What makes one sub more musical than another?
The one you PERSONALLY PREFER when listening to your favorite music.
I tried dual Perlisten D15s using their built-in EQ, instead of using my AVP’s PEQ. I didn’t like it, was disappointed. They sounded very good when I was watching movies, but I did not like them for music. I did not use my Yamaha’s PEQ - just used the Perlisten sub’s built-in EQ (THX & Large settings).
So I went back to using my RBH SX-1010N passive subs (Yamaha CX-5100 PEQ, ATI AT2005 amp). Now my music sounds awesome again.
I think movie bass might be easier than for music. Both the Perlisten and RBH subs sound great for my movies, but I got SIGNIFICANTLY better bass for music with the RBH passive subs.
Anyway, that was my experience with the dual Perlisten D15s. I sold them quickly after my experiment.
I think the key takeaway is PERSONAL PREFERENCE. Some people might think their SVS, Rhythmik, HSU, etc. subs sound better than more expensive subs. Based on my personal experience, it is very possible that less expensive subs can subjectively sound better than subs that cost a lot more.