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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 3 responses by raam

raam
113 posts
 

Correction, I meant ieales, this forum operates a bit differently than I am used to.

I have built quite a few crossovers and never seen the formula written as you have and looked it up, could not find it anywhere.

* the same as x ?

R the same as impedance?

Thanks,

Rick

raam
113 posts
 

mitch2,

 Exactly what I am looking into doing, the simplest design possible, using quality parts of course. Much easier that replacing op amps, caps, etc without having a schematic, to change freq and have a cleaner signal on the sub amps crossover I am using. I will have to work out the value of the caps which I likely have on hand, the rest is quite easy. Since my mains roll off below 70 hz I will have to aim for that point but will try above and below it as well.

Sub amp is AB but unfortunately mono, wish I could fit two of them or have two smaller mono amps but it is a decent amp, more than enough power and has  variable phase, Q, single band EQ. Only issue is the op amps are moderate in quality and the crossover is a fixed slope of 12db at 80hz. I have been looking into swapping op amps to higher grade, caps, etc and changing freq to 70hz etc...but a passive is so much easier, and I can go from the DAC (R2R in the near future) directly to the tube amp without going through an op amp.

Rick

 

 

 

raam
113 posts
 

I figured out how to take care of my crossover needs, two good .022uF caps, $5-650 Each, depends on how tree bark I smoke:)

After more research I will select the best ones for the cost which means $20-100 more likely on the lower end of that.  The exponential cost to get better is something I can live without.

Great to be lifelong DIY, my sub setup would cost many times more to get even close if I bought a manf one.

 

 

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