Monolith 15 vs SVS PB16 Subwoofer Showdown

[@Youthman]

Join me for weekly and monthly Zooms on Patreon - www.patreon.com/youthman Best pricing on Home Theater products - youthmanreviews.com/sales/ Submit your Home Theater - hometheatertours.com.

[@scottwrezenski2356]

Been saving money for nearly 2 years for dual svs 3000 PB. I am finally going to be able to pick them up and add them to the theater. Thus will be a huge upgrade for me. Taking i been running mtx old school subs. I love your videos.

[@arongatt]

If I would be looking for upgrading subs and have $2500 budget, I will go dual Monolith instead of the 1 SVS. It would be a smarter option with dual.

[@Youthman]

Definitely a great option

[@imarcoi123]

Yes . That's my thought.

[@redstang5150]

If you want smoother output throughout the room then yes, dual subs is the better option. If you're main concern is your primary listening position, spending more on a single sub with higher output and then locating it in the best spot for that position is also an option. In general a second sub will give you +3db. The SVS in his graphs, however, gave him +5db more output at the peaks, so in theory you actually would still get +2db more from the single SVS as opposed to the dual Monos. Now, are you going to notice that? Hard to say. Would be interesting if Youthman tested that theory.

[@arongatt]

redstang5150 I have dual klipsch R110SW which they performed great in the room i had before which was a 12x14f with a 14f ceiling but now I have a 16x21f and 10f ceiling and they are not really enough anymore. So I need to upgrade soon after I finish my Atmos/DTS X setup, I will seek to try SVS from a local dealer which he is going to let me try at home ( great SVS service worldwide) then Il see if it’s worth investing in SVS or get a dual sub system. Maybe Il go pb2000 x2. Luckily they said ok for me to try a single PB4000 and dual PB2000

[@redstang5150]

@@arongatt That'll be a very interesting demo (one I'd like to do myself). That's a decent sized room so I imagine if you go with a single sub you'll have a couple dead spots, but again you'll probably be able to place that pb4000 in a spot that will hit your primary listening seat harder than the dual 2000s, but it could be close. Myself, I got dual HSU VTF-2s instead of the pb2000s (comparable, but cheaper, more configurable, a little smaller and a little less power). They shake the hell out of my smaller 15x15x9 room (and much of my house for that matter) but ever since I got those I have constantly wondered what kind of performance I would have had if I spent the same money but on a larger single sub. For your room and budget though I'd be tempted to give a pair of pb3000s a try.

[@RBS22]

Congratulations on the excellent comparison, I enjoyed it very much. They are two excellent subwoofers.Despite the results, it's a hard choice, youthman, at least for me.

[@TheBassallyear100]

great video! both of those subs track extremely well in your room. the svs sub looks to be benefitting from a subsonic filter (a high pass filter) at ~18Hz. the monolith sub could greatly benefit from a subsonic filter also to keep its excursion in check when it starts playing below its port tuning frequency. ultimately, i think the svs will still play 1-2 dB louder than the monolith, but if the monolith had a subsonic filter applied it may have played the +3 dB sweep without signs of compression. dang good performance for over a grand less!

[@gregworrel2623]

I was looking to see if anyone else pointed this out. Clearly the SVS has a high pass filter applied. I wonder if the Monolith has that option built into the amp. The Monolith was only compressing at about 15Hz. If it had a similar high pass filter as the SVS, it almost certainly would have squeezed out a few more dB.

[@sometubedude]

Thanks for the vid bro bro. I purchased the monolith before there was a single vid out about them. My audio buddy talked me into it I was and still am blown away by these! I purchased a second one within 30 days after the first lol amazing as duels. You won’t be disappointed guys especially at that price point. Good luck all

[@WeLuv9x5]

In ‘00, I purchased two Velodyne FSR-15s. They complement my SRS-SDA 1.2tls. The Polk’s and Velodyne is still perform beautifully; however, my ol’ lady hates the “big, ugly box.” Next week, SVS is shipping me two PC-4000s. She said, “the cylinder looks like a work of art.” Win-win for both of us. God bless

[@brnmaull]

What's up Youthman? Great video! Just wanna give you a heads up I don't know if you seen godzilla yet but damm the bass in that movie was insane even with my little pb1000 subs. My room was shaking. Also the atmos track was really good. So if you haven't checked it out you would be very happy with the audio. I know you live in Florida so your family and you please stay safe!

[@Youthman]

Thanks for the heads up. Yes others have mentioned the same.

[@lawrence09151]

Which Godzilla? The 1998 mix was amazing for height channels and imaging but I felt it could use more bass.

[@racyJace]

I'll see how my xtz 12.17 Edge handles Godzilla then. Gotta love bass! I've some Atmos speakers too so it sounds like a good film to test my system. Overload had great audio too.

[@stitch1007]

I would really like to see your reaction to some of the popular DIY sub setups. Like the Dayton 18s in a full marty. Or alternatively seeing your reaction to some of the JTR subs. They are really in another class.

[@Youthman]

My friend has (4) FI 18’s in an Infinite Baffle that are unlike anything I have ever heard. Here is his setup - kzbin.info/www/bejne/g2GzfYCbjcZ2mpI

[@Youthman]

FOMO on tech keep in mind the JTR that was sent to me was their smallest sub

[@siriosstar4789]

Rumor has it that youthman had to have a structural engineer come and inspect the building after that test.

