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Newer model
This item replaces the
Klipsch Reference R-12SW.

Klipsch Reference R-120SW Powered subwoofer

Item # 714R120SW

If you crave deep bass that makes you feel like part of the action on the screen, then you're not alone my friend...

If you crave deep bass that makes you feel like part of the action on the screen, then you're not alone my friend...

California customers:
Please click here for your Proposition 65 warning.

28 questions - 53 answers

Item # 714R120SW

In stock
$599.00 -$350.00 Special purchase
$249.00

Other options

About the Klipsch Reference R-120SW

Kramer Crane

Hard-hitting Klipsch bass

If you crave deep bass that makes you feel like part of the action on the screen, then you're not alone my friend — I'm right there with you! The 12" Klipsch Reference R-120SW powered subwoofer offers low-frequency punch way down to 29 Hz, which will make dinosaur and spaceship movies take on a whole new level of realism in your room. 

Hard-hitting Klipsch bass

If you crave deep bass that makes you feel like part of the action on the screen, then you're not alone my friend — I'm right there with you! The 12" Klipsch Reference R-120SW powered subwoofer offers low-frequency punch way down to 29 Hz, which will make dinosaur and spaceship movies take on a whole new level of realism in your room. 

A built-in, 200-watt RMS amplifier powers the R-120SW and ensures controlled, accurate bass that sounds great with movie soundtracks and music alike. I use a 12" Klipsch sub in my own home theater system and absolutely love it.

Easy system integration

Line-level and LFE (Low-Frequency Effects) inputs let you easily connect the R-120SW to almost any home theater or stereo receiver. Its back-panel gain, crossover, and phase controls help you fine-tune the bass to your liking, and blend its sound into your system.

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Product highlights:

  • 12" front-firing IMG (Injection Molded Graphite) spun-copper woofer
  • 200-watt RMS amplifier (400 watts peak power)
  • frequency response: 29-120 Hz
  • rear-firing port for increased low-frequency performance
  • variable low-pass crossover
  • phase switch to fine-tune the subwoofer to your main speakers and room
  • line level/LFE (low frequency effects) input
  • auto power on/off
  • durable MDF cabinet with scratch-resistant textured wood grain vinyl finish
  • 14-1/16"W x 16-5/8"H x 20-15/16"D
  • weight: 31 lbs.
  • warranty: 5 years woofer, 2 years amplifier
  • MFR # 1065959

What's in the box:

  • Powered sub
  • Grille (installed)
  • 6.5' AC power cord
  • User Manual
  • Important Safety Instructions
  • Warranty Information

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Customer reviews for Klipsch Reference R-120SW

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5.0 out of 5 stars
455 reviews

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More details on the Klipsch Reference R-120SW

Stacey B.

Features & specs

Enclosure Ported
Woofer Size (inches) 12
Woofer Composition Copper-spun IMG
Firing Direction Front
Amplifier Output (watts) 200
Frequency Response 29-120 Hz
Connections
Preamp-Level Inputs Stereo RCA/LFE
Speaker-Level Inputs No
Speaker-Level Outputs No
Wireless No
Controls
Low-Pass Crossover Freq 40-120Hz
High-Pass Crossover Freq N/A
Phase Switch Yes
App Control No
Remote No
Other Info
Height (inches) 16-5/8
Width (inches) 14-1/16
Depth (inches) 20-15/16
Weight 31 lbs
Speaker Parts Warranty 5 Years
Speaker Labor Warranty 5 Years
Amplifier Parts Warranty 2 Years
Amplifier Labor Warranty 2 Years
The Klipsch Reference R-120SW replaces these items:

Product Research

Features

12" Woofer: The Klipsch Reference series R-120SW powered sub is fitted with a powerful 12" copper-spun IMG (injected molded graphite) front-firing woofer for deep bass. The copper-spun IMG woofer is exceptionally light while being extremely rigid, providing remarkable low frequency response with minimal cone breakup and distortion. The front-firing woofer gives you greater placement flexibility than a down-firing woofer.

