Monolith M-215 vs SVS PB16 Subwoofer Showdown

Monolith M-215 vs SVS PB16 Subwoofer Showdown. Today we put the Monolith M-215 head to head against the SVS PB16 Ultra subwoofer using REW (Room EQ Wizard.
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[@fooschnickens]

That's about how I thought it would turn out. This is one place the automotive and audio worlds overlap in that there really is no replacement for displacement. The M215 has both more cone area and cabinet volume than the PB16, so it's no surprise that it has a ludicrous amount of LF extension that the PB16 does not. It also highlights how well designed the PB16 is as it's able to keep up with the M215 in its upper range. Dollar for dollar, both products have very compelling pros and cons. So it really comes down to how much space you have in your theater setup and how much you care about sub-bass response. Both seem to be fantastic products that will fill different roles for different people, and in the end, we win as consumers.

[@Youthman]

Very well said. Completely agree with you.

[@darrenburtoft1792]

As much as I’m an SVS fanboy, I’d suggest with twice the cone & cabinet size a noticeable victory to Monoprice unfortunately 🤭😔

[@stevenneese2823]

Monolith could have def gained more output at higher frequencies by inceasing the port tuning frequency. There would have been a significant increase in output compared to the svs. It's like they are both V8 engines, but the monolith is a big block with a mild cam for low end power and a flat torque curve, while the svs is a small block with a more radical cam for higher peak power.

[@Youthman]

Good analogy Steven

[@classicgalactica5879]

Great comparison, thank you. Fun fact: In my admittedly small viewing/listening area my humble SVS SB 2000's stay flat to 10hz. I think that most sealed enclosures tend to go lower than most ported enclosures. I also watched Godzilla KOTM recently, as well as a movie called A Quiet Place, and the room was breathing at times. I didn't measure the frequencies, but when A Quiet Place finally stopped being Quiet, there were scenes where you couldn't hear bass at all, only feel the room moving. To each their own, but it's sealed subs for me!

[@Youthman]

That’s awesome. I reviewed dual SB16 in my room but they didn’t have the impact I was looking for. Dual PB16 were what I was looking for. A Quiet Place is a great demo disk.

[@mohammedisaa9952]

I wonder how many watts worth of electricity it cost you to drive basically a "suction pump"..... (For others) The more louder you want your sound (especially at 10hz) the more the cone has to move, in this case with the box being sealed, when the driver cone goes out, it creates a huge vacume in the sealed box, and conversely when the driver cone has to go back into the box, it has to hugely compress the air...... These pulls and pushes into the available air not only makes it harder for the cone to travel, which greatly reduces responsiveness, but to accomplish this feat, it requires huge amounts of strength, thats both electricity and added heat to the coil, which in a "sealed box" can not so eaisily disapate...... Basically this gentleman above me has baught himself (with respect) a huge submarine..... because thats how they work when they have to dive and surface, they either compress or uncompress huge volumes of air to acheave buoyancy..... 😂😂😂😂 would i buy a SB version, Never..... But some people like them for whatever reason..... they are cheeper, and save space, best option is to buy a SB and buy a kit box, build your own, and sell your SB box and save half the price of a PB version...... yet have the un restrained sound and added cooling 🤔...... makes ya think ey?....

[@Youthman]

I prefer ported when drivers are 15” or smaller due to the extra output. But once you get to 18” and above, I feel sealed is a phenomenal option. You do not have to worry about port chuffing (which almost every ported sub has to some extent), cabinets can be much smaller and you typically get lower extension. Ported subs also have to be careful playing below their tuning frequency as they will unload and begin to flop around like a fish out of water.

[@DuzBee]

I always love seeing the Monoliths sub 20hz response haha! Always beef way down town to 10hz, even the single Mono 15” does this.

[@Youthman]

Yeah it’s pretty crazy

[@darealestwon]

I love the enthusiasm on your videos. It always puts me in a good mood when you drop a new one

[@Youthman]

Thanks Khalif!

[@technon8]

Sub Sonic frequency: the sounds you want to feel.

[@Youthman]

My entire room felt it

[@technon8]

@@Youthman oh yeah no doubt! Love to feel that sub 20hz!

[@TaylorMadeTheater]

Its Infrasonic frequencies.

[@soulintake]

Why judge? I like to feel all the frequencies! Mid bass slam in the chest and throat all day too

[@haris525]

Not even a competition the m215 is amazing! And I am buying one as soon as they are back in stock.

[@CoomerGremlinDGGfan]

Did you get one?

[@Pentenfi]

Pretty sure the steep roll off of the SVS sub below 20Hz is a Highpass filter to save the driver from overexcursion. Below the tuning frequency, drivers in ported cabinets run into overexcursion very easily.

[@Youthman]

Correct, it’s intentional.

[@rexhomes1690]

Hey Youthman. I enjoy your reviews and thought you mentioned something about input level problems with the M-215? I just received one today and cannot get the input signal high enough. I contacted Monolith and am waiting. Did you have this problem and if so, how did you solve it? I am thinking of buying a gain box. Just seems like I shouldn't have to do that to get the sub to perform as it should.

[@monijam1]

Thanks for the video Youthman. FYI, right now Monoprice has the M-215 on sale (20% off) for $1,999.99 vs. $2499.99 for the PB-16 Ultra!

