Someone said the only thing better than one sub is two subs; the only thing better than two subs is four subs. But you do have to draw the line somewhere, I guess... I control the volume of each sub separately from a central control panel - just EQ and tune each sub separately and then slight volume level change gives a final ambiance if needed - and some recordings need it...
The most important thing for low frequency is sound absorption, though, IMO. In a 12 × 18 music room I have 24 cubic feet (0.68 m³) of 6# and 8# Roxul Soundboard in each corner and another 40 cubic feet (1.13 m³) in panels, and walls full of diffusion. My room sounds great without subs but I like the fuller room sound of four subs - not in the corners, bu the way.
The room needs to be tuned first in my experience - use room correction software and mics - it is easy if tedious. Then, with a tuned room, any changes in the sound of your system will be attributable to the last change you made in equipment placement or equipment selection.
First things first and the music ROOM is first for me. Every hour of listening to beautiful music adds another hour to your life..... what do you have to lose?
The most important thing for low frequency is sound absorption, though, IMO. In a 12 × 18 music room I have 24 cubic feet (0.68 m³) of 6# and 8# Roxul Soundboard in each corner and another 40 cubic feet (1.13 m³) in panels, and walls full of diffusion. My room sounds great without subs but I like the fuller room sound of four subs - not in the corners, bu the way.
The room needs to be tuned first in my experience - use room correction software and mics - it is easy if tedious. Then, with a tuned room, any changes in the sound of your system will be attributable to the last change you made in equipment placement or equipment selection.
First things first and the music ROOM is first for me. Every hour of listening to beautiful music adds another hour to your life..... what do you have to lose?