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SVS SBS-01 Speaker System Review

by December 12, 2005
  • Product Name: SBS-01 Speaker System
  • Manufacturer: SVS
  • Performance Rating: StarStarStarStarhalf-star
  • Value Rating: StarStarStarStarStar
  • Review Date: December 12, 2005 19:00
  • MSRP: $ 999 (5.1) $1175 (7.1)
  • Buy Now

SBS-01 (Fronts/Surrounds)

Design:  Sealed 
Dimensions (H x W x D):  12" x 7" x 9.5" (305mm x 178mm x 241mm)
Weight:  11lbs (5kg)
Tweeter: (1) 1" (25mm) ClearSilkT  diaphragm 
Woofer:  (1) 5.25" (133mm) polypro. cone
Nominal Impedance:  8 ohms
Frequency Response (Anechoic): 68Hz-20kHz ± 3dB
Sensitivity:  85dB  20W - 120W
Magnetically Shielded?:  Yes
Mounting Options:  Threaded inserts for wall bracket; Single keyhole for wall mount; Surface/shelf mount
Enclosure Material:  MDF w/ internal bracing
Finish:  Light textured black vinyl 

SCS-01 (Center)

Design: 
Sealed
Dimensions (H x W x D):  7" x 20" x 8.5" (178mm x 508mm x 216mm)
Weight:  19lbs (8.6kg)
Tweeter: (1) 1" ClearSilkT  diaphragm 
Woofer:  (2) 5.25" (133mm) polypropylene cone
Nominal Impedance:  8 ohms

SCS-01 (Center) cont’d

Frequency Response (Anechoic):
68Hz - 20kHz ± 3dB
Sensitivity:  87dB  20W - 120W
Magnetically Shielded?:  Yes
Mounting Options: Threaded inserts for wall bracket (2 sets); Single keyhole for wall mount (2 sets);
Surface/shelf mount TILT-BaseT  platform (removable)

PB10-ISD (Subwoofer)

Driver:
  Proprietary SVS-designed long-throw 10" woofer
Amp:  300 watt BASH digital switching amp
Design:  Computer aided cabinet design
Enclosure Material:  MDF w/ internal bracing
Finish:  Light textured black vinyl with 1" front baffle:  Front-firing with flush fit woofer and vent:  Six removable, compliant floor isolation points:  Contemporary, "seamless" cabinet styling
Port:  Patented 3" wide-flare port fittings
Power Cord:  Extra heavy-duty, removable 8 foot
Frequency Response (Anechoic):  +/- 3dB from 20-100hz, in room extension will be 2-5hz deeper
Size: 15" wide  x 19" high x 22.5" deep (with grill on)
Enclosure Material:  MDF w/internal bracing
Weight: 60 pounds

Pros

  • Stupendous Movie Performance
  • Bookshelf Fronts/Surrounds blend well
  • LOUD and DEEP

Cons

  • Average music performance
  • Disproportionate center channel
  • HUGE subwoofer

Introduction

It was like a flare went up on the Internet the day that SVS released their new 5.1 speaker system. SVS has had a reputation for years as an excellent subwoofer manufacturer offering great subs for rock bottom prices. To say that SVS has a loyal following is akin to suggesting that sharks LIKE to eat or that flowers ENJOY sunshine. SVS inspires loyalty so intense, it borders on fanaticism. Needless to say, when Gene called me and asked if I wanted to review the new SVS (that’s as far as he got before I said yes). Like anyone that has spent any time on the Internet, I can’t help but be curious about the SVS subs. Given the opportunity to play with their new speaker system was just too good to pass up.
About the author:
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As Associate Editor at Audioholics, Tom promises to the best of his ability to give each review the same amount of attention, consideration, and thoughtfulness as possible and keep his writings free from undue bias and preconceptions. Any indication, either internally or from another, that bias has entered into his review will be immediately investigated. Substantiation of mistakes or bias will be immediately corrected regardless of personal stake, feelings, or ego.

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