[@edwardsanchez3708]

Monoprice needs to make a version of this with 12, 10, and 8 inch subs

[@TahoeNevada]

Probably testing the market for their dual 15”, first.

[@thxsubwoofers]

I agree with you 100%! Sadly not much dual driver home theater subs in the market that has dual 12s, dual 10s or 8s that is still in the market. If they are still in the market, it's either discontinued or the cost of an arm and leg cough.... JL Fathom lol. Most companies I notice stick to dual 15s and 18s like PSA and JTR. Dual 15s or 18s is nice, but the enclosure is way too big. So far the only company I have seen that has dual 12s is rythmik audio L22. It's an affordable price in a sealed enclosure.

[@philiplubduck6107]

not to much reason to do a dual 10 or 12 inch sub, at that point just do a single 15 inch. its a dual cabinet not a dual sub. meaning you still want to buy 2 of any sub to even out room response 1 sub in front 1 in back. the reason the do dual 15 and 18 is dual 18s is bigger than 1 24 inch sub and there is only 1 company I know of that even makes a 24 inch sub. so dual 18s is easier. same with dual 15s that probably like a 21 inch subwoofer. going with a dual 10 inch would be like a single 13 inch but still not dig as low as a single 12.

[@edwardsanchez3708]

@@philiplubduck6107 I have 4 15 inch definitive tech Super Cube references and they produce bass so low you cant hear and they shake the neighbors house yes they have complained. But for music in my opinion they are too slow. I hook up my little 12 cheap bic subwoofer and it keeps up amazingly with music and sounds better than the 15s. I think dual 10s or 12s would be perfect for music. I'm thinking of making a set up just for 2 channel music

[@edwardsanchez3708]

www.blu-ray.com/community/gallery.php?member=Alpha+Sixx there is my setup but I've upgraded and made some changes. I was running 9.4 back in 2011

[@mattmiller2761]

Thanks Youthman. I'm considering a Monolith M-215 to replace my old Sunfire sub. I'm also trying to find more info on the Rythmik FV25HP. It's similar to the M-215, but it's a servo sub. Can't find many reviews on it.

[@lordnasty32]

That's what I'm trying to find out

[@stevenfox5241]

What is the tuning frequency of the Monolith Dual 15" ported subwoofer ? I am guessing about either 14 Hz or 15 hz ? Definitely deeper than 16Hz I think. What is the tuning Freqeuncy for the SVS Pb16 with 2 ports open ? All 3 ports open ? Thank you so much !! Steven

[@joshcombs943]

Love your reviews Youthman! I just received my😂 M-215 this afternoon and can only guess it is defective. Really hoping you have some insight to share. At 6db I’m getting almost no excursion, even on monster bass techno tracks. At full gain it’s okay- probably 20% better that the HSU MK-II it replaced but the mains have to be crazy loud at that level and the HSU is only at half volume. I’ve seriously got a display shelf 2’ away from the sub and none of my wife’s nicknacks have moved an inch. It’s a large room with vaulted ceilings but I was expecting maybe triple the output. Do I send it back and get another? Is there a way to test it to make sure it’s an issue with the sub and not with my expectations?

[@Youthman]

Hi Josh. Sorry to hear you’re having issues with the sub. The first thing I do when troubleshooting a sub is to isolate the sub itself. Best way is to connect a 3.5mm to RCA cable from your phone to the RCA inputs on the sub and play some bass heavy music. If you aren’t getting ridiculous spam, reach out to their technical support as the sub may have been damaged in shipping.

[@charlesm.9858]

Monolith M-215 THX CERTIFIED!!!! DONE!!! I WILL MAKE IT FIT!!! Lol SORRY LOVEY!! Lolol Youth-Bro!! Blow the Doors off!!

[@joentell]

Terrific video. Lighting is on point! I'm curious how much of that compression on the PB16 Ultra is due to the electronic limiting from SVS. I'm wondering if the compression test above 20hz would look different for the SVS. I wouldn't expect you to do that test consider how crazy heavy those are!

[@Youthman]

Thanks Joe. I considered testing 20Hz and above but I feel that isn’t very helpful considering when watching a movie your receiver isn’t limiting the frequencies to only 20Hz and above. If I would have done the same for the Monolith, it would have likely increased as well

[@jimbert50]

Love the intro! Have a question though. Why does the Monolith have way more dip in the 40-50 Hz range than the SVS? Does it have something to do with having 2 subs? I wouldn't think so, since the wavelength in that range is around 25 feet, so there shouldn't be be any significant phase difference between the 2 subs. So maybe due to the difference in the location of the subs in the Monolith vs. the SVS and the effects of that in your room? Sort of like a room placement issue.

[@Youthman]

Honestly I’m not sure. Both subs were placed in the same location with their front baffles at the edge of my riser.

