Energy S10.3 vs EMP ES10i

[NonEntity]

I know this is dumb. Wrapped up beside the tree I have an Onkyo RC360 receiver and Polk Monitor 70 speakers waiting to be set up in my first real audio system. This will be a pure music system, mainly playing heavy metal, classical, and classic rock. It will be set up in living/dining room about 15' by 30'. I have not even heard the equipment I already have, but as I continue to read this forum and try to learn, I am already debating upgrading to a subwoofer.

I guess the sense of urgency comes from the fact both subs appear to be on good sales and I can get either delivered (B stock in the case of the EMP) for under $200. Would anyone have any feedback comparing these two for a music only system? I have found threads giving props to the Energy S10.3 as a music subwoofer. The EMP line seems generally well regarded here and it appears (?) the ES10i is a sealed subwoofer, which seems to be the conventional preference for a music sub, but I cannot find much in the way of reviews or user experience.

I do plan to listen to what I have Christmas morning before I order anything else. However, if the sound seems lacking and she who must be obeyed is obliging, I would like to move quickly before the sales expire.

Thank you for any feedback.

 

[gene]

I installed this EMP sub for a friend in his bedroom system using a pair of EMP e55Ti towers. The combo produced excellent results with plenty of deep and tight bass for music. It's a great deal.

Merry XMAS to you!

 

[Sheep]

The Energy model will definitely have more slam for the types of music you listen to. The S12.3 (12 inch version) was actually quite a powerful subwoofer considering it's design/price.

S12.3
Audio Ideas Guide Loudspeaker Reviews: Energy S12.3 Subwoofer

Here is a review with a whole system and a rough test bench measurement for the S10.3.

Energy Reference Connoisseur RC-70 Speaker System HT Labs Measures | Home Theater

SheepStar

 

[NonEntity]

Thank you both Gene and Sheep. It sounds like either would be suitable, which is good news. I like the description of the EMP as tight, I think precision would be more important to me than raw power. While continuing to research, I spotted the Velodyne Wiconnect 10" listed in the deals forum for the same price range. I would be interested in any feedback on that model as well.

I found one short review that was kind of middling. However, I could put a wireless sub under an end table in the middle of the room, which if I remember things I have read correctly, could be an advantage. I don't know if the wireless sub transmitter would interfere with the wifi reception of my receiver, though.

Thank you again for the feedback on these subwoofers.

 

[kini]

Up your budget by $100 and get this

CSX12 Mark II - Cadence Sound Store

I still think it's on sale for $299.

Review- seems pretty good musically and has that mid-bass slam you want for your music

Review: Cadence CSX-12 Mark II Subwoofer | Sound and Vision Magazine

Gene

 

[raynist]

The emp is a ported sub.

I have the dual 10 and it is great for music. Only used it for a few minutes to make sure it worked. Got it as part of a package may end up selling it as I have several svs subs currently.

 

[NonEntity]

Thanks for the additional feedback Kini and raynist. I did get my system set up and while my wife and I were sitting and soaking up the sound, she turned to me and said "You know, the only thing missing is the bass that you can feel in your chest." She also mentioned her birthday is coming up. I love my wife.

That review on the Cadence was pretty favorable. Of course, then I have to compare it against other $300 subs. Comparison shopping rapidly becomes paralysis by analysis, decisions, decisions.

 

[timoteo]

Has anyone else noticed that there has been a recent influx of people posting links to Cadence subs. They all say the same thing: " i heard their good & i THINK they are still on sale for $XXX.xx" The suspicious thing is that all of these recent posts are by "members" who have extremely low post #s & dont say much about anything else.

To me it looks like shameless advertising by Cadence. IF...thats the case then its sad!! Of course i cant say that for sure but its awfully suspicious. Its annoying to me to be honest. Whenever i see one of those posts now i dont give it a second thought.

So anyways, i just thought id throw that out there & see if anyone else noticed what i have.

I could just be crazy though!!! Wouldnt be the first time!