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Rythmik or REL Subs to pair with Totem Element Metal V2?

I'm looking at one REL S/810 or two Rythmic F12SE subs as that works out to be about $3k total which is my budget.

What I'm looking for is more low-end growl, weight, and visceral punch - in proper proportion.   I want a bass guitar to sound like a real bass guitar and I want to fill in the bottom end.   The Totems are awesome from about 60Hz up, but they just don't move the air at the lowest end.

My current rig is:

Xfinity Modem ->AQ Vodka-> LHY SW8 switch ->AQ Vodka-> NAD M33 ->Cardas Cygnus Biwire-> Totem Element Metal V2.   Power cables are AntiCables L3, AC filtering is a Panamax 5300.

My room is 32' wide, 17' deep with the speakers along the long wall. with the front baffles about 18" out from the wall.   Some spousal-approved room treatments are in use.   Also, and importantly, I'm in a high-rise condo, so I don't want to be inadvertently massaging my neighbors with pounding bass.

Any recommendations or thoughts?

noodlyarm
noodlyarm OP
103 posts
 

Great feedback, thank you.   So far, that’s 100% for a pair of Rythmik subs!

hilde45's avatar
hilde45
4,974 posts
 

Two subs over one, Rythmik over REL. I have both. In my opinion, REL is good but overpriced, given (a) the flexibility of control available on Rythmik (adjustable phase, especially) and (b) the premium paid for REL. REL fanboys will disagree, but having completely solved the bass in my room (using analyses of room modes, placement, and every possible adjustment), there is no substitute for the control offered by Rythmik.

Compare:

The *adjustable* phase on Rythmik and the various toggle switches make a huge difference for dialing in subs and getting the bass correct.

 

REL Acoustics S/812 Subwoofer

 

gkelly's avatar
gkelly
169 posts
 

I love the idea of having two subs, getting one REL, and then start saving up for another one is the path to take. Unless you’re 90 and on your deathbed, enjoy the journey. Sure the rhythmics now Will give you plenty of satisfaction. I just truly believe that two REL‘s S810 would supply much much more.

big_greg
6,639 posts
 

Rythmik all the way.  More for less is better, and more subs are better.  You're paying a lot extra in dealer markup for REL vs. buying direct from Rythmik.  

jdal
160 posts
 

I have the Metal V2's, although in a smaller dedicated room. Have you looked into Totem's Tribe Solution Sub? Years ago I had a Rel subwoofer.I wasn't too impressed with it. If I was in the market I would look at Rhythmic.

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