[@Youthman]

Actually it was after this demo - kzbin.info/www/bejne/lau6Z4xomNyrZpo

[@johnmastroleo995]

Youthman I played the shootout again with the SVS PB16 Ultra and the PSA s3611. Although in my room the PB16 rattled the walls more it's hard to forget the deep extended bass of s3611. I was actually playing it the first time in the living room with a Samsung soundbar and its wireless sub. I can see why I liked it better. The soundbar does not go low so the best qualities of the SVS PB-16 was more impressive. When I replayed it in my home theater room that is very similar in size to yours I see what all you guys are saying. I went ahead and bought the PSA s3611.The PSA sub wIll fit better in my regular theater room because the PB-16 requires more depth which I do not have. The PSA requires more width which I do have. As many have already reported you do a really good job without any biased that's really fresh. My background has always been High-End audio Pass Labs, Acoustats, Infinity, Spatial Audio, stacked Advents and others. I finally decided to go home theater to see if it would have any kind of chance aganist a true high quality 2 channel system. I run my church sound system and what I can tell you is most high end systems have far more details than what you hear in a live environment and until you get into the $60.000 systems the dynamic range of even one trombone cannot be produced with actual realism. My nephew plays trombone and he walked into the room one day and hit one note and that's when I realized what I was missing. Weight,full body and effortless. I still like the two channel systems but I'm having far more fun with my Dolby Atmos system 7.1.6. Your review on the Dolby Atmos Klipsch speakers was very accurate but I might add if you put the drivers very slightly above your ears you can sit right next to those speakers and not hear their location at all provided you have proper flat ceiling and height requirements. You guys not interested in not putting holes in your ceiling should read the Dolby Laboratories white paper on the Dolby enhance reflective speakers. Dolby feels that in certain situations they create a better canopy than putting speakers in the ceilings because if the ceilings aren't high enough the localization becomes more obvious. This is what I found in my particular room. The other thing I wanted to say is the dynamic range of my home theater system is significantly greater than what I ever had in a 2-channel system even when using excellent twin powered 10" subs. I feel there's also more enjoyment because more people can be involved in a home theater system (3 to 5 people get a sweet sitting spot vs one or two) and it does not favor a particular type of music or presentation. Youthman you make it fun too. You also have a great enthusiasm. I was trying to learn how to perform Roon Calibration and others on KZbin tried to make it sound like brain surgery. You provided clear explanation for exactly how to test subs / compression test. I really enjoy the shrapnel hitting me from the boat explosion more so than hearing the height reflection differences between a 50' and 52' cathedral ceiling. I also took notice of that little smile you had on your face when you said will I be upgrading my subwoofers and you said well not right now but definitely. My wife watches the Channel with me she said all you guys are alike. I just want to know when it ends. I told her honey it doesn't end it just keeps getting better. Youthman again I just want to thank you for your efforts.

[@Youthman]

Thank you kindly. I am perfectly content with my system but if the opportunity comes for me to upgrade to dual or quad 18’s, I might just take the plunge 😂

[@erosvinsol6725]

First off thank you for this wonderful comparison between the 2 excellent subs. I have always loved the fit and finish of the svs with the app it's a hands down winner in my book but for the money and great price of $1300 dollars you just cant go wrong if you are in the market and have that budget for the monolith 15. They both sounded great, so thank you again for the comparison and you and the family be blessed. Take care friend.😊

[@Youthman]

Thank you Eros

[@dayonerecoverdub3626]

@@Youthman what gain level did you have to run on the monolith to get good sound level out of it I got mine in today and after running audessy I have to have the gain maxed out and -6 on the receiver it makes no sense non of the svs I've had needed to be run that hot or my current hsu-vtf 15h mk2 am I missing something with monolith subwoofers

[@Nelly41288]

Good review 👍🏿 The Monolith Hits really low 👇🏿 I could hear the room shake before the sound came in 📳 For the price I'd go for two monolith 15's for twice the performance 💪🏿💪🏿

[@Youthman]

That would be a killer setup for sure

[@jr62inhometheater98]

Great comparison, I have to agree with you on being happy with what you hear. Will there be better sounding subs ? Of course there will be. But if it feels and sounds great, I would use the bucks to upgrade in other equipment. But that’s just me.

[@Chriswelder1]

for 1500 you'd recommend the monolith over a PSA?

[@zombielandiii2711]

HI Youthman! First time I write to you. Recently subscribed, from Mexico. I love your comparisons and style, you look like a really nice guy, and I envy you a little bit because your really nice setup. Currently I have a monolith 10" subwoofer and a speeewoofer 10. I hope someday I will upgrade to dual 12 or 13 inch subs. Kepp the great job!

[@Youthman]

Thank you kindly.

[@edwinanstey5123]

Great Job Youthman! I think you accurately described both subs very well. I have never heard either of them before but by going by specs, price, features and your REW results its easy to see where the cards fell. The Ultra 16 is the better subwoofer but at almost twice the price it should be. The Monolith, with all the the testing you have done with it, seems to be the absolute better bang for the buck performance wise. Loose comparison would be an Audi to a Camaro. The Camaro with give you that performance on a budget, but the Audi will give you the performance plus all the refinement with the price tag

[@Youthman]

Well said. I like your analogy Edwin

[@JacesOwnWorld]

Actually, the comparison should be BMW vs Camaro. Audi's are soft lol

[@gsmd770]

Great shot out Youthman! You said a great point. It doesn't matter what others think. In the end it's our own individual taste! Keep up the great work! Berlin signing off!!!

[@Youthman]

Thanks

[@veelee8766]

Thanks for the awesome videos! In your opinion, if you had to choose between 2 Monolith 15 vs 2 SVS PB 16 Ultras based on home theater performance for movies, which would you go with? I’m interested in both but what I really care about is that nice deep bass that you can hear and feel and was wondering if one produced that better than the other or were they equal in terms of performance. Thanks again!!!

