What are the differences between these two models beside the Bassmatrix having the remote? Looking for a "smaller" sub for under $500 that would be used in an apartment.
I'm also looking at the Aperion Bravus 8d and the Polk DSW MicroPro 1000.
IIRC, the Chrysalis Starfire subs are basically the same as the Velodyne Impact subs. They're front firing with downfiring ports.
The BassMatrix is front firing with a front slot port...larger heavier enclosure, more powerful amp, and better extension that the comparable (with regard to driver size) Starfire sub. You also get DSP with the Bassmatrix. I think the Bassmatrix is the equivalent of the Velodyne DLS-R series, which is a step above the Velodyne Impact series.
Just to throw some other options your way...
Energy ESW-V8 can be had for $229 from wwstereo if you buy through ebay using microsoft live (actually now called bing) cashback. I have the Mirage Prestige S8, which is the same sub, just minor asthetic differences, and I prefer it to my Aperion S8-APR. Great musical little sub.
Energy S8.3 ($149) or S10.3 ($199) from Vann's. I haven't heard them, but the S10.3 was reviewed by Tom Noussaine (did I spell that right?) and got some pretty good marks. A user at AVS dug up some reviews:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=16685286&postcount=11812
My vote would still got for the ESW-V8, since I am so impressed with the SQ. But I'm more quality over quantity when it comes to bass. I've read very good things about the Aperion 8D, and I bet it would probably outperform the ESW-V8 in terms of output, although it starts rolling off around 35Hz...but the Energy is alot cheaper.
