Would you choose 1 ou 2 subwoofers for a stereo set?

2 big ones, 12" is what I use. Only way to go for best integration into stereo.

I agree with Jason.  I personally think REL subwoofers are the most musical.  Their high level connection allow them to play more like woofers.  Nothing worse to me than a thumping bass.  I have two REL SHO’s in the corners.  I have the volume set at about 40% and the crossovers set to blend in seemlessly.  It really improves sound stage.  A game changer.  Jason knows a lot about this,

I’ve a dedicated 2 channel listening room that is your size but higher ceilings. I gradually added SW’s, so have a strong comparison. My aim was to increase’s the sound pressure level across the room without boominess and retain LF detail. I now have 4 SW: two 12 in Rhythmic along the front wall and two 10 inch REL on the sidewalls. The progression to stereo SW was a startling improvement in sound stage and detail. I’m enthusiastically aligned with the recommendations for stereo SW.

My take : the choice is not a simple binary choice for one sub versus two subs .

A key determinant is the build quality and parts in the unit(s) . since it is the subwoofers) in both of these situations that tends to call attention to the system and cause many of the problems thatmay be predicated .

One good unit is is better than two cheap units IMO.

The truth of the matter is that most subwoofers have fully earned their bad reputation. They usually suck. Most of them sound boomy, muddy and out of control with an obnoxious bass overhang that lingers so long as to blur most of the musical information up until the next bass note is struck. The cheap built ones as the mass-market models trying to capitalize on the home theater trend that is sweeping the land, and these are a big (and IMO, unacceptable… ) performance compromise for 2-channel Audio .

That is why I auditioned all the contenders and all-too-many pretenders, and bought the ATC C1MK2 subwoofer because for two reasons:

(i); its superior audio performance that integrated seamlessly with my HARBETG main speakers that’s bested all the others in my system.
(ii) It’s superior superior quality build and warranty

• Compact 12″ Sub
• Handmade ATC 12″/314mm driver with massive motor assembly and ribbon voice coil
• ATC 200W full class A/B amplifier
• High Level and Line Level Inputs
• Comprehensive user controls to ensure best possible integration with partnering loudspeakers
• 6 Year warrantY
• Of course, this costs and it ain’t cheap = Choose wisely

Another benefit to using subs is the ability to high pass your main speakers, and possibly even mains that go as low as the 802s, thereby relieving the amplifier and the low frequency drivers in your main speakers from trying to push low bass frequencies.

In my case, I was able to switch out larger, full-range bass reflex (i.e., ported) main speakers for better sounding, acoustic suspension (i.e., sealed) speakers that offer much better sounding bass down to about 40Hz, and then roll in the subs from there.

You will only be able to determine whether using a high pass filter sounds better with your 802s by trying it. The result will depend on the HP filter you use, your subs, the ability of your 802s to handle low bass, the type of music you listen to, and the volume you typically listen at.