Older subwoofers better than newer subwoofers!


I was considering buying a new subwoofer to replace my Bowers and Wilkins ASW2000, which is a substantial subwoofer with a 12 inch driver.

I spoke to somebody at Bowers and Wilkins and a dealer and there are issues with newer subs where they are tighter but no longer have the ability to fill the room with a fullness that the older subs have. The feedback they receive from new buyers is that the very lowest frequency experience has been diminished with the newer subwoofers because they’re too tight. So if you replace your older subwoofers in a home theater environment you may be disappointed.

So I think I’ll keep my older subwoofer. Sadly people have no appreciation for these vintage subwoofer experiences since most of the current gear offered is built with dsp stuff, smaller drivers and poorly powered Active subwoofers. Further, because of the shortcomings buyers are forced to buy two to ensure a good room coverage. Sometimes progress isn’t what it pretends to be.

jumia

Showing 2 responses by bdp24

My above post was offered in the spirit of the op. I didn't want to bring into the discussion more modern subwoofer designs, such as those of Rythmik Audio.

Anyone interested in info on the variable-damping control (as well as other technical matters) found in the Rythmik plate amps of that company's subs can find it on the company's website.

The Rythmik Audio subwoofer plate amp controls (and subs!) are imo the best in the business. I own four of them.

@joenies: The Janis W1! Man, that takes me back! That sub was popular with QUAD ESL and KLH 9 owners in the 1960's. Gordon Holt reviewed ’em in Stereophile in the early-70’s iirc. A classic!