Short answer: the SVS PB17-Ultra R-Evolution. It ranks #86 of 143 subwoofers by sound quality, rated 4.1/5, at $2,999. The Definitive Technology Descend DN15 ranks #132, rated 3.7/5, at $1,999, $1,000 cheaper, a saving that is not big enough to make up the sound-quality gap.
The SVS PB17-Ultra R-Evolution is the better-sounding choice. 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.
Why pick the Definitive Technology Descend DN15: A 15 inch subwoofer with two passive radiators, very low distortion and bass down to 20Hz. The catch: Output averages 112.9dB from 40 to 80Hz, which is lower than many other 15 inch subwoofers at this price, so very large rooms may want more headroom.
Buy the SVS PB17-Ultra R-Evolution. It is rated higher for sound quality, and saving $1,000 with the Definitive Technology Descend DN15 does not make up for the sound-quality gap.
Looking for alternatives? See the complete Subwoofers rankings.
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Specifications Side By Side
| SVS PB17-Ultra R-Evolution | Definitive Technology Descend DN15 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $2,999.00 | $1,999.00 |
| Ranked | #86 of 143 in Large Home Subwoofers (Over 75 lbs) | #132 of 143 in Large Home Subwoofers (Over 75 lbs) |
| Enclosure | ported, bottom | sealed |
| Output SPL at 10 Hz | 76.7 dB | - |
| Output SPL at 12.5 Hz | 90.7 dB | 83.2 dB |
| Output SPL at 16 Hz | 107.0 dB | 97.4 dB |
| Output SPL at 20 Hz | 113.9 dB | 103.9 dB |
| Output SPL at 25 Hz | 117.5 dB | 107.3 dB |
| Output SPL at 31.5 Hz | 119.4 dB | 110.9 dB |
| Output SPL at 40 Hz | 120.1 dB | 113.6 dB |
| Output SPL at 50 Hz | 119.7 dB | 113.5 dB |
| Output SPL at 63 Hz | 119.0 dB | 112.8 dB |
| Output SPL at 80 Hz | 118.7 dB | 111.6 dB |
| Output SPL at 100 Hz | 119.8 dB | 111.0 dB |
| CEA-2010-A Average (40-80Hz) | 119.4 dB | 112.9 dB |
| Dimensions | 20”H x 19.5”W x 21.2”D (508.0 x 495.3 x 538.5 mm) | 23.4”H x 24.1”W x 24.9”D (595.4 x 613.4 x 632.7 mm) |
| Weight | 166.9 lbs (75.7 kg) | 114.6 lbs (52.0 kg) |
| Country | United States | United States |
| Measurement Source | Audioholics | Audioholics |
| Frequency Response | 15-320Hz, ±3dB | 20-150Hz, ±3dB |
| Amplifier Power | 2800W RMS | 500W RMS / 1500W peak |
| Drivers | 17” driver, dual voice coil | 15” driver + 2x 15” passive radiators |
| 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 | - |
| Warranty | - | 5/3 |
| Output SPL at 125 Hz | - | 110.6 dB |
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