[@Ctripp2448]

jimbert50 yes it is height mode from room. Since the second driver is higher up from floor

[@motorheadforlife9431]

I knew all along that the M-215 would come out as the victor here. I can't wait for your review on testing two M-215s at the same time (if you're planning on doing one). 🖒😁

[@Youthman]

No I do not have any plans on receiving a second M-215

[@Youthman]

A second would provide 6dB more in gain and would likely fix the dip in the 40Hz range

[@motorheadforlife9431]

@@Youthman Ah. I see. Just as expected.🖒

[@carlosoliveira-rc2xt]

You need to compare the Monolith 215 with the JTR Captivator RS 2 and see how close the Monolith can get for $1000 less.

[@Youthman]

I do not have the M-215 any longer to do a direct comparison

[@davidrivera4289]

Let's all remember that it's a comparison to determine dollar value based on Performance results. Based solely on performance, the M 215 indeed is a better value. The better aesthetics and settings flexibility of the Ultra PB16 is also a strong factor to consider. There are subs that will out performs these two, but they cost 2 to 4 times more (see JL Gotham and Paradigm Signature, as examples). Still others are twice the size of the M-215.

[@Youthman]

David, I'm not sure the JL Gotham would outperform this. I heard one many years ago and was not impressed.

[@wilfredkioko2669]

I’ve had the opportunity to test the SVS PB 16 and SB 16. I was disappointed as bass output on the lower end wasn’t solid.

[@Youthman]

The monolith and Power Sound Audio S3611 have ridiculous low end extension

[@toddroy9558]

Would the Sub with two speakers be considered One Subwoofer or Two when it’s apart of your surround system?

[@Youthman]

A subwoofer with two woofers is considered a single subwoofer

[@MaGNaCET33]

Haha I wish I had room for any of them. But in my small 3 x 4 meter room 1 sb 1000 at 50% power is shaking the walls. I plan to get 2 sb 3000 and that will be my end game setup. I really want to get an equal bass response throughout the entire room and an even better bass for music.

[@Youthman]

Dual SB3000 in a small room will work great

[@tracyherbert2978]

Hey Youthman I have 2 question to ask you if you had a chance to purchase 2 new Subs with you go with a single Monoprice M -215 or 2 single Monoprice Monolith 15 ? And another question by you had both of these Subs in your Theater room if you want to purchase new Subs with it be Power Sound audio or Monoprice Monolith ?

[@MrHumes-nv1zr]

If you're using movies for demo try the movie, Battleship skip to the part where the first battle starts and the shield dome goes up.

[@bustatron]

And that's when the neighbors started gathering torches and pitchforks. 😂

[@raulgutierrez1501]

Two Mono's behind your screen would destroy your block! I would love it!

[@Youthman]

Hahaha

[@Youthman]

I’m actually wanting to upgrade to (4) sealed 18’s behind my screen

[@raulgutierrez1501]

@@Youthman Nice which ones?

[@commanderrussels2612]

@@Youthman PSA?

[@geojustgeo3219]

I think Youthman is considering 4 PSA s3611's

[@BUZDRIFT]

So a pretty standard reaction, where you have double the cone area, Yeah those lows for sure! What about the PB16 Ultra?

[@Youthman]

What about the PB16 are you asking?

[@BUZDRIFT]

@@Youthman Just wanting to know if the PB16 Ultra is the PB16 you're referring to?

[@Sloimer]

SovL:Remedy ???

[@ratpinscher]

For a dedicated theater room I’d choose the 215, for my living room, the PB16 can blend much better. I also recently had the opportunity to use the SVS warranty and it was a breeze.

[@Youthman]

I agree. I don’t see the M-215 going into too many living room setups.

[@ratpinscher]

If I was going crazy big I may opt also for the S7201 over the 215 for pure shock and awe.

[@raulgutierrez1501]

Measurements or no Measurements the Ear does not lie. Keep up the great work!

[@Youthman]

Thanks. I like to verify measurements with my ears

[@rupedogg24]

Bravo sir. Years from now when I'm ready I know what I'm going to pick up.

[@Youthman]

By then, they will likely have something bigger and better to offer

[@camaromodz]

How does the M-215 do with music response? I know SVS states that the PB-16 was designed to be both good and responsive for both home theater and music.

[@darricklowe2206]

Hi Youthman, Do you have any comments on the M215 vs any of the JTRs? which JTR is most comparable to the M215, performance wise. Price point I know the monolith is going to be a lot easier on the pockets.

[@Youthman]

Monolith doesn't have a sub that competes with JTR, in either output or low end extension. My JTR Captivator RS2's were measured flat at 115dB @ 8Hz and they never hit compression.

[@Lafiro]

Youthman, if you still have the Monolith subs around, could you do another rew measurement. I’ve seen in another video that after the subs are broken in, they start losing spl under 30hz. Maybe you could try and validate this oddity..?

[@MrInfoPhilly]

Lol makes no sense, Usually after subs break in, they play deeper, louder and better

[@jjchmiel78]

Are you going to get the PSA TV42? I would love to see numbers on that.

[@Youthman]

No plans as of yet

[@nattejmk]

My tought was that, But coudent wait so I take the smaller ones, dual psa tv36ipal

[@commanderrussels2612]

Youthman per 20:11 I think in your room you'd be better with two (or four) smaller subs. Do you have any room behind your rear row to put some subs, something in the back would help out a lot in there! If your rear row is right up against the back wall I wonder if something shallow depth would work well. Thanks for reviewing these.

