SVS PB-1000

SVS PB-1000 Powered Subwoofer

User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the SVS PB-1000 Powered Subwoofer. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your new subwoofer. The PB-1000 is designed to deliver deep, powerful, and accurate bass for both home theater and music listening experiences. Its 10-inch high-excursion driver and 300-watt RMS (700+ watts peak) Sledge STA-300D DSP amplifier ensure precise control and impressive low-frequency extension.

SVS PB-1000 Subwoofer with grille removed, showing the 10-inch driver and front-firing port.

Figure 1.1: Front view of the SVS PB-1000 Subwoofer without the grille, highlighting the driver and port.

2. Safety Information

Please read all safety instructions before operating your SVS PB-1000 subwoofer. Retain this manual for future reference.

  • Power Source: Connect the subwoofer only to a power outlet of the type described in this manual or marked on the unit.
  • Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation around the subwoofer. Do not block any ventilation openings.
  • Water and Moisture: Do not expose the subwoofer to rain, moisture, dripping, or splashing. Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.
  • Heat: Do not place the subwoofer near heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
  • Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth.
  • Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
  • Placement: Place the subwoofer on a stable, level surface to prevent tipping.

3. Package Contents

Upon opening the box, please verify that all items are present and in good condition:

  • SVS PB-1000 Powered Subwoofer
  • Detachable Power Cord
  • Quick Start Guide (refer to this manual for detailed instructions)
  • Grille (pre-installed or separate)
SVS PB-1000 Subwoofer with the protective grille attached.

Figure 3.1: Front view of the SVS PB-1000 Subwoofer with the grille attached.

4. Setup

4.1 Subwoofer Placement

Subwoofer placement significantly impacts performance. Experiment with different locations to find the best sound for your room. Common placement options include:

  • Front of the Room: Near the front speakers, often in a corner or along the front wall. Corner placement can increase output but may also emphasize certain frequencies.
  • Mid-Wall: Along a side wall, which can provide a more balanced bass response.
  • "Subwoofer Crawl": Place the subwoofer in your primary listening position, then crawl around the room to find where the bass sounds best. This is often the ideal spot for the subwoofer.
SVS PB-1000 Subwoofer placed on a wooden floor next to a wooden cabinet, demonstrating typical room placement.

Figure 4.1: Example of SVS PB-1000 placement in a living space.

4.2 Connections

The PB-1000 offers both Line Level (RCA) and Speaker Level inputs. Choose the connection method that best suits your audio system.

Rear panel of the SVS PB-1000 Subwoofer, showing the control knobs, RCA inputs/outputs, speaker level inputs, and power switch.

Figure 4.2: Rear panel connections and controls of the SVS PB-1000.

4.2.1 Line Level Connection (Recommended)

This is the preferred method for most home theater receivers and pre-amplifiers with a dedicated Subwoofer/LFE output.

  1. Connect one end of an RCA cable to the LFE/Subwoofer output on your receiver/processor.
  2. Connect the other end of the RCA cable to the "LINE LEVEL INPUT" (LFE) on the PB-1000's rear panel.
  3. If your receiver has separate Left and Right pre-outs for the subwoofer, connect both to the "LINE LEVEL INPUT" (Left and Right) on the PB-1000.
4.2.2 Speaker Level Connection

Use this method if your receiver/amplifier does not have a dedicated subwoofer output.

  1. Connect speaker wires from the main left and right speaker outputs of your receiver/amplifier to the "HIGH LEVEL SPEAKER INPUT" terminals on the PB-1000. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -).
  2. Then, connect your main left and right speakers to the "HIGH LEVEL SPEAKER OUTPUT" terminals on the PB-1000.

4.3 Power On

  1. Connect the detachable power cord to the AC inlet on the rear panel of the PB-1000.
  2. Plug the other end of the power cord into a suitable wall outlet.
  3. Flip the main power switch on the rear panel to the "ON" position. The LED indicator on the front of the subwoofer will illuminate.

5. Operating Controls

The SVS PB-1000 features several controls on its rear panel to fine-tune its performance to your system and room acoustics.

