Bic Acoustech PL-200 II vs. Pioneer SP-BS22-LR

Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$420 $160
Dimensions (H × W × D)
17.25” × 14.88” × 19.50”
438mm × 378mm × 495mm
12.56” × 7.13” × 8.44”
319mm × 181mm × 214mm
Power Type
Powered Passive
Frequency Response
21-200 Hz 55-20,000 Hz
ASR Score
n/a 5.0
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
n/a 7.5
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to setting up a home audio system that balances quality and cost, the Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer and Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf Speakers are often part of the conversation among enthusiasts and budget-conscious audiophiles. While both are highly regarded for their performance per dollar, they serve quite distinct roles in a sound system. The PL-200 II is a dedicated subwoofer designed to handle the lower frequencies with aplomb, while the SP-BS22-LR speakers are versatile bookshelf speakers that aim to deliver a full spectrum of sound with a particular focus on midrange and high frequencies.

Design Philosophy and Build Quality

Bic's PL-200 II is a beast in terms of design, featuring a front-firing 12-inch long-throw woofer housed in a sturdy black enclosure. It's engineered for impact and depth, essential for movie effects and the rhythm of music. In contrast, the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR, conceived by the acclaimed designer Andrew Jones, adopts a more subtle approach. These bookshelf speakers feature a 4-inch structured surface woofer and a 1-inch soft dome tweeter, wrapped in a curved cabinet design that not only looks sophisticated but also contributes to sound quality by reducing standing waves inside the cabinet.

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

Frequency Response and Sound Character

The Bic Acoustech PL-200 II is all about bass. With a frequency response that digs as low as 30Hz, this subwoofer can shake the room in the best possible way. It doesn't just add bass; it integrates with the speakers to create a full-bodied sound. On the other side, the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR shines across a broader frequency range. Its frequency response, typically stretching from 55Hz to 20kHz, allows for detailed and balanced playback, ensuring that vocals and instruments are reproduced with clarity and precision. However, without a dedicated subwoofer, they might lack the gut-rumbling lows required for certain musical tracks or cinematic experiences.

Integration into a Sound System

Integrating the PL-200 II into a sound system is about complementing your existing speakers with powerful bass. It's quite versatile in terms of placement due to its front-firing design, and with adjustable crossover and volume controls, it can be fine-tuned to match a variety of main speakers. The Pioneer bookshelf speakers, while impressive on their own, truly come to life when paired with a subwoofer like the PL-200 II. Together, they form a synergy that brings out the best in each component, allowing the Pioneers to focus on mid and high frequencies while the Bic takes command of the lower end.

Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf Speakers
Pioneer SP-BS22-LR arrow (at Amazon.com)

The PL-200 II can be a standalone upgrade to an existing system that lacks depth, or it can be the cornerstone of a new build, providing the necessary foundation for high-quality audio. Meanwhile, the Pioneers can serve as the main speakers in a modest setup or as part of a more extensive system, flanking a central channel or even serving as rear satellites in a surround sound setup.

In conclusion, the Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer and Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf Speakers cater to different but complementary aspects of the audio spectrum. Choosing between them isn't a matter of which is better overall, but rather which best suits your specific audio needs. The PL-200 II is the go-to for deep, articulate bass, while the SP-BS22-LR offers exceptional clarity and balance for its size and price. When used together, they present an affordable path to a robust and immersive listening experience that's hard to beat.

Audio enthusiasts shouldn't overlook the importance of pairing speakers and subwoofers correctly. While individual components like the PL-200 II and SP-BS22-LR are impressive, it's the harmonious operation of both that creates an optimal sound environment. Careful consideration of how these pieces fit into your listening space, music preferences, and overall sound goals will guide you to the perfect audio setup for a sensational auditory journey.


Check Current Prices:

Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer
Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer
Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf Speakers
Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf 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.