[@Youthman]

No room behind my rear seats. Room is only 19’ deep. I can get rid of the nasty null using dual subs behind my screen as seen in this video - kzbin.info/www/bejne/m4nJeWyNfZ2MrZo

[@RBS22]

I had no doubt the monolith would win. I liked the tests.🔊👍

[@Youthman]

Thanks!0

[@mohammedisaa9952]

Simple mathematics 15 × 2 vs 16 × 1....... lol......

[@rodirish7787]

great review i am always looking for the best way to spend my stereo dollar as i have a champagne taste and a beer budget I lusted after the jl fathom f113 for years spent several trips to the city to listen to it in sound rooms. I am so lucky i spent years reading reviews trying to decide, do i look for another mirage bps-400 on the used market or do i want to upgrade and try something new. Eventually i found Seaton Sound. I am so glad i couldn't afford the slave subwoofer at the time, I had planned to purchase it later. my living room is 14" by 25" and with just the one seaton submersive and the one mirage bps-400 it sounds like the mountain is actually caving in on me in the movie 1917 the scene wore me out the floor heaves and rolls lol and i live in a log house

[@Youthman]

Seaton makes nice subs

[@sammy10001]

Youthman. Kind of a late comment but, can you do this with testing out which phase is best. So you put the umik in your listening position. Start phase at 0, run 1 sweep. turn the phase to 10 degrees, run another, rinse and repeat to 180 degree Then see which phase percentage gave best results?

[@Youthman]

I have done that with multiple subs before but not during that review

[@sammy10001]

@@Youthman sorry I meant, can I do that. Is that the best technique to do find out the best phase percent. Right now I've just been winging it

[@Youthman]

Yes you can absolutely do that. If you only have one subwoofer it shouldn’t change. If it’s interacting with another subwoofer that’s typically when you might need to change the phase to prevent cancellations

[@donjaun540]

Good comparison but I got to ask. How much content is in the sub 20hz area? Most people can't hear below 30ish. Plus I wonder how many people want a super big cabinet like the m2. I guess to each there own.

[@Youthman]

There is quite a bit of content below 20Hz. Massive upgrade going from dual PB16’s to dual JTR Captivator RS2’s. I measured 115dB @ 8Hz. It’s not about what you hear, it’s about feeling it.

[@garrybartle5117]

Can you lay the monoprice on its side and still get the same performance or does it have to stand upright?

[@kmvuniverse]

Lol 😂 that intro though,"which sub will go home crying to their mummy". I still prefer the svs looks and presence though, moreover the svs is just one 15" driver compared to two monolith 15" drivers,so I guess we were expecting this result

[@Youthman]

Haha Brad did a killer job on the voiceover.

[@kmvuniverse]

Youthman lol he sure did.should we expect more of this?

[@Youthman]

Not sure. He came over to help me dial in my new LED light and he brought a few colored lights for the background. And as we began talking, we decided to come up with a creative intro

[@johnsmith-qz4bv]

great video......are you going to be upgrading to a pair of monolith subs in the future....then do another compairison....?

[@Youthman]

No, it's getting boxed back up to make room for more reviews.

[@johnsmith-qz4bv]

@@Youthman thats a bummer...lol....great content

[@dano7168]

Youthman! You have a great channel. I've been watching all of your videos as I've built my modest home theatre and I want to say THANK YOU for all the amazing ideas! One quick question, do you have a video that serves as a "Beginners Guide" to the REW program? I'd love to learn some sound calibration basics to get my 7.2.4 system optimized for my space. Keep it up!!

[@Youthman]

Thank you Dan, unfortunately I do not have a beginners guide to REW video video

[@dano7168]

@@Youthman Well . . . there's still time :) Thank you for the FAST response. Keep up the good work! You have a cornerstone channel for home audio.

[@Youthman]

I appreciate the kind words

[@chunkycheesemonkey99]

Do you remember how the speed of these subs compared? Was one snappier or cleaner, etc than the other?

[@rolandoiceful]

though you would've lost overall output, I would've liked to had seen the svs in extended mode. Do you have a video showing in your room the measurements of the pb16 in sealed, standard & extended?

[@Youthman]

yes I do have those measurements on the channel, I do not recall which video it’s in though. In extended mode, you lose output above 20 Hz so that would not have helped much

[@orlandoechevarria8206]

Great video! Have you had the chance to test any HSU research products?

[@Youthman]

No I haven’t heard from them

[@orlandoechevarria8206]

@@Youthman dang, well idk how far you are from the Orlando area but I can always lend it to you. I have the VTF3 MK5 and it's super solid for the price.

[@Agent-fg9ol]

Very informative video as usual Youthman not to mention I'm loving the intro lol... To be honest I'm not surprised at the results, that said... I'm very surprised the svs was able to go toe to toe with the monolith from 20hz up. One of the things we can take away from this video I think is that different manufacturers have different approaches to electronics and what they want to accomplish. With the monolith we can see they went for all out no compromise when it can to output and low frequency performance. With the svs they also went for much of the same but with more focus on easy if use features. At the end of the day we have two amazing products to suit different consumers which is a win win in my opinion 😊

[@Youthman]

I completely agree. Anytime a consumers has choices, that’s great. Both are certainly excellent choices.