[@marthepedersen1454]

so what did you go with?

[@philipbtz]

My conclusion is that I'd for sure rather have dual Monoliths and get output to 10Hz. If you put a HP filter at 16Hz on the Monolith you could probably get almost as high output for the Monolith. There is always a trade off between output and how deep you want to go. Test plugging some ports on the SVS16 and you'd get to 10Hz as well and see how the output compares then.

[@lawrence09151]

That down to 10Hz is sexy with the Monolith. Too bad a lot of soundtracks are neutered for that ultra low frequency bass. That is what the bass EQ thread (BEQ) is for on AVS haha

[@Grommet2007]

Would love to see the test repeated, this time limiting the test signal to 20 Hz and above, or 30 Hz as above, as both systems may be using some sort of electronic filtering to control excursion at very low frequencies at higher signal levels. Also, what REW distortion graphs at levels where you notice compression in the passband may be of interest.

[@lawrence09151]

Thanks for the video just started it. Also thank you for not having any cringe “jump” or “intro” terrible sound clip like some others.

[@Youthman]

Thanks. Well I’m sure some people cringe with my “Hit that subscribe button” in my videos. 😂😂😂

[@jimcole2648]

I have heard both and personally and owning svs and also velodyne, I would go with the svs.

[@andrewhill3325]

I would love to see a test between SVS and Paradigm. I have two paradigm x12's in back and 1 Klipsch 150sw" in front... Omg, the bass is insane in my theater room.

[@TNPFan]

Either choice, you have a great sub. These are the good old days of audio!

[@theuvcrew2531]

Great comparison. Have been considering an SVS sub for a while, but good to learn about some of its competitors, and the lower price seems easier to work with too.

[@edgarmaldonado5384]

Good review since these are two subs I’ve been considering and have been curious about their sound. Any thoughts on reviewing Rythmic subs, like a G25HP, FV15HP or the F18? Thanks

[@jaden9037]

Great review!, I have Denon 4400 looking to upgrade sub which 1 would you recommend monolith 12THX or SVS PB 2000 ?

[@walrusgumbootable]

Thank you for taking the time to compare these so thoroughly.

[@Youthman]

Gladly

[@LifeofBliss]

That was a really great video Michael. I learned a bit about REW. I'm interested to look into doing that technique in the future when I get to doing more tests on my own equipment. That was a great comparison. I think you pay more for the fit/finish of the SVS, which is outstanding. If people are really after a superior look, SVS is it. But if there's greater focus on performance, I'm thinking 2 of the monoliths would really do well to level out the sound and match the output of the SVS. Just my .02 😎

[@LifeofBliss]

^^^ When comparing pricing that is... Or you can go all out and just grab 2 SVS PB16s 😉

[@Youthman]

For sure. I agree with you on all points

[@hi-fihaven2257]

Great comparison video Youthman! Both of those subs are awesome. Thanks for using those graphs again. I think I take away more from the videos with graphs. Thanks for all the effort!

[@Youthman]

Thanks. Maybe it’s best from now on to do both in same video.

[@hi-fihaven2257]

@@Youthman I meant to give you a BIG thanks for listing me on your videos when you are scrolling the Patrons. That's just pain awesome!

[@barryplessala6185]

Yo youthman! I want to start out by saying I really enjoy your videos, they are always fun, entertaining and informative. I have a quick question about REW. I just replaced my SVS PB12-NSD with the new SVS PB2000-PRO which as you probably know has the APP like the 3000 and up. I now have the ability to make adjustments to correct for my room. My question is this I have a laptop that only has one USB port and 2 USB-3 ports. Can I use a USBc to HDMI adapter to send the audio sweeps to my AVR? I would assume I could but want to run it by you before I by the mic and adapter. Thanks for the help and keep up the good work

[@mohammedisaa9952]

I know that you can output film sounds with correct driver selected, so i guess music can also be selected with foobar, so i guess you could play the live output if you select the same deiver..... you dont need a mic to tey it..... just run a test and select the laptops mic as monitor 🙂..... Let us know please 🙏 🙂

[@johannjohann6523]

Tekton makes a 6 x 10 Subwoofer for around $1,500. Yep, 6 - 10" subs ran in series, stacked to about 6 foot tall enclosure. I've also been checking out Rhythmic Subwoofers, and they seem to be some really good subs, from a company that only makes subwoofers (like REL). They even offer DIY kits to ave ya a few bucks. It would be interesting to see a review of the Tekton 6 x 10, and also a TRhythmic sub. They are pretty high end subs, entry level around $1000. But have patented tech and operate like the RSK Speedwoofer. Which is probably the best sub for the price right now. Their 12' sub has some serious SPL.

[@Gggddduuuvvv]

Hi Youthman Just wondering if you have ever heard of the Tonewinner d6000 subwoofer, maybe do a review?

[@kuriakos36]

Hey buddy i just order 2nd monolith 15 so what you suggest with your opinion 1 pb16 or 2 monoliths are better??? What yyou think??? Please unswer me😊

[@GoogleUsedToLetThisNameBeLong]

Hey Youthman, awesome review here I feel you were honest and backed it up with reliable measurable data. But did you try running the PB16-Ultra in extended mode? I could be wrong but don't they claim supported more output at lower frequency if you plug 1 of the ports, making it "extended". I could be wrong on this but wanna hear what you think about it. Anyways, thanks!

