ONKYO SKW208 - Subwoofer

SKW208 - Subwoofer ONKYO - Free user manual and instructions

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Product typeActive subwoofer with built-in amplifier, bass-reflex
BrandONKYO
ModelSKW-208
Speaker driver25 cm (10 in.) cone
Frequency response25 – 200 Hz
Rated output power120 W continuous (4 Ω, 100 Hz, 1% distortion)
Input impedance / sensitivity20 kΩ / 550 mV
Subwoofer internal volume37 L (1.3 ft³)
Power supplyAC 230 V, 50 Hz
Power consumption150 W
Dimensions (W x H x D)275 x 507 x 411 mm
Weight11.6 kg
Main functionsVolume control (OUTPUT LEVEL), low-pass filter (FREQUENCY 50-200 Hz), phase switch (PHASE), auto standby (Auto Standby)
Input1 x LINE INPUT (RCA jack)
Included accessoriesRCA cable (3 m), 4 non-slip floor pads
Maintenance and cleaningDust with a soft cloth; for stains, use a slightly damp cloth with a mild detergent, then wipe immediately with a dry cloth. Do not use abrasive products, alcohol, or solvents.
SafetyDisconnect the device during thunderstorms or long periods of non-use. Do not expose to rain or moisture. Do not place objects filled with liquid (vases) on the device.
Spare parts and serviceThe internal fuse is not user-accessible. Contact an authorized ONKYO dealer for any repairs.
General informationVertical use only. Place on a flat, stable surface. Avoid direct sunlight and moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions - SKW208 ONKYO

How do I connect the SKW-208 subwoofer to an amplifier?
Use the supplied RCA cable to connect the LINE INPUT on the subwoofer to the SUBWOOFER PREOUT on your amplifier or AV receiver. Ensure all components are turned off before connecting.
What does the STANDBY/ON indicator mean?
The red indicator means the subwoofer is in standby (Auto Standby). The blue indicator means it is on and receiving a signal. If it stays red when sound is present, increase the subwoofer output level on the amplifier.
How do I adjust the cutoff frequency (FREQUENCY)?
Turn the FREQUENCY knob between 50 and 200 Hz to select the frequency from which the subwoofer reproduces bass. Adjust according to the characteristics of your main speakers for a balanced sound.
What is the PHASE switch for?
The PHASE switch inverts the phase of the subwoofer. In NOR (normal) position, the sound is in phase with the speakers. Try the REV position if the bass sounds hollow or if you want more punch in the low frequencies. Choose the position that gives the strongest bass.
Where should I place the subwoofer for best sound?
Place the subwoofer in a front corner of the room or at one-third the width of a wall. Use the supplied pads to protect the floor and prevent vibrations. The subwoofer must be placed vertically on a flat, stable surface.
Why is there no sound from the subwoofer?
Check that the RCA cable is properly connected, that the OUTPUT LEVEL knob is not at minimum, and that the amplifier is sending a signal. If the indicator turns from red to blue and then off, the thermal protection has activated: lower the volume and unplug the subwoofer for 10 seconds.
How do I clean the subwoofer?
Use a soft, dry cloth to dust. For stains, slightly dampen a cloth with a water and mild detergent solution, then wipe immediately with a dry cloth. Never use abrasive products, alcohol, or solvents.
What is the power of the SKW-208 subwoofer?
It delivers a continuous power of 120 watts into 4 ohms at 100 Hz with less than 1% distortion. Its power consumption is 150 W.
Does the subwoofer normally heat up?
Some heating is normal during operation. Ensure a free space of at least 20 cm on the sides and top, and 10 cm at the rear for sufficient ventilation. If thermal protection triggers, follow the procedure in step 6.
Can I use the SKW-208 with a stereo system without a subwoofer output?
Yes, you can use a Y-cable (RCA splitter) to connect the line output of the amplifier to the LINE INPUT of the subwoofer. Then adjust the cutoff frequency and volume to integrate the subwoofer with the main speakers.

