SVS PB17-Ultra R|Evolution
The SVS PB17-Ultra R|Evolution is a flagship ported subwoofer that represents a significant leap in low-frequency performance and technology. Building upon the legacy of its predecessors, this model introduces groundbreaking advancements in driver design, amplification, and user-friendly features, catering to the most discerning audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts.
Design and Build Quality
The PB17-Ultra R|Evolution boasts a formidable presence with its substantial cabinet, measuring 25 inches in height, 21.7 inches in width, and 29.3 inches in depth, and weighing approximately 165 pounds. The robust Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) construction, coupled with internal bracing, ensures resonance-free performance even at the highest drive levels. Available in Piano Gloss Black and Premium Black Oak Real Wood Veneer finishes, it seamlessly integrates into various home audio setups.
Driver and Amplification
At the heart of the PB17-Ultra R|Evolution is a newly developed 17-inch high-excursion driver, the largest ever employed by SVS. This driver features dual 8-inch voice coils, a first in consumer subwoofers, allowing for precise control and higher output without strain. The massive 55-pound toroidal ferrite motor provides the necessary force to deliver deep bass, reaching down to 12Hz in extended mode.
Powering this impressive driver is the STA-2800D amplifier, delivering 2,800 watts RMS through a dual mono-block Class-D design with MOSFET output stages. This configuration ensures the subwoofer maintains control and precision, even during demanding audio passages, providing impactful bass without distortion.
Performance
The PB17-Ultra R|Evolution offers an exceptional frequency response, extending down to 12Hz (±3dB) in extended mode, allowing it to reproduce the deepest bass notes with authority. In real-world testing, it excels in both home theater and music applications. During action-packed movie scenes, it delivers room-shaking bass that enhances the cinematic experience, while in music playback, it provides articulate and musical bass lines that remain distinct and engaging.
Smart Features and Room Integration
SVS has equipped this subwoofer with a comprehensive control app, allowing users to adjust volume, low pass filters, phase, polarity, and room gain compensation. The app includes six parametric equalizers for precise tuning and multiple memory presets for quickly switching between custom configurations, adapting the subwoofer to different listening scenarios.
A standout feature is the forthcoming Auto EQ Subwoofer Room Correction, which uses the built-in microphone of a smartphone to automatically calibrate the subwoofer to the specific room environment. This ensures that the subwoofer delivers clean and balanced low frequencies, compensating for room acoustics. This feature will be available through an over-the-air app and firmware update, set for release in the near future.
Value and Considerations
The PB17-Ultra R|Evolution represents a significant investment but offers performance that competes with subwoofers costing significantly more. Its combination of advanced technology, build quality, and user-friendly features justifies the premium price for serious enthusiasts seeking reference-level bass reproduction.
Conclusion
The SVS PB17-Ultra R|Evolution sets a new benchmark in ported subwoofer design, delivering exceptional low-frequency performance with precision and control. Its advanced driver and amplification technology, combined with smart features and room correction capabilities, make it a compelling choice for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts seeking uncompromised bass performance.