SVS SB17-Ultra R|Evolution black ash

Introduction to the SB17-Ultra R|Evolution by SVS

A New Benchmark in Subwoofer Technology

The SB17-Ultra R|Evolution represents the pinnacle of SVS’s research in low-frequency reproduction. This sealed subwoofer pushes the boundaries of audio technology to deliver an unparalleled sound experience. Designed for the most demanding audiophiles and cinephiles, it combines power, precision, and versatility in a sleek and compact design.

A Revolutionary 17-Inch Driver

At the heart of the SB17-Ultra R|Evolution is an all-new 17-inch (43 cm) driver, the largest ever used by SVS. This high-excursion transducer features a fiberglass composite cone, a long-throw SBR rubber surround, and a 25 kg toroidal ferrite magnet motor. This combination generates impressive sound pressure levels while maintaining exceptional acoustic precision and linearity.

The major innovation lies in the 8-inch (20 cm) dual voice coil, a first for SVS. This design ensures stable electromagnetic current transfer from the amplifier to the motor, allowing effortless output with precise speaker control. The copper-clad aluminum voice coil wire offers an optimal balance between thermal capacity and magnetic field strength.

Cutting-Edge Amplification

The SB17-Ultra R|Evolution is powered by a dual mono STA-2800D Class D amplifier with a MOSFET output stage. Each amplification block independently powers one of the two voice coils, thus increasing the power delivered to the motor while ensuring precise control and maximizing output potential. Eight 60-amp, 200-volt MOSFETs deliver extremely high current for reference-level output with maximum efficiency.

To meet the amplifier’s power demands while remaining compatible with a standard 15-amp household circuit, SVS has integrated an AC line conditioner with power factor correction. This system stabilizes input voltage, corrects waveform distortions, and eliminates electromagnetic and radio interference, optimizing signal quality and ensuring consistent performance despite electrical grid fluctuations.

Advanced Digital Signal Processing

The SB17-Ultra R|Evolution incorporates an Analog Devices digital signal processor (DSP) clocked at 295 MHz. This DSP manages various aspects of the subwoofer’s performance, from voltage stabilization to thermal performance optimization, ensuring more reliable output even at high volumes. The digital audio processing with a 120 dB signal-to-noise ratio enhances the subwoofer’s fidelity by reducing background noise and increasing dynamic range.

Extended Frequency Response

Thanks to its sophisticated design, the SB17-Ultra R|Evolution reaches frequencies as low as 15 Hz (+/- 3 dB). This deep bass extension allows for faithful reproduction of the deepest effects in movie soundtracks and the lowest notes in music recordings, offering an immersive and visceral experience.

An Elegant and Functional Design

The SB17-Ultra R|Evolution features a sleek and elegant design that seamlessly blends into any interior. Available in a black piano lacquer finish or black oak veneer, its refined aesthetics conceal a robust MDF construction with internal bracing for resonance-free performance at the highest pressure levels.

The extra-thick, non-resonant ABS protective grille with fabric mesh coating effectively shields the speaker while preserving sound quality. Screw-in iso-elastomer feet reduce noise artifacts and enhance the subwoofer’s stability.

Intuitive Calibration via Smartphone

One of the major strengths of the SB17-Ultra R|Evolution is its calibration system managed via the SVS smartphone app. This comprehensive interface offers controls for volume, low-pass filter, phase, polarity, six parametric equalizers, room gain compensation, and many other parameters. Three memory presets allow for quick and easy system adjustments to suit listening preferences.

The Auto EQ Subwoofer Room Correction feature, soon available via an update, will use the smartphone’s built-in microphone to automatically apply equalization filters, optimize room gain, and adjust frequency response to the main listening positions. This automatic calibration promises to resolve room-related acoustic issues in just a few simple steps.

Versatile Connectivity

The SB17-Ultra R|Evolution offers extensive connectivity to suit all audio systems. It features unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR inputs, compatible with both consumer and professional audio applications. A USB port powers the SVS SoundPath wireless audio adapter (sold separately) for wireless integration. Auto and trigger power-on modes, along with an IR input, facilitate integration with home automation control systems.

Technical Specifications

Acoustic Performance

• Speaker: 43 cm long-throw with high-precision motor
• Frequency response: 15 Hz to 320 Hz ± 3 dB
  • Extension down to 12-13 Hz in small to medium-sized rooms
• Excursion: 82 mm Xmech (49 mm Xmax)
• Amplifier: SVS STA-2800 Class D

Construction

• Finishes: Glossy piano black, black oak (real wood veneer)
• Cabinet made of reinforced medium-density fiberboard (MDF) with non-resonant acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) grille
• Screw-in iso-elastomer feet
• Rear panel with organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display and control interface

Transducer Technology

• 20 cm voice coil, dual aluminum wire, 4-layer
• Four-piece Y35 ferrite magnet motor
• Dual Nomex suspension and extreme-excursion styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) surround
• 43 cm high-density cast aluminum basket
• Total speaker weight: 29 kg (including 25 kg motor)

Electronics and Signal Processing

• 295 MHz Analog Devices digital signal processor (DSP) (56-bit double-precision filtering)
• Switching power supply with power factor correction (100-240 V)
• Integrated AC line conditioner
• Convection cooling system
• Inputs: RCA (10 kΩ), XLR (14 kΩ)
• Standby power consumption: 0.5 W

Connectivity and Control

• USB port for wireless audio adapter (sold separately)
• Auto / On modes and 3-12 V trigger input
• 3.5 mm infrared (IR) input for control systems
• Mobile app (iOS, Android, Amazon Fire):
  • DSP control, presets, auto EQ
  • Real-time bidirectional feedback

Dimensions and Weight

• Dimensions (H × W × D): 50.7 × 49.5 × 53.7 cm (with grille)
• Net weight: 56.25 kg

Compliance and Accessories

• RoHS compliant, lead-free, international safety certifications
• Included: protective grille, feet, power cord, quick start guide