Bic Acoustech PL-200 II vs. Klipsch R-120SW

Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer
MSRP
$420 $600
Dimensions (H × W × D)
17.25” × 14.88” × 19.50”
438mm × 378mm × 495mm
16.50” × 14.00” × 19.20”
419mm × 356mm × 488mm
Power Type
Powered Powered
Frequency Response
21-200 Hz 29-120 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: Navigating the deep waters of bass, the Bic Acoustech PL-200 II and Klipsch R-120SW subwoofers each offer a compelling case for the low-end throne. The PL-200 II, with its muscular 12-inch driver, aims for precision and power, while the R-120SW counters with Klipsch's signature punch and clarity. Both capable of shaking your soul (and your walls), the choice boils down to nuanced sonic preferences and brand loyalty. The Bic may woo the value-seeking audiophile, whereas the Klipsch resonates with those craving the boldness associated with its lineage. In the subwoofer showdown, it's less about better and more about character.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to laying the foundation for a genuinely immersive audio experience, subwoofers play an integral role in bringing those low-end frequencies to life. It's where the rumble of an earthquake in a blockbuster movie or the pluck of a bass guitar in a jazz ensemble is felt just as much as it is heard. In the arena of affordable subwoofers that promise to deliver such experiences, two contenders stand out: the BIC Acoustech PL-200 II and the Klipsch R-120SW. These two units, although similar in their quest to offer substantial bass performance without breaking the bank, have their distinct characteristics and sonic signatures that we'll delve into.

Design Aesthetics and Build Quality

Starting with the aesthetics, the BIC Acoustech PL-200 II sports a more traditional look, with a black wood-grain vinyl finish that lends itself to a classic vibe. It's a design that will seamlessly blend into most home theater setups without drawing attention to itself. The Klipsch R-120SW, on the other hand, boasts a more modern appearance with its spun-copper IMG woofer that immediately catches the eye—a signature look for Klipsch that exudes a sense of boldness. In terms of build quality, both subwoofers are solidly constructed, but the Klipsch feels a touch more premium with its textured wood grain vinyl finish.

Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer
Bic Acoustech PL-200 II arrow (at Amazon.com)

Power and Performance

The BIC Acoustech PL-200 II comes equipped with a 12-inch front-firing long-throw woofer and an equally impressive 1000-watt dynamic peak power output, suggesting it can handle the most intense of bass lines with ease. Its BASH-designed amplifier offers a level of control and responsiveness that will satisfy most audiophiles. The Klipsch R-120SW also features a 12-inch front-firing driver, but with a slightly lesser 400 watts of dynamic power, which is by no means a slouch but does indicate that the BIC might have the upper hand when it comes to sheer output.

However, numbers on paper don't always translate directly to real-world performance. The Klipsch R-120SW is known for its efficiency and its ability to produce clean, tight bass thanks to its all-digital amplifier. Its performance is refined and articulate, with less emphasis on sheer power and more on maintaining quality across a range of volumes and material. The BIC, while capable of deeper and more thunderous lows, may not always match the Klipsch in terms of precision.

Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer
Klipsch R-120SW arrow (at Amazon.com)

Frequency Response and Sound Quality

Diving into the realm of frequency response, the BIC Acoustech PL-200 II claims a frequency range of 21 Hz to 200 Hz, allowing it to dig deep into those almost subterranean levels. The Klipsch R-120SW proposes a similar low-end reach starting at 29 Hz, but doesn't quite extend as far down as the BIC. This means, on paper, the BIC should be able to reproduce the lowest of lows with more authority. However, the Klipsch's high-end roll-off is more gradual, which can result in a smoother transition to the main speakers.

When it comes to sound quality, the BIC Acoustech PL-200 II tends to deliver a more pronounced and bold bass response, making it ideal for action-packed movies and electronic music genres that benefit from that extra punch. On the flip side, the Klipsch R-120SW's sound signature is more refined and tight, with a clear focus on delivering articulate and detailed bass that complements all types of audio content, from orchestral pieces to rock music.

In conclusion, both the BIC Acoustech PL-200 II and the Klipsch R-120SW subwoofers present compelling options for the audiophile on a budget. Choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of your audio setup. If raw power and a pride in reaching the lowest of frequencies are your top priorities, the BIC holds the edge. If, however, you seek a subwoofer that prioritizes precision and a polished integration with your main speakers, the Klipsch might be the way to go. Whichever route you choose, both are sure to elevate your home audio experience to thrilling new depths.

```

Check Current Prices:

Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer
Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer
Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer
Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Disclaimer: the speaker data listed on this website are correct to the best of our knowledge, but we do not guarantee the accuracy of the data. Please double-check any measurements with the manufacturer before making a final purchasing decision.