The SVS PB12-NSD (see image) is more flexible with its positioning. It gives you consistent quality no matter where it is in the room.
If you are looking for a subwoofer that has proven its mettle for a while now, the SVS PB12-NSD and PB-2000 are worth taking a look at. CAUTION: Before you read further, though, you should know that these subwoofers have both been discontinued. But if you're lucky, you can still find a good deal online for the last ones. For suitable alternatives, in case you don’t, look at SVS PB-1000 Pro or Audioengine S8 instead.
In summary, SVS has built a formidable reputation for itself as the provider of quality audio equipment. The combination of that with their sophisticated design aesthetic makes them a good choice for home theater systems. Both give you a very accurate and high-quality bass response. The SVS PB-2000 is slightly bigger than the two. The SVS PB12-NSD is more flexible with its positioning. It gives you consistent quality no matter where it is in the room. The SVS PB-2000 can get a little boomy when not placed optimally.
Let me tell you something right off the bat.
Room acoustics, particularly room dimensions and speaker positioning, will have an immense effect on sound quality.
The impact of the combination of these two is actually so strong that in most cases, it doesn't even make sense to utter a single word on sound quality without speaking of them.
This is why I'd hiiiiiiighly recommend you to check out this simple, 2D, online speaker placement calculator.
It's GOOOOLLLDDDDD. I've had an Acoustics & Audio PhD build this tool specifically for this purpose:
Default values:
- Ceiling height: 106 inches or 8 feet 10 inches or 2.70 meters
- Most standard ceiling height
- Listener's height: 32 inches or 2 feet 8 inches or 0.80 meters
- Average height of a sitting person
Central heights of speakers (measured from the ground) and examples to them:
- Soundbars: 30 inches or 2 feet 6 inches or 0.75 meters
- 8", 10" or 12" Subwoofers: 8 inches or 0.20 meters
- 360 degree speakers: 32 inches or 2 feet 8 inches or 0.80 meters
- Horizontal speakers: 32 inches or 2 feet 8 inches or 0.80 meters
- Floor standing speakers: 20 inches or 1 feet 8 inches or 0.50 meters
- Bookshelf speakers: 32 inches or 2 feet 8 inches or 0.80 meters
- Center speakers: 32 inches or 2 feet 8 inches or 0.80 meters
Side note: This tool can and will return inaccurate results for small, portable Bluetooth speakers such as JBL's Go Series. It will, however, deliver just fine for more powerful, packed bluetooth speakers such as this one.
ASAP Science made a video on the loudest and quietest rooms in the world. A mind blowing example of the importance of acoustics (time adjusted video).
Other parameters such as the age/materials of the building, the furniture & carpets in place, etc can and will, of course, have an effect on room acoustics, too. But much less.
Also...
Did you know you could also virtually hear any speaker online?
Crutchfield had recently created a tool that virtually simulates the sounds of many different speakers; such as those of SVS, Klipsch, KEF and B&W. Nothing will, of course, beat hearing the speakers in reality. But I'd still recommend you to give it a shot.
While you're at it, blast my Hidden Electronic Gems list to test them:
Anyways...
Design
SVS PB12-NSD
Weighing in around 66 lbs, the SVS PB12-NSD is obviously quite bulky and heavy. That being said, it is also surprisingly easy to handle and can be carried by one person. The bag it comes with help as well in the portability department.
The black metal finish with rounded corners does come with a somewhat 'heavy-duty' subwoofer look which can be an acquired taste. The matte grille in front goes well with the look. An open cast aluminum frame attached to a rubber cushion encases the driver of the subwoofer. The SVS logo embosses the dust cap on the same. Textured MDF vinyl wrap covering on the back is a nice touch. The quality of the material used appears to be high-grade. At a glance, the subwoofer should do a decent job of blending into a room, which is important while making your choice.
SVS PB-2000
The overall look and design of the SVS PB-2000 don’t differ much. It is as heavy and equally 'boxy' in its appearance too. What’s more, it also sports the same high-quality materials. Including the metal grille in the front and MDF covering, it does come with an LED light that lights up when turned on. Something that some consumers aren't particularly fond of (many prefer a speaker that can blend in easier in a completely dark room with no lights glimmering).
SVS also has a Speaker System Builder where you may choose from pre-selected systems or custom build your own by selecting any combination of SVS speakers and subwoofers.
Sound
Generally speaking, both offer deep, clear, and powerful bass that adds the sought-after sonic dimension you would look for in a home theater system while watching movies or listening to music. On closer inspection, the few minor differences make themselves more apparent.
SVS PB12-NSD
In a medium-sized room, the overall audio experience is very satisfactory. Even when experimenting with diverse positions, the response it gives remains consistently clear and defined. The MDF cover does a great job of containing the sound as well. From lower frequencies around 16Hz to higher ones around 140-150Hz, the sound remains clear and precise.
SVS PB-2000
An equally clear and enjoyable audio experience. That being said, when experimenting with positioning, you might find a few static waves (lumpy-sounding bass) that aren’t ideal.
The sound output does not remain as defined as its sibling when positioned randomly, and the farther down your room you place it, the better your chances at getting optimal sound. But otherwise, you get a very crisp performance sans any distortion or unwanted frequencies.
SVS PB-2000 (see image) sports the same high-quality materials. Including the metal grille in the front and MDF covering, it does come with an LED light that lights up when turned on.
Specs
SVS PB12-NSD
Weight: 66 lbs
Output: 1000 W peak
Frequency Range: 18-150Hz
Dimensions: 20.9″ x 17.3″ x 22″
Driver Size: 12-inch
SVS PB-2000
Weight: 66 lbs
Output: 1000 W peak
Frequency Range: 17-260Hz
Dimensions: 20.9″ x 17.3″ x 23.2″
Driver Size: 12-inch
(So the only difference here is the dimensions).
Find the perfect subwoofer for your speakers using the SVS Subwoofer Matching Tool.
Connectivity
Both these speakers come only with a power cord. All other cables needed to connect this to your speakers have to be bought separately.
Note: There are no wireless options.
Price
As aforementioned, officially, both models have been discontinued, so getting an official quote is tricky. Please check your local dealers for prices.
Verdict
In conclusion, this is how the SVS PB12-NSD and SVS PB-2000 stack up against each other:
- Design: Tie. The SVS PB-2000 has an LED light which is not everyone’s favorite.
- Sound: The SVS PB12-NSD is more consistent no matter where it’s placed in the room.
- Connectivity: Tie.