@phusis , You bet. I have two issues crossing at 100 Hz. The subwoofers have to be in stereo and symmetrically arranged around the main speakers and to inhibit room interaction and match the main speaker radiation pattern they have to form a linear array that extends down to 5 Hz. Because there are 4 subs technically they do form a DBA, just with additional characteristics by design to match the main speakers.
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?
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To answer the OP's question very literally, there is one sub which is VERY different from ALL other subs: The Servo-Feedback OB/Dipole Subwoofer, a joint effort between Danny Richie of GR Research and Brian Ding of Rythmik Audio. Different how, you ask? Two or three (your choice) 12" woofers optimized for open baffle application, mounted in an open baffle/dipole H-frame. The woofers are powered by the Rythmik A370 plate amp, which includes Rythmik's patended servo-feedback design for woofer control. Added to the stock A370 when used in this OB/Dipole Sub, Brian Ding adds a dipole cancellation-compensation circuit. If that description does not pique your curiosity, I don't know what would. ;-) |
@lalitk --
Except..
No, I didn’t engage you; I challenged/called out the general standings of commercial subs as being limited to mostly smaller, lower efficiency sealed designs, hereby forgoing a breadth of larger and more efficient design variations that more readily accommodates physics and, in effect, performance - unless a multitude of sealed subs with larger drivers (12" on up) are used. Surely I didn’t need to know the specifics of you and your setup to allow myself to engage in that subject? But now that you mention it I did look up your system, and it looks (and I’m sure sounds) beautiful - truly.
As per my paragraph just above. You’re pulling an ad hominem here, so let’s leave it at that.
As most who post here don’t go DIY with their subs implementation it seems to me trying to counter the commercial majority with a minority DIY approach for core physics-reasons outlined earlier isn’t uncalled for. You yourself called for "objectivity" in this discussion, and following an analysis (not least with poster @mijostyn's contributions) of design variations, overall implementation with the use of DSP tools in addition to build rigidity strikes me as accommodating just that. I hope focusing on these aspects tells one a thing or two about or puts into perspective to which degree (i.e.: relatively little) commercial sub brands may differ sonically, or at least that’s my assessment. I know full well many if not most go the commercial route with subs, and I respect that - your choices as well, obviously. I’ve been there myself, done that. Not saying I drew out the most of its potential, but only so many iterations needed to convince me to search elsewhere, go active, include a separate DSP, high-pass the mains and a DIY route with subs to include design options practically not found in commercial offerings. And that’s that. Thanks for your time. |
I have a different set of criteria than you. First is design and I like the servo design, and the brand that uses that design is Rythmik. There may be others, not sure. Secondly, I like integration as either easy or hard. I think SVS has an app that I have heard some people like and state it works, I have not tried it. Rythmik and REL have multiple ways to adjust levels to allow the sub to match my stereo and high level/ low level connection options. Third and and not necessarily in order is - does the company have a good reputation as a whole and are they know for making subs for the application your looking for ie Home Theatre, Stereo, etc. Fourth, and this is a BIG one, how is the reputation for service and build quality. If the sub is designed well, sounds great, but the brand does not care much about fixing the sub down the road, and would rather you buy another from them... I don’t buy from that company. I have had good luck with Rythmik, but I may try either REL or another brand down the road, maybe even Vandersteen. I wouldn’t buy SVS. |
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