Back from Italy and up to my old tricks. An 8” sub was needed for a small room setup and the HSU STF-1 and Aperion 8A made their way over. I was able to compare these and here are my thoughts.
Price: The STF-1 is $299 plus $25 for shipping ($324 shipped). The Aperion is $319 shipped so about $5 cheaper overall.
Packing: Both subs arrived well-packed, but Aperion takes extra steps and is known for their packaging. Also, both come with spikes and feet for carpet and wood floors respectively, but I prefer the rubber feet Aperion packs to the plastic ones HSU provides.
Looks: The 8A easily edges out the STF-1 with its beautiful cabinet. The STF-1 is pretty bland, although it would look great with industrial décor.
Build Quality: The 8A has the better cabinet, but the STF-1 includes a more powerful amplifier (150 watts class D vs. 100 watts class AB). Both are ported designs; the STF-1 has the port on the rear and the 8A on the bottom.
Customer Service: Both companies are known for providing excellent customer service and ordering went smooth. Aperion does provide return shipping within 30 days so they have a slight edge.
Warranty: HSU provides 7 years on the woofer and 2 years on electronics. Aperion provides 10 years on the woofer and 3 years on electronics. Both warranties are transferrable.
Sensitivity: The 8A needs more voltage than the STF-1, but adjusting the LFE input on the receiver is all it takes.
Sound Quality: I experimented with different placements and found that overall the STF-1 digs a little deeper and hits a little harder, but the 8A is a bit more musical. If HT is the focus, the STF-1 would be the better choice and vice versa. The differences are not large so either would do fine for both HT and music.
In summary I’d say that for the money, I would stretch for the STF-2 as it’s worth a few bucks more and there’s an eD or two for a few bucks more. But for those who have small rooms, want a quality sub, and don’t want to spend a penny more than $325, either the 8A or STF-1 would do just fine. Especially if WAF is a factor as the 8A beats out the competition in this price range with regards to looks.
