STF-2 vs VTF-1?

[skool]

Hi guys, I am looking for a musical sub that can also handle movies as well. Now, I am looking at the STF-2 since it's in my price range. However, I noticed the VTF-1 is similar, but offer a Maximum Output mode that can benefit me in movies. My question is how beneficial the MO mode with the VTF-1? How much dB would I be looking at going using the MO mode in the 25-62 Hz range compare to the STF-2? As I understand, the STF-2 is basically fixed in Max. Extension of 25 Hz. Although the STF-2 is similar with the VTF-1, the VTF-1 does have an extra port versus one with the STF-2. Does it means that would result in higher output across the range of 25-80 Hz? With that in mind, is the VTF-1 worth the extra $50 currently?

[Pete_Hsu]

Hi skool,

Max output mode can give at least 2-3db higiher output capability over the 30-63Hz region.

The VTF-1 is definitely an improvement over the STF-2. It has a flatter frequency response, stronger magnet, nicer finish quality, and variable tuning options. So as long as budget is flexible enough, it is worth the additional expense.

Sincerely,

[skool]

Dr. Hsu, I was wondering if do you really recommend using an eq with your subs? Since your sub is built to perform as flat as possible, would it just be best to find a good location in order to integrate the sub and let the in-room gain takes place or utilize an eq to tame room peaks? My room has a peak at around 40 Hz, which is actually quite common in most rooms. Would it be best to let the room allow the sub to have a natural curve with room gain in this case? In addition, what about front firing versus down firing in terms of room acoustics? Does some room require front-firing rather than down firing or does it really matter? It just seems that the many in the industry is using front firing rather than down firing these days. I was just curious. Thanks.

Also, does anybody have a VTF-1? In which mode do you prefer to use your VTF-1, max extension or max output?

[Pete_Hsu]

Hi skool,

Sure, it is a good idea to use EQ to flatten out a peak or peaks in your in-room response. The orientation of the woofer shouldn't make a very big difference for deep bass, but some people may prefer one orientation vs the other, and vice versa.

Sincerely,

[Husker991]

Skool,

I'm having the same question going through my mind so I'm glad you asked. The VTF-1 is over my budget, I just need to decide if it's worth my wife being owly for a month. Sounds like it might be. :o

Let me know if you made the jump and what you think after the speaker arrives. If I grow some in the next day or two and make the purchase I'll be sure to post. It's awful tempting to have the VTF-1 on sale right now. Whenever that sale ends, I definitely wouldn't be able to make the upgrade. I just wish there wasn't shipping to add on. At least I'm not in CA where you have shipping and tax.

Have a great one.

[skool]

I am still thinking hard on it considering there are quite several options out there currently.

Pete, how does the VTF-1 sound subjectively compare to the VTF3 Mk3? My friend has the VTF-3 and it performs really good musically. I was wondering if the VTF-1 has similar but smaller driver that will make it sound musically similar to the VTF-3 Mk. 3 with just lower extension and less output?

[Pete_Hsu]

Hi skool,

The VTF subwoofers all sound very similar up to their respective output/extension limits. I am sure you will be very happy with the VTF-1, it is a great relatively compact subwoofer :)

Sincerely,

[cacihome]

I am still thinking hard on it considering there are quite several options out there currently.

Pete, how does the VTF-1 sound subjectively compare to the VTF3 Mk3? My friend has the VTF-3 and it performs really good musically. I was wondering if the VTF-1 has similar but smaller driver that will make it sound musically similar to the VTF-3 Mk. 3 with just lower extension and less output?

Yeah, i agree with Pete.
They all sound very similar. The 3.3 is just louder, and with more extension.
The only one that sounds different is the ULS.

[Husker991]

I'm going to use my sub for HT and nearly no music.

I understand the VTF-1 has an option of changing the frequency to suit either mode. Which use is the STF-2 more naturally set up for? I'm currently running a Speakercraft Bass X-10 and I want to find the lows that this sub can't seem to produce. Will the STF-2 keep up with the VTF-1 for HT use?

Thank you in advance!

[skool]

In which type of room does the Maximum Output mode benefits the most? Smaller or larger? Also, is the VTF-1 capable of producing 20 hz tone under maximum extension? If so, at what level relative to the 25 Hz tuning frequency?

[Pete_Hsu]

Max output mode would be most useful when playing content that doesn't have much bass below 30Hz.

The VTF-1 does have some useable output at 20Hz. Looking at frequency response when measured outside and away from reflective surfaces, it is about 7db down @ 20Hz vs 25Hz.

Sincerely,

[skool]

Max output mode would be most useful when playing content that doesn't have much bass below 30Hz.

The VTF-1 does have some useable output at 20Hz. Looking at frequency response when measured outside and away from reflective surfaces, it is about 7db down @ 20Hz vs 25Hz.

