Klipsch R115SW vs Hsu VTF-2 MK5

[AudioEnthusiastix]

I'm new to this forum but have been following it for a while and enjoy all the reader posts as well as Gene's YouTube videos.

I know Klipsch is not preferred in the subwoofer arena and ID companies like SVS and Hsu go lower and with authority. I read posts on Audioholics and HTReview regarding R115SW and find it compelling especially at 50% off ($425 @ Frys). I'm comparing it with Hsu VTF-2 MK5 ($600 with shipping) or SVS SB-1000 ($500). R115SW has 1-2db lower than Hsu VTF-2 Mk5 in the 20-30Hz but doles out 1-2db more output in the 40-60Hz range. R115 has a 15" driver that is tuned to 18Hz which is impressive. Will the 1-2db make a difference at normal listening levels (not reference levels)

I have a Bowers 685S2 bookshelves (mains) and Polk Tsx250c (center) and Polk Tsx 440T(surrounds) in a 3050 cft. room that has 2 openings into the kitchen that is bigger. We use the gear for both music and movies. I recently got the B&Ws and love the sound and pushed the Polk towers to surround duties.

Thank you.

 

[shadyJ]

$425 for the R115SW is a very good deal. I think overall the VTF-2 mk5 is probably a better subwoofer, but $425 for the R11SW is a killer deal. Taxes will bring that cost up a bit though, but if you are in CA you have to pay taxes on the Hsu sub as well. I would say that the Klipsch's extra 1 or 2 dB will not make a difference, but the Hsu's slight advantage in extension would be more noticeable. Both of these subs will easily outperform the SVS SB-1000. To get something comparable from SVS, you need to look at the PC-2000 or PB-2000.

By the way, I would advise you to get a matching center channel for your front stage. You can get the matching B&W center, but if you can swing you, just get another 685S2 and use that as a center. It will cost less and sound better.

 

[AudioEnthusiastix]

Thank you for the reply.
In CA, we pay tax either way (big box) or online.
I previously had a Klipsch 10" R10SW which was good in a smaller room but was anemic in the larger room and so I sold it. I had all but decided on VTF2 Mk5 till I saw the deal on 115SW which gave me a pause. I could get 2 of 115SW for $200 more than 1 VTF2. I assume for music both R115SW and VTF2 would perform similarly given the CEA Measurements where as for movies VTF2 would be much better.

Do you have any insight into the reliability of Hsu or SVS subwoofers? Both have good warranty (can purchase additional warranty for Hsu) but I think Hsu has better value for the money in terms of specs when compared to SVS. However, it would be a pain to have to ship back if something breaks under warranty. Klipsch R10sw sub that I had was quite reliable. This will be my first time with an ID product so a bit worried about buying without auditioning as well as longevity.

Btw, I do intend to get B&W center down the road once I prep the home boss.

 

[shadyJ]

Both the Hsu and SVS subs are very reliable. I wouldn't worry about that, they should be at least as good in that dept as your Klipsch.

If you are near Anaheim, it might be worth it to drive on over to Hsu to pick it up and save shipping. You will want to schedule a visit with them to pick it up though. But be careful, don't go into their demo room, or else you will not be happy with anything less than their 15" subs. Once you hear one, there is no going back.

Honestly, if you have to pay for both shipping and tax on the Hsu, that might tip the value scale on over to the Klipsch sub. From the available measurements, it is not quite as good of a sub, but it is not that much worse. I really like the VTF-2, seriously, but that deal on the R1115SW makes it hard to beat in terms of value. They are more alike than different in performance.

 

[WaynePflughaupt]

If you are near Anaheim, it might be worth it to drive on over to Hsu to pick it up and save shipping.

But be careful, don't go into their demo room, or else you will not be happy with anything less than their 15" subs. Once you hear one, there is no going back.

Shady,

I’m looking seriously at one of the HSU 15-inchers. Do you know, how are they with music?

Regards,
Wayne A. Pflughaupt

 

[shadyJ]

Shady,

I’m looking seriously at one of the HSU 15-inchers. Do you know, how are they with music?

Regards,
Wayne A. Pflughaupt

I think they are very good with music. Here is my review of the ULS-15 mk2.

 

[yippiechicken]

Shady,

I’m looking seriously at one of the HSU 15-inchers. Do you know, how are they with music?

Regards,
Wayne A. Pflughaupt

I think they are very good with music. Here is my review of the ULS-15 mk2.

I would agree.

I've got the 15H MK2, and, along with my new Klipsch RP280's & 450C, it sounds awesome with music. I've always enjoyed listening to music but my previous speakers and sub didn't impress me that much with music. I went from about 80%+ movies/-20% music to about 50/50 now. I'm enjoying listening to music a lot more again. The sub is a big part of that enjoyment.