|
Audio Asylum Thread Printer Get a view of an entire thread on one page |
For Sale Ads |
In a perfect world, I'd go REL, but my budget will not allow this. I want to spend under $500. I was pretty much headed into a Hsu VTF-2 until I stumbled into some reviews of the Energy ES-8. Smaller is better in my situation. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.
Jon
Follow Ups:
If space is at a premium there's a lot ot be said for the seahorse's advice -- upgrade to some nice floorstanders, which will probably use no more floor space than what you have now and which won't pose integration problems. If smaller is better you probably don't have a lot of options in terms of placing the sub.That said, the VTF-2 is not a bad thing and relatively adjustable.
If you have basic woodworking skills, you can save a lot of money. For example, you can get the ACI SV12 (the same driver as in their > $1000 Titan sub)with their PSA1 250w amp for just over $300. Comparable systems are also available from Adire Audio(Shiva and Tempest drivers, Stryke (Lambda drivers),etc... Even if you can't build your own cabinet, you can get a pre-cut cabinet from Parts Express and still come in well under $500, and get a sub far better than a $500 commercial sub.
I think the Hsu may be the most musical, most accurate choice in that price range.
Also reading great things about the Adire Rava for a few bucks less. Anyone have anything to say about the VTF-2 vs. the Rava?Thanks.
In a similar situation as you. I have narrowed it down to the ACI Quake, the Rava and the VTF-2. All under $500, with the Quake being the most expensive and the Rava being the least. I'd be interested to hear about people's experiences with both. If I had the money, I would just buy two and compare...but that's why I'm looking for a sub that's <$500, because I don't have $1000. :0)
-Steve
NFT!
nt
There's a Mirage BPS-150 for sale used right now at audiogon for $350. It uses 2 8" drivers in a somewhat large box. I've owned this model sub for quite a few years, and I can say it definitely does not screw up the sound of the main speakers. It will not shake the room for HT effects and it will not go flat to 20 Hz (20 Hz is about 6 db down from 25 Hz, which is as low as it goes).It will, however, play plenty loud enough in an average sized room to keep up with the typical pair of standmount speakers. In my system, I'm using to help the main speakers below about 45 Hz.
See inmate systems for the rest of my stuff.
I've thought about replacing it with a Rel Strata or Storm. Although I certainly admit that the Strata I heard sounds better (because it goes lower), it doesn't sound 3 times better, which is the factor by which I would need to increase my investment in subwoofer to buy the Strata.
JBL PB12 @ about $270.00.
Before you forget it, check out the Adire RAVA sub based on the Shive II 12" driver. It's a sealed low Q design that is very musical and only $399.
If your budget is under $500, it's better to save your money, and get a new pair of speakers, ones that better match your room. Trying to integrate a sub on that budget will only give you fits.If you feel you are currently lacking bass oomph, I suggest one or more of the following: re-positioning your speakers; top-notch stands or bases; better cables; room acoustic treatments; powerline conditioning; or simply get modern-day high-end electronics, all of which sound full-bodied. I don't know of any true high-end product that sounds lean or bass-shy.
-Lummy The Seahorse
This post is made possible by the generous support of people like you and our sponsors: