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 3 responses by toro3

I’m sure more knowledgeable people can explain or correct me, but the way I’ve interpreted it via the way it’s employed by a Rythmik sub - high dampening (tightest/cleanest sound), mid, as well as low (looser - perhaps more room filling).
With my Rythmik they are easily noticeable, especially when you begin tailoring the frequency extension/roll off in conjunction.  

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.
 

Some subwoofers on the market allow you to alter the dampening factor - Rythmik’s subs for example.