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18 inch subwoofer vs multiple 12 inch subwoofers with bookshelf speakers

I am currently in the process of selecting a subwoofer system to complement my bookshelf speakers (3x KEF LS50 Metas with 5.25-inch midrange drivers, 2x KEF Q150) to achieve a balanced and immersive audio experience. Size of the room is (19.5x13x8).

After thorough research, I have narrowed down my options to two configurations: 1x Rythmik F18 18-inch subwoofer or 2x Rythmik F12 12-inch subwoofers, with the possibility of expanding to two F18 or four F12s in the future.

My primary criteria for the subwoofer system are musicality, speed, transient response and depth of bass response, particularly in the low-frequency extension below 18Hz. Additionally, I aim for seamless integration with my bookshelf speakers, ensuring a cohesive and satisfying soundstage for both music and movie content without overpowering the midrange and high frequencies produced by the bookshelf speakers.

I would greatly appreciate any insights or recommendations you may have regarding which configuration—either the single F18 or the dual F12s (possibly 2x F18 vs 4x F12) would offer better synergy with my bookshelf speakers and deliver a fuller, deeper sound with smooth and fast transient response across frequencies with 50/50 music and movie?

thxbest
erik_squires
16,128 posts
 

There are definitely times when smaller is less likely to wake the dragons, so I'm not saying smaller isn't often just right, but sometimes excess really is excess.

axpert's avatar
axpert
124 posts
 

A pair of REL subs will provide the upgrade sound that you are hoping to achieve.

Depending on the nature and and musical venue you prefer to listen to, I would not think it would be necessary to go beyond the "T9/x" sub. A pair should yield improvements to you overall system that other brands can only aspire to. Of

course REL has several other sub lines that have won virtually every audio award the industry has to offer. If you have the funds, you might explore that course.

I can assure you that a pair of "T9/x subs will rock your world, and at the same time, provide the finesse that classical and jazz music require.

AXPERT

lewinskih01
909 posts
 

I used to have 1 REL sub, tried 2 Rythmiks F12 and preferred the latter, then added 2 additional F12 for a nice improvement, then added a miniDSP 4x10HD and Multi Sub Optimizer (MSO) for an even better result. Very much in line with above posts.

Multiple subs.allow for smoother frequency response across morecseats in the room. MSO enables a flat response across several seats. It does require a measuring mic, though.

One suggestion is to consider two Rythmik F8 under/very close to your LS50. F8 can be crossed much higher (up to 250Hz but you don't need that much). You could run F8 say 20 to 150Hz and two F12 from 20 to 60Hz.

I had my Rythmiks for about 12 years without issues. And the same folks keep replying my questions at Rythmik, which is nice.

viber6
2,448 posts
 

ditusa,

The article by Doug Blackburn is absolutely correct. The "speed" heard is not from the bass. It is from the accurate reproduction of midrange and HF overtones of the bass fundamental. Smaller bass drivers extend up to the mid bass and significantly into the midrange. Most critical is the integration of the midrange and bass drivers. Larger bass drivers are good for only one thing--deep bass extension.

thxbest OP
8 posts
 

viber6,

So let's say a 12 inch sub for instance Rythmik F12 does perform and blend better with KEF LS 50 Metas than an Rythmik F18 sub because of the better mid bass, no matter if servo controlled or not?  

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