Need advice on sub addition

[Starmax]

I'm thinking about adding an extra sub to my system - currently have Klipsch RSW-12. I realize the ideal mate to it would be another RSW-12, but wanting to keep cost down as much as possible, how much wiggle room in variance between the two subs can I get away with and still maintain my objective of smoothing out bass response in room? Doesn't sound bad now, but can I make it significantly better with two subs if properly calibrated? (50-50 between movies and music.) Is it better to stay within the Klipsch family with a smaller sub, like the RSW-10? Or maintain the size and power by staying with a 12" but go wth another brand? My listening area is 20x34 (15' cathedral ceiling at highest point), current set-up is 7.1 (Denon 5805 driving Polk lsi15 fronts, lsi center, rti12 sides & rti 10 backs).

 

[j_garcia]

By going with a sub that has less output and extension, you will always be limited by the lesser sub. WHY with all that nice gear would you settle for one or two average subs? In a room that size, you need a LOT more sub than even two of the RSW12.

 

[ParadigmDawg]

I was thinking something in the range of 2 of the big dogs from SVS or HSU...

 

[Starmax]

By going with a sub that has less output and extension, you will always be limited by the lesser sub. WHY with all that nice gear would you settle for one or two average subs? In a room that size, you need a LOT more sub than even two of the RSW12.

Because all that nice gear set me back so much that for the time being that's all I can afford! Actually, the sub was a hand me down gift from a relative so that's why I have it to start with (that sucker costs $1499. new). What size/brand sub(s) would you recommend?

 

[Starmax]

How about...

a HSU RESEARCH TN1220HO plus HSU 500A sub amp? I can get them at a good price if I want...or do I need 2?

 

[j_garcia]

You need at least 1 of those bad boys, two would be better. Good choice!

Because all that nice gear set me back so much that for the time being that's all I can afford! Actually, the sub was a hand me down gift from a relative so that's why I have it to start with (that sucker costs $1499. new). What size/brand sub(s) would you recommend?

Price isn't a key factor in how good a sub is

 

[Starmax]

You need at least 1 of those bad boys, two would be better. Good choice!



Price isn't a key factor in how good a sub is

I agree with you about cost not necessarily being an indicator of quality...don't really know what point I was trying to make when I mentioned the sub's price. Would the HSU set-up be a noticeable improvement over the Klipsch sub, even with just the one sub for now? It might take some time to get a second...Also, what would I do with the Klipsch? Try to use it with the HSU or forget about it?

 

[j_garcia]

You could try using the Klipsch also if the 1220 isn't enough, though then you will have to deal with a little more complex calibration. With dual 1220s, you can basically use the same calibration for both, and tune the two to your needs. I've heard a SVS 25-31PCi in a room that big and it sounded great - the room like that is actually a plus when it comes to bass, something about the shape and the shape of the ceiling. I'd try out one 1220 and see how it goes. You can also email HSU and ask them what they think regarding 1 or 2 1220s.

 

[Starmax]

Thanks

for the advice! I am not rolling in dough, and I pretty much blew my budget on the 5805 (even though I got it just slightly over 1/2 price on eBay, brand new). I've got an opportunity to get both the HSU sub and amp for $500 (4 years old, great condition), so what the hell, I'll bite the bullet. I just needed someone who knew something (I've read your other posts on here) to push me over the edge. Because I'm not aware of any more super deals, it might be awhile before I get a second sub...that's why I was asking about using the Klipsch if necessary. Once i get the hang of the Denon's Audessey EQ software, wouldn't it make combining the two different subs a bit easier? Also, do you think the HSU 500 watt amp is enough to drive two 1220s?

 

[j_garcia]

I am not familiar with the 5805's setup. Does it have the ability to adjust two subs? Does the EQ affect the LFE channel at all or only level?

According to their website, their 500w amp can be configured for one or two TNs.

 

[Starmax]

I am not familiar with the 5805's setup. Does it have the ability to adjust two subs? Does the EQ affect the LFE channel at all or only level?

According to their website, their 500w amp can be configured for one or two TNs.

I just got the receiver and am still reading about the set-up. It allows up to three subs for the primary zone, designates channel assignments for each, and has independent distance & level compensation and crossover frequencies. If you have time, read Gene DellaSala's comprehensive review of both the receiver and the Audyssey EQ here on Audioholic.com.

 

[j_garcia]

I read it briefly, but wasn't likely to ever purchase one, so didn't read the whole thing. Will check it out.

 

[Starmax]

I read it briefly, but wasn't likely to ever purchase one, so didn't read the whole thing. Will check it out.

Just curious why you aren't likely to purchase one...cost or that you prefer separates? A $6k receiver was way out of my price range but I begged, borrowed and stole enough to pay half that on eBay!

 

[j_garcia]

Yes, at that price point I'd definitely opt for separates. Price would keep me away at the moment too....

 

[Starmax]

Final choice

I ended up ordering two HSU VTF-3 MK2 subs...their site was running a clearance sale on them and everything I read about them was very good. Anybody know about this sub first hand?

 

[j_garcia]

Excellent sub, I've heard it more than once. Two should be able to handle that room well.

 

[Matt34]

I ended up ordering two HSU VTF-3 MK2 subs...their site was running a clearance sale on them and everything I read about them was very good. Anybody know about this sub first hand?

I have one in a 1500 cu/ft room, simply amazing, a great sub for the price. In a room as big as yours I'd first try and run them in max output with both ports open.

Make sure and give us your impressions when they arrive.