SUBWOOFER FOR MUSIC

If your budget will stretch to about $750 for a used sub, there are very few subs that are more musical than the Vandersteen 2Wq. However, Vandersteen recommends that this sub be used with a fairly full-range main speaker, i.e., one that has pretty flat response down to about 40 Hz. I think your Studio 100's meet that criteria, but you might want to check.

The 2Wq sub(s) utilize a passive crossover between the preamp and the power amp which allows impedance matching with your power amp, and the result is virtually seamless blending between the main speakers and the sub. The 2Wq has a dial that allows you to adjust the "Q" (amount of damping), and because the 2Wq is a sealed design, you get very tight, clean, musical bass.

I completely agree there are few subs "more" musical that the Vandersteen at that price. For a subwoofer "as" musical as the Vandersteen also take a look at the REL subwoofers while you're shopping. They are a lot more versatile; and easier to setup and integrate with your system. Depending on your budget consider the Stratus II, Stratus III, Storm or Storm III. Maybe even a Stadium II or III.

At the $800 to $1500 used price range, I would recommend the Bag End Infrasub 18" subwoofer first. Extremely tight and musical sub that faithfully reproduces down to 8Hz. Not many subs out there can even go down to 20Hz much less 8Hz. You can find a used one here usually for about $800.

Next would be the Triad Platinum 18 inch sub. Musically just a step down from the Bag End.

I've auditioned the Bag End for several weeks and really enjoyed it's presentation. I had no idea a sub, especially an 18 inch sub could be so tight and yes musical.

I ended up going with the Triad Platinum because it's sonic were also quite good but it had a few more configuration bells and whistles.

The REL subs are supposedly highly rated but they are typically in a higher price category.

The sub is the most controversial component for music systems so get ready for many varied opinions.

The Vanderteen and REL are pitch accurate and very musical as they have multiple small drivers and are very "fast".Not sure if the Bag End would be as quick and musical.I have heard though that the Revel sub has a big driver (15"?18"?) but it is also very good for music.So many subs out there do well with HT but not music.If your budget is tight an HSU or NHT Sub One seems pretty good for dough.