2. speakers
  3. 189752-46284

18 inch subwoofer vs multiple 12 inch subwoofers with bookshelf speakers

I am currently in the process of selecting a subwoofer system to complement my bookshelf speakers (3x KEF LS50 Metas with 5.25-inch midrange drivers, 2x KEF Q150) to achieve a balanced and immersive audio experience. Size of the room is (19.5x13x8).

After thorough research, I have narrowed down my options to two configurations: 1x Rythmik F18 18-inch subwoofer or 2x Rythmik F12 12-inch subwoofers, with the possibility of expanding to two F18 or four F12s in the future.

My primary criteria for the subwoofer system are musicality, speed, transient response and depth of bass response, particularly in the low-frequency extension below 18Hz. Additionally, I aim for seamless integration with my bookshelf speakers, ensuring a cohesive and satisfying soundstage for both music and movie content without overpowering the midrange and high frequencies produced by the bookshelf speakers.

I would greatly appreciate any insights or recommendations you may have regarding which configuration—either the single F18 or the dual F12s (possibly 2x F18 vs 4x F12) would offer better synergy with my bookshelf speakers and deliver a fuller, deeper sound with smooth and fast transient response across frequencies with 50/50 music and movie?

thxbest
spenav
416 posts
 

Unless you can’t afford it, multiple subs are always better than one, especially when dealing with bookshelf speakers. This is a no brainer. Also, you might get away with it for movies, but two F18 might be overwhelming for your bookshelf if musicality is your criteria. 

tweak1
3,553 posts
 

I've owned several  mfgs subs over the decades, but never these. However, for grins, giggles and perhaps a very happy marriage, and huge $$$$ savings, consider Veri-fi Audio LLC powered subs @ $399 each. I have a pair on order. They also have a bunch of other cool products

soix
8,765 posts
 

Two subs is better than one, and four are better than two as long as the subs are somewhat comparable as are the F12 and F18.  Of your options and if it’s viable I’d put a swarm of 4 F12s at the top of the list.  Best of luck.

big_greg
6,561 posts
 

4 X f12.  I have two Rythmik F30 (2 X 15") and two SVS SB13 Ultra subs (13.5") in my system.  It's complete overkill.  The volume setting on the Rythmiks is about 9 o'clock and something like -27 on the SVS subs.  In other words, they are barely even on for proper integration.  The F18s would be overkill unless you have a really large room, or would rather hear bass than the rest of the frequency range.

james633
905 posts
 

I am a sub system user for 20 years now and have tried a number of things. One subs is very poor sounding. It “can” work for one seat but two subs is so much easier to integrate.

if you want infrasonics (bass below 20hz) the 18s will be much better than 12s. But almost all music is filter at 20hz. For movie and music 12s are 100% fine.

as for integrating with small 5.5” drivers… it will sound fine with either size until your speakers run out of steam at which point the subs will take over the sound signature. Just come down to how loud you listen. I would guess at 95db your speakers are starting to compress a bit. There is a reason theaters use compression drivers and or line arrays. 
 

another way to look at it is which sub plays at a higher crossover. Low inductance light drivers can play very high and a crossover higher than standard might actually help you out. Sadly I fine anything over 80hz is pretty locatable though so sub placement would need to by right by your mains for higher crossovers. 

More to discover