Elac SUB1010 vs. HTD Level TWO

Elac SUB1010 120W 10” Powered Subwoofer HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$150 $300
Dimensions (H × W × D)
13.25” × 12.19” × 12.19”
337mm × 310mm × 310mm
11.88” × 7.13” × 10.00”
302mm × 181mm × 254mm
Power Type
Powered Passive
Frequency Response
37-200 Hz 60-20,000 Hz
Amazon.com
HTD.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: The Elac SUB1010 is a formidable 120W powered subwoofer that brings authoritative bass to any audio system. It boasts a 10 driver designed to deliver deep, impactful lows perfect for movies and music alike. On the flip side, HTD's Level TWO bookshelf speakers are acoustically nuanced performers, offering a balanced and detailed soundstage with its 1 tweeter and 6.5 mid-woofer. While the Elac excels in sub-bass rumble, the Level TWO speakers shine across a wider frequency spectrum but lack the SUB1010’s seismic punch. Together, they could complement each other, providing a rich, full-bodied listening experience.

Speaker Comparison

When we talk about audio systems, the synergy between components plays a crucial role in the overall listening experience. The ELAC SUB1010 120W 10” Powered Subwoofer and the HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers are both formidable players in the budget-conscious segment of the hi-fi world. While one is a dedicated low-frequency provider, the other is a versatile performer capable of delivering a wide range of sounds. Delving into their performance characteristics and how they complement or contrast each other is an intriguing journey for any audiophile.

Enter the ELAC SUB1010 Subwoofer

The ELAC SUB1010 is an understated powerhouse, designed to elevate the home theater experience by delivering the kind of deep, rumbling bass that is felt as much as it is heard. It’s equipped with a 120W BASH amplifier that drives a 10-inch high-excursion doped paper cone. This combination allows the SUB1010 to produce impressive low-frequency effects with a surprising level of depth and clarity for its price point. Despite its prowess in the lower register, it’s the subwoofer's ability to blend seamlessly with satellite speakers that makes it a true asset in a home audio setup.

Elac SUB1010 120W 10” Powered Subwoofer
Elac SUB1010 arrow (at Amazon.com)

HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers: Jack of All Trades

Conversely, the HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers are a pair of compact audio solutions that aim to deliver a full-range performance. Sporting a 1-inch silk dome tweeter paired with a 6.5-inch polypropylene woofer, they are designed to offer a clear and dynamic soundstage. Their frequency response extends from the lower midrange to the upper registers of the audible spectrum, allowing them to handle vocals, instruments, and even some of the bass duties with finesse. The HTD Level TWO speakers are all about balance, aiming to offer an even-handed reproduction across the board.

Integration and Performance

When pairing the ELAC SUB1010 with the HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers, the resulting system covers a broad frequency spectrum with grace. The SUB1010 fills the room with authoritative bass that the HTD Level TWOs simply cannot reach on their own. The subwoofer takes on the strain of the lowest octaves, allowing the bookshelf speakers to focus on midrange and highs. This division of labor not only enhances the overall clarity but also creates a more compelling listening experience, with each element of the audio content given space to shine.

HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers
HTD Level TWO arrow (at HTD.com)

However, integration is key. ELAC's subwoofer includes a built-in crossover and auto power off feature, ensuring it works in harmony with the rest of your audio system. The crossover frequency adjustment can be finely tuned to match the HTD speakers' lower frequency limit, which is crucial for avoiding bass frequency overlap that can lead to muddiness in the sound.

The ELAC's robust build quality also ensures that it can produce high SPLs without distortion, something not all subwoofers in its class can claim. Meanwhile, the HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers, with their well-crafted enclosures and quality components, ensure that the mids and highs are delivered with clarity and precision, without being overshadowed by the power of the subwoofer.

In conclusion, the combination of the ELAC SUB1010 and the HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers can create an audio system that is greater than the sum of its parts. For the audiophile looking to build a high-performance system on a budget, this pairing is a testament to the fact that with thoughtful selection and proper integration, one can achieve a level of audio fidelity that rivals setups which cost considerably more. The ELAC brings the thunder, while the HTD Level TWOs paint the rest of the sonic picture with broad, confident strokes, delivering a comprehensive and immersive listening experience.


Check Current Prices:

Elac SUB1010 120W 10” Powered Subwoofer
Elac SUB1010 120W 10” Powered Subwoofer
HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers
HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers
Amazon.com
HTD.com

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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.