HTD Level TWO vs. SVS SB-1000

HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers SVS SB-1000 Subwoofer
MSRP
$300 $500
Dimensions (H × W × D)
11.88” × 7.13” × 10.00”
302mm × 181mm × 254mm
13.50” × 13.00” × 14.60”
343mm × 330mm × 371mm
Power Type
Passive Powered
Frequency Response
60-20,000 Hz 24-260 Hz
HTD.com
Amazon.com

Speaker Comparison

When we talk about sonic landscapes, the distinction between speakers dedicated to delivering the full frequency spectrum versus those designed to accentuate the lower end cannot be overstated. It's a tale of two cities: the HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers, which aim to provide a balanced and full-range audio experience, and the SVS SB-1000 Subwoofer, a champion of the deep dive into bass. These are not direct competitors, but rather companions in the creation of a holistic auditory environment. However, the comparison might help enthusiasts decide which component they need to upgrade or add to their current setup to tailor their listening experience.

Design Philosophy & Purpose

The HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers are crafted with the intent of delivering clear, crisp midranges and highs, housing a 1-inch silk dome tweeter and a 6.5-inch polypropylene woofer. They are designed to handle the nuances of vocals and instruments with finesse, making them a solid choice for a stand-alone stereo setup or as part of a larger surround sound system. On the other hand, the SVS SB-1000 is a dedicated subwoofer with a 12-inch driver, designed to fill in the low-frequency response that bookshelf speakers typically cannot reproduce. Its purpose is singular – to plunge into the depths of bass and deliver the kind of rumble that can be felt as much as heard.

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

Sonic Characteristics

The HTD Level TWO speakers are characterized by their warmth and clarity. With a frequency response ranging from 45Hz to 20kHz, they are capable of delivering a substantial part of the audio spectrum with an emphasis on accuracy and detail. The SVS SB-1000, conversely, focuses on a much narrower band, with a frequency response from 24Hz to 260Hz. It's built to provide texture and dimension to the lower frequencies, adding the sort of punch and power that can turn movie night into a blockbuster experience or a jazz stand-up bass solo into a visceral encounter.

Integration into a Sound System

Integrating the HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers into an existing system is straightforward – they can serve as the primary stereo pair or as part of a multichannel setup. Their balanced sound profile ensures that they play nicely with other components. The SVS SB-1000 subwoofer, while also relatively easy to integrate, requires more consideration regarding crossover settings and placement to achieve the best synergy with the bookshelf speakers and to ensure a smooth transition between the sub-bass and the mid-bass frequencies.

SVS SB-1000 Subwoofer
SVS SB-1000 arrow (at Amazon.com)

When it comes to aesthetics, both HTD and SVS have put thought into their designs. The Level TWO speakers have a sleek, traditional look that should blend well with most decors. The SB-1000, with its compact and rounded edges, can be more easily tucked away, although its design is unobtrusive enough to sit proudly next to your other audio equipment without drawing too much attention to itself.

Price-wise, both offer significant value for their respective purposes. The HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers are priced reasonably for the quality of sound they deliver, making them an excellent choice for audiophiles on a budget. The SVS SB-1000, while more of an investment, is quite competitive for a subwoofer of its caliber. Its performance can enhance the audio experience to such a degree that it often justifies the higher price point for those who crave that earth-shaking bass.

In the end, the choice between the HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers and the SVS SB-1000 Subwoofer comes down to what's missing in your audio life. If you're looking to refine your listening experience with nuanced mids and crisp highs, the Level TWOs are a fantastic option. But if it's the thump and thrall of deep bass that you're after, it’s hard to beat the prowess of the SB-1000. They are not so much rivals as they are potential partners in the dance of audio perfection. For the audiophile looking to build or upgrade a system, considering how these two components could work together might just be the secret to sonic bliss.


Check Current Prices:

HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers
HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers
SVS SB-1000 Subwoofer
SVS SB-1000 Subwoofer
HTD.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.