Short answer: the SVS SB-3000. It ranks #15 of 212 subwoofers by sound quality, rated 4.1/5, at $1,149. The HSU Research VTF-2 MK5 ranks #40, rated 3.9/5, at $759, $390 cheaper, a saving that is not big enough to make up the sound-quality gap.
The SB-3000 is the more powerful, more compact sealed sub. Its 13-inch driver on 800W averaged 118.7dB from 40 to 80Hz in Audioholics’ tests, with tight, accurate bass and a 3-band parametric EQ in its app. Being sealed, it gives up deep output: 96.6dB at 20Hz.
The VTF-2 MK5 is the ported value pick. Its 12-inch driver on 350W plays tuneful bass, and its variable port tuning works like three subwoofers in one, so you can trade depth against output. It is a large, heavy cabinet at 61.9 lbs (28.1 kg).
Buy the SVS SB-3000. It is rated higher for sound quality, and saving $390 with the HSU Research VTF-2 MK5 does not make up for the sound-quality gap.
Still deciding? The full Subwoofers rankings cover every ranked option.
A well made sealed subwoofer with tight, accurate bass and handy app controls, great for music and medium rooms.
A loud ported 12 inch subwoofer with adjustable tuning, tuneful bass and great value for music and movies.
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Specifications Side By Side
| SVS SB-3000 | HSU Research VTF-2 MK5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,149.00 | $759 |
| Ranked | #15 of 212 in Medium Home Subwoofers (30-75 lbs) | #40 of 212 in Medium Home Subwoofers (30-75 lbs) |
| Enclosure | sealed | ported, front |
| Output SPL at 15 Hz | 90.3 dB | 90.3 dB |
| Output SPL at 20 Hz | 96.6 dB | 104.4 dB |
| Output SPL at 25 Hz | 101.7 dB | 109.8 dB |
| Output SPL at 31.5 Hz | 107.8 dB | 113.1 dB |
| Output SPL at 40 Hz | 114.6 dB | 115.1 dB |
| Output SPL at 50 Hz | 118.7 dB | 116.7 dB |
| Output SPL at 63 Hz | 120.7 dB | 117.1 dB |
| Output SPL at 80 Hz | 120.9 dB | 116.7 dB |
| Output SPL at 100 Hz | 120.8 dB | 116.1 dB |
| Output SPL at 125 Hz | 120.7 dB | 115.8 dB |
| CEA-2010-A Average (40-80Hz) | 118.7 dB | 116.4 dB |
| Dimensions | 15.6”H x 15.2”W x 15.7”D (396.2 x 386.1 x 398.8 mm) | 21.5”H x 15”W x 24”D (546.1 x 381.0 x 609.6 mm) |
| Weight | 54.5 lbs (24.7 kg) | 61.9 lbs (28.1 kg) |
| Warranty | 5 | 7/2(+3) |
| Cabinet Color | black | black |
| Country | United States | United States |
| Measurement Source | Audioholics | Audioholics |
| Frequency Response | 18-270Hz, ±3dB | 18-90Hz |
| Amplifier Power | 800W RMS / 2500W peak | 350W RMS |
| Crossover Frequency | 30-200Hz adjustable, 6/12/18/24dB slopes | - |
| Inputs | RCA (unbalanced), USB | - |
| Phase Control | 0°-180° | - |
| Features | Auto/On, 3-12V AC/DC trigger | - |
| Drivers | 13” (330mm) driver | 12” (305mm) driver |
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