1xRythmik E15 to 2x?

[nm2285]

I have loved my Rythmik E15 and it has been a great performer for me. However, since we've moved into our new house, I have a lot of volume to fill in our open concept and I think it's just a bit overmatched. The immediate space (living room, kitchen, dining room) that the sub sits in is approx 6000 cu ft and opens to a 2 story foyer through 2 large pass-throughs.

I don't want to spend a fortune to do this. I was thinking about 2 Outlaw Ultra-x12s to replace the single E15. I figured 2 subs in a ported design would increase the output and help pressurize the room, but I'm a little concerned that I might be under-estimating the space again and should actually go for 2 15" subs. Like I said, I don't want to spend a ton of money on it, but at the same time I don't want to regret my purchase.

My other concern - I know the Outlaws and the Rythmiks are both considered excellent subs, but they're also in different price classes. Do you think I would notice a difference in the "quality" of the bass going with 2 less expensive units or is most of the cost difference driver, amp, and output?

Thanks for your opinions!

 

[Steve81]

For that kind of space, I'd be looking to start with a single heavy hitter ported sub and work from there. I'd expect something along the lines of a FV15HP or a Reaction Audio Echo 18 would be a solid start without totally breaking the bank.

 

[shadyJ]

For that kind of space, I'd be looking to start with a single heavy hitter ported sub and work from there. I'd expect something along the lines of a FV15HP or a Reaction Audio Echo 18 would be a solid start without totally breaking the bank.

+1. The Outlaw subs will produce more output around 20 Hz, probably not much more above 40 Hz. If you room really is that bag, I would go in for the subs Steve suggested. For two ported subs without breaking the bank, I would go in for two Hsu VTF3 mk5s. Those will be considerably more powerful but not a whole lot more expensive.

 

[nm2285]

Thanks for the input. I was looking at the VTF3 MK5s as a definitely player. I was also considering the VTF-15H MKII, maybe starting with 1 and adding another eventually since they're a bit more expensive. Seems like the major difference between those two subs is in sub-20hz output. Has anyone compared them and is the difference significant? If so, I would imagine for a space my size, I'd need the VTF 15H to get much effect from those frequencies.

 

[shadyJ]

If you are interested in sub 20 Hz output, yes, the VTF15h mk2 is worth it, but keep in mind that sub 20 Hz content only crops up in certain content. If this system is for music, there won't be any difference in these sub, but if this system is for newer action and science fiction movies, yes, there will be some difference, however I am not sure if that difference is worth $200+, that is what you have to decide. If the budget is tight, go for the VTF3s.

 

[nm2285]

What do people think of Power Sound Audio V1800 potentially to start? Maybe just one now and add another later if necessary? It's a pretty small cabinet for an 18" but seems to still have great output.

 

[shadyJ]

I think the only output advantage the V1800 will have is in the upper bass range, so 60 Hz+. I do not trust the posted CEA measurements for it. In that price range you might as well just get a Rythmik FV15HP or Reaction Echo 18, they will both outperform it with no problem.

 

[nm2285]

I can't find any data on the Reaction Audio subs. Very few reviews and no CEA measurements except the few on data-bass that aren't current models. Do you have any data/info comparing output?

 

[shadyJ]

I can't find any data on the Reaction Audio subs. Very few reviews and no CEA measurements except the few on data-bass that aren't current models. Do you have any data/info comparing output?

Reaction has released some CEA data in their subwoofer thread in the avsforum subwoofer forum. Third party data would be much better, but given the driver specs, enclosure size, and amp, their claimed performance is believable. Email Jeremy from Reaction, he will point you to some measurements.

 

[3db]

Thanks for the input. I was looking at the VTF3 MK5s as a definitely player. I was also considering the VTF-15H MKII, maybe starting with 1 and adding another eventually since they're a bit more expensive. Seems like the major difference between those two subs is in sub-20hz output. Has anyone compared them and is the difference significant? If so, I would imagine for a space my size, I'd need the VTF 15H to get much effect from those frequencies.

How much difference in output is there between Rythmik and the HSU you recommend that its worth $420 more than the Rythmiks?

 

[theJman]

What do people think of Power Sound Audio V1800 potentially to start? Maybe just one now and add another later if necessary? It's a pretty small cabinet for an 18" but seems to still have great output.

Like all PSA subs, this one will be worth every penny. You can be assure the posted measurements will stand up to scrutiny, so don't even hesitate if you think this one will suit your needs. It's certainly has more going for it than just upper bass. Having said that...

Once you've become accustom to a Rythmik subwoofer it can be difficult to switch to another brand. I owned an E15HP myself, so I know. Do you have freedom of placement for dual subwoofers? If so, perhaps adding another E15 to the one you already have might be worth considering. Multiples, properly placed, will have many advantages. Since you have an E15 purchasing a second would be the least expensive option as well.

 

[herbu]

For that kind of space, I'd be looking to start with a single heavy hitter ported sub and work from there. I'd expect something along the lines of a FV15HP

Agree. I would keep the E15 and add an FV15HP.

 

[nm2285]

I love the idea of keeping the E15 mostly because really expensive subs, really big subs are hard to sell because of the small market interested in them and the shipping hassle/expense. Think dual E15s would work well enough output-wise? I don't have a lot of flexibility for placement since it is a living room. They'd ideally be about 3 feet apart (right near when I have my 1 now). Maybe just adding an FV15HP (or VTF-15H MKII or Power Sound V1500 etc) is the answer. Is there any benefit to having the subwoofers match especially considering the servo-amps that the Rythmiks have?

 

[Steve81]

Think dual E15s would work well enough output-wise? I don't have a lot of flexibility for placement since it is a living room. They'd ideally be about 3 feet apart (right near when I have my 1 now).

A second E15 placed right next to the first will give you an additional 6dB of output, which is nothing to sneeze at. The question is, how much more are you looking for, especially down low? Can you measure to get an idea of what kind of performance you're getting currently?

Is there any benefit to having the subwoofers match especially considering the servo-amps that the Rythmiks have?

It's not necessary for them to be identical, but mixing ported and sealed subs can be a challenge.

PS: I can sympathize on selling big expensive subs. It was a good day when I found a buyer for my old PC12-NSD

 

[KEW]

FWIW, adding an F15 would give you a slight increase in output over another E15.
I believe they would integrate as well as two E15, but see what Rythmik says.
I have a pair of E15s in a larger space and I am quite happy with it, but so much depends on how you listen and location of sub and listener in room.