Monitor with sub or Full Range Speakers

IMHO, it's not whether to use a sub or full-range mains, but how you integrate the sub with the mains. I personally prefer towers with a powered sub. But not just any sub. I had a Def Tech PF15 for many years, and the bass was always boomy, undefined and lagged behind the rythm of the music. I patiently waited for two Vandersteen V2q subs to come up for sale locally on Audiogon, and I couldn't be more pleased. Two might be a budget buster for you, but used, they usually fetch between $750 and $850, and you must purchase in-line hi-pass filters from a Vandersteen dealer after you use the temporary x-over to dial it in (another $120).

Although my Vandy 1Cs will not be my last speaker, the V2q subs are staying forever, that's how pleased I am. Read about this sub on the Vandy web site - they have a unique design that really allows a seamless blend with your mains. They are also designed to work in a corner, and do so quite well, eliminating the need for a lot of experimentation. Bass is tight, detailed, deep and tuneful. Best of all, the V2q does not call attention to itself; the bass seems to energize the room, but only when there is deep bass in the source material. It's not a thumping boom box, but for music, I could not imagine a better subwoofer value.

Add a pair of Vandersteen 2Ce Sig IIs ($2000 new) to this sub and you might really like the results. The V2q should blend well with any mains that have decent output down to 40Hz and 86 to 100 dB efficiency ratings.

Oops - sorry - the Vandersteen subwoofer model is 2Wq.

"I have a budget of $3,000.00 for a pair of used speakers... My listening is mostly jazz, old R&B, and contemporary Christin music."

"Looking for comments from those who have owned both and why they preferred one or the other.

My room is about 18 x 14 with 9ft ceilings."

Hi Revrob,

I have also had both types of setups. I think it will cost you well over $3000 to buy Monitors, Stands, and 1 or 2 Subs. That aside, it is very difficult to mate Monitors and Subs, however with more money, patience, and skill, the sound could be very rewarding.

However, with your budget, room size, current equipment, and the types of music that you listen to, I think you will do better with floor standing speakers. Now, with that being said, you could always add a Sub to the floor standers, down the line.

Rich

Rich,

I did find monitors, subwoofer, and stands for about $3,000 shipped from Selah Audio. Rick from Selah has some really good product and as soon as I sell some of my equipment I may pull the trigger on these. I usually don't buy new but I am intrigued by the Selah line of speakers.

Thanks for all the comments, I guess this is an ongoing debate on this topic.

Both ways work.

The debate always comes via those who just haven't dove into the other pool yet.