[@daveycrockett5738]

What’s the better sub to go with. I want the best parts and the best sounding\quality bass and the higher at power output. Also I like when they go can really low frequencies and still be quite loud. I know both these subs have there pros and cons and one of them can do some of those things buts not other and vis versa. Which sub should I go with. Please and thank you. And or are there and other subs out there in the same price range of these subs?

[@macho9556]

Nasty intro!! Nasty editing, Nasty voice. Nice Youthman!!

[@Youthman]

Thanks! It was a lot of work but a LOT of fun to make

[@macho9556]

@@Youthman I bet it was 💪💪🔥🔥🔥

[@pyrocrew17]

Sick nasty

[@markprincemolina7548]

Youthman who did that voice over 🔥

[@Youthman]

That was my friend Brad. It’s pretty crazy to hear in person.

[@napnapnop]

Great video grest testing. Would like to see the impulse response and group delay of both subs.

[@Youthman]

Have no idea how to show that.

[@AR-kw1gf]

Hi Michael do you know much about these speakers. Klipsch KL-6504-THX Select2 In-Wall L/C/R Speaker

[@rafaelruiz-tagle358]

God I love these videos you make! It's right up my alley in entertainment. Thanks Youthman! It was really educational.

[@Youthman]

Thank you Rafael! I appreciate the encouraging words

[@aslimali103]

I'm so happy you did this comparison, now I know what I am buying, monolith m215, great explanation 👍 👏 😀

[@johndaddabbo9383]

Youthman, The M-215 does have slightly more output from 20 hz to 80+ hz (remember the M-215 Green line which only had compression at approx 15 hz despite another +3 db output at all other frequencies). So not much more but a bit more output from the M-215 (as would be expected), and more importantly as you state - the ONE PB16 is keeping up with Dual 15s from 18 hz to 80+ hz! That SVS 16 inch Woofer / 8 inch Voicecoil is to Die for! Competition is good! Having options even better!!! I for one cannot believe that another subwoofer actually makes the PB16 Ultra look not so big.

[@Youthman]

Thanks. There are plenty of subs that make the PB16 look small (JTR and PSA make several)

[@KipacWF]

Also, how do u decide whats the 'optimal' sub gain level without frying it or whatever?

[@stevelovesgod]

Decibel meter, Measure to listen and here about the max, calibrate the volume know so that you don't max out your subwoofer. You need to determine the max capabilities that the subwoofer can run without stressing the sub or amp. Head room is when you have more than enough bass that your are not even near the max subwoofer output and it's too loud

[@daveycrockett5738]

Does the dual monolith have a warranty on it. Ok the website on the question and answer someone said it has a 5 year warranty on it but I don’t see it anywhere on the website. Also could I buy that subwoofer at any store and not just over the internet?

[@Youthman]

Monoprice is internet only. You would need to check with them regarding the warranty

[@dennisbohner6876]

When I was young, so many years ago, I found one and only one constant in determining quality of reproductive devices. (This does not apply to my very personal equipment.) The ability to reproduce Square waves. I sold Harmon Kardon products and their mantra was frequency response and linearity of amplitude made a GREAT tool to measure audio quality and a good square wave demonstrated success in this. I've seen nothing that countervails this thought. To reproduce an AUDIO square wave is crazy hard, especially as you approach frequency extremes. The bandwidth for a really accurate amplifier regularly exceeds 200 KHZ. Dropping down to the bass region, the opposite must be present to produce a (relatively) undistorted wave form. That is to say, an accurate representation of what is being introduced by the input requires a flat response well below the signal being reproduced. H/K had said at least ten times the signal frequency was needed to do 20 KHZ square waves. Going the opposite way, my guess, flat to 2 HZ to do a proper 20 HZ square wave is necessary. Please do NOT lecture me on the difficulties. I am cognizant.

[@Youthman]

Not sure why you are expecting a lecture.

[@dennisbohner6876]

@@Youthman A youngster wanted to inform me that Audioholics was a worthwhile site while disparaging you in comparison and that aligning with you was wrong. I don't need too much of that before I get testy. This exposition is just for informational purposes and I didn't want a clamor from the ill-informed. Your honest comments, based on empirical findings, needed to be defended against fanboys and explained to the righteous..... I find your enthusiasm to be something that should be promoted. Not having every measuring device doesn't negate a physical experience.

[@christisdale9977]

Hey Youthman,when are you going to get your hand on a dual REL sub.

[@Youthman]

Not sure.

[@commanderrussels2612]

That's interesting about the null with the Monolith. Both the SVS and Monolith were tested in the exact same position, right?

[@Youthman]

Exact position. I get that null with the single SVS behind my screen. Running dual subs behind my screen fixes that - kzbin.info/www/bejne/m4nJeWyNfZ2MrZo

[@paulc7572]

The monolith spanked that SVS sub buddy

[@justkiddin1980]

I think there is something like a subsonic filter on the SVS, i wonder how those monolith woofers handle those lower frequencies over longer time..

[@Youthman]

I’m not sure myself

[@danzilla31stompinontokyo36]

Great great review Youthman! I'm starting to realize in my journey that I value a lot more flat response to 20 Hz in a sub and then more higher output on up. There's just not enough content that's worth chasing those deep waters. A subwoofer like the PB 16 or my dual PB 4000's in extended mode that give great output to 16hz flat are more then enough. But for anyone that wants a sub that can do it all output overall very high with deep extension into those deep waters that Monolith is an amazing option what a great buy!

