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Subwoofer match for Harbeth 30.1

I'm considering adding a single sub to my system, now running the Harbeth 30.1 monitors. Considering the usual suspects - REL or JL Audio. In my room, the 30.1 have a great midbass, but would benefit from some support below 50hz.

Has anyone had particularly good results matching a sub with the 30.1?

Thanks 'Goners,
-Bob R
bob_rodgers
tompoodie
37 posts
 
The new E Sub line from JL audio; There are several good reviews out that are easy to find. I think you would be hard-pressed to find better performance or better value. I love also that they are made in America.
take that, REL
bob_rodgers OP
38 posts
 
Thanks all-
Looks like everybody is thinking along the same lines. I'll check into the Vandersteen 2WQ as well.

Let me know if anyone has any specific RELs that would match up best. I've been looking at the older B Series, but think that maybe a sealed design (as opposed to ported) would match the quickness and resolution of the Harbeth 30.1 a bit better.
tompoodie
37 posts
 
If you are open to used, I believe that the definitive match is the
REL Strata III . I have seen them in the $8-$900 range. I have one which I use with compact 7s and feel it is a fantastic match. It isa sealed 10 inch downward firing design. If you look at the old reviews, I think you will be impressed. In its day it was hands-down the most musical sub woofer. The Vandersteen is clearly also a good choice.One drawback however is that it is designed to match with a speaker that goes down to 40 Hz. There will be a slight mismatch with the 30.1.
valinar
474 posts
 
I use a REL Strata III with my 30.1's. It is a good match. If you go with a REL forget about the stock neutrik cable and upgrade it.
jimmy2615
443 posts
 
Bob, I had the B1 with Harbeth HL-3s some years ago. It was great, and I think you would be fine with this sub and speaker combination. That said, unless it is important for you to match wood grain finishes, I would not count out the newer RELs or the JLs, for that matter. I currently have the JL E-112 paired with KEF LS50s, and depending on the music you listen to, the JLs have a nice 'clean' (accurate) bass response that pairs well. I would also recommend the older REL ST series. While I liked the Britannia B1, it did not seem to load the room like the ST series did (I had a storm some years before). But either way, I think you'll be well served by either brand. The RELs are musical, as everyone says. The JLs do put out more low bass, as the measurements suggest. Also, as another data point, I have had 3 RELs and never had any technical problems with them. They are well made and the amplifiers seem to work forever.
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