The CT Sounds Meso Series and the Skar Audio SVR Series are both extremely well-built subwoofers series. They feature several different models and variants as well as premium materials and construction. They are built to deliver loud and clear sound and are built to handle high peak power ratings. However, when it comes down to it, the Meso Series is far superior.
Table of Contents
Available Sizes
Both the CT Sounds Meso Series and the Skar Audio SVR Series feature several sizes and model variants.
The Meso Series is available in 6.5-inch, 8-inch, 10-inch, 12-inch, and 15-inch models. The series also features Dual 2-Ohm and Dual 4-Ohm variants for each model. The series also features progressive RMS power ratings ranging from 400 W to 1500 W.
The Skar Audio SVR Series is available in 8-inch, 10-inch, 12-inch, and 15-inch models. Each model is available in 2 variants (Dual 2-Ohm and 4-Ohm versions). The series also features progressive RMS power ratings which range from 400 W to 800 W.
With regards to choice, the CT Sounds Meso Series takes this round. While both series feature dual 2-Ohm and 4-Ohm variants, CT Sounds have far more models to choose from. Whether your enclosure is large or small, you can find nearly all the sizes you need from it. With the Skar Audio SVR series, you’re limited in comparison.
So, the Meso Series takes it.
Build Quality
The Meso Series and the SVR Series both feature premium materials and solid construction.
The CT Sounds Meso Series features high-temperature voice coils ranging from 2.0-inch to 3.0-inch in size. All subwoofers feature a 4-layer black vented copper wiring voice coil and a triple slug Y35 grade optimized motor.
The Meso also includes a die-cast aluminum basket and “competition mega foam surround”. The construction also includes dual braided tinsel leads and a pure Nomex spider pack.
The subwoofer features a composite paper with 5% carbon fiber reinforcement and a signature chrome plate low-carbon iron bottom plate. To maximize functionality and shelf life, there is also an advanced air cooling system built into the subwoofers.
The Skar Audio SVR Series features high-temperature voice coils as well. All the subwoofers in this series feature a 2.6-inch 4-layer copper voice coil. The coil is enclosed in a stamped steel basked which utilizes an advanced airflow cooling system. This allows the subwoofers to dissipate heat fast and operate on continuous RMS peak power.
The SVR Series subwoofers are equipped with ferrite motors to deliver a powerful driving force behind the seams. The smallest subwoofers feature a 98 oz motor, while the largest models feature a 153 oz motor.
The subwoofers feature a suspension design with Skar Audio’s very own red, single-layer spider. This connects to the coil former with “premium-stitched” lead wires. Like the CT Sound Meso Series, the Skar Audio SVR Series also features an advanced design, a “competition grade” pressed paper cone.
Both subwoofer series are pretty even here. The build quality is rated to handle very sufficiently high RMS power ratings. However, there is a clear difference between the RMS power ratings between the two series. Even if we take into account peak power handling, the CT Sounds Meso Series is far ahead.
Accounting for the smaller details of the construction, the Skar Audio SVR Series has a single magnetic slug. The trip slug count of the CT Sounds Meso Series delivers greater power.
Hence, it stands to reason that the CT Sounds Meso Series has superior build quality. The subwoofers are just built to handle higher peak power.
Sound
Both series of subwoofers are built to handle peak power, but there is a vast difference between their RMS ratings. The CT Sounds Meso Series is built to handle almost twice the RMS power than the Skar Audio SVR Series. Hence, the CT Sounds Meso Series can deliver a much louder volume. However, does that necessarily mean that it delivers a “better” sound?
The sensitivity ratings on both subwoofer series’ models are comparable. The lowest-end CT Sounds Meso Series subwoofer has a sensitivity rating of 83.20 dB. Its counterpart in the Skar Audio SVR Series subwoofer has a sensitivity rating of 82.0 dB. The highest-end Meso Series subwoofer has a sensitivity rating of 89.70 dB. The highest-end Skar Audio SVR Series subwoofer has a sensitivity rating of 88.50 dB.
Again, both series of subwoofers feature 2-Ohm and 4-Ohm variants, which can count for similar performance. The similarity in sensitivity ratings, and impedance, as well as sizes, makes it hard to figure out which one is better.
The only clear difference is the RMS power rating, and that only counts for the volume of sound. As far as raw power is concerned, the CT Sounds Meso Series takes this round.
Price
Comparing prices for similar models in the two series, we see that the CT Sounds Meso Series is more expensive. In fact, the CT Sounds Meso Series is more than twice as expensive. Yet, the superior build quality and the higher RMS power ratings of CT Sounds justify this price increase.
The Skar Audio SVR Series, on the other hand, deliver about half the RMS power rating. They are also overall less impressive in terms of build quality. Then, there’s the warranty on the CT Sounds Subwoofers.
The CT Sounds subwoofers come with a 90-day limited warranty out of the box. However, each purchase of subwoofers can be bought with an optional 1, 2, or 3-year extended warranty. However, that warranty can only be availed through a third-party vendor.
You should know that the warranty mentioned here doesn’t cover a lot of damage to the product. If you cause the damages yourself or try to repair the subwoofers yourself, or improperly install them, the warranty’s voided. Also, you need to send back the subwoofer in its original packaging and with all its accessories. Without that, there is a 30% restocking fee which will be deducted from your refund.
CT Sounds also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee after the delivery date. The team inspects the product and then gives you a full refund within 3-5 business days.
Together with the superior build quality and these assurances, the CT Sounds Meso Series justifies its price.
The Skar Audio SVR Series also offers a 2-year limited warranty. This is available with every purchase without any extra purchases required. This makes the Skar Audio SVR Series even more of a bargain.
With all this information in mind, it’s hard to decide which series to pick. Both Skar Audio and CT Sounds subwoofers are manufactured in China. Hence, there’s not much of a difference when it comes to quality craftsmanship. However, there is a big difference in build quality as the RMS power rating confirms.
Hence, if you’re looking for power, go with CT Sounds.
Video
Check out the MESO 10″ Unboxing & First Look
Also, see the SRV 12″ in action.
Final Verdict
The CT Sounds Meso Series is superior when you put the price aside. Their build quality, warranty system, and coverage are all superior to the Skar Audio Series. You can even choose more models when it comes to the CT Sounds Series.
This variation and the promise of loud and clear sound make the CT Sounds Series the right choice. You may be paying extra compared to the Skar Audio Series, but the end product is worth it. If you’re not on a budget and want quality subwoofers for your car, this is the best deal you will get.
With premium construction materials at bargain prices, the CT Sounds Meso Series takes it by a mile.
FAQ
Who Makes CT Sounds?
CT Sounds subwoofers are manufactured in China.
Who is Skar Made By?
Skar Audio is assembled in China.
Is Skar Made in the USA?
Skar Audio headquarters are located in the St. Petersburg district, Florida. However, all the assembly and manufacturing are outsourced to China.
Why is Skar Audio So Cheap?
Skar Audio is cheap because of its outsourcing to China. However, they also make more mid-range products compared to their competitors. Hence, they can afford to undercut their competition.
What Does Skar Audio Compare To?
Skar Audio is more appropriately compared to mid-grade SLP (sound pressure level) subwoofer brands like Rockville, CT Sounds, and DS18. Skar Audio is still a relatively new brand in the market and is unknown compared to brands like Kenwood and JL.
Other articles to consider:
Skar Audio vs. Sundown Audio
Skar Audio vs. Rockford Fosgate
Skar Audio vs. DS18
Skar Audio vs. JL Audio
Skar Audio vs. Rockville
