HSU STF-1 or STF-2

[hawkerman]

Im looking at getting a new sub to pair with Axiom m22's, axiom center 100, QS4s, and yamaha RX-V659. My room size is 11 feet by 10 feet with 8 foot ceilings, however the room is open on two sides with 5 foot archways. I currently have no sub nor any experience with them. My wife and I are mostly into music, however we do watch movies. Im not that interested in the VTF series, one to save money and two it appears this sub would mostly benefit movie goers. HSU claims the STF series is geared for music. My question is for an extra 100 dollars will I notice the difference in the 2 vs the 1?

 

[Peter Marcks]

Hi Hawk,

I would say that if budget is not very tight, then go with VTF-1 (which is very similar to the VTF-2 Mk2, and sells for $399). Otherwise, I think that an STF-1 should work well in a room that size too. The STF-1 is on sale right now for $254, a great price on this unit.

Have a good day!

 

[hawkerman]

Thanks Peter, I looked at the VTF-1 but felt that if 90% of the time the sub was in "music mode" why would I spend the extra cash, for something I really dont need. I know the STF-1 is on sale, but for a hundred more I could go with the STF-2. For music would I notice the difference between the two. I guess another question to ask would be, is the STF-2 much different than the VTF-2 if 90% of the time we listen to music.

 

[Nick250]

You probably would not be able to tell the difference between them for music, unless you like it really loud. If it were me I would go for the STF-2 because maybe I would like to feel the LFEs more than VTF-1 can offer and it seems to me like a nice balance between price and performance.

 

[Peter Marcks]

Thanks for the prompt reply hawk. Both the STF-1 and STF-2 would sound similar with music, but the latter would have higher output and deeper extension too. I agree, you probably wouldn't need to switch variable tuning modes on VTF-1 very often, so going with the STF-2 for $50 would probably make sense.

 

[hawkerman]

Thanks all, that is what I was thinking. I didn't want to limit myself with the STF-1, but thought the VTF was more than I needed. Looks like I will be ordering the STF-2.

 

[Nick250]

I've had a VTF-2 for about 6 yeas and going strong. I've tried it with the plug in and with the plug out and in different room sizes (it needs to be near field in the 3000 CF room) I have no test gear, other than my ears, and I can not tell the difference.

Nick

 

[hawkerman]

I ordered the STF-2 yesterday, I feel good that I stepped up to the 10" instead of the 8", however now I noticed that there was a B stock VTF-1 for 320 dollars. I know this has been debated over and over, but is there much difference between the STF-2 and the VTF-1 when VTF is in "music mode"?

 

[Davemcc]

Don't second guess it. The STF-2 will be just fine for the purpose you describe. Most music sources don't have the low frequency source material to require very low extension and the 10" driver is likely to handle quick transitions and driving bass passages better than a larger driver. If you find that you want better sound from the STF-2, look into some modest room treatments. You would be amazed at what treating a room can do.

 

[rcstevensonaz]

Hawkerman:

How do you feel about yoru STF-2 a few months down the road?

I have a nearly identical system (but a slightly larger room) and am trying to figure out if I should get an STF-2 (10") or a VTF-2 (12"). I have the same Yamaha, M22's for front mainss, pair of M2's for centers, QS4/8 surround, M2s for rear surround).

-- Craig

 

[Davemcc]

Hawkerman hasn't posted at all since June 7. I'm guessing he split.

 

[obscbyclouds]

Hawkerman:

How do you feel about yoru STF-2 a few months down the road?

I have a nearly identical system (but a slightly larger room) and am trying to figure out if I should get an STF-2 (10") or a VTF-2 (12"). I have the same Yamaha, M22's for front mainss, pair of M2's for centers, QS4/8 surround, M2s for rear surround).

-- Craig

Maybe I can help. I've had a HSU STF-2 for about 6 months, and I'm very happy with it's performance. My room is approximately 12x20x10, and I listen to 50% music and 50% HT. The STF-2 does really well with music, very tight, controlled bass, doesn't reach subterrainian lows like some of the subs avaliable (but then again doesn't cost $1000 either). I think you'd be very happy with it. You can see my sig, but my system is mostly Axiom as well. Good luck.

 

[Tomorrow]

For that room, and STF-1 should be fine for music. Dave has a point about the added usefulness of a larger driver. And it allows you to move it to a situation that calls for a larger sub (for not very much more money). But the 8" STF-1 puts out plenty of tight bass and has plenty of spl's to spare. Useful in room response goes below 30 Hz. I had one before going big with 2 VTF-3's for our HT. I loved that little STF-1 and wish I still had it.

Maybe Jaxvon will chime in with his opine. I think he uses his STF-1 for music, primarily.