Hello paulburnett,
I have no doubt a single sub can provide good bass response performance and integration with the main speakers, at a single designated listening seat, provided the single sub is precisely and optimally positioned in the room and in relation to the designated listening seat, the single sub is of sufficiently high quality, has the necessary three controls for level, crossover frequency and continuously variable phase and that all three controls are properly set. I know this with certainty because I’ve previously used a high quality single sub in my room and system with good results.
My main intent of this post is to state with clarity for the benefit of readers of this thread, and not primarily for yourself, that based on my experience there are typically distinct advantages gained from utilizing 2 or more subs in most rooms.
Two of the usual advantages perceived, beginning with the utilization of 2 subs, are more powerful and realistic bass power and bass dynamics. This is due to bass being cumulative in a room and doubling the subs not only increases the overall bass power and impact along with increased reserve power for realistic bass dynamics, it also improves the perceived quality and sense of ease of the bass since both subs are operating well below their limits and at low distortion. Other usual advantages perceived through the use of 2 or more subs are increased bass accuracy, smoothness, speed, detail and integration with the main speakers.
I don’t completely understand why you didn’t perceive these usual bass performance advantages of utilizing 2 subs as opposed to a single sub in your room and system. However, I think it’s important to note that just because you were unable to perceive these typical performance advantages of utilizing multiple subs in your room and system, this has very little relevance in regards to whether others will be able to perceive these advantages in their rooms and systems. My belief is that many will perceive the advantages as obvious and significant. My suggestion is that those interested should try both a single and a pair of subs in their systems and decide for themselves.
I do understand the more practical concerns of a smaller room, WAF and a lack of space for 2 or more subs. Based on my personal experience being able to accommodate 4 (1’x1’x28") subs in my 23’x16’ room, I no longer consider such concerns, that I also initially shared, as deal breakers. I think it’s more a matter of priorities, having the will for better bass performance and being sufficiently creative with room decor solutions.
I can also state with certainty that it’s well worth the effort if you decide to give it a try and make it work.
Tim