User questions about SKW208 ONKYO

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Why is my SKW208 subwoofer not detecting the signal?
Frequently Asked Questions - 05/05/2026
Response Notice-Facile

If your SKW208 subwoofer is not detecting a signal, here’s how to troubleshoot:

1. Check the power supply of the subwoofer

  • Ensure that the ON/OFF button located on the back panel is in the ON position
  • Check that the AC 230V power cable is properly plugged into a functioning outlet
  • Is the subwoofer in standby mode (indicator light)? If nothing lights up, test the outlet with another device

2. Check the RCA connections (LINE INPUT)

  • The SKW208 subwoofer receives audio signal through the LINE INPUT (RCA jack) on the back panel
  • Make sure the supplied RCA cable is securely connected on both ends: source connector (amplifier, AV receiver, etc.) and RCA input of the subwoofer
  • Check that the cable is not damaged or improperly inserted
  • If you are using a different cable, prefer a quality shielded cable to avoid interference

3. Adjust the subwoofer volume

  • The Output Level button on the back panel should be set to an audible level
  • Start at about 50-75% of the maximum volume and gradually increase

4. Check the audio source

  • Ensure that your amplifier, AV receiver, or audio source is functioning properly
  • Increase the volume of the source to ensure that a signal is actually being sent to the subwoofer
  • Test with another audio source if possible (smartphone, CD player, etc.)

Technical detail: The SKW208 has a Frequency button (50-200 Hz) that adjusts the crossover frequency. Make sure it is set correctly according to your setup (usually around 80 Hz for most installations).

If after these checks the subwoofer still produces no sound, the RCA cable or LINE INPUT may be defective. Try a different RCA cable or contact ONKYO support.

Respond (be the first)
Does the ONKYO SKW208 subwoofer require an external amplifier?
Frequently Asked Questions - 05/05/2026
Response Notice-Facile

No, the SKW208 is an active subwoofer with a built-in amplifier of 120 W. Therefore, you do not need an additional amplifier.

The subwoofer connects directly via RCA (LINE INPUT connector) to the SUBWOOFER PREOUT of your amplifier, AV receiver, or audio source. No intermediate amplification stage is necessary.

Once connected, you can adjust:

  • The output volume via the OUTPUT LEVEL control
  • The cut-off frequency (low-pass filter between 50 Hz and 200 Hz)
  • The phase (NOR/REV positions) to optimize integration with your speakers
Respond (be the first)

Download the instructions for your Subwoofer in PDF format for free! Find your manual SKW208 - ONKYO and take your electronic device back in hand. On this page are published all the documents necessary for the use of your device. SKW208 by ONKYO.

USER MANUAL SKW208 ONKYO

Thank you for purchasing an Onkyo powered subwoofer. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the unit

Following the instructions in this manual will enable you to obtain optimum performance and listening enjoyment from your new powered subwoofer.

Please retain this manual for future reference.

Bedienungsanleitung

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

CAUTION:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

ONKYO SKW208 - CAUTION: - 1

WARNING

RISK OF ELECTRICS

DO NOT OPEN

AVIS

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE

NE PAS OUVRIR

ONKYO SKW208 - AVIS - 1

ONKYO SKW208 - AVIS - 2

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

ONKYO SKW208 - AVIS - 3

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

Important Safety Instructions

  1. Read these instructions.

  2. Keep these instructions.

  3. Heed all warnings.

  4. Follow all instructions.

  5. Do not use this apparatus near water.

  6. Clean only with dry cloth.

  7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

  8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

  9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

  10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

  11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

  12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/ apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.

ONKYO SKW208 - Important Safety Instructions - 1
PORTABLE CART WARNING
S3125A

  1. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
  2. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

  3. Damage Requiring Service

Unplug the apparatus from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:

A. When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged,
B. If liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the apparatus,
C. If the apparatus has been exposed to rain or water,
D. If the apparatus does not operate normally by following the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions as an improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the apparatus to its normal operation,
E. If the apparatus has been dropped or damaged in any way, and
F. When the apparatus exhibits a distinct change in performance this indicates a need for service.

  1. Object and Liquid Entry

Never push objects of any kind into the apparatus through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock.

The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases shall be placed on the apparatus.

Don't put candles or other burning objects on top of this unit.

  1. Batteries

Always consider the environmental issues and follow local regulations when disposing of batteries.

  1. If you install the apparatus in a built-in installation, such as a bookcase or rack, ensure that there is adequate ventilation.

Leave 20cm (8^ ) of free space at the top and sides and 10cm (4^ ) at the rear. The rear edge of the shelf or board above the apparatus shall be set 10cm (4^ ) away from the rear panel or wall, creating a flue-like gap for warm air to escape.

  1. Recording Copyright—Unless it's for personal use only, recording copyrighted material is illegal without the permission of the copyright holder.
  2. AC Fuse—The AC fuse inside the unit is not user-serviceable. If you cannot turn on the unit, contact your Onkyo dealer.
  3. Care—Occasionally you should dust the unit all over with a soft cloth. For stubborn stains, use a soft cloth dampened with a weak solution of mild detergent and water. Dry the unit immediately afterwards with a clean cloth. Don't use abrasive cloths, thinners, alcohol, or other chemical solvents, because they may damage the finish or remove the panel lettering.

