Bass Traps

Why are GIK products mentioned so much more frequently than ASC Tube Traps on Audiogon? Not that GIK doesn't make fine products, mind you.

Gik soffit traps are broadband traps.  They likely will not work as good as the ACDA traps for stuff around 50hz.  I took a quick look at the Acoustic Sounds stuff.  They make nice quality cabinets, but I think the cost is a lot higher.  For example, the ACDA-12 will do just about the same thing as 3 of the GIK Scopus traps (about the same surface area).  And the GIK traps will be about 70% of the cost of a ACDA-12.  The Scopus will be cheaper to ship since they are only 2 foot x 2 foot each.   The ACDA is a tuned membrane type bass trap that is centered at the 50hz frequency.  So, absorption is 100% at 50hz, but only 60% at 40hz.  Very similar to a GIK Scopus trap.  You can have GIK custom build a Scopus trap for a certain frequency (though they have 3 standard models for 40hz, 70hz, and 100hz).

@bdp24

The main reason is price. ASC products are much more expensive. But there are more reasons as well: Effectiveness and sound.

The GIK Soffit traps are broad, and deep, effective in low ranges where it is difficult to get normal acoustic treatments to work, and a fraction of the cost of the ASC tube traps.

I recently went to a show in Oakland, CA which was sponsored by ASC and Pass. Every room heavily treated by ASC tube traps sucked. The midrange was missing and the bass was 1 note. The few rooms I liked either had minimal ASC or used completely different products, like Vienna Acoustics and Fritz Speakers. Honestly this was counter to my expectations. When I saw the traps in a room I immediately expected I would be treated to a great experience compared to a normal hotel room or exhibition hall.

Also GIK is very hobbyist friendly. They have experts who give much better advice than you’d get on Audiogon (including from me!) even if you aren’t going to spend a lot of money. I have never asked ASC for help, so I cannot compare on this dimension.

Best,


E