Subs: sealed vs. ported

Yeah, I'm not doubting the grin-factor with the SVS PB13 Ultra, or the SB13 Ultra, or really any of the 'real' subs out there, especially since I have no reference. And I'm guessing that placement/integration will make as much or more of a difference than the variances between brands?

I'm not a cheapskate, but I like deals as well. So right at that point when the money's burned almost through my pocket, whichever one I can get 'the deal' on will likely find it's way to my room...leaning towards sealed, liking the SVS, can't shake the ULS15, even though I have seen some disparaging comments on HSU, I can't ignore the reviews either...(There are those who would call a Krell amp 'crap'...;)) Not having much luck finding REL, although eBay has one in Florida for $700, an R505? Any comments on that?

Yakbob - Any input on an REL Stadium III for $1700? One just popped up within 15 miles....A little higher than I wanted to go, but for a one time purchase...?

I have not used the wireless function on the ULS-15s. My subs are set up stereo fashion next to my mains. Wireless...it's nice to have the option, I just haven't needed it. And yes, it would make finding the right location easier. The only possible downside is interference with cordless phones or anything else that might use the same frequency as the wireless antennae. There are several channel options to combat this however.

You will not give up anything using the ULS-15 vs. a ported sub for movies. These things offer bombastic amounts of bass. My pair are somewhat overkill, but at the time I wanted more headroom than a pair of 12s would give in my room. Large volume, large vaulted ceiling, open floor plan...all that bad stuff.

That said, if sound quality is your main objective, I would still lean towards the SB13+ if your room is on the medium to small size. The ULS could be considered overkill, and while it goes a lot deeper and louder than my SB12 pair did, they required the employment of a sub EQ to tame them. My room had some awful room gain. The SVS subs weren't as chest thumping deep, but in my opinion offered up better sound quality for music. I'd expect the SB13 Ultra to provide better SPL output than the SB12+...maybe as much as the ULS-15. But I don't know for sure.

As a home theater sub, the ULS is flawless, and a great value in my opinion. For 2-channel audio, I'd likely seek out another SVS sealed unit...or two. :-)

Thanks again! I'm afraid my head is starting to spin, and if pea soup starts coming out, my wife won't be happy! I'm doing it to myself though. :)

There's a used ULS15 for $700.00, the SVS I haven't found used, so $1600. For that difference, the ULS15 would be the way to go. If I really didn't like it, I could get back most of what I pay.

Then comes the joys of set up. I'm not wild about trusting wireless, but maybe just use it while I'm searching for the right placement, then hardwire it?

Thanks again all!

English, I do not have any experience with the Stadium III. I'd read some of the professional reviews to see if its the one for you. One thing to look into: Can the Stadium be hooked up via speaker terminals and a processor's SUB OUT simultaneously? Since you want use for both HT and music, you want to make sure you'll get the LFE signal for Dolby
material on movies and HD concerts (if that's your thing).

http://www.stereophile.com/subwoofers/1004rel

Another model to consider if you're still shopping... the Vandersteen V2W. A used one would easily fall into your budget and they get great reviews. This model falls into the HT category, but uses a similar design to their 2WQ which gets rave reviews as a low end support "woofer" for 2 channel audio. Both models use 3 8" drivers for faster response. The V2W also has a 12" passive radiator to help with movie material. I'd personally love a pair of 2WQ's with a V2w wired via SUB OUT for movies. But 3 big boxes aren't going to happen in my house. ;-)