[@Youthman]

My friend has (4) 18’s that reach single digits. It’s an incredible experience

[@danzilla31stompinontokyo36]

@@Youthman Man I'm sure it is maybe it's one of those things of if you've never heard it you can't know what you don't know. I've never heard a system yet that could do that so I dont know what I'm missing I just don't know if I wanna do the extra work to get there. In my theater room size I'm getting 2 more PC 4000's to go with the PB 4000's 4 of those run in extended mode should be enough for me I'm thinking. At least I hope so! Lol

[@mohammedisaa9952]

6 × PB4000's....... thats quiet insane.... you could rent them out to demolition companies..... As for 4 × 18 inch twins..... well.... single didgit "infrasound"..... organ damadge.... they can kill @ 7hz, did you know that, as that is a human bodys resonance point.......

[@Youthman]

I’ve played my subs many times down to 5Hz and I’m still doing just fine. You would need extreme amount of pressure at those frequencies to kill you.

[@pierrecastanets1974]

Nice performance in the audible frequencies by the smaller pb16

[@Clint3571]

What if you EQ the Monolith to match the response of the PB16 and then find compression? I assume that the 20Hz and up spl would increase significantly.

[@Youthman]

I’m not sure how to do that without something like a MiniDSP

[@Clint3571]

@@Youthman MiniDSP is exactly what I was thinking. You have all the cool toys so I assumed you had one.

[@garryhammond3117]

Whoa! Totally awesome video! Loved the intro from Brad. Haha! You may not "hear" below 20 Hz, but you can certainly "feel" it. Thanks for the great review. Gotta go buy some lottery tickets... :)

[@Youthman]

Brad did an awesome job on the voiceover. I spent several hours making just the intro. Lol

[@jeramisterna8923]

I haven't checked, does the Monolith have the parametric EQ like the SVS? I was able to get my SVS 16 at a .3dB variance from 13Hz to 45Hz in my room.

[@Youthman]

No EQ with the Monolith. No app. But a MiniDSP would be way more beneficial than the SVS DSP

[@jeramisterna8923]

@@Youthman Youthman I figured as much. I was making sure to level set as far as room optimization. The SVS allows for 3 parametric adjustments, but I definitely see the usefulness of a more dedicated adjustment tool. I haven't gotten the miniDSP yet, but am definitely curious what the performance would be with additional adjustment points. Hopefully I can level the output out past 45Hz.

[@letterphase]

Which one punches harder when playing music?

[@carlosoliveira-rc2xt]

When you put two sub's in close proximity, you will get more than 3dB increase in output inside your room. Your suggestion that you would need 3 or 4 SVS to equal the output of the Monolith may not be correct.

[@Youthman]

I checked with a friend who is much smarter than I in regards to that and that was his estimation

[@brucecarter6205]

As was mentioned already...plug 1 port on the PB16 and this test would look very different. Might be a good idea to mention this caveat up front.

[@Youthman]

The goal of this was to try and keep as many variables the same (levels, position of sub, position of mic, and both subs with ports opened). You are correct. By sealing one port on the PB16, this test would have looked very different. The output increased output on the PB16 below 20Hz would have caused a decrease in output below 20Hz which would have made the Monolith have a higher output across the entire frequency response.

[@brucecarter6205]

Just mention it is all. The ability to alter your frequency curve is a major strength of the PB16 and you failed to even mention it. Obviously the Monolith with double the drivers and cabinet volume has more overall output. We don’t need this test to show us that. The overall frequency response is far more useful info.

[@38special4ever]

The difference at the null is strange! If placed in the same location they should be similar, or even less (two point sources) on the Monolith (depends on between which walls/ceiling the modes occur). I would also would like to know the difference in sound quality when playing music ... VERY few subs are acceptable for quality music playback.

[@Youthman]

My channel is primarily Home Theater so unfortunately I don’t do much 2ch listening. I don’t see someone needing this for 2ch. Subs were in the same exact location. Front baffles were placed at the front edge of my riser and against the wall.

[@Blanchy101]

I currently already have pb3000 should i purchase another and run dual or sell mine and pick up an m215, dual vs single sub

[@Youthman]

Depends on your need. The Monolith M-215 has ridiculous output and extension

[@dwalker112]

Svs has been dethroned? All hail Monolith 💆🏾‍♂️

[@Youthman]

LOL

[@commanderrussels2612]

Not really that cut and dry imo. In the most usable range the SVS kept up and the cabinet is much smaller. To me in a dedicated room with subs hidden behind a screen and/or behind seats, the Monolith wins. If you have a living room theater, the SVS wins. To me the Monolith should roll off sooner and increase the output more where it matters. Now which would I rather have? The Monolith!

[@dwalker112]

Commander Russels I know....it was a joke.

[@commanderrussels2612]

@@dwalker112 sorry I have autism

[@burningsti]

Hahaha dethroned? They have always been the leader in overpriced sub for $2500

[@mdjak3686]

If it wasn’t for Michael, there’d be a dearth of info on so many levels. He’s single-handedly placed JTR in front of thousands.

[@Youthman]

Thank you for the kind words

[@jerrytown3792]

I wonder, have you ever reviewed some of the tekton speakers or their 4 x 10" sub ?

[@Youthman]

I haven’t

[@jerrytown3792]

@@Youthman a friend of mine bought they moab model and he can't stop talking about them, he prefers them to his magnapan speakers. Haven't seen anything concrete about their subs thought.

[@dtudor4152]

Ok so that’s one test... what about listening to music? How about attack/ speed and sound quality? Low bass extension is great but not as a trade off for good sound quality. Please give us some more information. Thanks

[@Youthman]

The JD D Tudor. I don’t see most people using this sub for 2ch. How to you quantify attack and speed? Those would be highly subjective opinions at best. My channel focuses on real world home theater application so I can’t offer much in the area of 2ch.

[@Youthman]

I mentioned quality in the video. The Monolith sounded cleaner during the beginning of Godzilla than the Pb16 did.

[@KipacWF]

So if your reciever goes to 0, and the sub still hasn't reached compression, does that mean i can increase the gain on my sub?

[@MrInfoPhilly]

Yes, That's what we call headroom, Fore thx level at 0.0db on the receiver, My lfe channel is -15.0 db, And I can literally turn the LFE channel up to 0.0db, But my windows and and stuff in the house is shaking and falling apart. So I stay up to -7db, but that's too much bass. It's called headroom I'm hitting well beyond 135 db of clean bass Monolith 16's 😮

[@gregpeterson7849]

How much MUSIC is there below 20 Hz? The lowest string on a standard four string bass is (E) 41.2 Hz, on a six string bass its (B) 30.8 Hz, and the bottom key on a piano is (A) 27.5 Hz. The majority of the "boom" from a big concert bass drum is about 50 Hz, and the bass drum on a jazz style trap set is actually about 100 to 150 Hz! It seems to me that the SVS folks looked at actual music and designed their product to deliver it.

[@Youthman]

Most people are buying this sub for movies, not for music. Definitely complete overkill for that.

[@EJHilt]

Keep up the good work youth man. Allways a joy watching your videos.

[@Youthman]

Thank you EJ

[@timfloyd9397]

How much spl do you think is added when adding subs? I think in your impression is only 3db per sub. That’s actually incorrect. I’ve seen as much as 7-9db depending on room and frequency. 8 pb16 would have massive gain in a room.

[@Youthman]

Typically you gain 3dB when you double the drivers and 3dB when you double the amplification. So going from a single sub to dual subs should yield a 6dB gain.

[@Youthman]

I actually consulted with two people that are much more knowledgeable than I am with those stats before I added that info regarding 8 PB16’s equaling 1 M-213 at 10Hz to make sure I was correct.

[@timfloyd9397]

Youthman I think you’d enjoy reading on all these types of room interactions. One sub in the middle of a room gets the baseline number. Corner loading could emphasize only 1-2db more at say 50hz but can add 5db at 25hz. All depending on the distance to microphone recording data. When two subs mutually couple you’ll get at least 6db more output. When I mean couple they need to be with 1/4 wavelength of that frequency. So say 100hz they have to be rather close together. Say 3-5’. Now 20hz that distance can be 30’ or more apart. Now if you had 8 subs in your room they would all couple with massive output from 10-30hz. Now above that it gets tricky. You have to double everything to add spl in mid bass. So 2 subs hit 120db at 70hz then you’ll need 4 to hit hit 123-124db at 70. Then 8 to hit 127-128 at 70. Now if you stack subs totally different things happen. At the moment I’m using two Rythmik fv18 rev2 with paper drivers. When I run rew I hit 115db@10hz and max spl is 127-129db from 50-100hz. All before compression. I definitely don’t need that high of output but it’s nice knowing it’s there. Id definitely look into phase and delay. Avr or even correct distance could be perfect after eq. It’s actually not though. I have two subs in room, one in back, one in front. One is set to 19’ and is 12’ away. Other is 11’ away but I set to 3’. Room interactions at full effect. Have a blessed night and keep up the videos.

[@Markkrochuk1979]

Youthman, try to get your hands on a Bill Fitzmaurice horn subwoofer.

[@Majoo36]

Hey Youthman When you testing subs What is the volume you set on subs amps

[@Youthman]

I level match the gains on the subs. I believe the Monolith was around 1 o’clock on the gain and the PB16 was likely around -10dB (it’s Digital)

[@Majoo36]

Youthman Thanks Youthman

[@DavidAg02]

Great video. Very scientific! Would love to see you do some measurements and comparisons on subwoofers from HSU Research.

[@Youthman]

I have reached out to them in the past with no response. 👍

[@DavidAg02]

@@Youthman I only ever see them active on AVS forums, nowhere else. I don't think they care to much about social media exposure, which is a mistake in my opinion. It's clearly done nothing but good things for SVS, and now, Monoprice.

[@aquarius7979]

Thx Youthman for the nice comparison! I also might play around with REW 👍

[@Youthman]

It’s a lot of fun and can show you what is happening in your room

[@Dr_Xyzt]

I can't help but laugh when you do a sweep. I can hear all the stuff in your house shake. Greatness!