200 Watt Class D Amp: The Klipsch R-120SW powered sub employs an all-digital 200 watt RMS (400 watt Peak) amplifier for high efficiency and dynamic bass performance. The built-in, all-digital amplifier of the R-120SW subwoofer delivers ample power with high efficiency and true-to-source accuracy reproduction - thus providing maximum output, detail, and power that fills your home.

Rear Firing Port: The R-120SW's enclosure uses a bass reflex design with a rear-firing port for greater efficiency and bigger bass.

MDF Cabinet: The R-120SW is housed in a durable MDF cabinet and finished with a scratch resistant, textured wood-grain vinyl. Its reinforced MDF construction reduces cabinet vibration for less audible coloration and improved sonic accuracy - giving you the ultimate listening experience that's built to last. There are heavy-duty rubber feet on the bottom of the cabinet to help isolate the subwoofer from your floor. The included low-profile front grille adds a refined look and is acoustically transparent.

Controls: The level control, low pass crossover, and phase control allow you to blend the powered subwoofer's low-frequency tones with your system's other speakers, as well as establish the ideal level of bass.

  • Level Control: The level control adjusts the subwoofer's volume relative to the rest of your home audio system. After the sub's level control has been set, the volume control of your AV receiver will be the volume control for both the Klipsch powered subwoofer and your connected loudspeakers.
  • Low Pass Crossover: The variable low pass crossover is adjustable from 40-120Hz. The crossover point chosen determines where low bass frequencies are "handed-off" from your AV system's loudspeakers to the Klipsch powered subwoofer. Set the crossover point based on the size of your systems' main left/right speakers.
  • Phase Control: This control is used to acoustically match the subwoofer's output to your main speakers. Select the position either 0˚ or 180˚ in which your subwoofer has more output at the listening position.

LFE/RCA Inputs: The Klipsch R-120SW powered subwoofer is equipped with a pair of line-level RCA-type inputs to connect the sub to your AV receiver or integrated amplifier.

  • LFE Input: Most of today's AV receivers have a line-level subwoofer output (LFE). If your receiver has an LFE output, connect one end of a subwoofer cable (sold separately) to this output and connect the other end of the cable into the powered subwoofer's line-level input labeled "LEFT/LFE". Set the powered sub's built-in crossover to "LFE" with this type of connection.
  • Stereo Input: In absence of a subwoofer (LFE) output on your receiver, as an alternative hookup, you can connect Left & Right channel pre-amp outputs from the receiver to both the "Left/LFE" and "Right" inputs on the powered subwoofer.

LED Indicator: The front-mounted LED power indicator lets you know when the sub is powered on or off. The LED will light green when the powered subwoofer is on and receiving a signal. If the LED is dark and not lit, the powered sub is off.

Auto Power On/Off: The powered subwoofer will automatically turn On when it senses an audio signal. It will automatically go into "Standby mode" after 15-20 minutes with no audio signal. You can also choose to turn the powered sub On or Off manually from the rear-switch on the back.

Placement: Klipsch powered subwoofers are designed to reproduce deep bass and deliver the impact that makes your movies and music come alive. For optimum performance, place your subwoofer in a corner of the room on the same wall as your front channel speakers. Please note that room placement can have a dramatic effect on the performance of your powered subwoofer. Corner placement, as suggested above, will increase the amount of bass output, while placing the subwoofer along the middle of a wall, or out in the room will decrease the amount of bass output.

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Customer Q&A

28 questions already asked

Q
do the R-40M work with sub R-120SW sub?
james  Mar 11, 2024
1 answer
A
Greetings James. Thank you for your question. The R-40M are passive speakers. If they are connected to a receiver, or amplifier that has a subwoofer output, you can add this or most any subwoofer. if you meant the R-40PM, those have a built in amplifier already, and have a subwoofer output as well.
hogan  Mar 11, 2024 (Staff)
Q
Do I need to purchase a separate amplifier to use this device with my reciever?
kpat12  Jan 27, 2024
1 answer
A
The Klipsch Reference R-120SW has an amplifier built-in, Kush! If your receiver has a mono subwoofer output, you will need a mono subwoofer cable like the Ethereal Helios in the link below to connect. The Ethereal cable is available in a variety of lengths to suit your specific needs. https://www.crutchfield.com/p_340HSS210/Ethereal-Helios-Subwoofer-Cable-10-feet-3-meters.html
bo  Jan 27, 2024 (Staff)
Q
Recently purchased LEAK Stereo 130 - no dedicated sub out. Will this connect via the coax line out?
john  Jan 05, 2024
1 answer
A
It will not connect to the single digital coax out, John. With the LEAK stereo 130 you can use the RCA preamp outputs on the rear panel to connect to the Klipsch Reference R-120SW subwoofer. They do refer to these in the owner's manual as RCA coaxial, the pair of RCA's labeled "Pre OUT". Since the preamp outputs are full-range, make sure to adjust the crossover on the subwoofer to dial-in your preference in sound for the bass. The Klipsch subwoofer does not come with an included RCA cable so make sure to add one! You can use either a 2-channel RCA or a single RCA connected to the LFE input on the Klipsch.
bo  Jan 05, 2024 (Staff)
Q
Can I add this subwoofer with a wireless adapter to an existing set-up with a wired sub?
thomas  Dec 16, 2023
1 answer
A
I see no reason why not, Thomas. You can use the SVS SoundPath Wireless audio adapter in the first link below with the Klipsch Reference R-120SW. Your current receiver or preamp/amp combo may have an additional RCA subwoofer output that can be used. If not, you can split your current mono RCA signal with AudioQuest FLX-X RCA Y-adapter in the second link below!  https://www.crutchfield.com/p_946SNDPATH/SVS-SoundPath.html https://www.crutchfield.com/p_703M22F/AudioQuest-FLX-X-RCA-Y-Adapter.html
bo  Dec 16, 2023 (Staff)
Q
Why won't this item ship to Guam? Everything else I've ever ordered did
john  Nov 27, 2023
1 answer
A
This Klipsch Reference R-120SW Powered subwoofer is too large to ship USPS to Guam, John. The slightly smaller Klipsch R-10SWi in the link below does appear to be able to ship to you in Guam, and you could always use two in your setup for maximum bass! https://www.crutchfield.com/p_714R10SWI/Klipsch-Reference-R-10SWi.html
bo  Nov 27, 2023 (Staff)
Q
For a single RCA cable, does it matter if I use the red or white connection? Are they interchangeable?
vinnie  Nov 02, 2023
1 answer
A
That is a great question, Vincent. For a single cable connection, the top white RCA connection (also labeled "LFE") would be best.
bo  Nov 03, 2023 (Staff)
Q
Will this R-120SW subwoofer work with my Yamaha R-S202? Will I need a converter and RCA cables?
ted  Jul 09, 2023
1 answer
A
You will need a line-output converter in order to use the R-120SW with the R-S202. We carry the Russound APD-1.2 for this purpose. Here's a link to that item: www.crutchfield.com/p_543ADP12/item.html
zachary  Jul 09, 2023 (Staff)
A
The R-120SW can be connected to R-15PM via a single-channel RCA cable.
zachary  Jun 29, 2023 (Staff)
Q
Can I use a Y- connecter cable on this sub? One "sub out" on the receiver and both inputs on the sub.
jeff paul  May 04, 2023
1 answer
A
Greetings Jeff, and thank you for your question. Yes you could, but all you need to connect to this subwoofer is the White RCA in. Thats the LFE (low frequency effect) if your receiver has the dedicated subwoofer out.
