Polk Audio PSW111 VS Pioneer SW-8MK2
Polk Audio PSW111
  • Brand - Polk Audio
  • Amplification Type - active
  • Detachable Grilles - true
Pioneer SW-8MK2
  • Brand - Pioneer
  • Amplification Type - active
  • Detachable Grilles - false

Pioneer SW-8MK2 vs Polk PSW111: does loudness always win?

Pioneer SW-8MK2 vs. Polk Audio PSW111

In this type of setup, the Polk PSW111 is leading a perfect line between beefy and disruptive. While Pioneer applied one of its more powerful amps, that keeps its dram and its distortion low.

Therefore, let`s compare the Polk PSW11 vs Pioneer SW-8MK2: the first one delivers exquisite sound given to its size while adding a small component of refinement for any sound lover. Pioneer SW-8MK2 provides more drama, as the PSW111 create it with variety. Put the PSW111 away from walls and it will sound as good as near them, proposing good placement of flexibility.

What I like about PSW111, this highly advanced music tracks, especially when combined with small-sized main speakers.

Both of units do a nice job if you are cramped on space and using it primarily for home musical and cinema theater and the room isn't too massive.

Pioneer SW-8MK2 and Polk Audio PSW111

The Pioneer SW-8MK2 is designed as a black wooden cube, which would perfectly fit any minimal house design. Like most subwoofers, cosmetically, the outside of Polk PSW111 is a grainy thick plastic, while the subwoofer itself is covered with a thick net grill. The cords are located in its back, the feet are short and easily absorbed in a thick rug.

If I crank Pioneer SW-8MK2 all the way up it's pretty powerful! But it is important to tell about the difference - the bass of Pioneer SW-8MK2 is crazy loud and uncontrollable with the volume and crossover on the back, as Polk PSW111 is absolutely can be maintained with the help of its sound controller.

Also interesting is the fact that the SW-8MK2's price is only $55 less versus the PSW111, which applies a usual design, similar AMP drops lower, and proposes good connectivity.

Are they better-powered subs out there? Of course, there are, but at this price point and size, you can't go wrong.

Pioneer SW-8MK2 powered subwoofer

The SW-8MK2 exceeded my expectations and genuinely surprised me. I did not expect this little unit to perform the way it does. I highly recommend this, just take some time for set up and break in, you won't be sorry. The unit never distorts and compliments the other speakers perfectly. I have the gain and frequency about halfway. I placed it in the corner of the room. Remember the thing only sounds as good as to where it is placed. It is better to try different places until you succeed to find your sweet spot.

Polk PSW111powered subwoofer

The PSW111 provides a good conjunction of rapidness, dimension, and punch thanks to its small size, with an overall controlled approach. It has good control and precision. Handy design and sleek style give an opportunity for it to combine with any system.

Pros & Cons

Polk Audio PSW111

VS

Pros

    • Deep and Powerful Bass
    • Dynamic Balance Technology
    • Versatile Connectivity
    • Easy Setup

Cons

    • Potential Room Size Limitations
    • Limited Warranty Period

Pioneer SW-8MK2

VS

Pros

    • Affordable Price
    • Deep and Powerful Bass
    • Versatile Connectivity
    • Easy Setup

Cons

    • Potential Room Size Limitations

Specifications

Specification Polk Audio PSW111 Pioneer SW-8MK2
Audio Performance
Sensitivity, Db 90 80
Crossover Frequency, Hz 60-120 31-125
Frequency Response, Hz 38-250 38-150
Impedance, Ohm 4 8
Connections
Rca Lfe Inputs 1
Speaker Inputs (pair) 2
Speaker Outputs (pair) 2 2
Bi-amp
Xlr Outputs (pair)
Xlr Inputs (pair)
Rca Outputs
Rca Stereo Line Level Inputs (pair) 1 1
Controls
Volume
Main Power Switch
Low-pass Filter
Subwoofer Phase
User Manual
Manual psw111.pdf sw-8mk2.pdf
Power
Audio Amplifier Output Power, W 150 100
Maximal Output Power (rms), W 300 100
Nominal Output Power (rms), W 150 50
Driver
Port Placement down firing front panel
Driver Placement front panel down firing
Driver Size, In 8 8
Driver Quantity 1 1
Material
Enclosure Type sealed vented
Colors black black
Woofer Composition polymer polymer
Body Material MDF MDF
General
Detachable Grilles
Amplification Type active active
Dimensions
Weight, Kg/pounds 9.5/21 9.3/20.2
Dimensions (h X W X D), Cm/in 30.8 x 27.9 x 33/14 x 11 x 12.2 27 x 27 x 30/12.2 x 12.2 x 14.2

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