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Is There A Big Difference Between Subwoofers From Different Manufacturers

This is likely the last thread I’ll be posting about subwoofers.

I was just wondering if there is really a big difference between subwoofers from different manufacturers if the quality of the subs (which is mostly governed by the specifications) are fairly similar. Also, with the assumption that the set up is properly done to ensure a seamless integration with the main speakers.

There have been many comparisons or experiences on subwoofers shared by members here on this forum, people who upgraded their old sub to a new seemingly superior sub. Or people who added additional subs to the system which contributed to an overall improved bass performance. I’m referring to the former, the comparison between single subs.

To cut to the chase, I understand high quality subwoofers which are essentially higher spec designs will usually produce better performance than lower spec subs. When people upgrade their subs, I assume the new subs are superior in terms of specification, either a larger sub with larger drivers, higher power output of the internal amplifier, lower frequency extension or the combination of any of the above.

Has anyone compared subs which are fairly similar in quality or performance when upgrading from the old sub?

Example. If someone upgraded from a REL T7x to an SVS SB-3000 or SB-4000, I suppose the SVS would be an upgrade since they come with larger drivers, higher power output, everything superior spec-wise. What if the models are closely spec’d? Will the subs sound fairly similar or closer to each other ?

Say, the comparison between

SVS SB-3000/4000
Rythmik F12SE / F15
REL S510 / S812 / Carbon Special or Limited

I presume the subs will still sound slightly different but the difference may not be night and day if the quality or specifications are closely matched?

 

ryder

Showing 1 response by audioman58

audioman58's avatar
audioman58
4,306 posts
 

Hello Ryder I have had many subs , a perfect example was ihad the Svs SB 3000

i bought the SB 4000. It was just more powerful and ease in the Baer more articulate , notnight and day , but enough to sell the sb 3000

i had my brothers Svs ultra 16 which is the big brother to the sb400 and it was slightly better still but too big for my space being almost 2 ft deep and over 200 lbs 

the driver in the sb 3000 is around 24 pounds,the sb4000 44 pounds , and cabinet much more ridged it weighs 102 lbs , the Svs App is excellent and allows you to adjust bass on the fly ,for many recordings either have too muchbsss or not enough.

where Rel are not sealed ,they are more efficient ,less power for they are like a semi port, using a passive radiator firing down , Sealed boxes have a bit better control comparing , in my friends system hisJL audio  Fathom 12 , with true auto room correction with Mike you just plug in $5 k retail  it should be special ,, 

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