[@Youthman]

Thanks. I would have to look at their website to see how each mode compares. I was thinking Extended allows it to dig a little deeper but sacrificed a bit of output.

[@GoogleUsedToLetThisNameBeLong]

@@Youthman Yeah that sounds about right, just curious how that would effect your graph and the discernible sub frequency/infrasound in the 10-20hz range you were taking about. Either way though very interesting results.

[@mohammedisaa9952]

This comment....... So if the bung was put in, theoretically the svs would have been nearer to the monolith in the lower frequencies, and nearer to the monolith in overall output...... All my atupid brain see's and hears is that the svs sounded bwtter, but the monolith can dig deeper...... svs looks far far better, but at nearly double the cost i could have a "comparable" system with 2 subs and not turned up as loud...... I worry about them solid kevlar cones wobberling and unevenly twisting and distorting whilst attatched to the coil formers, surely those tubes must be bending behind the cones near the magnets as they go in and out and are effected by the uneven warping of these reinforced cones, irrespecrive if they have many (dual layer?) spiders and the rubber outer surrounds ?..... i think something has to rip, but they dont....... not used to seeing this in smaller speaker drivers...... what a reverlation people endure for perfection.....

[@dadevastator24_77]

You should demo the SVS PB-2000... I would like to see it with REW Calibration. Demo 2 PB-2000’s vs 1 PB-3000.

[@richardjoseph2145]

think youthman might need to find a lightly used fallout bunker for his new theater room with all this bass!

[@cranixten2620]

I saw you as a guest on audioholics thought I'd watch some of your videos really like this. Nothing better than watching a sub to work!

[@Youthman]

Actually Gene was a guest on my channel 👍

[@Youthman]

I did a home theater of the month - kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5_Il3mBac2DbNE

[@Harald-MacGerhard]

@Youthman when it comes to huge brawny crazy subwoofers, you´re the man! Unfortunately Monolith subs can not be had overseas (Norway)

[@christophersmith9329]

Thanks Youthman I really enjoyed this comparison. Very informative. I am currently looking to upgrade both of my subs. For the price and performance I am going with 2 Monolith subs. Thanks again.

[@Youthman]

Glad the videos were helpful

[@Youthman]

patrick that makes no sense lol

[@Youthman]

patrick of course there are better subs out there. Why would I mention other subs when this video is directly comparing two subs that I have in my theater room at the same time. Plus I’m not going to recommend something I have not personally heard.

[@ghostrecon3214]

Flex some of those subs on the song Lost by Phelian, the bass comes in and swells then drops in frequency and swells and drops again and swells then reverses Very satisfying and house shaking!

[@lawrence09151]

Amazing. The pb16 is now $2,900 up from $2,500 side you made this video. Meanwhile the new monolith 16 is $1,699 on a deep sale that will best it lmao

[@viper04af]

would love for you to review the HSU subs with REW and compare !!! VTF-15H MK2

[@kkim4282]

I've been waiting for the review of the VTF-15H MK2 for years. I hope he reviews it soon.

[@Youthman]

I reached out to them about a year ago about reviewing their products and never heard back from them. So I assume they’re not interested

[@vrsexygti]

Youth man love your videos! I currently have 2 r112sw’s what would you recommend to replace them with the same or more output? One 15 monolith or pb16ultra or would a single pb4000 give me more output?

[@Youthman]

Thank you kindly. This video might be of help Or I compared the 15 inch monolith to the PB 16 - kzbin.info/www/bejne/qoDOlH6baKmIepI I have not heard the PB4000

[@jpitt916]

Very cool. Wish I could see someone compare the PB16 vs the HSU VTF-15 MK2. Heck, you could do two VTF-15's for just a little more than the Monolith. Of course, may be a reason nobody compares them...I never see much excursion from my VTF-15, it sounds really good to me but doesn't ever really knock me over. However I did get hollow headed after tuning it playing the waterfall scene from Prometheus repeatedly. I think two of them would be ideal for my room-really it's one end of an open floor plan ~15'x35'.

[@rcdude86]

Thank you thank you thank you!!!! No where have I read yet where to set volume of receiver when doing compression testing? Is there a setting it should be at according to the meters in the sweet or anything to really know what headroom you have and such?

[@Youthman]

I just start at a safe volume and work my way up. Not sure there is a set volume for compression

[@rcdude86]

Never I see. Hitting compression when it doesn't do a higher db! I follow!!! Thanks.

[@mdkrush]

Okay, what would you do... I have a PB4000, one. Should I switch to two Monolith 15's or get a second PB4000? I like the extension of the 15's and I know you said you were not going to get a 4000 to test... I'm torn... The money is not a big deal because I can save up but the PB-16 is more than I am willing to fork out and my wife would beat me if I got two... So after hearing the 15's and your best guess at the PB4000....? Thanks! Great videos!

[@mdkrush]

Or one of each? :)

[@Youthman]

I would likely choose dual Monolith 15’s as I prefer 15’s for home theater. Dual PB4000 would likely sound incredible as well.

[@Sowk1000]

When you watch the movie clips are you at the same volume? If so, you need to match that volume in REW and run the sweeps to get a more realistic view of what you are feeling between the two. Example: if you ran the movie clips at -10 you should run both the SVS and Monolith at -10 in REW to see if you see any differences in the graphs. Even that is not exactly perfect. But better than running one sub with more volume and then saying that sub is outputting more. The reason its not perfect is you have a separate volume for the signal output via REW. I believe I saw it at -12dB from full signal in your video.

[@Youthman]

As mentioned in the video, the Volume on Marantz AV7705 for both clips was at 0dB (Reference). Each subs Gain was calibrated at 75dB. I would say that’s level matched.

