A few quick further notes:
I used a pair of SPLR 8 subs (recently replaced) in my 14'x23'x17'high room. IME, if you want flat, extended bass response, the internal EQ in the SPLRs won't get you there. I had 3 significant suckouts below 100hz which couldn't be addressed as well as audibly diminished SPLs below 40 or 45 hz.
Replacing the 8" Velodynes with 12" subs reduced the need for EQ dramatically. However, the SMS was still tremendously valuable in determining the best location for the new subs.
Kal has much more experience with these devices than I do, so I'd believe him when he says that you can do better than the SMS-1. However, since my experience in 2 channel room analysis + bass EQ is limited to this device, I can offer no comparative assessment - other than to no room analysis + bass EQ at all. I can tell you - pretty much unequivocally - that the SMS is MUCH BETTER than no room analysis + bass EQ at all.
The SMS allowed essentially ruler flat response to 25hz with the SPLR 8s.
Marty
PS Replacing the subs didn't substantially change the on-axis, in-room response, but it did significantly change the sound of the system. I mention this because I don't want to overstate the impact of room analysis + bass EQ. Clearly, there's more to it than merely flat response. However, flat response (from either set of subs) was - IMHO - vastly superior to the alternative.