Cylinder v Box Sub - which one to buy?

[drinke]

I am thinking about buying an SVS sub - I have been in contact with SVS and have pretty much narrowed in on the PB 12 NSD or the 20-39 PCi cylinder for the space I have and what I want in a sub. Room is not really a factor, and these both cost the same (though there may be a slight difference for shipping). I am wondering if anyone has listened to both or what if any difference there is in performance between a box and a cylinder sub generally - thoughts anyone?

 

[j_garcia]

6 of one, half dozen of the other. Whichever looks better to you, as in the nearest price classes, they are similar in performance. One thing about the cylinders, they weigh less than the equivalent box, so shipping costs less and they are easier to move.

 

[Davemcc]

Close your eyes. Which one do you see in the room in your mind? That's the one.

 

[GlocksRock]

They are supossed to be equal performers, so go with whatever one looks best or fits best in your room.

 

[drinke]

box then

If performance is the same I think I am going to go with the box - lower center of gravity so my 1 year old does not get crushed by a subwoofer -

Other thing I thought funny though - in this forum people suggested the SVS was not a pushy seller - this was not my experience - they were really trying to push the surround system on me - and I've heard it's a nice system, but I am really hoping to finish the fronts, center and surrounds with axiom or ascend (or some combo of both).

 

[bane1202]

unfortunately most companies go through that as they grow... a lot of companies build their reputation on excellent customer service and quality products then as they grow in size they add a "real" marketing department and outsource customer service eventually.. svs isn't there yet but I just kind of get the feel from a lot of the posts Ive read lately they are separating somewhat from their past practices

 

[abboudc]

If performance is the same I think I am going to go with the box - lower center of gravity so my 1 year old does not get crushed by a subwoofer -

Performance is the same. It should be said the cylinders are *very* resistant to being tipped over, all the weight is at the bottom. It would take an 6-8 year old to tip it over IMHO, and they'd have to be trying.

 

[rottenkid]

I wouldn't worry about a cylinder being tipped over, it has a very low center of gravity. I have a PCi 20-39 and have 3,7,and 11 year old girls. But mine is tucked into a corner, out of the way. It's very impressive (sonically and visually).

 

[majorloser]

Think of it this way....

You want a beautiful piece of furniture that can match the room decor, buy a box sub.

You want something that stands out as a piece of audio equipment, buy a tube.

With all the beautiful finish choices available in a box sub, they do lend themselves to blending into the room. They will also score MUCH higher on the WAF score.

Both styles will offer the same level of deep bass. Though I feel box subs might have a bit of a lead in performance now days. With the advent of "superchargers" and "turbochargers" they have even become something you can enhance as needed.

 

[rottenkid]

I showed my wife a picture of the HSU VTF3 mk2 in maple, and the SVS PCi 20-39 and said "which one?" she didn't hesitate, she picked the SVS. It is now sitting in my livingroom. Go figure.

 

[Ryan8886]

drinke,

I wouldn't worry about the 20-39 tipping over. I've had my 25-31PCi on carpet and cement.....doesn't budge on either. All its weight is in the bottom....very low center of gravity. It would take some effort to tip it over.

As for sound quality,I've never listened to the SVS boxes, however they're supposed to have the same performance. My cylinder shakes things wonderfully!

Astheticly speaking, it depends on your goal. As stated above, if you're looking for something to "blend in", the "box as end-table" approach may be the way to go. However, if you're looking for visual impact as well, go with a cylinder. It DOES make a statement!