[@Sowk1000]

Youthman Do the Monolith and SVS show a difference when they are both at 0dB on the master volume in REW? Aka overlap both the 0dB sweeps on top of each other. If there is little to no difference then we can dive deeper as to why you still felt a difference at 0dB when watching the movie clips if you want. ;)

[@ernieloo9068]

Youthman, what did you set the gain settings on Monolith 15"? +15db? You said you used a SPL meter to have the sub read 75 db with receiver set at 0db using the receiver's test tone?

[@Youthman]

I do not recall what the gain was set at on the Monolith to get it to read 75dB on the meter when the volume on the AVR was set at Reference (0dB)

[@dickfantastic7908]

Glad to see this channel growing! Can't wait to see you haul in and unbox that S7201...

[@Youthman]

Thanks! The S7201 is the only sub Tom didn’t want to send due to shipping cost and the fact that there isn’t much of a market for them so very little ROI to send me one

[@dickfantastic7908]

@@Youthman Yeah, you should probably just buy it 😂 It would definitely make for a cool video but I don't know if that's worth 4g's.

[@herrtrigger7220]

You must have a huge theater room, my two Yamaha CXS18XLF subs hit 120 db @ 30hz in my 12 by 16 room (mic at center seat) with a Crown XLS 2002 on each one. They get louder but my ears / house can't take it. Are your numbers actual SPL or something in a computer simulator test? Did you measure one or a pair of SVS? Great video, it's awesome to see a showdown like this! I really thought the SVS would be louder a 30 hz tho

[@Youthman]

My room is 13’ x 19’ with 10’ ceiling. Measured with SPL meter. I have measured my JTR Captivator subs at 115dB @ 8hz

[@hba8103]

When running the frequency sweeps it sounds like the house is going to collapse. LOL.

[@Youthman]

For sure LOL

[@donnienathan7821]

They both have internal dsp...Great review though, i just bought two of those monoliths. They are on sale right now for 149 off, so , why not!

[@madmike8869]

Have you ever used a car audio spl meter to see the real time decibel level at your ears in your home theater? I believe SSA has a bluetooth one for your Phone and you can place the SPL meter anywhere to better show comparisons between drivers like what DB and frequency vary between subs

[@toddparkos5738]

Great video so thanks for that now the question of the day is would it be better for 2 Monolith 15's or 1 SVS Pro 16 ? It would be around the same price so that would be a great comparison. Thanks

[@Youthman]

I have always been a fan of running dual subs. Either option is great. Just depends on what’s important to you

[@toddparkos5738]

@@Youthman Thanks for the response. So which situations are better for duals vs the SVS. I personally have to have the feel of a movie more then music but I want both if that makes sense.

[@thirdstringallpro6264]

Hey youthman, not sure if you have Netflix or not, but there’s a movie called Operation Mincemeat. The last 15 minutes will destroy a sub. I’m curious how your jtr subs will handle the notes. I have a pb-2000 pro and at -30.0db it almost fried my sub. I’ve never seen my woofer move like that.

[@Jackmerius_Tacktheretrix]

Im am SVS guy, but for the price id go dual monoliths because output at 10-15hz is nuts, and for the same price as the SVS you can get almost the same output at the rest of the frequencies but absolutely smash below 16hz. So it it were my money I'd go dual monoliths. Or better yet the Monolith M2 dual 15 sub.

[@danieldeluzio8674]

I get a little confused here. I mean I know you compared the compression. Monolith still went up 3db except for that one area. So if you were to keep going up. It probably would’ve matched the 16 in all the other frequencies right? Except for the compression area?

[@Youthman]

That is correct but the point of compression testing is if it any point of the frequency response it no longer increasing, you have reached compression. That’s the entire point of the test.

[@toddroy9558]

Does it help with the out put when you have two subs instead of one? Would the numbers be different on this video if you tested two instead of one?

[@joeydelmarsjr.646]

im going DIY and 2x 18s cost $1300 @ 30hz 119db! on paper. real world +/- 3db for room gain. none the less thank you for sharing

[@samo8204]

Youthman, I just found you. THANK YOU for doing what you do! Re: The monolith M-215 from 10 Hz to 20 Hz. you're saying you can't hear it (Human hearing being 20-20K) how well can you FEEL it?

[@Youthman]

Thank you for the kind words. This video probably explains it best kzbin.info/www/bejne/lau6Z4xomNyrZpo

[@TheGoose81]

Hey Youthman, I'm hoping you can answer this perhaps! I have just purchased a PB16 Ultra and I have noticed a potential different port design internally from the open cross section photos on the internet.. All of the photos on the internet show the ports going horizontally underneath the driver, and they then sweep up and go vertically, with flared openings which sit upright in-between the driver magnet and the sledge amplifier. I was looking into each of my ports earlier on today and shining a flashlight inside them, expecting to see nothing other than the upswept bend. But to my potential horror I see that all three of my port tubes end horizontally!! I can see the rear MDF internal box section and some of the white sound dampening material! I was wondering, if you still have yours whether you could also peek into your port holes to see how yours are assembled?! OR anyone else here, who own either a PB16 Ultra or a PB4000. I have been in contact with SVS directly on the matter, and have sent in my photo's! Thanks Mike :)

[@makimoko]

Hey! How did you have only the subwoofer output sound? Unplugged the other speakers?

[@Lafiro]

Thank you for the comparison. How do you connect the subs to the processor? Coax/sub cable/xlr? I want to run XLR for my subs as well as the sub cables that look like RCA cables. What type is needed? I’m seeing a lot of “microphone” type or analog type from monoprice. Confused on what to purchase.

