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User feedback on subs

While it’s not a path I want to go down, it turns out I need some subs for my cabin system. After trying lots of positions with little success, and after having discussions with people who’s experience and knowledge I respect, I’ve concluded it’s the only way for me to deal with some serious modes in an odd shaped room and to produce adequate bass in the large volume. Sigh.

Subs are relatively unfamiliar territory for me. Based on the conversations noted, I am leaning toward sealed subs - no ports/passive radiators -  to better blend with my main speakers. 

While I’m leaning toward REL #31s, also under consideration are Sonus Faber Gravis VI, Perlisten D series, and Martin Logan Balanced Force (now Depth?). All are subs I can get from dealers in my home state. The SF dealer also carries Paradigm but he hasn’t suggested any of those models - even their reference ones. While available at the same dealer who can provide Perlisten, I’ve ruled out JL Audio for reasons I’d rather not discuss here.

The SF have a high level connection very similar to REL - intuitively my preferred connection. SF and Perlisten (I’m unsure about ML) have an app which assists in setup though I’ve been reviewing enough setup routines that I “think” I’ll get better results with a manual process. 

The Perlistens are completely unfamiliar though appear well designed and solidly built. However, they do not have a high level connection which means I’d have to send my preamp feed to them and output from there to the amps. I have what I think is a very nice sounding preamp and I do not want to harm that purity. Perhaps my worry is misplaced. I have the same concern with the ML. 

All the subs under consideration can do what I need. But they are obviously not all equal. The REL is the easy (safe?) choice, though significantly more expensive than the others. The Gravis can be ordered to match the finish on my main speakers - not important, but nice to have. 

So - given the above, any user feedback on the subs I’m considering?  I welcome pros and cons.

Importantly, auditioning them in system is not possible as that location is a 4 hour drive each way from any of the dealers. So, I want to get it right. 

TIA

mgrif104
parkergetdean
1,111 posts
 

The floor is two parts: 1.5” tongue and grove yellow pine over 6x10” hewn logs exposed to the main floor, with 2x6” sleepers glued and nailed down on top of those

what a detailed description, must be beautiful flooring! Who cares about the hifi stuff after this

tomic601's avatar
tomic601
13,748 posts
 

I will look for the Copeland you speak of. Reference Recordings always excellent. Might I suggest 2L also… the Nordic Sound.

yes model of your actual room is something that might strain a Cray… the advantage of a split analog system running your mains and a preamp line out to a DSP with microphone at listening position is reality governs vs a model.

there is an all analog option but I think it is outside your budget at about $10K with 2x Vandersteen Sub3 and a required high pass filter - which will improve your midrange. 

tomic601's avatar
tomic601
13,748 posts
 

Checking with your preamp manufacturer is prudent, using both an SE and XLR out as same time… may or may not present a problem.

bassbuyer's avatar
bassbuyer
912 posts
 

I agree with 2 subs whichever brand you decide on.  I’ve had an excellent experience with SVS.  They have great customer service where you can call and talk to a real person and describe what you’re looking for. You can then buy and try for 45 days and return for free in the US if you want to try something else or are not satisfied. 

mswale
382 posts
 

2 subs! Also think DSP should be a priority. With that suggested placement, you might want to also get subs with remote inputs. 

No one has ever said REL subs are bad, but they do not have DSP

Honestly, with the budget you are suggesting would not go down the SVS route, as the other options are a bit better for music.

Don't have any experience with the other subs. My system just got upgraded with 2 ML Abyss 10 subs, they are magnificent!!! Have easy to use/setup DSP, come out of the box with remote input, have a easy to use app. They provide a ton of good detailed bass. Think you going up the latter will be even better. 

 

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