hogan  May 04, 2023 (Staff)
Q
Hook-up details. Using a solid state preamp and tube power amp combination. Only one line out jack on the pre-amp. How do I hook up?
keith a  Apr 21, 2023
1 answer
A
Greetings Keith, and thank you for your question. If the single line out jack is a subwoofer out, most subwoofers have an LFE input. That's just on one of the RCA input jacks on the subwoofer. This Klipsch Subwoofer's left (White) input is the LFE
hogan  Apr 21, 2023 (Staff)
Q
Where should I set my (Hz)? I have a Marantz 40n with Kipsch R-820F speakers and this R-120SW subwoofer. I have the Marantz set at 80(Hz) so Should I set the Sub at 80(Hz) as well and just adjust the gain to get a good solid bass?
christian  Feb 24, 2023
1 answer
A
You can certainly set your subwoofer for 80 Hz. That is the typical setting most people use. If you find that you want something a little more impactful then you might try going a little lower to 60 Hz and experimenting with the differences.
arielle  Feb 24, 2023 (Staff)
Q
With front firing speaker, which is best way to face it? Toward listener, wall or corner?
doug  Dec 11, 2022
1 answer
A
There isn't a set rule for subwoofer placement. Listeners often try the subwoofer in different locations/orientations to find the best fit for their room's acoustics. Typically facing a subwoofer towards a wall or corner will reinforce the output level of the sub. This may or may not be ideal as it can sometimes make the bass too strong or can cause a loss in clarity.
zachary  Dec 12, 2022 (Staff)
Q
Can I pair with Klipsch â??The Fives?â?? If so, what additional cable(s) do I need?
dawnmarie  Nov 07, 2022
1 answer
A
Greetings DawnMarie, and thank you for your question. Yes you can add the Klipsch R-120SW to the Fives. The Fives have a single RCA subwoofer output, and you use the LFE in on the R-120SW. All you need a subwoofer in the length of your choice. https://www.crutchfield.com/g_20111/Subwoofer-Cables.html?tp=2586
hogan  Nov 07, 2022 (Staff)
Q
Does this work with the Sennheiser ambeo sound bar?
malcolm  Jun 08, 2022
1 answer
A
This sub would work with the AMBEO soundbar, which has an RCA output specifically for connecting a subwoofer. A single channel RCA cable is all you'd need to connect them together.
zachary  Jun 08, 2022 (Staff)
Q
Pairing Klipsch R-120SW subwoofer with Klipsch R-41PM Powered Bookshelf Speakers. I have the speakers already set up to the TV via optical cable, and hooked up to a pro-ject debut carbon evo turntable with a grounded wire connection. I bought a AudioQuest Black Lab subwoofer cable with ground connectors on each end. Do I need to ground the subwoofer? Or would I only need to if it hums? Also, can i connect the ground wire to the same metal knob of the speakers that the turntable wire is connected?
jonathan  Apr 08, 2021
1 answer
A
You should use the ground cable with the subwoofer cable only if needed. As for the best place to connect it on the Klipsch speakers to help keep noise out of the sub output, I cannot find any mention of that in the owners manual for it and recommend contacting technical support for help. We send their toll free number on the order invoice to help make it easy to reach them.
jason  May 09, 2021 (Staff)
Q
will this work with my Sony STR-DH590 5.2-channel home theater receiver?
randall  Nov 26, 2020
5 answers
A
i do not have this receiver. i have a Marantz SR6013 and it works wonderfully with that receiver. Wish i could be more help.
brian  Nov 26, 2020
A
Yes ... ideally it should work with any receiver that supports a sub woofer .
nagprajval  Nov 26, 2020
A
It should work with your receiver if it has an LFE or subwoofer out. It will not work with a line level out.
eric  Nov 26, 2020
A
Yes it should, as long as you have a sub out input.
jeremy  Nov 26, 2020
