Upgrading sub to get a live feel.

Hello mcreyn,

     I agree with you that a pair of higher output subs such as the Seatons, JL Audios and larger SVS subs, properly positioned and configured, are capable of providing good bass response performance at a single designated listening position sweet spot at a higher volume level than a pair of SB or PB 1000s subs are capable of. 
     I'm not certain, however, whether a pair of SB-1000s and a pair of PB-1000s setup as a 4-sub DBA system, would provide a sufficiently high bass volume level to meet the OP's requirement or even exceed the bass volume level of a pair of larger and more expensive subs are capable of at his listening position sweet spot.
    Just as we're unsure of the exact size of the OP's room, we're unsure of the OP's actual desired bass volume level requirements, "live sounding bass" is not very specific.  I can only rely on my own perception of loud bass but the four relatively small Swarm subs in my room are capable of providing very good bass performance almost flat down to 20 Hz and at extremely high wall- shaking volume levels, much higher than I prefer.
     Of course, it's the OP's preference on bass volume levels that matter.  Hopefully, he'll respond again soon and let us know.

Tim

I agree with a lot of what has been said but in my experience ported subs for music reproduction is a no-no. Using ported subs can create phasing issues. You will hear thick rich low end but will loose punch and clarity, specially if your main speakers are also ported. I do not have any experience with a DBA system ( and I wish I did) so this effect maybe reduced. I do achieve a very live feel with my system with a pair of SVS SB4000s and a pair of book shelf speakers.

Hey Tim, its great to read you love your four subwoofers.  I may be wrong but it kind of seems like I read it before.

Tim,

We do have a pretty good idea on the OP's preference for bass levels, he has a pair of SB1000s and is not satisfied.  To get a significant feeling of increased volume, he needs to pick up 10db.   Adding two more SB1000s will only net him about 6db (again, because we are not co-locating).  The PB-1000 a little more.  Two Seaton Submerssive HPs are capable of 115+ db at 20hz without room gain.  By 30 hz, we are well over 120db.  We do know this will keep up with his current speakers as well as his future speakers.  

Audiorusty,

You make an excellent point about the phase issues with vented subs.  While a well designed vented sub can have virtually the same transient response as a well designed sealed sub, the vented has far more phase change through its range.  Sealed subs are easier to integrate, especially with multiples.  

jetter:
"Hey Tim, its great to read you love your four subwoofers. I may be wrong but it kind of seems like I read it before."

Hello jetter,

     Okay wiseguy, I get the sarcasm.  Yes, I may have previously mentioned a few thousand times on various threads just how amazingly well 4-sub DBAs actually work.  
     Sorry, but I felt the overwhelming responsibility to spread the word to the humans, kind of like that long-haired bearded guy a few thousand years ago spreading the word about his father.  
     What can I say?  I am a true believer.  The only difference being I'd likely cut it out if threatened with crucifixion.  I'm a true believer but have my limits.

Tim