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Which subwoofer should I get?

Hi - I have the following system:

Magico A5 speakers

Gryphon Diablo 300 integrated

Merging Nadac + Player + Power DAC

Purist Audio cabling

I love my system......but I had the opportunity to use an SVS PB-2000 pro (home theater subwoofer) for a few weeks, and it really improved the overall experience.

I have the opportunity to purchase a REL Carbon Special sub (used) or purchase an SVS SB 3000 Pro. I really like the fact that the SVS subs have so many user adjustable features, and can be adjusted on the fly from an app. I've been told over and over that the sonic qualities of the REL far outweigh the advantages of the SVS subs. Would love to hear from you regarding this issue.

So, in brief, should I go for the REL, the SVS, or some other sub (if so, why?)?

Thanks - Matt

mwsl
mwsl OP
64 posts
 

@ James633

This was a VERY helpful post….thank you. The JTR’s are truly above my price point, so will do very serious investigation of the Rhythmik, since you and so many others think so highly of this brand. As suggested by another post, I will contact Rhythmik to get their advice on which subs make the most sense for my room and system. 

FWIW (to all): my local audio dealer is a BIG REL fan and strongly encouraged me to get the Carbon Special. What started all of this was I found a very good used deal on a Carbon Special, and then thought I ought to seek the wisdom of this group……and I’m very glad I did.

Thank you to everyone for your feedback. 

P.S. We’re about to do some construction in my 2-channel room, so will likely wait until that mess is done in a few weeks to pick this back up and make some final decisions.

mrdecibel
3,065 posts
 

I would recommend a pair of RSL 12 S subs. I have had many of the subs listed above, and I have to say, the RSLs are "musical", if anyone could know the meaning of what this term says. Very hard to match subwoofers to my Klipsch Lascala dog houses, but I have found them. If you overlook these, you are losing out on a great product at a great price. Many excellent reviews. Happy New Year to all. MrD.

mylogic
26 posts
 

mwsl

 

l would say the RCA outs for sub connection from your amplifier would probably be low level not hi. Stick with hi level for pure Hi-Fi stereo.

 

Rels hi level Neutrik connection is for direct connection to your speaker out terminals (or from your speakers inputs if is easier to wire up if you have a stereo pair of subs)

mwsl OP
64 posts
 

@ mylogic - thanks, was wondering about that. 

Do you happen to have a URL for an article that can explain in layman's terms the concept behind hi and lo level inputs for subwoofers?

mylogic
26 posts
 

mwsl

l have the manuals for various Rel subs but it is so difficult to post photos on Audiogon.

l started with a Rel Quake in the early 2000s and over this time since then l now have two T9i’s in my latest set up. Rel are more expensive than the competition but l believe they achieve what they are best at….hi level Neutrik connectability.

lf you just Google Rel Neutrik hi level input this will get you started on how to connect to amplifier and their philosophy on this method over low level RCA.

ln my opinion hi level for hi-fi and low level for home theatre only.

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