A
As long as the unit has a sub pre out it should work perfectly The sub is self powered so a pre amp is all you need
kenyon  Nov 26, 2020
Q
How many of these subs should run in a 5000 cubic foot room. Will 2 be enough or should I use 4 subs? I have 6.5" ceiling speakers for my front channels.
david  Nov 24, 2020
1 answer
A
My room is 2800 cubic feet and I have one of these subs. It fills the room completely with great bass. You may benefit from 2 subs however, given the size of your room.
brett  Nov 24, 2020
Q
Will this sub work with a denon avr-s540bt?
kenneth w  Oct 14, 2020
2 answers
A
This Klipsch subwoofer will work with the Denon AVR-S540BT receiver by connecting to either of the subwoofer outputs on it using an optional subwoofer cable found here: https://www.crutchfield.com/g_20111/Subwoofer-Cables.html
jason  Nov 08, 2020 (Staff)
A
It should. It has an RCA sub out.
david  Nov 05, 2020
Q
Can I connect my Klipsch R-120SW subwoofer direct to my TV vs. through a receiver?
justin  Oct 10, 2020
3 answers
A
Yes, I connected 2 of them to a Denon AVR-X6200W receiver which has a TV input.
steve  Oct 10, 2020
A
If the television has an LFE or subwoofer output jack.
clifford  Oct 10, 2020
A
I do not believe this is possible. There would be am impedance mismatch. Your subwoofer should be powered only by your amplifier, as it was designed to do.
john  Oct 10, 2020
Q
does it come with a subwoofer cable to attach to my Klipsch 41PM bookshelf speakers?
alan  Jul 12, 2020
4 answers
A
Mine did not, I'm pretty sure it doesn't come with any cables, as I purchased two 12"subs and none came with cables. Hope that helped answer your question.
elvin  Jul 12, 2020
A
No, it only comes with a power cord.
clifford  Jul 12, 2020
A
I don't think you can attach it to other speakers, and there are no cables included...
jeff  Jul 12, 2020
A
No, it doesn't. Must be purchased separately
rogelio  Jul 12, 2020
Q
I have recently purchased an LG_OLED65C8 TV - which is fantastic. The sound (with Atmos) is SO good that a soundbar is practically not needed - EXCEPT for the bass is a little weak (as would be expected). Would there be any way to to set up the TV with this sub woofer and just bypass my very old, decrepit receiver? It would be a very elegant solution (visually). FYI - It IS possible in the TV settings to output to both the TV's internal speakers AND external speakers at the same time. But I know there might be crossover issues with a subwoofer. Any advise would be greatly appreciated.
paul  May 25, 2020
2 answers
A
Hey Paul, this would be a great add on to your TV. Just make sure you have audio out jacks on the back, you would need to have stereo cables and a Y-adapter, connect first to the tv, then the ones going to the subwoofer, after that, turn the bass knob on the klipsch all the way down, then you would need to plug it in the electrical chord, turning it gradually after so you can finish your setup to the best of your liking. Hope it helps
rogelio  Jun 04, 2020
A
If your receiver does not have subwoofer outputs then the only option I can think of would be to check your televisions connection guide to see if it can support wireless subwoofer output and connect the sub that way. If the television does not have subwoofer output jacks the only other option I van think of is a 7.1 soundbar. There was a time when you could buy a pre-amplifier to handle all the necessary inputs before they were sent on to the main amplifier but that was pricey for stereo so I can't imagine what a multi-channel pre-amp would run.
clifford  Jun 04, 2020
Q
Will I be able to connect this sub to my R-26PF Floorstanding speakers?
gabriel  Mar 06, 2020
1 answer
A
Yes you can, you will love it outstanding sound, perfect pair. I've got it with th 28PF
rogelio  Mar 06, 2020
Q
Will this sub woofer work with a Onkyo receiver?
david c  Feb 02, 2020
3 answers
A
