SVS PB13-Ultra 15 Hz tune

[Ilkka]

Manufacturer: SV Sound
Model: PB13-Ultra
Provided by: SV Sound
Manufacturer link: SV Sound, L-Sound
Price: 1630-1751 EUR, 1499-1699 USD (+shipping)

Manufacturer specs:
• Exclusive SVS Ultra-13" high-output woofer
• 750 watt BASH amp with room compensation
• Computer Assisted Design (CAD) enclosure
• Front-firing configuration with co-located vents
• Distinctive magnetic SVS grill and badging
• "Stackable" form factor allows easy dual subs
• 3.5" high-flow flared ports CURVE (TM) tuning
• Assembled in the Ohio SVS factory
• Choice of wood veneers, gloss or textured black
• Selectable Sealed, 20Hz, 15Hz or 10Hz modes
• +/- 3 dB 18 Hz-150 Hz (anechoic) in 20hz mode
• Size: Approx. 27” D x 20.5 " W x 22" H (w/o grill)
• Warranty: 3 year "bumper to bumper" coverage
• Support: Free 7 day/week customer service
• Weight: 155 pounds

Configuration as tested:
Phase: 0 degrees
Crossover: Bypassed
Tuning frequency/Subsonic filter:15 Hz (one port plug)
Room Compensation: Off
Orientation: Woofer and ports facing the mic

[Ilkka]

+/- 3 dB points: 14.1 Hz - 54 Hz (crossover min)

+/- 3 dB points: 13.5 Hz - 143 Hz (crossover max)

[Ilkka]

[Ilkka]

[AngelEyes]

As always I am still learning how to interpret these graphs but it looks like the 15hz tune gives a good balance of depth with minimal distortion. Would you agree or are these levels of distortion unlikely to be audiable anyway?

Thanks,

Adam

[Ilkka]

AngelEyes wrote:

As always I am still learning how to interpret these graphs but it looks like the 15hz tune gives a good balance of depth with minimal distortion. Would you agree or are these levels of distortion unlikely to be audiable anyway?

Thanks,

Adam

Yes, the 15 Hz tune is a very balanced option. It looses 1-1.5 dB in clean output compared to the 20 Hz tune above ~20 Hz, but gives more extension and higher output below ~20 Hz. If one doesn't constantly push the subwoofer to its limits, I think the added extension of the 15 Hz tune will be more beneficial than the slightly higher output of the 20 Hz tune.

Unless the PB13-Ultra is being overdriven, its distortion won't be audible to most people. The absolute amount of THD stays very low even at high output levels, and it also consists out of low order harmonics so it's very hard to hear.

[AngelEyes]

Ilkka wrote:

Yes, the 15 Hz tune is a very balanced option. It looses 1-1.5 dB in clean output compared to the 20 Hz tune above ~20 Hz, but gives more extension and higher output below ~20 Hz. If one doesn't constantly push the subwoofer to its limits, I think the added extension of the 15 Hz tune will be more beneficial than the slightly higher output of the 20 Hz tune.

Unless the PB13-Ultra is being overdriven, its distortion won't be audible to most people. The absolute amount of THD stays very low even at high output levels, and it also consists out of low order harmonics so it's very hard to hear.

Thanks for the reply Ilkka, I am glad I finally seem to be getting a feel for these graphs.

[TheGovernment]

I've heard the 13u at all the different settings at my friends place and we agree that the 15hz setting was the best in his ht room also.

[takumi]

Ilkka wrote:

Yes, the 15 Hz tune is a very balanced option. It looses 1-1.5 dB in clean output compared to the 20 Hz tune above ~20 Hz, but gives more extension and higher output below ~20 Hz. If one doesn't constantly push the subwoofer to its limits, I think the added extension of the 15 Hz tune will be more beneficial than the slightly higher output of the 20 Hz tune.

Unless the PB13-Ultra is being overdriven, its distortion won't be audible to most people. The absolute amount of THD stays very low even at high output levels, and it also consists out of low order harmonics so it's very hard to hear.

my room is 22'x15'x11'hight should i get one SVS PB13-Ultra or 2 svs pb12-nsd?

[russ.will]

Some will disagree, but I would advocate one good sub over two lesser examples. Room tuning issues aside, the better sub will offer greater levels of bass texture and detail. In the case of the subs you're asking about the 13U is a far superior music performer too.

Russell