Any recommendations on REL T3 vs. Emotiva Ultra Series 12

[speakerdoo]

I am wondering if you guys can offer any recommendations on the 2 subs;
REL T3 $399 vs. Emotiva Ultra Series 12 $379.
My listening is 70% music 30% HT. I am looking for something that is tight, not too boomy, and integrates well with PSB imagine towers. Thx.

 

[GranteedEV]

The emotiva will likely have more output in the 50hz range. Extension is a coin toss without any actual measurements of the REL.

If you ask me, I wouldn't pick either. I recommend

1) getting good subs, not meh subs
2) getting multiple subs, not one sub because of how they interact with the room

So I recommend TWO rythmik FV12s:

Rythmik FV12 - vented HT sub

 

[jcl]

Here's a review and measurements for the REL REL T3 Subwoofer At A Glance & Ratings | Home Theater

and for the emotiva Emotiva Ultra 12 Measurements and Analysis — Reviews and News from Audioholics

What size is your room? What are your listening habits (what do you listen to and how loudly?)

 

[speakerdoo]

@GranteedEV, Thx for the recommendation. Although the rythmik FV12 is in the same price range, it seems to be comparatively larger in size. Is the sound too boomy with the rythmik?

@jcl, Thx for the links. My system is in the living room 20x20. I listen to all types of music from classical to rock, bluray movies etc. I keep my marantz at a comfortable listening level of -34db.

 

[GranteedEV]

As with any sub, "boomyness" will depend on frequency response, which will depend on the room, the placement, EQ, and the sub's tuning.

As long as you set the rythmik to a lower tuning mode in its settings (IE 14hz), it's lower bass output should be balanced in most rooms. As long as you set things up properly, it'll be fine, with very low distortion and a hopefully flat in room frequency response. Again, placement is a big one. When you use two subs, placed distantly instead of one, frequency response flattens out more and across multiple seats.