  4. Power

WARNING

BEFORE PLUGGING IN THE UNIT FOR THE FIRST TIME, READ THE FOLLOWING SECTION CAREFULLY.

AC outlet voltages vary from country to country. Make sure that the voltage in your area meets the voltage requirements printed on the unit's rear panel (e.g., AC 230 V, 50 Hz or AC 120 V, 60 Hz).

The power cord plug is used to disconnect this unit from the AC power source. Make sure that the plug is readily operable (easily accessible) at all times.

For British models

Replacement and mounting of an AC plug on the power supply cord of this unit should be performed only by qualified service personnel.

IMPORTANT

The wires in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code:

Blue: Neutral

Brown: Live

As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:

The wire which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured black.

The wire which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured red.

IMPORTANT

The plug is fitted with an appropriate fuse. If the fuse needs to be replaced, the replacement fuse must approved by ASTA or BSI to BS1362 and have the same ampere rating as that indicated on the plug. Check for the ASTA mark or the BSI mark on the body of the fuse.

If the power cord's plug is not suitable for your socket outlets, cut it off and fit a suitable plug. Fit a suitable fuse in the plug.

For European Models

Declaration of Conformity

We, ONKYO EUROPE ELECTRONICS GmbH LIEGNITZERSTRASSE 6, 82194 GROEBENZELL, GERMANY

ONKYO SKW208 - For European Models - 1

declare in own responsibility, that the ONKYO product described in this instruction manual is in compliance with the corresponding technical standards such as EN60065, EN55013, EN55020 and EN61000-3-2, -3-3.

GROEBENZELL, GERMANY

ONKYO SKW208 - For European Models - 2

ONKYO EUROPE ELECTRONICS GmbH

Placement

  • The subwoofer cabinet is made out of wood and is therefore sensitive to extreme temperatures and humidity, do not put it in locations subject to direct sunlight or in humid places, such as near an air conditioner, humidifier, bathroom, or kitchen.
  • Do not put water or other liquids close to the subwoofer. If liquid is spilled over the subwoofer, the drive units may be damaged.
  • Subwoofer should only be placed on sturdy, flat surfaces that are free from vibration. Putting it on uneven or unstable surfaces, where it may fall and cause damage, will affect the sound quality.
  • Subwoofer is designed to be used in the upright vertical position only. Do not use it in the horizontal or tilted position.
  • If the subwoofer is used near a turntable, CD player or DVD player, howling or slipping of sound may occur. To prevent this, move it away from the turntable, CD player or DVD player, otherwise lower the unit's output level.

Supplied Accessories

Pin connector cable 10 ft. (3m)

ONKYO SKW208 - Supplied Accessories - 1

4 floor pads for the subwoofer

ONKYO SKW208 - Supplied Accessories - 2

  • In catalogs and on packaging, the letter added to the end of the product name indicates the color of the SKW-208. Specifications and operation are the same regardless of color.

Using the Floor Pads for Subwoofer

If the subwoofer is placed on a hard floor (wood, vinyl, tile, etc.) and playback is very loud, the subwoofer's feet may damage the flooring.

ONKYO SKW208 - Using the Floor Pads for Subwoofer - 1

To prevent this, place the supplied pads underneath the subwoofer's feet. The pads also provide a stable base for the subwoofer.

FRONT VIEW

ONKYO SKW208 - FRONT VIEW - 1

① STANDBY/ON indicator

Red: Subwoofer in standby mode
Blue: Subwoofer on

The Auto Standby function will automatically set the SKW-208 to Standby mode when there is no input signal, or when the input signal is below a certain level.

Note:

If the Auto Standby function sets the SKW-208 to Standby mode even when an input signal is present, the input signal level is too low. In this case, increase the subwoofer output level on the amplifier or AV receiver connected to the SKW-208.

REAR PANEL

ONKYO SKW208 - REAR PANEL - 1

② POWER switch

Press this switch to the ON position to turn on the power. Press it to the OFF position to turn off the power.

③ FREQUENCY knob

Use this knob to select the high-frequency range at which to cut off the signal to the subwoofer. You can select any frequency between 50Hz and 200Hz , depending on the characteristics of the speaker system.

(4) PHASE switch

Use this switch to reverse the phase of the SKW-208. Normally, set the switch to the "NOR" position. Depending on the connected speakers or the installation environment of the SKW-208 however, the "REV" position may result in better sound. Select the switch position that produces a louder bass sound.

⑤ OUTPUT LEVEL knob

Use this knob to adjust the volume of the subwoofer.

LINE INPUT jack

Connect this jack to the SUBWOOFER PREOUT jacks on the amplifier etc.

Connections

For safety considerations, turn off all other system components before you connect or disconnect any component and plug the power cable for the last.

Using the SKW-208 with an AV amplifier

When using the SKW-208 in conjunction with an AV amplifier or receiver that features surround capability, connect the SKW-208 LINE INPUT to SUBWOOFER PREOUT jack using the supplied pin connector cable.

ONKYO SKW208 - Using the SKW-208 with an AV amplifier - 1

Subwoofer effects

Adding a subwoofer to your speaker system expands the bandwidth of the bass range. However, if the subwoofer's reproduction bandwidth or sound output level is improperly adjusted, the overall performance may decrease, as shown in the graphs below.

ONKYO SKW208 - Subwoofer effects - 1
When the subwoofer's reproduction bandwidth is correct

ONKYO SKW208 - Subwoofer effects - 2
When the subwoofer's output level is incorrect

ONKYO SKW208 - Subwoofer effects - 3
When the subwoofer's reproduction bandwidth is far from the speaker's bandwidth

ONKYO SKW208 - Subwoofer effects - 4
When the subwoofer's reproduction bandwidth is close to the speaker's bandwidth

Crossover frequency and output level

  • Adjust the SKW-208 output level and crossover frequency to suit your listening room and connected speakers.
  • Be aware that you might set the subwoofer to a high output level because superbass-range sound is less audible than other sound ranges. To obtain well-balanced frequency characteristics, set the output level to a slightly lower level than seems optimal. (This will also prevent the input of signals that are too strong.)

Note:

Be careful not to allow the input of excessive power. Input levels that greatly exceed normal situations can damage the SKW-208. Also note that switching operations at the amplifier may generate excessive noise that may result in damage. When using switches at the amplifier, first lower the volume to prevent accidental damage.

Placement

The placement of the SKW-208 can greatly affect the sound that is produced. In general, a good bass sound can be obtained by installing the subwoofer in a front corner, or at one-third the width of the wall, as shown.

ONKYO SKW208 - Placement - 1

Troubleshooting

The unit does not turn on

  • The power plug is not fully inserted.

Insert the power plug fully into the power outlet.

No sound is output

  • The OUTPUT LEVEL knob is set to the MIN level.

Set the OUTPUT LEVEL knob properly.

  • Pin connector cable is not properly connected to the LINE INPUT jack.
  • The speaker setting at the amplifier (or receiver) is incorrect.

Check the settings at the amplifier (or receiver).

  • The input signal is so small that the unit entered Standby mode.
    Slightly increase the output level at the amplifier (or receiver).
  • If the STANDBY/ON indicator lights up (both red and blue LEDs) several seconds or minutes after the sound output stopped, this means that the amp protection circuit has been activated. In this case, set the OUTPUT LEVEL knob to the center position, and disconnect the power cord from the AC outlet. Wait at least 10 seconds, and then reconnect the power cord. If that doesn't solve the issue, contact your Onkyo dealer.

Low sound output

  • The sound source might not include a superbass range.
    Play a sound source that includes a superbass range.

Hum noise

Pin connector plug is not inserted completely.
Fully insert the pin connector plug.
- External leakage flux (induction noise by TV, etc.) occurs.
Relocate the SKW-208 away from the noise source and re-connect.

Specifications

TypeBass-reflex with built-in power amplifier
Input sensitivity/impedance550 mV / 20 kΩ
Frequency response25–200 Hz
Rated output power120 watts minimum continu- uos power, 4 ohms, driven at 100 Hz with a maximum total harmonic distortion of 1 %
Cabinet capacity37 L (1.3 cubic feet)
Drivers unit25 cm (10 inch) cone woofer
Power supplyAC 230 V, 50 Hz
Power consumption150 W
Dimensions (W × H × D)275 × 507 × 411 mm (10-13/16" × 19-15/16" × 16-3/16")
Weight11.6 kg (25.6 lbs.)
AccessoryPin connector cable (1 pc.) Instruction manual (this man- ual) Floor pad (4 pcs.)
OthersAuto standby

Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice.

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Product information

Brand : ONKYO

Model : SKW208

Category : Subwoofer