A single sub properly setup will improve overall SQ-but it’s subjective like EVERYTHING in audiophooland.
The improvement past one sub was not better in a "subjective" sense. As if it was just my whimsy that I liked it better. No, it was better in an "objective" sense. It was better objectively in terms of (a) measurements (additional subs helped eliminate both peaks and troughs as measured) and from (b) an experienced listening standpoint (bass was clearer, more accurate, not boomy etc.)
Everything in audio may be particular (contingent on many factors) but it’s not all "subjective."