Bic Acoustech PL-200 II vs. Klipsch Reference R-820F

Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers
MSRP
$420 $1000
Dimensions (H × W × D)
17.25” × 14.88” × 19.50”
438mm × 378mm × 495mm
43.00” × 10.94” × 17.50”
1092mm × 278mm × 444mm
Power Type
Powered Passive
Frequency Response
21-200 Hz 35-21,000 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the realm of room-filling audio, the BIC Acoustech PL-200 II subwoofer and the Klipsch Reference R-820F tower speakers represent two distinct paths to sonic nirvana. The PL-200 II focuses on the low-end spectrum, delivering thunderous bass with its robust 12-inch driver, ideal for those seeking a cinematic rumble in their home theater. Conversely, the Klipsch R-820F towers are a powerhouse of full-range clarity, bringing lifelike vocals and crisp highs to the forefront with their hallmark Tractrix horn-loaded tweeters. For a balanced audio experience, a combination of both could create an enveloping soundscape with both depth and detail.

Speaker Comparison

When diving into the deep end of high-fidelity audio, the quest for the perfect bass response can lead audiophiles down a path paved with countless options. Two such choices that often come head-to-head in discussions and living rooms alike are the Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer and the Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers. Each has its unique attributes and sound signatures, tailored for different aspects of the listening experience. The former is a dedicated low-frequency powerhouse, while the latter strives to offer a full-range solution that seeks to cover the entire spectrum of sound.

Depth of Bass

The Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer is a beast in the realm of bass. With a BASH-designed amplifier capable of delivering up to 1000 watts of dynamic peak output and a 12-inch front-firing long-throw powered subwoofer, it's designed to delve into the depths with authority and precision. The PL-200 II promises to add that room-shaking presence, extending down to 22Hz, ensuring that the lowest octaves in music and film soundtracks are not just heard, but felt. This is a subwoofer that takes the term 'ground-shaking' quite literally.

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

Overall Sound Signature

In contrast, the Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers, while capable of delivering significant bass response with their dual 8-inch woofers, are more about balance. The R-820F towers belong to a storied lineage, crafted to reproduce sound with the efficiency and clarity that Klipsch is known for. Their trademark Tractrix horn-loaded tweeter offers a crisp high-end that complements the warm and detailed mids, making these speakers well-suited for a variety of audio material. The R-820F's aim to be the centerpiece, capable of handling the full spectrum of sound without the need for external reinforcement.

Integration with Home Audio Systems

Integration into home audio systems is another point of divergence between these two contenders. The Bic Acoustech PL-200 II, with its singular focus on bass, is the perfect addition for systems that need that extra bottom-end kick. It can seamlessly meld with satellite speakers and can be adjusted to match the system's crossover point, ensuring a smooth transition between the subwoofer and the rest of the speakers. On the other hand, the Klipsch R-820F towers can operate independently as a stereo pair or be integrated into a larger home theater setup. With their robust construction, the R-820Fs are engineered to deliver a full-bodied performance without necessarily relying on a subwoofer, though pairing with one can certainly elevate the experience.

Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers
Klipsch Reference R-820F arrow (at Amazon.com)

The aesthetic appeal of speakers is often as important as their sonic credentials for many audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts. The Bic Acoustech PL-200 II boasts a no-nonsense look that's all about functionality, with a design that emphasizes its role as a dedicated subwoofer. Its black finish and straightforward boxy shape allow it to blend into most environments. The Klipsch R-820F towers, however, exude a more traditional speaker charm with their copper-spun IMG woofers and textured wood grain vinyl wrap, making a statement as much with their appearance as with their sound.

Finally, it's worth considering the value proposition of each product. The Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer offers an impressive performance-to-price ratio, making it a go-to choice for those seeking impactful bass without breaking the bank. The Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers, while generally more expensive than the PL-200 II, provide a comprehensive audio solution that can be seen as an investment in versatility and the renowned Klipsch sound.

In conclusion, the choice between the Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer and the Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers is not so much about which is better, but rather which is more suited to the listener's needs. For those who crave the rumble and thrills of cinematic bass or the pulse of a kick drum, the PL-200 II is a no-brainer. For audiophiles seeking a more complete auditory landscape from their speakers, the R-820Fs offer a full-range, dynamic experience that can adapt to music, movies, and everything in between. Both paths lead to audio enjoyment, albeit through different routes, each with its own set of exciting sonic discoveries.


Check Current Prices:

Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer
Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer
Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers
Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers
Amazon.com
Amazon.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.