Which subwoofer should I get?

Just a quick update.....looks like for only a few hundred more dollars, I could get the SVS SB-4000 pro, and I have the physical space for it. Would probably opt for that sub if the group thinks I should do SVS over REL.

To all: once I again, I really appreciate all the input. 

@ Rick_N: helpful to know your experience with the SVS SB subs. 

@ gkelly & jastralfu - good to know the REL's are easy to set up.

Another question for everyone: on the REL speaker matching page, they are recommending two T/5x's as optimal for my setup. BUT.....their speaker matching page does NOT have the A5's  as an option, (I chose the S3's as closest match) and they do not have a choice for audio only. Given that the T/5x's are only rated -6dB at 32 Hz, I wonder if this is enough low end given my speakers and room? On the other hand, I'm a little concerned that a pair of Carbon Specials may be overkill for my situation (and a lot more expensive). Thoughts about this given my room size and need for music only? Is there a REL speaker that you think would be the sweet spot for my room and system?

FWIW, I listen to: acoustic and electric jazz, rock & pop of all eras, and all types of classical music. Oh yeah, occasionally, modern country and bluegrass. 

Thank you one and all. It seems like a “tie” between the REL and Rhythmik subs. I have heard of Rhythmik, but never heard them. One of the things I’m concerned about is having the properly sized sub for my room, which is 19’x17’x9’ (peaked roof design). My listening position is centered on the 19’ side of my room. I too expect to get two subs, but will start with one (for a variety of reasons). Finally, due to pricing, I am planning to buy REL used, but Rhythmik or SVS new. 

@ avanti1960

I have listened for many months to my system without a sub, and was able to listen to the system with the SVS home theater (ported bass) sub for about a month. There is no question that the subwoofer added a tangible sense of air and space to the experience. While I love my speakers (!!), I do think that adding a sub will be a positive add.

@gdaddy1 

There is no question that whatever sub I end up getting, it will be sealed.

@audiotroy 

The Elac subs look very interesting

@sunshdw 

.....and the Paradigm subs look very interesting as well. Definitely more expensive; in line with REL costs.

To all of you.....

I'm finding myself drawn to subs with app control. I don't understand why REL (with their great reputation and significant pricing) hasn't gone down this road yet.

I realized I have a separate but related question. My integrated has two subwoofer out RCA connectors. The manual states only the following about them: "This output allow you to connect an active subwoofer or a second power amplifier." 

Does anybody know if these are "high" or "low" level outputs?

I'm definitely getting some mixed messages about the utility of getting a sub that is app controlled versus the RELs without app control. That's ok, just want to acknowledge that there are differences of opinion (what else is new with audio?) 

If I go with REL, simply based on specs, it looks like a pair of S/510's which are rated at -6db @ 20HZ are obtainable on the used market for $4k for a pair. This is significantly less than the Carbon Specials and would allow me to purchase a pair immediately rather than waiting. As another data point, the S/812 would be around $4.5 - 5k for a pair.

If I decide to go for the RELs, what would you advise is the best model for my room and music listening preferences, factoring in the cost differences?

Thanks again to everybody!!

@ James633

This was a VERY helpful post….thank you. The JTR’s are truly above my price point, so will do very serious investigation of the Rhythmik, since you and so many others think so highly of this brand. As suggested by another post, I will contact Rhythmik to get their advice on which subs make the most sense for my room and system. 

FWIW (to all): my local audio dealer is a BIG REL fan and strongly encouraged me to get the Carbon Special. What started all of this was I found a very good used deal on a Carbon Special, and then thought I ought to seek the wisdom of this group……and I’m very glad I did.

Thank you to everyone for your feedback. 

P.S. We’re about to do some construction in my 2-channel room, so will likely wait until that mess is done in a few weeks to pick this back up and make some final decisions.

@ mylogic - thanks, was wondering about that. 

Do you happen to have a URL for an article that can explain in layman's terms the concept behind hi and lo level inputs for subwoofers?

@ Mylogic - thank. Will do.

@ Audiorusty - thanks for validating James633. It struck me as good advice as well

@ mylogic - truly appreciate your ongoing clarifications. I was originally thinking about the REL Carbon special. 

To all: I am now convinced that a pair of subs is the direction I will be going. My overall budget needs to be limited to $4k, which gives me lots of options. I’m still leaning towards Rhythmik (wish they had app control, but I’m a little less hung up on this as being a critical feature…..more of a nice-to-have rather than need-to-have). The Arendel 1723 S1’s looks like another very interesting option, given their app control and better aesthetics. 

Once again, very appreciative of the advice this group can offer. Will keep you apprised later this month post-construction (there’s going to be holes cut in our drywall to install a new window; don’t want to introduce new equipment until the construction dust settles).

@ fleschler - FYI the Shockwave subs are a Von Schweikert product. Definitely over my price point. FWIW Westminster Lab makes amplification and pre-amps.