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SVS PB16-Ultra Subwoofer Review

Main Features

  • 16" Composite fiberglass/resin Woofer
  • 1,500 watts RMS Output
  • 13-280 Hz Frequency Response
  • App Control Feature
  • Weight: 174.50 lbs / 79.32kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 25" x 21-3/4" x 31"
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SVS PB16-Ultra Subwoofer Review
SVS PB16-Ultra SVS PB16-Ultra
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PB16-Ultra is a Ported type Powered Subwoofer by SVS with a frequency range of 13-280 Hz. It features 1 x 16" Composite fiberglass/resin Woofer, and powered by a 1500 watts amplifier.

PB16-Ultra is a member of SVS's PB series of Powered subwoofers. PB stands for "Ported Box" and represents the ported subwoofers of SVS which are generally larger compared to its sealed subwoofers, and produce greater dynamic output and play lower. Below you can see the main specs of these subwoofers as well as review and comparison links.

SVS PB Series Subwoofers
Model Frequency Woofer Amp Power Weight
SVS PB-1000
Compare
19-270k Hz 10" 300 watts 20.91kg
SVS PB-1000 Pro
Compare
17-260k Hz 12" 325 watts 19.30kg
SVS PB-2000 Pro
Compare
16-290k Hz 12" 550 watts 29.45kg
SVS PB-4000
Compare
16-200k Hz 13.5" 1200 watts 69.64kg
SVS PB-3000
Compare
16-200k Hz 13" 800 watts 37.36kg
SVS PB16-Ultra
13-280k Hz 16" 1500 watts 79.32kg


**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

SVS PB16-Ultra has a Frequency response range of 13-280 Hz at ±3dB. Thanks to its 1 x 16-inch driver and 1500 watts RMS amplifier, at 13Hz the PB16-Ultra 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 PB16-Ultra'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
SVS PB16-Ultra
Min
Average
Max
High Frequency
Subwoofer Speakers
SVS PB16-Ultra
Min
Average
Max

Among all subwoofers in our database with a max MSRP price of 3000$, these are the 5 Powered Subwoofer models that can reach deeper bass levels than the SVS PB16-Ultra's 13Hz:

  • B&W DB4S with Low Frequency of 10 Hz (Compare w/ PB16-Ultra)
  • GoldenEar SuperSub XXL with Low Frequency of 10 Hz (Compare w/ PB16-Ultra)
  • KEF KF92 with Low Frequency of 11 Hz (Compare w/ PB16-Ultra)
  • KEF KC62 with Low Frequency of 11 Hz (Compare w/ PB16-Ultra)
  • KEF KC92 with Low Frequency of 11 Hz (Compare w/ PB16-Ultra)

Low-Pass Crossover

SVS PB16-Ultra has a variable Low-pass filter (LFP) which lets you choose a frequency level between 30-200 Hz in order to block any frequencies above that point from reaching the amplifier.

App-Based Control

SVS PB16-Ultra can be controlled wirelessly via 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 SVS PB16-Ultra frequently. Apps also provides settings that can't be placed on the body.

Inputs and Outputs

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

SVS PB16-Ultra External Dimensions and Weight

SVS PB16-Ultra has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) 25 x 21-3/4 x 31inch (635.0 x 553.0 x 788.0mm ).

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 SVS PB16-Ultra is approximately 4357.6cm2 / 675.4inch2.

To get a better perspective on the real life size of SVS PB16-Ultra, let's compare it with a standard size Compact Disc which has a diameter of 4.7inch (120mm).

SVS PB16-Ultra Real Life Body Size Comparison
SVS PB16-Ultra Speaker Size Compared to a Compact Disc

Here we place the SVS PB16-Ultra virtually next to a standard width amplifier and turntable on a media center to get a better idea about the size.

SVS PB16-Ultra placed next to a Media Stand
SVS PB16-Ultra Subwoofer next to a Media Stand

Weight

The SVS PB16-Ultra weighs 79.32kg / 174.5lbs. 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 PB16-Ultra's weight compares with the average, max and min weights in its class.

Weight
All Subwoofer Speakers
SVS PB16-Ultra
Min
Average
Max
Weight
Subwoofer Speakers under $3000
SVS PB16-Ultra
Min
Average
Max

Cabinet type and Materials

SVS PB16-Ultra 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

SVS PB16-Ultra 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 SVS PB16-Ultra come with a Grille?

PB16-Ultra 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 SVS PB16-Ultra?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of PB16-Ultra:
  • Powered subwoofer
  • Grille
  • 5-feet AC power cord
  • Remote control (3V battery installed)
  • Owners Manual
  • Recommended Accessories

    Here is a list of accessories that we think you may need for the SVS PB16-Ultra.

    • Vibration Isolators: IsoAcoustics isolators 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

    5 Years of parts warranty and 5 Years of labor warranty is generally provided by the manufacturer.

    SVS PB16-Ultra 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 "
    B&W DB4S
    Compare
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    Klipsch R-101SW
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    Klipsch R-121SW
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    Wharfedale SW-15
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    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"
    KEF KUBE 10b
    Compare
    24-140k Hz 10" 300 watts 14-5/8 x 14 x 15-5/8inch"
    JBL Stage A120P
    Compare
    32-150k Hz 12" 250 watts 16-5/16 x 15-7/16 x 18-11/16inch"
    KEF KC62
    Compare
    11-200k Hz 6.5" 1000 watts 9-5/8inch x 10-1/8inch x 11-1/16inch "
    SVS PB-1000
    Compare
    19-270k Hz 10" 300 watts 18-7/8 x 15 x 20-15/16inch"
    Klipsch RP-1400SW
    Compare
    16-141k Hz 14" 500 watts 21-5/16inch x 20inch x 25-11/16inch "
    B&W ASW610
    Compare
    27-140k Hz 10" 200 watts 12-5/8 x 12-1/4 x 15-1/2inch"
    Klipsch R-100SW
    Compare
    32-120k Hz 10" 150 watts 14-5/8 x 12-9/16 x 18-1/16inch"
    Frequently Asked Questions about SVS PB16-Ultra
    What is the External Dimensions of SVS PB16-Ultra
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