Hello, I'm currently in a bit of a predicament. This being that I have no subwoofer to compliment my Monitor 11 v.5 speakers. Other components are listed in my profile. The biggest problem is that I usually can't muster the cash to buy a Paradigm PW-2200, a Klipsch RW12-D or much else I've heard in that league. Although I haven't heard a whole lot of powered subs besides the odd demonstration with rather typical Low Low budget equipment, if not I usually end up hearing systems with subs like the Paradigm Signature Servo or a Focal F113. I have an unusual listening space which is completely asymmetrical although I have adequate room for my current setup. Fortunately I have a perfect space and power supply for a sub in the back left side of the listening area approx. 25' from my main speakers and at least 10' feet to my rear speakers. Personally I like everything to match nicely, and thankfully I was able to tune my audiosphere speakers so they; shockingly, do not embarrass themselves. I do use the system for both music and home theater, however my main concern is having a sub that can keep up with my Monitors in relative quality and VOLUME. Any help would be appreciated, as I don't know every speaker out there, lol.
you don't mention what your budget is. There are many internet direct companies, both Canadian & American that make great subwoofers at prices way below what you would find in a brick & Mortar store. The problem is U can't do a demo at a store. The good news is that you can do the demo in your home as most have a 30 day return policy. Besides, sounding good in a demo room means nothing to how it will sound in your HT room. Try HSU SVS ed EPIK Axiom & AV123. They make high quality subs for under $1000. They give U the flexibility to try them in your room. I bought an HSU VTF2.3 2 years ago. Happy with it, but not thrilled. I got on their web forum, & explained my situation. They had me send them a sketch of my room & speaker/sub setup. They recommended moving the sub nearfield, and WOW! Now I am getting the tactile punch in the gut I was missing. Not only did I get a quick response, but it was from Dr. Hsu himself! Now that's what I call customer support. He also recommended the connection to use. You seem to have a similar situation, with the sub in the rear. If you move it near the couch like an end table, you will get loads of bass. Just be sure to set the crossover at 80hz or lower so you can't localite it.
Yes I'd most likely need something in Canadian currency, although if I had to I could make an exchange. I'm looking for something in the $400-$800 range, new or used(depending on condition). I've heard a quite a few good things about HSU, although I've never heard anything they make. The question is will their products keep up in volume to my Monitor 11's without buying a reference product? They are rather loud for a smaller speaker, not that they are small. I just can't call them big. LOL!
I've been looking into the Speakercraft Tantra TS-12 It's been appearing in the odd spot on the internet dipping down to $600 new in the box. Do any of you feel it can keep up? I certainly hope so with that MSRP.
If you can go up to $800, consider AV123, they make the MFW15 which is a 15" vented sub that plays plenty loud & goes deep. They were having Amp problems, but changed their supplier, & should have the bugs worked out by now or very soon. Since you are wanting lots of volume, I would stick with a vented sub, as sealed subs would need multiples to match their volume, which gets expensive. Axiom is a Canadian ID company that makes several sized/priced subs with a good reputation. There's also Paradigm, PSB & Energy. Try going to AVS forums in audio, subwoofers, & you will see several threads for particular subs & reviews. Just remember that with ID companies, there is always some return policy if you aren't happy. Also, you don't mention if you primarily listen to music or movies. If mostly movies & U are looking for big impact, go for a vented sub.
HSU is a pretty safe bet, with good reviews and support. your budget goes high enough to shop around, see about home trials. SVS do the same, but these things get heavy to ship around...
Thanks for the advice. I've been able to look further into the situation on the product end. I'm certain that a downward firing sub would most likely be my best bet on the "infield" end of things due to very little available floor space. Perhaps an Ultracube 12 would due the job as I did not realize they were designed for that much output. Although I doubt I could easily position it were it wouldn't be in the way or too far from a plug in. Then I reconsidered a forward firing sub such as the ones you've suggested, but it needs to be placed far back in the room and would be awkward to find a suitable direction to lead the driver. I could just as easily put a downward firing sub in the same location. Although, I don't know if this will cause an issue with my expectations.