w/ R-8SW)
  • Definitive ProSub 1000 with Low Frequency of 18 Hz (Compare w/ R-8SW)
  • SVS PB-1000 with Low Frequency of 19 Hz (Compare w/ R-8SW)
  • Definitive ProSub 800 with Low Frequency of 20 Hz (Compare w/ R-8SW)
  • Klipsch SPL-120 with Low Frequency of 24 Hz (Compare w/ R-8SW)

Low-Pass Crossover

Klipsch R-8SW has a variable Low-pass filter (LFP) which lets you choose a frequency level between 40-120 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-8SW External Dimensions and Weight

Klipsch R-8SW has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) 13-3/16 x 11-3/4 x 13-9/16inch (335.0 x 299.0 x 345.0mm ).

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-8SW is approximately 1031.6cm2 / 159.9inch2.

To get a better perspective on the real life size of Klipsch R-8SW, let's compare it with a standard size Compact Disc which has a diameter of 4.7inch (120mm).

Klipsch R-8SW Real Life Body Size Comparison
Klipsch R-8SW Speaker Size Compared to a Compact Disc

Here we place the Klipsch R-8SW virtually next to a standard width amplifier and turntable on a media center to get a better idea about the size.

Klipsch R-8SW placed next to a Media Stand
Klipsch R-8SW Subwoofer next to a Media Stand

Find speakers that fit your shelf or alcove →

Weight

The Klipsch R-8SW weighs 6.82kg / 15lbs. 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-8SW's weight compares with the average, max and min weights in its class.

Weight
All Subwoofer Speakers
Klipsch R-8SW
Min
Average
Median
Weight
Subwoofer Speakers under $500
Klipsch R-8SW
Min
Average
Max

Cabinet type and Materials

Klipsch R-8SW 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-8SW is a bottom-firing port speaker.

What's in the Box of Klipsch R-8SW?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of R-8SW:
  • Powered sub
  • 6.5-feet AC power cord
  • User Manual
  • Important Safety Instructions
  • Warranty Sheet

Recommended Accessories

Here is a list of accessories that we think you may need for the Klipsch Reference R-8SW.

  • 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-8SW Detailed Specifications

General
BrandKlipsch
Full Model NameKlipsch Reference R-8SW
TypePowered Subwoofer
Release Date2018
Frequency Response38-120 Hz
Enclosure TypePorted
EnclosureBass Reflex
Firing DirectionDown
Port Positionbottom
Amplifier & Driver
Power (RMS)50 watts
Woofer8-inch Copper IMG

Controls & Connections
Low-pass Crossover40-120 Hz
Phase ControlYes
WirelessNo
Line-level InputsStereo RCA/LFE
Speaker-level InputsNo
Speaker-level OutputsNo
Physical
Dimensions (HxWxD)13-3/16" x 11-3/4" x 13-9/16" (335.0 x 299.0 x 345.0mm)
Weight6.82 kg (15 lbs)
Mounting BracketNo
Parts Warranty2 Years
Labor Warranty2 Years
Klipsch Reference R-8SW 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 R-101SW
Compare
30-160 Hz 10" 150 watts 14-9/16inch x 14-1/16inch x 20-13/16inch
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
Frequently Asked Questions about Klipsch Reference R-8SW

How low can the Klipsch R-8SW go?

The Klipsch R-8SW has a frequency response of 38-120 Hz. Its low-end extends to 38Hz.

How much power does the Klipsch R-8SW have?

The Klipsch R-8SW has a built-in 50-watt RMS amplifier.

Is the Klipsch R-8SW sealed or ported?

The Klipsch R-8SW 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-8SW use?

The Klipsch R-8SW has a 8-inch Copper IMG driver.

Does the Klipsch R-8SW have app control or room correction?

Yes. The Klipsch R-8SW offers an adjustable low-pass crossover (40-120 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-8SW?

The Klipsch R-8SW connects via line-level Stereo RCA/LFE inputs.

How big and heavy is the Klipsch R-8SW?

The Klipsch R-8SW weighs 6.82kg / 15lbs and measures 13-3/16" x 11-3/4" x 13-9/16" (HxWxD).

How much does the Klipsch R-8SW cost?

The Klipsch R-8SW has a manufacturer's list price (MSRP) of $349.

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