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Is There A Big Difference Between Subwoofers From Different Manufacturers

This is likely the last thread I’ll be posting about subwoofers.

I was just wondering if there is really a big difference between subwoofers from different manufacturers if the quality of the subs (which is mostly governed by the specifications) are fairly similar. Also, with the assumption that the set up is properly done to ensure a seamless integration with the main speakers.

There have been many comparisons or experiences on subwoofers shared by members here on this forum, people who upgraded their old sub to a new seemingly superior sub. Or people who added additional subs to the system which contributed to an overall improved bass performance. I’m referring to the former, the comparison between single subs.

To cut to the chase, I understand high quality subwoofers which are essentially higher spec designs will usually produce better performance than lower spec subs. When people upgrade their subs, I assume the new subs are superior in terms of specification, either a larger sub with larger drivers, higher power output of the internal amplifier, lower frequency extension or the combination of any of the above.

Has anyone compared subs which are fairly similar in quality or performance when upgrading from the old sub?

Example. If someone upgraded from a REL T7x to an SVS SB-3000 or SB-4000, I suppose the SVS would be an upgrade since they come with larger drivers, higher power output, everything superior spec-wise. What if the models are closely spec’d? Will the subs sound fairly similar or closer to each other ?

Say, the comparison between

SVS SB-3000/4000
Rythmik F12SE / F15
REL S510 / S812 / Carbon Special or Limited

I presume the subs will still sound slightly different but the difference may not be night and day if the quality or specifications are closely matched?

 

ryder
mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,570 posts
 

@punkrock67 , That is odd because most people that I know think the ported woofers are boomy and the sealed ones tight and controlled.

@phusis , I wish I could find the link but is slow mo's an 18" woofer under a strobe actually wobbling under light power. One side starts moving before the other and goes downhill from there. The excursions are not very far. 

I feel the most comfortable with 12" drivers and you can get to the same place by using multiples. I keep doubling the number until I get what I want. Next stop is 8.

I saw Marcus Miller and Mike Stern at the Blue Note in NYC last month and I could feel Marcus's E string vibrate. It is that kind of authority I would like to get at home. I have great bass, just not that great. I know there are some recordings that can do it like Supertramp's Crime of the Century or any number of Dave Holland Albums and Jaco albums not to mention Organ works. 

aberyclark
1,410 posts
 

Are all REL subs made in China or just their lower-priced models? SVS Headquarters/factory is close to me here in Ohio. I've been quite happy with SVS. I am curious if a ZU sub would be a better fit for my ZU omen defs.

mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,570 posts
 

@larry5729 , it is painfully easy to beat Rel subs. The problem is the only commercial manufacturer to do it is Magico. A private citizen that is a competent wood worker can do it with their hands tied behind their back. You use balanced force design like Magico and make the enclosure even stiffer.

@parker65310 , I used DIvas for 6 years or so and I could never get subs to match perfectly. This was before DSP came along. I returned to ESLs and with DSP have no issues with integration so, I am sure with proper digital bass management it will be easy and a huge benefit. Like ESLs ribbons do not like making deep bass. They can do it but they do not like it.

@ieales , Rel subs are made as well as any commercial subwoofer. If you are comparing them with other subs on the market. They have two issues. I hate their method of integration and it is easy to get better subs if you build them yourself. I can do things that are totally impractical if you want your sub to come in at a reasonable price and take less than a century to build. I am not trying to pump up my ego either I mean this in all sincerity. I can do better than the subs I have now but the fellow that calibrated my projector (this is his real profession not a side line) related it was the best bass he ever heard. Frankly, I think they are ugly and a bit soft. It was a good performance for 20 years ago but I have learned a lot since then and am in the process of building a new set. Unfortunately, they are competing will things I have to do for the wife and the wife always wins. It is going to be a little while yet. I was hoping this Summer. Time Waits For No One. 

lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,730 posts
 

“Rel subs are made as well as any commercial subwoofer. If you are comparing them with other subs on the market. They have two issues. I hate their method of integration and it is easy to get better subs if you build them yourself.”

@mijostyn It appears you have no direct experience with REL subs in your system and that’s quite ok. No disrespect to DIY’s community, but every DIY bloke thinks whatever ‘they’ can do, I can do it better. And please define better, what’s better or best to you or your fellow could easily be ‘good enough’ in someone else eyes. As humans we often tend to judge things based on our personal experiences and express opinions driven by our personal biases :-)

In my 30 years of audiophile journey, I have gotten my hands dirty in quite a few DIY projects. My experience have taught me to recognize and appreciate the differences between DIY and commercial grade builds.

mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,570 posts
 

@lalitk , I have played with several Rel subs but not in my system. Their version of sub integration is designed for the lowest common denominator and it performs like the lowest common denominator. Sorry for being harsh but this is the honest truth.

Many people think DIY projects are second rate at best. It depends on the intelligence, experience and skill of the people involved. The ability of companies to get subwoofers to market include a bunch of economic factors that do not apply to the DIY individual.

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