Short answer: the SVS PB17-Ultra R-Evolution, if you are buying new. The HSU Research VTF-15H MK2 ranks higher than it (#57 vs #86 of 143 subwoofers, 4.2/5 vs 4.1/5) but is discontinued, so only consider it used; the SVS PB17-Ultra R-Evolution is still sold new at $2,999. The HSU Research VTF-15H MK2’s replacement, the HSU Research VTF-TN1, is rated 3.9/5 at $1,249.
The case for the HSU Research VTF-15H MK2: A 15 inch ported subwoofer from a long running series, with strong output for movies at a reasonable price. Watch for: Ported enclosure prone to room modes at certain frequencies, mid-large 110.2 lbs (50 kg) size, and $1499 price point.
The case for the SVS PB17-Ultra R-Evolution: A giant ported 17 inch subwoofer that digs extremely deep and plays earth shaking movie bass in large rooms. The catch: At 166.9 lbs (75.7 kg), or 167 lbs (75.8 kg), with recessed feet that leave little clearance, moving or repositioning this cabinet is a two-person job at minimum.
Buy the SVS PB17-Ultra R-Evolution if you want one new; the HSU Research VTF-15H MK2 is discontinued, so only look for it used.
Looking for alternatives? See the complete Subwoofers rankings.
Prices on this page were last checked November 7, 2026 at 7:34 PM UTC. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date/time and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
As an eBay Partner, we may be compensated if you make a purchase.
Specifications Side By Side
| HSU Research VTF-15H MK2 | SVS PB17-Ultra R-Evolution | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,499 Discontinued | $2,999.00 |
| Ranked | #57 of 143 in Large Home Subwoofers (Over 75 lbs) | #86 of 143 in Large Home Subwoofers (Over 75 lbs) |
| Enclosure | ported, front | ported, bottom |
| Output SPL at 15 Hz | 101.6 dB | - |
| Output SPL at 20 Hz | 108.4 dB | 113.9 dB |
| Output SPL at 25 Hz | 114.8 dB | 117.5 dB |
| Output SPL at 31.5 Hz | 119.4 dB | 119.4 dB |
| Output SPL at 40 Hz | 122.9 dB | 120.1 dB |
| Output SPL at 50 Hz | 122.5 dB | 119.7 dB |
| Output SPL at 63 Hz | 121.1 dB | 119.0 dB |
| Output SPL at 80 Hz | 120.5 dB | 118.7 dB |
| CEA-2010-A Average (40-80Hz) | 121.8 dB | 119.4 dB |
| Dimensions | 24”H x 18”W x 26”D (609.6 x 457.2 x 660.4 mm) | 20”H x 19.5”W x 21.2”D (508.0 x 495.3 x 538.5 mm) |
| Weight | 110 lbs (49.9 kg) | 166.9 lbs (75.7 kg) |
| Warranty | 7/2(+3) | - |
| Cabinet Color | black, wood | - |
| Country | United States | United States |
| Measurement Source | Manufacturer | Audioholics |
| Drivers | 15” (381mm) driver | 17” driver, dual voice coil |
| Output SPL at 10 Hz | - | 76.7 dB |
| Output SPL at 12.5 Hz | - | 90.7 dB |
| Output SPL at 16 Hz | - | 107.0 dB |
| Output SPL at 100 Hz | - | 119.8 dB |
| Frequency Response | - | 15-320Hz, ±3dB |
| Amplifier Power | - | 2800W RMS |
| Inputs | - | XLR (balanced, LFE/stereo), RCA (LFE/stereo) |
| XLR Input | - | Yes |
| RCA Input | - | Yes |
| TRS Input | - | No |
| Optical Input | - | No |
| Coaxial Input | - | No |
| USB Input | - | No |
| HDMI Input | - | No |
| AES Input | - | No |
| Aux Input | - | No |
Related Speaker Comparisons
More worthwhile head-to-heads for HSU Research VTF-15H MK2:
- HSU Research VTF-15H MK2 vs JTR Speakers Orbit Shifter PRO
- HSU Research VTF-15H MK2 vs JTR Speakers Orbit Shifter LFU
- HSU Research VTF-15H MK2 vs WW Speaker Cabinets X21 - B&C 21DS115-4
- HSU Research VTF-15H MK2 vs Pro Audio Technology LFC-24sm
- HSU Research VTF-15H MK2 vs Power Sound Audio (PSA) TRIAX