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  1. Home
  2. PSB Speakers
  3. Powered Subwoofers
  4. PSB Alpha S8
PSB Alpha S8 Subwoofer Review
PSB Alpha S8 - Front View

Compare To

Main Features

  • 8" Polypropylene Woofer
  • 150 watts RMS Output
  • 35-150 Hz Frequency Response
  • Weight: 21.00 lbs / 9.55kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 12-1/2" x 11-1/2" x 16-1/4"
MSRP: $549 (list price)
Check price atAmazon›
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PSB Alpha S8 Subwoofer Review
PSB Alpha S8 PSB Alpha S8
Check price atAmazon›

Made by PSB · Canada · since 1972 · sold through dealers

Alpha S8 is a Ported type Powered Subwoofer by PSB with a frequency range of 35-150 Hz. It was released in 2019. It features 1 x 8" Polypropylene Woofer, and powered by a 150 watts amplifier.

PSB Alpha S8  Lifestyle
PSB Alpha S8 Lifestyle

Alpha S8 is a member of PSB's Alpha series of Powered subwoofers. Alpha is PSB's entry-level range, Canadian-designed speakers that deliver strong value, now including the powered Alpha iQ. Below you can see the main specs of these subwoofers as well as review and comparison links.

PSB Alpha Series Subwoofers
Model Frequency Woofer Amp Power Weight
PSB Alpha S8
35-150 Hz 8" 150 watts 9.55kg
PSB Alpha S10
Compare
28-150 Hz 10" 150 watts 13.64kg
PSB Alpha Series Speakers
PSB Alpha Series Speakers

Frequency Response

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

PSB Alpha S8 has a Frequency response range of 35-150 Hz.

Here we have a comparison of how Alpha S8'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
PSB Alpha S8
Min
Average
Max
High Frequency
Subwoofer Speakers
PSB Alpha S8
Min
Average
Max

Among all subwoofers in our database with a max MSRP price of 750$, these are the 5 Powered Subwoofer models that can reach deeper bass levels than the PSB Alpha S8's 35Hz:

  • OSD Nero DueVoce DualX8 with Low Frequency of 17 Hz (Compare w/ Alpha S8)
  • Definitive ProSub 1000 with Low Frequency of 18 Hz (Compare w/ Alpha S8)
  • GoldenEar ForceField 3 with Low Frequency of 18 Hz (Compare w/ Alpha S8)
  • SVS PB-1000 with Low Frequency of 19 Hz (Compare w/ Alpha S8)
  • SVS SB-2000 with Low Frequency of 19 Hz (Compare w/ Alpha S8)

Low-Pass Crossover

PSB Alpha S8 has a variable Low-pass filter (LFP) which lets you choose a frequency level between 50-150 Hz in order to block any frequencies above that point from reaching the amplifier.

PSB Alpha S8 Back View
PSB Alpha S8 Back View

Inputs and Outputs

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

PSB Alpha S8 External Dimensions and Weight

PSB Alpha S8 has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) 12-1/2 x 11-1/2 x 16-1/4inch (318.0 x 293.0 x 413.0mm ).

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 PSB Alpha S8 is approximately 1210.1cm2 / 187.6inch2.

To get a better perspective on the real life size of PSB Alpha S8, let's compare it with a standard size Compact Disc which has a diameter of 4.7inch (120mm).

PSB Alpha S8 Real Life Body Size Comparison
PSB Alpha S8 Speaker Size Compared to a Compact Disc

Here we place the PSB Alpha S8 virtually next to a standard width amplifier and turntable on a media center to get a better idea about the size.

PSB Alpha S8 placed next to a Media Stand
PSB Alpha S8 Subwoofer next to a Media Stand

Find speakers that fit your shelf or alcove →

Weight

The PSB Alpha S8 weighs 9.55kg / 21lbs. 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 Alpha S8's weight compares with the average, max and min weights in its class.

Weight
All Subwoofer Speakers
PSB Alpha S8
Min
Average
Median
Weight
Subwoofer Speakers under $750
PSB Alpha S8
Min
Average
Max

Cabinet type and Materials

PSB Alpha S8 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

PSB Alpha S8 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 PSB Alpha S8 come with a Grille?

Alpha S8 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.

PSB Alpha S8  with Grille
PSB Alpha S8 with Grille

What's in the Box of PSB Alpha S8?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of Alpha S8:
  • Powered subwoofer
  • Grille
  • 5-feet AC power cord
  • 4 Rubber feet
  • 4 Spike feet
  • 4 Hex-nuts
  • Quick Start Guide
  • Important Safety Instructions
  • Warranty Information

Recommended Accessories

Here is a list of accessories that we think you may need for the PSB Alpha S8.

  • 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

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

PSB Alpha S8 Detailed Specifications

General
BrandPSB
Full Model NamePSB Alpha S8
TypePowered Subwoofer
Release Date2019
Frequency Response35-150 Hz
Enclosure TypePorted
EnclosureBass Reflex
Firing DirectionFront
Port Positionfront
Amplifier & Driver
Power (RMS)150 watts
Woofer8-inch Polypropylene

Controls & Connections
Low-pass Crossover50-150 Hz
Phase ControlYes
WirelessNo
Line-level InputsStereo RCA/LFE
Speaker-level InputsNo
Speaker-level OutputsNo
Physical
Dimensions (HxWxD)12-1/2" x 11-1/2" x 16-1/4" (318.0 x 293.0 x 413.0mm)
Weight9.55 kg (21 lbs)
GrilleYes
Mounting BracketNo
Parts Warranty1 Year
Labor Warranty1 Year
PSB Alpha S8 Alternatives in Powered Subwoofer Speakers
Model Frequency Woofer Amp Power Dimensions
Polk Monitor XT12
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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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Wharfedale SW-15
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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 PSB Alpha S8

How low can the PSB Alpha S8 go?

The PSB Alpha S8 has a frequency response of 35-150 Hz. Its low-end extends to 35Hz.

How much power does the PSB Alpha S8 have?

The PSB Alpha S8 has a built-in 150-watt RMS amplifier.

Is the PSB Alpha S8 sealed or ported?

The PSB Alpha S8 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 PSB Alpha S8 use?

The PSB Alpha S8 has a 8-inch Polypropylene driver.

Does the PSB Alpha S8 have app control or room correction?

Yes. The PSB Alpha S8 offers an adjustable low-pass crossover (50-150 Hz) and phase control, letting you dial the sub into your room and blend it with your speakers.

How do you connect the PSB Alpha S8?

The PSB Alpha S8 connects via line-level Stereo RCA/LFE inputs.

How big and heavy is the PSB Alpha S8?

The PSB Alpha S8 weighs 9.55kg / 21lbs and measures 12-1/2" x 11-1/2" x 16-1/4" (HxWxD).

How much does the PSB Alpha S8 cost?

The PSB Alpha S8 has a manufacturer's list price (MSRP) of $549.

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