  • Volume (Gain): Adjusts the overall output level of the subwoofer. Start with a low setting and gradually increase until the bass blends seamlessly with your main speakers.
  • Low Pass Filter (Crossover): This control sets the upper frequency limit for the subwoofer. Frequencies above this setting will be rolled off.
    • If using a receiver with LFE output and bass management, set this to LFE (120Hz) or bypass if your receiver handles the crossover.
    • If using speaker level inputs or a stereo receiver without bass management, adjust this to blend with your main speakers (typically between 60Hz and 100Hz).
  • Phase: Adjusts the phase of the subwoofer output relative to your main speakers. This helps ensure that bass waves from the subwoofer and main speakers arrive at your listening position in sync.
    • Start at 0 degrees. If the bass sounds weak or hollow, try 180 degrees. The setting that produces the loudest and most impactful bass is usually correct.
  • Auto/On/Standby Switch:
    • Auto: The subwoofer will automatically turn on when an audio signal is detected and enter standby mode after a period of inactivity.
    • On: The subwoofer remains powered on continuously.
    • Standby: The subwoofer remains in a low-power standby state.

6. Maintenance

The SVS PB-1000 is designed for years of reliable performance with minimal maintenance.

  • Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the cabinet. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or harsh chemicals.
  • Dust: Regularly dust the driver and port areas to prevent accumulation.
  • Ventilation: Ensure the rear amplifier panel has adequate airflow and is not obstructed.
  • Storage: If storing the subwoofer for an extended period, disconnect it from power and store it in a cool, dry place.

7. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your PB-1000, consult the following table before contacting customer support.

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
No sound from subwoofer
  • Subwoofer not powered on.
  • Volume too low.
  • Incorrect input connection.
  • Receiver settings incorrect (subwoofer disabled, LFE level too low).
  • Ensure power switch is ON and LED is illuminated.
  • Increase the Volume control on the subwoofer.
  • Verify RCA or speaker wire connections are secure and correct.
  • Check your receiver's speaker setup menu to ensure the subwoofer is enabled and its level is adequate.
Weak or boomy bass
  • Incorrect phase setting.
  • Poor placement.
  • Incorrect Low Pass Filter setting.
  • Toggle the Phase switch between 0 and 180 degrees to find the strongest bass.
  • Experiment with different subwoofer placements in the room.
  • Adjust the Low Pass Filter to blend smoothly with your main speakers. If using LFE, ensure it's set to LFE/Bypass.
Humming or buzzing noise
  • Ground loop.
  • Faulty cable.
  • Try plugging the subwoofer into a different electrical outlet, preferably on the same circuit as your receiver.
  • Replace the RCA or speaker cables.

8. Specifications

Model NamePB-1000
Speaker TypePowered Subwoofer
Driver Size10 Inches (High-excursion)
Amplifier TypeSledge STA-300D DSP Amplifier
Amplifier Power300 Watts RMS (700+ Watts Peak)
Frequency ResponseDown to 19Hz (typical)
Dimensions (H x W x D)18.9" x 15" x 19.4" (480mm x 381mm x 493mm)
Weight46 lbs (20.9 kg)
Cabinet MaterialWood (Premium Black Ash finish)
ConnectivityRCA (Line Level), Speaker Level (High Level)
Control MethodManual knobs (Volume, Low Pass Filter, Phase)
Power SourceCorded Electric (110 Volts Input)
UPC850071005172, 851888000305
Diagram showing the dimensions of the SVS PB-1000 Subwoofer: 18.9 inches high, 15 inches wide, and 19.4 inches deep.

Figure 8.1: SVS PB-1000 Subwoofer dimensions.

9. Warranty Information

SVS products are designed for reliability and performance. The SVS PB-1000 Subwoofer comes with a comprehensive warranty. Please refer to the official SVS website or your purchase documentation for the most current and detailed warranty terms and conditions. Generally, the warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.

Warranty Type: Full

For warranty claims or inquiries, please retain your proof of purchase and contact SVS customer support.

10. Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty service, please contact SVS customer support:

  • Website: Visit the official SVS website for FAQs, support articles, and contact information.
  • Email/Phone: Specific contact details can be found on the SVS website's support section.

When contacting support, please have your product model (PB-1000) and serial number ready.

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