Totem Model 1 Sig with Sub or Mani 2 without a Sub

I think it would be a downgrade. The bass from the Model 1 plus the sub will not be as refined as the bass from the Mani-2 for the bass frequencies which they have in common. The Model 1 plus the sub will give you lower bass frequencies than the Mani 2 alone, but the trade-off is lesser quality bass in the mid and upper bass (and other frequencies for that matter). If you would like deeper bass than the Mani 2 can provide, why not add a sub to the Mani 2 rather than drop down to the Model 1?

Keep in mind that this is relative. The Model 1 is still a very good speaker.

Personally, I've never found a sub/monitor combination to be as well integregrated as a larger speaker in the same manufacturer's line without a sub.

I'm using a Rel Storm III with my Mani-2s - just to get that last little bit. It's arguably overkill, and in fact for a lot of music the sub isn't even noticeable (ie I can turn it off and not miss it).

Given you already have the Manis, why not buy a sub and pair it with them first? That is, why do you think you have to trade in the Mani-2s if all you seek is deeper bass?

OTOH, one thing I noticed is it's easier to integrate a sub if the crossover is at a little higher point. I had Totem Sttafs prior to the Manis. It took a few nanoseconds to get the Sub set up with the Sttafs (x-over at 38Hz), but a fair amount of effort to do so with the Manis(x-over at 30Hz). I guess the other reason may be a little bit of cash you may net in the exchange, but I still don't think I'd do it if it were me.

Not even close, IMO. I have the Mani’s and Model 1’s. I also have a Velodyne DD12 sub. Currently I use the Mani’s for the front speakers and the Model 1’s for the rears in a combination 2ch. /home theater setup. I have quite frequently switched the Model 1’s to the front in combination with the sub to listen to 2ch. just to “see how close I can get to the Mani’s”. Again, I have to say not even close. I also have found that more often than not I’m turning the sub off when listening to 2 ch. with the Mani’s. It’s just not needed. If you’re looking for that last little bit of deep base you cannot obtain from the Mani’s then add a sub to your Mani’s. Switching to Model 1’s would be a step backwards, IMO.

Thanks for the input,I believe I will just keep the Mani 2 and just save for my sub in the future.

Good save, everyone. ;)