New REL T7 / T9 vs. older REL Storm III?


I just got some new speakers and am missing some of the full bodied sound of my previous speakers (Harbeth M-40.1's). I'm allowing myself approx. $1,000 for a REL sub and would like user input on whether I should go with the newer REL T7 or T9, or go with an older Storm versions?

Even though the new "T" series retails for considerably less than the older Storm's, I'm thinking that it's possible that the T series may be a better value given the simpler cabinetry, and maybe there is "flow down" technology on the newer, albeit less expensive T series that make them a better buy than the older, used Storm model.

Any thoughts or first hand experience with both the T series and Storm models would be appreciated.
128x128pdreher

Showing 3 responses by pdreher

Mwheelerk - Curious as to which other REL models you have owned and how the T7 compares? My new speakers (Daedalus Ulysses) are relatively full range, rated down to 28HZ, but I like the idea of adding a sub to fill things out some more / add some body.

I liked my time with the REL Storm III, but not sure I feel comfortable going with an older sub from a reliability standpoint.

Ultimately, sound quality for 2 channel is my number one priority, even if it means going with the older "ST" series REL's.

Forgot to mention my room is 15' x 21', but with a short ceiling @ 6-7'.

I'm thinking I should have bought the Studio III listed, but the seller got a better offer, so I'm out of contention unless the prospective buyer does not come thru with payment.

Sksos1 - I've tried other subs with little satisfaction, including several from Velodyne, so I'm not interested in experimenting with the JL's even though they may be good. I know and like REL, so that's what I'm sticking with... and they are a better value on the used market than the JL's as I'm guessing the JL's are still new and have some fresh buzz about them. Not sure if JL will still have popularity 5 years from now.
I just tracked down a later model Storm III at a good price. I've had this sub before and reluctantly sold it to free up some money for another purchase. I'm pretty confident this sub will fit the bill.

Thanks for everyone's input.
Vladimir - Thanks for the buzzkill. I owned a Storm III for a few years with no problems. While it's always a possibility for gear to go bad and need repair, I get the impression that REL is quite popular and has a solid reputation for reliability. I'm also buying mine from an authorized REL dealer who got it as a trade-in for a new G1, so I'll have dealer backing should it ever need repair.