[@Youthman]

Depends on what receiver or preamp I am using. You won’t hear a difference between RCA and XLR with your subwoofers. XLR helps to reduce the potential for hum due to ground loop issues. If you don’t have any hum with RCA, you won’t hear any benefit from XLR

[@Lafiro]

Youthman I ran coax to 3 of 4 locations in the room and fear that was a mistake. I ran one sub rca cable from mediabride. But since I am seeing some receivers with xlr outputs, I wanted to get that run alongside my already run cables for the capability to use either or in the future. I need to figure it now before I install tiles and molding and lose all ability to hide any new runs. That is there I’m lost with all these XLR types and ends, 21awg vs 16awg.... I just can’t find the right answers online specifically for a subwoofer connection. I’m going for a 9.2.6 system so I’m running all the cables for that in advance all hidden.

[@Lafiro]

Youthman I’m torn between Monoprice item # 4756 and Worlds Best Cables Wuad Balanced microphone Moyano 2534 wire with Neutrik plugs. I don’t know which would be better, again specifically for subwoofers.

[@LuisRodriguez-su2qv]

What’s up youthman! What do you think about pairing up a PB 16 with a PSA V1811? Do you think I would have an issue blending them together?

[@Youthman]

It shouldn’t be a problem. I just don’t recommend mixing sealed and ported subs as you tend to get cancellation issues

[@Youthman]

Feel free to ask Tom (owner of PSA and also the “V” in SVS). He knows the SVS products quite well.

[@JayyBird93]

I’m happy to hear you say maybe some Rythmik‘s. I’m hoping they got back to you this time! If they did and you guys are in the works please strongly consider the FV18SW. It’s an 18” and is the only Rythmik offered with a paper cone driver which they created for HT. It has more TR than the aluminum cone and +3db over 40hz than the aluminum. I just sent a message over there to maybe help sway them to sending you something.

[@JohnARobinsonJr]

Very informative... The Monolith is a great subwoofer at it's price point. I'd save the data to compare other subwoofers. I'd like to see how the JTR subwoofer compares... But as usual, great content.

[@Youthman]

I do save the measurements but it’s impossible for me to get the mic in the exact location unless I’m measuring them at the same time.

[@commanderrussels2612]

@@Youthman At work we hang strings when we need to get back to the same spot. You'd have to put a small hook on your ceiling (sorry wife) and then rope a string on there, then cut it at the exact height. Now when you put the string back up you are in the same spot every time. You could also just measure, but, that's what we do for fastest swaps. We don't test sound normally but, same idea.

[@JohnARobinsonJr]

@@Youthman ahhh, I understand... Yeah, consistency is key.

[@Youthman]

That might work but I think I would rather compare subs that I have on hand at the moment or else I'll be making countless videos comparing every new sub to every previous sub. Just isn't practical for what I do.

[@JohnARobinsonJr]

@@commanderrussels2612 that's not a bad idea. I get what Youthman is saying. If any furniture, sound damping, or any large items are added to the room, it could compromise the test. I purchased the microphone and used the REW program Youthman suggested. I got a similar response from my S3611 as tested in his video. I was lucky and didn't have a null. I appreciate his test and evaluations. It's a lot of work, that's for sure. He just makes it look easy.

[@romanlewandowski9616]

Very good comparison Youthman as always well done. As the monoliths is $1300 you could put two in your room and you’ve always been an advocate to subs are better than one no doubt the PB16 ultra is an amazing sub I have a room of approximately 2500 Square feet 2 PB 16s I think would blow the walls out.

[@Youthman]

My room is 13x19x10 (2470 cubic feet). No walls have fallen yet

[@romanlewandowski9616]

Youthman currently I have two clips 12 inch subs I’m gonna have to try the the SVS 16s but they are 4 1/2 grand here down under each, the disadvantages of not living in the US all Hifi equipment is double here 😂

[@gralen]

Been out looking for subs. I have yet to see Monolith but I have seen SVS. Did you just audition from your home or from a store?

[@Youthman]

Monolith doesn’t have a store. These were reviewed in my own home.

[@bigelile07]

Where were the subs placed, what was the angle, and what was you seating distance?

[@Youthman]

Subs were in exact location on the floor where I get the best frequency response facing the front of my room.distance is around 7’

[@bigelile07]

@@Youthman Thank you!

[@scottparsons7825]

Good video. Not a fair comparison though, as you stated. PB16 vs JTR Captivator 2400 would be more fair of a comparison. That is if you have them both hanging around, and if you do your lucky!

[@Youthman]

I can only compare what I have in for review, whether it’s “fair” or not

[@commanderrussels2612]

It's a very fair comparison because he shows the pricepoints. This shows you can get TWO monoliths and basically equal a PB16, plus have the advantage of being able to even your room response by having two subs rather than one. This is the best test you could have.

[@07wrxtr1]

@@commanderrussels2612 Yup! was a night n day difference going from one pb1000 to duals, and for $950, kind of a steal for small bedroom. I'd still lean on SVS if you have bad luck with amps failing, since they have a no questions asked five year transferable warranty. I read somewhere that monolith will not just ship you a new plate amp to install, you have to ship the entire unit back should you ever have issues with it. Being that there's such a wide variance in amp quality / luck of the draw with components going bad, I'd personally go SVS.

[@commanderrussels2612]

@@07wrxtr1 Yeah SVS and PSA are the best for customer service, Monolith is a Chi-fi company and seems to stand behind the stuff but can be a more of a "process" to get service through, and JTR you can't get ahold of the one guy that works there/worst service. I think there is something to be said about paying a little extra for service in the case of SVS, especially when you have a small room and aren't trying to edge out every last bit of output. At a certain point the extra headroom becomes a waste unless you just want to go deaf.

[@kirkcunningham6146]

HSU should also be in your shoot out. Will give an SVS a run for its money.

[@Youthman]

They have to reply to my email first

[@kirkcunningham6146]

@@Youthman i understand....😎

[@kirkcunningham6146]

@@jasonbanas2899 With the HSU, you get the same quality if not better at an extremely competitive price. They are also a dual purpose sub meaning great for music and home theater use. SVS is overrated and overpriced and im beginning to see some pushback because of this in forums now. People are finally taking the blindfolds off and discovering other subwoofers that are just as good if not better for less money. 5 grand for two subwoofers is crazy!! You don't need to spend that for good bass, it's rediculous.

[@dayonerecoverdub3626]

@@kirkcunningham6146 I agree with you that hsu is incredible I have hsu-vtf 15h mk2 and it was a little over 1000 with extended warranty but it's not on the same level as the the pb16ultra but duals would. my friend has the pb16ultra and the the older jtr captovator 1400 and the pb16 is beast

[@roco9504]

dayonerecover dub so he likes the SVS over the older JTR 1400? They are the same price so I wonder how they’d fair.

[@rfcmagic]

Based on your findings, would you say that the monolith subwoofer is a more home theater oriented subwoofer than the pb16?

[@Youthman]

No, both of these are incredible for home theater. I prefer the PB16 but as I mentioned, due to the much higher cost, it’s not for everyone. You could buy a pair of Monolith 15 for the price of a single PB16 and have the same output and lower extent ion below 20Hz. You just wouldn’t have the nicer finish, SVS app and DSP built in.

[@robertmedina3195]

@@Youthman I was thinking the same thing. For nearly the same price you could purchase two Monolith 15s and get more output plus great low end.

[@Azeox91]

Great comparison! Have you done any comparison between the pb16 and Goldenear supersub xxl?

[@Youthman]

No I have not heard the Goldenear subs

[@Coffeedad]

With the monolith was that version 1 or 2 a did you hear any port chuffing when the low notes played?

[@el222]

Looks like version 1

[@wayneross9723]

Ever since you review 4:01 ed them monoliths i rushed out and got 2 i love them when i move home i will get more if i need them. They never get even warm at the end of film.

[@Youthman]

Awesome and congrats!

[@wayneross9723]

Hi youthman I couldn't find the original thread from yesterday to reply to you , I tested out my bmw pv1 just to see if it was the subwoofer lead that was at fault and was able to daisy chain my monolith and it worked fine, so switched the monoliths around I can't have all 3 faulty none of them worked, so I thought that can't be right ,so put my glasses on and notice you can't link subs both the lfe phonos are input, how can that be, then I remember watching some engineer talking about best way to connect subs he didn't tell me anything I didn't already know xlr best way to connect, but he also said just for mono price subs an advantage is using a Y slitter gives you more extention, I thought how can you connect both in and out with a Y slitter and dismissed what he was saying it reminded me of my b&w nautilus and its old, moral of the story never assume what connections are on a sub, I think you did mention you could link them in the review, I am getting a upgrade on the processor with 4 sub outs when I move home so not a problem the 3rd 15inch monolith will just have to set there looking good till I move lol

[@majaym]

Youthman, could you please compare the monolith 12 and the 15 ported ones. Have heard some say that although the 15 is louder, it sometimes is not as tight as the 12s. I would really love to listen to the facts from somebody like you who really knows what they're dealing with

[@TheBluuHouse]

Awesome comparison. I noticed the PB16 has more mid Bass with dialog Bass coming through. The Monolith was only LFE. Are the crossovers different? Also how do you only get the LFE to play on these test? Disconnect your other channels or receiver settings? I would so love to kick it with you one day in your theater room, want to hear it first hand as the videos don’t do them any justice. Thanks. Also stay safe as Dorian passes by the East coast. One love!! God bless.

[@Youthman]

Thanks. Crossovers were the same using LFE channels on the subs. I had only the sub out connected to the Marantz AV7705 for these tests.

[@seanvandergriff7161]

I really appreciate the way you give detailed and contextual information regarding the two. I am curious, however, about doing the m15 dual in a comparison since it matches the price of the SVS. Any chance you are able to do that? I'm sure you have a spare $2500 laying around, lol.

[@Youthman]

Unfortunately, all of those subwoofers were sent back to the manufacture, so I no longer have them to compare. Hopefully the videos will provide enough information for you to make the best decision for your needs

[@seanvandergriff7161]

@@Youthman I totally understand! And yes, your informative presentation is very helpful. Thanks for the work you do!

[@DerekBove]

The Monolith M15-S (sealed version) is on sale for 25% off. Any ideas how that would compare to the ported version you evaluated? I have a pair of PB-2000s currently.

[@Youthman]

Hard to tell without hearing it myself. Typically ported equivalents will have more output around their tuning frequency and will provide more tactile bass than their equivalent sealed sub. For movies, I would recommend ported unless you have large 18” sealed subs.

[@DerekBove]

@@Youthman thanks! I think I'll wait for an SVS sale on the 4000s or the ported version of the Monoliths.

[@stevenneese2823]

Def a fair comparative review considering how you highlighted the price difference between the two.

[@Youthman]

Thanks Steven.

[@n4aride480]

Youthman, You need to check the new GODZILLA king of monsters blu ray or 4k disc. I felt it finally was a movie that does Atmos through movie and well. I just enjoyed watching it because of the sound alone

[@Youthman]

Several other have recommended it as well

[@GAPOWERade]

this helped .. Im finishing up my home theater build and was confused about SVS vs monolith...After watching this im not sure [t[hat I want to pay $1700 more for +5 decibels when the monolith has a lower end

[@GregoryPalchikovsky]

it would be interesting to look at the distortions tab of REW - I think that below 40 Hz there are more distortions than the signal, harmonics and the whistle of the bass reflex ports are heard

[@Youthman]

Way above my area of expertise

[@drewjbx228]

I have a paradigm PW-2200... compared to these subs is it time to upgrade?

[@MeTuLHeD]

The Monolith measured smoother into the infrasonic region.

[@ernieloo9068]

Youthman, for the test did you set the Monolith to THX or Extended?

[@Youthman]

I’m not sure which one I used in this video but I did try both of them. I believe our preferred extended in my setup.

[@luckymckay]

Hey Youthman, wondering if the mono 15 has the same type of "deep" bass sound signature that the svs ported subs have? Looking for that deep depth type of sound that my pb1000 has. My hsu vtf3 plays deeper, but just doesnt have as "deep" of a sound if you know what I mean.

[@Youthman]

Deep to me means the ability to play sub 20Hz which the Monolith easily does. It plays down to 10Hz. The PB1000 can't touch that.

[@luckymckay]

@@Youthman thanks for the reply. Disregard my Facebook message!

[@Sowk1000]

Also, you should be installing the ASIO drivers to test the LFE output and not the L&R output as your crossover settings will affect the results. If you didn’t turn off your mains and change the crossover too 250hz, you are measuring more than just the subs in your REW sweeps.

[@Youthman]

As stated in my previous two videos, only a sub out was connected to the AV7705 during these tests so no other speakers were playing.

[@Sowk1000]

Youthman You still need to make sure the crossover on the mains is set to 250hz if you are not going to use the ASIO driver to test the LFE channel directly.

[@CeeBoogie]

I like this comparison. To be more fair though the monolith subwoofer only has compression from 10-about 20Hz which is pretty much inaudible..... after that the 3db you can see is still consistent. Just wanted to point that out to you @Youthman

[@Youthman]

Thanks

[@CeeBoogie]

Not a problem. I like your videos a lot man, very informative and your HT setup is DOPE!!!!!! You think you might get a center height speaker for auro 3d setup?

[@cha7260]

Would the comparison in output at specific frequencies from the compression tests inaccurate because each sub hit compression at different volumes? If comparing SPL vs frequencies, wouldn't it need to be level matched?

[@Youthman]

Honestly I’m not sure. I’m definitely not an expert at REW but feel the test is fair. The purpose of Compression testing is to find the max output of the subwoofer. This means the end volume will be different for each sub. I went as high as I could go volume wise for each subwoofer until they reached their max output

[@stevenswall]

A bit after 12 minutes, was that a port chuffing noise? Do all ported subwoofers suffer from this?

[@Youthman]

Probably not all subs but if you drive a ported sub hard enough, you are likely to hear some chuffing

[@chrisvanover7817]

Aside from just sheer output, how does the monolith compare in sound quality to the svs subs (ie clean bass, quickness, accuracy, etc.)

[@Youthman]

Those are all subjective but as mentioned in the video, the PB16 sounded cleaner to my ears. Not sure how you quantify quickness or accuracy.

[@Kickassproducent]

Just like I was expecting! Great showdown! I hope that one day you could test PSA S7201.... 110dB at 18Hz! Unleash the beast🔥🎵

[@Youthman]

That was the only sub Tom didn’t want to send due to shipping cost and very small customer base.

[@paico26]

You should do this demo with Godzilla King of The Monsters. That movie has a dolby atmos reference track. It sounds amazing!!

[@morbus74]

AND some truly deep low bass..

[@Youthman]

These are getting boxed up and ready to ship back

[@paico26]

@@Youthman Still my friend you should check this movie out. Il Love to see your reaccion to the sound track of Godzilla King of the monsters! I think is the best sounding movie of the year!!

[@I_AM_HUGO]

Christian P.R. I agree, but Aquaman is right there with it. What do you think?

[@veeclash4157]

I mean I think we knew ahead of time who was going to win. But think about it 5 db more output for double the price. Hmmm. I feel like they are both winners. Monolith for value and the SVS for higher end output performance.

[@alex-ty6bi]

thank you for you vids man, I love them. But can you pleeeze compare or do a Mololith 15 vs SVS PB4000. i have seen your vid on the monolith 15 vs PB 16 ultra and the monolith vs the PB 3000 but Im really on the fence on these and id love get you input and see or hear the comparison.....thanks much

[@Youthman]

Thank you for the suggestion but unfortunately I no longer have Monolith in for review and I do not have any plans to get the PB4000.

[@alex-ty6bi]

thanks for your reply but since you have had both and listened to both can you please comment on which do you think excelled over the other?

[@ericsunbacon745]

You should see if you can get a Tekton Cinema Sub for review. I've been eyeing up that 18" to replace my SVS

[@yournightmare9999]

Depends what svs sub you wanna replace

[@ericsunbacon745]

@@yournightmare9999 the pb12 plus

[@yournightmare9999]

@@ericsunbacon745 change immediately 😉

[@ronyrobert4919]

Can you tell me if the 10 inch Monolith is better than the SVS PB 1000? which do you think is best of both?

[@Youthman]

Sorry Rony, I have not heard either of those.