[@Youthman]

Yeah it’s pretty bad lol

[@stevenbrown836]

Outstanding work•••••to get to the BARE TRUTH•••KUDOS TO YOU!

[@JohnRobbfl]

Wow - that Monolith is crazy!

[@Youthman]

Very impressive for sure

[@HeathsHobbyLobby]

Would have liked to know how the THX-1200-SW SUBWOOFER Compared to these

[@Youthman]

I wasn’t impressed with it

[@gsmd770]

Great review! I finally got a chance to watch this. I've been busy with the VA. Man they d--k us vets around! Again great review! That Monolith is a beast! I'm still contented with my 2 PB 13 Ultra's. They get the job done. Keep up the great work Youthman!

[@Youthman]

Thanks. I have a friend that is a VA. He has similar struggles with them. I too enjoy my PB16’s. I probably will not upgrade until I’m ready to go with (4) 18’s

[@justonbrazda3846]

What has monolith figured out that svs and jtr haven’t? Why do other ported subs drop off after their tuning frequency, but the monoliths don’t?

[@Youthman]

I thought JTR dig deep too. Power Sound Audio S3611 was very similar in response

[@ChannelBri]

Cabinet size, hard to sell 215 size, ugly

[@justonbrazda3846]

Youthman jtr ulf2400 digs deep. But it’s tuned to 10hz. After 10hz, it drops off. What’s the tuning frequency of the 215?

[@RCElectricFlyer]

You must consider distortion. The output of the Monolith could have large amounts of 3rd harmonic at those low frequencies when at high amplitudes.

[@Youthman]

Absolutely. I need to spend some time with someone who knows how to look at distortion. Can I see that info with the frequency sweeps I ran?

[@Ctripp2448]

Youthman yes sir you can. Rew forum goes into how to display and read it

[@Youthman]

Bon Scott thanks I’ll check it out

[@Tearial311]

I don’t see any smoothing... are you using any that I’m not seeing on REW???

[@Youthman]

Not that I am aware of. I’m not sure I know how to apply smoothing.

[@Tearial311]

After you make a measurement, go to the top... Graph... I usually click 1/12 smoothing. This way I can still see the bad stuff in the room and not so much chaos

[@ediavd700]

Can you review the Monolith 15" (single 15") as well?

[@Youthman]

I have three or four videos on the channel of that subwoofer

[@HamptonConway]

I know you are a proponent of dual/multiple subs. The Monolith is a great sub but it's two subs in one. I wonder if I would get better bass response from this Monolith or two separate subs....

[@Youthman]

Typically you only get better bass response across multiple seats if you separate the subwoofers. Stacking them just gives more output

[@budgetaudiophile6048]

That monolith is something ELSE! Kinda takes away from the SVS swingers who think they're the be all end all. I do wonder, however, dollar for dollar, how well the M-215 can keep up with a decent DIY sub. You think Monoprice is willing to take The Budget Audiophile up on a challenge?

[@johnphillips1328]

Look up the Devastator ported horn with a B&C 21DS115-4 woofer. Less than $1,200 and it would take at least 5 PB16s to keep up. Absolutely insane midbass.

[@budgetaudiophile6048]

John Phillips oh were well aware here at Budget Audiophile. My buddy has built a few VBSS setups and I've considered doing a BOSS setup. I've got a 6.4CF sealed box with a 390HF in it that reaches silly low and gets very loud. I've got a gigantic theater (about 10000 cubic feet) and just one of them wakes up my theater. Couple that with its twin 390HF in another cabinet and 3 18s (one front, two rear), and it's insane. Which reminds me, I've changed a lot about my theater I need to do an update video.

[@budgetaudiophile6048]

John Phillips also, power to Porsche!!!!! Love mine.

[@Youthman]

I don't think Monolith is trying to compete with DIY. It's not their target audience.

[@budgetaudiophile6048]

​@@Youthman Not at all, good sir! I will say that the M-215 is one of those subs that makes you question sticking with DIY! I'm super impressed with the reviews and demos so far. I'd love to trial one in my theater to see what it does. It's such a large (oversized) and odd shaped room that it's very difficult to pressurize. I'd sure love to let the Monolith try, though! HAHAHA!

[@Comoestas586]

Subsonic filter on the SVS? It dips pretty quick!

[@Youthman]

Yes they add something like that intentionally to take advantage of room gain. At least that’s what it says on their website

[@emmnuelj6136]

loving your intros here. Awesome work as well as great video.

[@Youthman]

Thank you kindly

[@LoganDec01]

Great review as always. Bottom line.. if you go with the monolith, don’t bother going dual. It would just way too much for a typical family theatre room.

[@Youthman]

Haha for sure. One reason you might want to have dual subs is to provide smoother base response throughout multiple seating positions

[@mohammedisaa9952]

Lol..... the "room" would become a speaker box, and the door would be the bass-reflex port, i bet it would sound amazing in the kitchen upstairs, or a bedroom..... 4 of those "monsters" if they made a twin 18" version 😂😂😂😂

[@ninomazzini1]

Good test!!! Thanks Youthman, please some day test the HSU Research VTF15 vs your SVS16.

[@Youthman]

Thanks