I have this exact speaker hooked up to an Onkyo TX-747 receiver. The Onkyo has a subwoofer output and works perfectly with this Klipsch subwoofer speaker.
scott  Feb 03, 2020
A
Yes.
chris  Feb 02, 2020
A
I have a Yamaha receiver and it works fine. Not sure about Onkyo but I guess it should. Hope it helps. Thanks.
zen  Feb 02, 2020
Q
I already own this sub, is there a wireless adapter to make it more flexible?
tom  Jan 29, 2020
2 answers
A
Yes, there are but not from Klipsch. I have some from Rocketfish that I use with my rear surround speakers. The transmitter connects to your source and the receiver connects to the speaker.
clifford  Jan 29, 2020
A
I don't know for sure but check out the "WA-2" wireless subwoofer kit on klipsch
steve  Jan 29, 2020
Q
Can I pair this with The Sixes?
mike  Jan 26, 2020
3 answers
A
First off. I don't know what The Sixes is. So be more specific.
jorge  Jan 27, 2020
A
the sixes have a single RCA subwoofer jack...you can find the manual on the Klipsch website...
jeff  Jan 26, 2020
A
Yes you can, you will love the combination!
rogelio  Jan 26, 2020
Q
Can I use this with a simple 2-channel receiver, like the Yamaha R-S202, which lacks a dedicated LFE output?
substring  Dec 01, 2019
2 answers
A
As far as I'm aware, no. This particular subwoofer only has inputs. You would need a subwoofer that has a input and output set up. All my klipsch speakers are in a movie room. But in my living room I have a pair of Cerwin Vega XLS12 speakers and I know that the XLS series has a 12 and 15 inch power subwoofer that have input and outputs so it could Be use with a 2 channel receiver. Look into the Cerwin Vega XLS12S or XLS15S. They are good speakers and Cerwin Vega is known for their Bass. Go to their website and download the owners manual and it has the info on setup for use in a two channel receiver. Hope this helps.
jorge  Dec 01, 2019
A
That Stereo has a line out. If you can get the audio to go out those (test with a headphone, will be weak), this should work fine. If not, there are speaker to line level converters.
david  Dec 01, 2019
Q
What is the input electrical consumption of this sub in watts?
abhishek  Dec 23, 2018
3 answers
A
According to the printed information under the power cord plug-in on the back of the unit it consumes 2 amps at 200 watts. Since there is no direct correlation between ac wattage and amperage consumption I used a power factor of 1 to get the following result: 2A x 120V x PF=1 = 240Watts.
clifford  Dec 23, 2018
A
The only thing I see is 400 watts peak power. Hope this helps. I know it sounds great with our system.
steve  Dec 23, 2018
A
The sub runs at 200w rms or continuous as it plays normally but will use up to 400 with explosions in movies or heavy bass notes in music depending on volume levels
jonathan  Dec 23, 2018
Q
Will this sub work with a Denon avr-s740h?
mitchell  Nov 23, 2018
7 answers
A
Yes, sub will work with this Denon receiver. The question should be would the AVR S740H work. I've had issues with mine.
john  Dec 12, 2018
A
I am sure it would work with any receiver equipped with an output for a subwoofer.
steve  Dec 12, 2018
A
It appears that AVR has 2 line level outputs for subwoofers. This sub will accommodate that so I see no reason why it shouldn't work with that receiver.
brian  Dec 12, 2018
A
It should. I have a Sony STR-DH550 & it works fine. I'm also running dual subs. So you should be okay.
elbert  Dec 12, 2018
A
You would have to look at the manual or the back of the unit to see if there are subwoofer outputs...
jeff  Dec 12, 2018
A
I don't know. This sub has a basic RCA input. If that receiver has an RCA sub output... yes, it should work. I would do some research, or reach out to customer support. Hope that helps
nathan  Dec 12, 2018
A
Yes it would, def worth it, you will love it
rogelio  Dec 12, 2018
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