I’ve been hearing some remarkable commentary about the SVS Prime series, and in 2024 I attended Axpona where I got to hear their groundbreaking Ultra Evolution speakers. I enjoyed the Ultra Evolution Pinnacles immensely, but was not able to check out any of the Prime series speakers. So later on, when I was setting up an office area in a relatively small space, I thought that the SVS Prime bookshelf speakers were a perfect testing opportunity. I must say that I am really glad I did!
The room is a small space (measuring roughly 12 x14 feet) with cabinetry and several work stations, and I tend to listen to music from various locations unlike in a dedicated listening space. But regardless of where I am positioned or in what manner I tend to be listening, these compact bookshelves fill that room with a clean, punchy sound that really envelops.
To test the speakers I connected my Cambridge Audio CXA61 integrated amplifier and TEAC PD-301-X CD Player / FM Tuner. A TEAC 280 turntable provided sound from vinyl, and streaming was done with Spotify and Bluetooth through the very capable Bluetooth and DAC of the CXA61.
What struck me initially was the amount of bass that gets delivered from these compact SVS speakers. I tested them at various volume levels and of course that made a difference, but to be fair the bass delivery held its own across a fairly wide range of volumes. In fact, I would go as far as to say that as far as bass is concerned, they stack up against many more expensive midsize bookshelves featuring larger drivers. My expectation was that regardless of other aspects of the speaker, I would need to accompany them with a sub to really enjoy their full potential. SVS may not wish to hear that as they have some spectacular subwoofers too, but in this case I filled my small room with enough thump to brag about it, as well as have my wife complain that her movie was being interrupted by it. That said, I still want to pair these up with an SVS subwoofer to hear the difference, and when I do, I will certainly let you know the results. My guess is that it will be even more remarkable.
After listening to some Al Stewart and Mark Knopfler to get a feel for the speakers, I inserted my reference CD, Medusa by Annie Lennox. When I played “Take Me To The River” it blew my mind apart! The full dynamic range that the SVS Primes delivered heralded in a new SVS devotee.
The finish of the cabinets tease with a slight bevel in combination with a smooth, deep Piano Gloss Black luster that really upscales the aesthetic of the speakers. The tweeter has a protective grille that adds to its quality presentation. In my mind these are a can’t-miss choice.
Regardless of the listening circumstances in the small room I can say with confidence that these wonderful speakers, performing above their price point, boast a depth-filled soundstage with all the separation and distinctive highs and mids that you would expect of a top-tier speaker. Way to go SVS!
The SVS Prime Bookshelf Speakers are $599.98/pair in the Premium Black Ash finish and $699.98/pair in the Piano Gloss Black that I tested. SVS has the best guarantee in the audio world, with free shipping, 60-day price protection in case they go on sale after you purchase, and a 45-day home trial with free return shipping. What does that mean? SVS will even pay for return shipping and give you a full refund! SVS demonstrates loud and clear how much faith they have in their products. Count me among the believers.