Klipsch SPL-120 12-inch Black
Score: 84/100
REL Acoustics HT MKII
Score: 84/100Rankings
The Klipsch SPL-120 is a 12-inch powered subwoofer that delivers tight, room-filling bass with up to 118 dB output, thanks to its 300 W RMS Class D amplifier. Its compact front-firing design limits bass extension below 24 Hz and requires careful placement. Ideal for medium-sized rooms and users seeking high output without a large footprint.
The REL HT/1205 MKII is a 12-inch sealed powered subwoofer delivering 500 W RMS and deep 22 Hz bass in a compact cabinet. Its high output comes with a substantial 38 lb weight and wireless capability only as an optional add-on. Ideal for enthusiasts seeking powerful, precise bass in medium-sized home-theater rooms.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
300 W | 500 Wbest | |
— | 22 Hzbest | |
600 W | 800 Wbest | |
12 inbest | 12 inbest | |
12 inbest | 12 inbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 45 lb | 38 lbbest |
350 sqft | 400 sqftbest | |
17.75 inbest | 15.25 in |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Consumption(2) | ||
Amplifier Power (RMS) (W) | 300 W | 500 W |
Peak Power (W) | 600 W | 800 W |
Audio(1) | ||
Frequency Response (Hz) | 24-125 Hz | 22-200 Hz |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Input Type | dual RCA/LFE | RCA |
Wireless Capability | false | true |
Features(1) | ||
Recommended Room Size (sqft) | 350 sqft | 400 sqft |
Build & Design(6) | ||
Enclosure Type | front-firing slot port | Sealed |
Cabinet Material | MDF | MDF with high-gloss HDF top panel |
Weight (lb) | 45.0 lb | 38.0 lb |
Height (in) | 17.75 in | 15.25 in |
Width (in) | 14.7 in | 16.25 in |
Depth (in) | 19.77 in | 17.25 in |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the SPL-120 for its impressive 118 dB output, tight low-frequency response down to 24 Hz, and efficient Class D amplification that stays cool. They highlight the front-firing slot port and Cerametallic woofer as delivering clean, musical bass, and appreciate its compact size for corner placement. However, they note it falls short of the deeper output and refinement of larger 15-inch Klipsch models and the KEF KUBE 12B, and it may need careful crossover and positioning to avoid muffled bass.
Everyday users praise the SPL-120 for its powerful, room-shaking bass that remains tight and distortion-free, its easy integration with existing AV gear, and its attractive, durable finish. Common themes include appreciation for its compact footprint and efficient operation. Recurring complaints focus on the need for precise room placement and the limited sub-24 Hz extension, which some users find insufficient for extreme low-frequency effects.
Professional reviewers commend the HT/1205 MKII for delivering cinema-grade bass impact from a surprisingly compact enclosure, citing its powerful MOSFET-driven Class D amp and refined chassis as key strengths. They highlight its ability to rival much more expensive subwoofers while noting the added weight and the need for an optional wireless module as minor drawbacks.
