BIC PL-200 vs Emotiva Ultra 12

[bwilberg266]

Looking for a budget sub that packs a punch for HT but won't muddy up the music to much either. Probably about a 80/20 split.

I've read quite a bit about both subs separately but haven't seen any direct comparisons yet, curious what everyones input is. I realize the Ultra 12 is $120 more but didn't think the Ultra 10 would be an even comparison even though the cost is about the same.

I appreciate any and all comments that help bring me closer to a decision.

 

[shadyJ]

Personally, I would go with the Emotiva sub, because if you decide you want something more powerful down the road, it will be easier to get more of you money back if you want to sell it, once it is past the introductory price. I think they would both be good subs though.

 

[bwilberg266]

The more I think about it the Emotiva tempts me more. They put great thought into all of their products and would be surprised if I was disapointed. On the other hand I know the PL-200 has a bit more of a finished look and the ported box would pack more punch for the HT, I just don't want to worry about distortion with a budget sub or sloppy/muddy response with music.

 

[shadyJ]

If you want both lots of power and also crisp, low distortion playback, raise your budget a bit and get the Hsu VTF2, which is on sale right now for 500.

 

[sholling]

If you want both lots of power and also crisp, low distortion playback, raise your budget a bit and get the Hsu VTF2, which is on sale right now for 500.

+1, and I'd also give serious thought to the competing product from eD.

 

[bwilberg266]

Looks like I may be picking up an A2-300 used from a guy that is local. It's a bit large but I'd rather have the sound and size and sacrifice the footprint.

 

[shadyJ]

That would be good if you can get a good deal on it. Try to have him demo it for you, as I have heard some of the newer A2's have had some kind of defect with the amp. If it is in good working condition, you are lucky because there is a big wait on those things from ED. It will have more output than the BIC and Emotiva, and maybe the VTF1. The VTF2 would spank it though.

 

[bwilberg266]

The amp was actually just replaced by ED and I will be demo'ing it before I take it home. I have the opportunity to to buy a VTF2 for $100 more but I'd have to drive ten hours and spend another $50 on gas to get it. From what I've heard the ED is no slouch and I'm not sure the drive plus extra cash is worth it for the VTF2. They both dig equally as deep but the ED just may not be quite as quick as the VTF2.

I'm upgrading from a Yamaha YST-SW105 (8" 100 Watt, very small enclosure) so I'm pretty sure I won't be disapointed with the ED.

 

[AzN_plyR]

The amp was actually just replaced by ED and I will be demo'ing it before I take it home. I have the opportunity to to buy a VTF2 for $100 more but I'd have to drive ten hours and spend another $50 on gas to get it. From what I've heard the ED is no slouch and I'm not sure the drive plus extra cash is worth it for the VTF2. They both dig equally as deep but the ED just may not be quite as quick as the VTF2.

I'm upgrading from a Yamaha YST-SW105 (8" 100 Watt, very small enclosure) so I'm pretty sure I won't be disapointed with the ED.

10 hours drive? Jeez. I would just order a new one since it's on sale.

But the ED should be good for you though.

 

[caper26]

LOL, that eD will blow that Yamaha to smithereens.

 

[bwilberg266]

LOL, that eD will blow that Yamaha to smithereens.

That's no joke! I just picked the A2-300 up last night and it's fantastic. I can see where it may not be the most "musical" sub out there but so far I am more than happy.

Not sure If I should have left the little defenseless Yamaha alone with the ED though, I feel I may come home to a grizzly scene...