HSU Research VTF-3 MK5 vs. VTF-15H MK2

[jjeckelxz5]

I was set on purchasing the VTF-15H MK2, but it is on back order until the end of March. Since I'm impatient I'm thinking about buying the VTF-3 MK5 instead, since it is in stock. The specs between the 2 look fairly close. Is the 15H MK2 much better and worth the wait and extra $100 or should I just buy VTF-3 MK5?

Thanks

 

[KEW]

You can get some informed opinions here, but I doubt you will find anyone who has actually heard both and know what differences in the sound exist.
I would recommend that you give Hsu a call (or email) and ask what the differences in Sound Quality and capabilities are in the context of your application.
Not only will you get an expert answer, but you will also experience the customer support available from Hsu before you buy from them.

 

[ATLAudio]

I was set on purchasing the VTF-15H MK2, but it is on back order until the end of March. Since I'm impatient I'm thinking about buying the VTF-3 MK5 instead, since it is in stock. The specs between the 2 look fairly close. Is the 15H MK2 much better and worth the wait and extra $100 or should I just buy VTF-3 MK5?

Thanks

Previously the VTF 3 was only slightly better than the VTF 2, now it's only slightly inferior to the VTF15 (all based off of the measurements). This is a good move for HSU imho. However, if you're like me you'll always be asking yourself if you should have gotten the VTF 15!

That said, call HSU and see if you can audition the VTF 3, and if it doesn't live up to your expectations, you'd want the option of trading up to the VTF 15 plus the difference, when it becomes available.

That said, I'm not sure how attached you are to your HSU decision, but there are other ID brands which offer free exchange and return periods, no questions asked. You could always try on of those avenues.

 

[shadyJ]

I was set on purchasing the VTF-15H MK2, but it is on back order until the end of March. Since I'm impatient I'm thinking about buying the VTF-3 MK5 instead, since it is in stock. The specs between the 2 look fairly close. Is the 15H MK2 much better and worth the wait and extra $100 or should I just buy VTF-3 MK5?

Thanks

The VTF3 mk5 gives up a little bass in some deep frequencies, mainly 16 Hz where the VTF15h mk2 has a 3 dB advantage. However at 25 Hz and above, the VTF3 pretty much matches the VTF15h mk2, and this is where most bass lay. So is the VTF15h mk2 worth the extra money, well that depends on what you listen to. There are some movies which have bass that digs that low, but not a whole lot. Music does not normally dig that low, and television shows do not normally dig that low.

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

to give some perspective on 3db advantage:
3 dB = twice the power (Power respectively intensity - mostly calculated)

6 dB = twice the amplitude (Voltage respectively sound pressure
mostly measured)

10 dB = twice the perceived volume (Loudness nearly sensed psychoacoustics)

TLDR: In other words - 3db difference in region where you (nor me) can hear anyways is not such a big deal.

 

[KEW]

TLDR: In other words - 3db difference in region where you (nor me) can hear anyways is not such a big deal.

If the sub is for music, I agree with you completely, but for HT, doesn't feeling it count for anything?

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

I didn't say 3db is nothing, just not a big deal. Not to mention in smaller to medium rooms vtf3 could gain same 3db back

 

[jjeckelxz5]

Thanks for the input. I emailed HSU Research and was told the VTF-3 MK5 will work great in my space, so I will be ordering it today. Either way this should be a large upgrade over the Klipsch SW-450 that I am currently using.

Would it be beneficial to continue to use the Klipsch sub with the Hsu Sub?

The room is about 12ft x 24ft x 7ft. I was thinking maybe I put the Hsu in front and the Klipsch in back.

 

[KEW]

Thanks for the input. I emailed HSU Research and was told the VTF-3 MK5 will work great in my space, so I will be ordering it today. Either way this should be a large upgrade over the Klipsch SW-450 that I am currently using.

Would it be beneficial to continue to use the Klipsch sub with the Hsu Sub?

The room is about 12ft x 24ft x 7ft. I was thinking maybe I put the Hsu in front and the Klipsch in back.

I think the Klipsch will muddy your sound, but the best answer is "give it a shot and see". This will also give you an idea of what improvement you gained.