Are the JL Fathom subs really that good....

I use a small sub (Sunfire HRS 8) in my bedroom system and a larger sub (Essex SW 2) in my main system. The rooms and systems are very different, but I've been able to seemlessly integrate both subs. I believe that component/speaker matching and set up are the key.

I usually use a three step setup method:

In the first step, I deal with the main speaker acoustics only.....measurements and tweaking, until I get a fairly smooth freq response, and with a smooth rolloff (no large peaks/dips)

In the second step, I deal with the subwoofer acoustics only....same as above, measurements, tweaking, ect

In the third and final step, I am simply bringing the two speaker systems together, to join as one integrated system. This is the hard part, and where crossover points, filter slopes...and maybe some tricks, and trade offs begin.

If I've corrected most bass problems, in steps one and two...that only leaves the unexpected compounding problems to correct, as the two systems interact in the room.

Some small amount of EQ'ing could help here.

My room is fairly large, my speakers are planer types (Apogee Duetta Signatures)...and my subwoofers are large monopole cone types (VMPS passive subwoofers)....integration is top notch. As a matter of fact, I've "never" had anyone pick up on the fact, that the subwoofers were in play...they always think it's the Apogees speakers only.

Dave

Patience....Patience....Patience.

For my 2-channel customers, I typically recommend a sub for each channel. This adds some benefits for difficult rooms. I also like subs with larger drivers in a sealed enclosure. It can be trial and error and does take some patience, though.

The JL Fathoms are very nice subs.

In general, I agree with all responses here in that it's all about setup when integrating subs into a 2-channel system. If the setup is not done properly, one will feel that subs will not bring any appreciable or beneficial results when the sound is ruined further. If the setup is done properly, one will be amply rewarded by the full extended bass that the main speakers fail to reproduce. The key is countless of hours of trial and error and patience with a wide variety of listening material, and a reasonably good set of ears.

"I think you don't know how to setup a sub...or have a general understanding of sound reproduction, and small room acoustics."

When and where did I ever say that I have ever tried to set up a sub!? And then, upon what basis do you make the second and third comments?

My lord, please don't let this place degrade to the likes of the AA....

Thank you to all that posted substantive and helpful comments..

Enjoy the journey!

John