Sincerely,

Thank you for the useful information. I'm glad you guys are one of those that rated your subs based on measurement outside at and away from reflective surface. I wish others in the commercial industry would use similar standard. Anyway, I presume 7db down @ 20 Hz occurred in maximum extension mode? Thus, could I assume in-room gain would be 2-5 dB louder @ 20 Hz depending on room acoustic?

[Pete_Hsu]

Yup, yup, that is exactly right skool! Thanks for the kind words :)

Sincerely,

[Husker991]

I just pulled the trigger ont he VTF-1. I'll give you my thoughts after it arrives Skool. It will be a great day!

[spockrock]

i had the stf-2 in a townhome setting. it was absolutely awesome in that set-up. when i moved into my house, it was in a much larger room but still sounded amazing in the corner. i unfortunately got a case of "bigger should be better-itis" and ordered another comparable sub (eD a2-300). i used the proceeds of my stf-2 sale to help pay for the new sub and new fronts. i'm missing my hsu currently, but i'm also warming up to the new sub. just a new sound. the musicality and accuracy of the stf-2 is second to none. ideally, in the future, i'd love to add another stf-2 to my current set-up and pair it w/ my eD. i'm thinking of using it nearfield in somewhat of the fashion of an MBM-12 but with a little more oomph.

regardless, i wholeheartedly loved my stf-2 and didn't think i'd miss it so. from everything i've read, i'd use the vtf-1 in max extension mode so i don't think i could justify the xtra cash for the vtf-1. but i'm sure there is no way you could go wrong with either sub. excellent products, i hope to be a hsu owner again soon...

[skool]

I just pulled the trigger ont he VTF-1. I'll give you my thoughts after it arrives Skool. It will be a great day!


Please do provide your personal experience with the VTF-1. Thanks.

[szeh]

skool...I have an usual size room 15x17x20 with several large open areas. I was using one STF-2 and was pleased with the sound for a room that size. I noticed I had several dead spots and was really pushing the sub to it's limits. Since then I added a 2nd STF-2 and the sound came alive. I have them located both on the right side of the room, but in opposite corners.

Dead spots have all disappeared and the bass response is much smoother. I guess what I'm trying to say is that each room and situation is different with no one easy solution. As you know it's all trial and error. Subs are like hot women, having one is great but two is even better...although a lot more expensive!:p Good luck!!!

Scott

[skool]

Subs are like hot women, having one is great but two is even better...although a lot more expensive!:p Good luck!!!

Scott


Lol, I love your comments. It's true though. It's a accepted fact that two subs are always better than one in any particular room since it will able to overcome any nulls/peaks in the room. Also, two subs should give you at least 3 dB boost in the room. However, finding the correct phase for each sub can be irritating :(.

The hardest decision comes when you're spending $$$ on two lower end subs when you could have a better higher end sub. Most would almost recommend buying the higher end one instead of two lower models unless your room is acoustically horrible.

[Husker991]

OH MY GOODNESS.

Well, the VTF-1 arrived today. I'm amazed. I had a $700 Speakercraft that I inherited that was no where near what this will do. I haven't done much with it since it isn't broke in and I haven't been able to dial it in. I will say though, just a quick set up and 1 episode of 24 was awesome. I am truly living the show versus being a bystander. WOW.

Now I have to save for my second one to go upstairs. I'm truly loving every second with this sub and I now understand why all the excitement over HSU.

SKOOL, don't hesitate and just buy the VTF-1. For a mere $50 difference it's a no brainer. If it were a couple hundred dollars I could see maybe settling for the STF-2 (if THAT is settling, LIFE IS GOOD). I won't be using this for music too much, but it will be nice for parties and entertaining, or just pumping out some old PAC.

I AM A BELIEVER.

[skool]

I'm glad you're enjoying your VTF-1. Unfortunately, I am waiting for my friend to buy my current sub before I could on any further. However, it seems the 10% discount is already over as of currently. I may have to wait a little bit. Please calibrate your system, pop in a few movies and let us know your experience.

Also, is there any reason why I don't ever see the VTF2.3 on sale? I just notice the VTF3.3 on sale occasionally.

[terpsfan59]

In which type of room does the Maximum Output mode benefits the most? Smaller or larger? Also, is the VTF-1 capable of producing 20 hz tone under maximum extension? If so, at what level relative to the 25 Hz tuning frequency?

I'm still a little confused over when to use "MO" or "ME". Is my assumption right? I would use Maximum Output more for music and Maximum Extension more for movies. I'm saying this because my understanding is most music does not go below 30Hz. At least that is what I have heard. Can anyone confirm? Thanks for any help.

[cacihome]

I'm still a little confused over when to use "MO" or "ME". Is my assumption right? I would use Maximum Output more for music and Maximum Extension more for movies. I'm saying this because my understanding is most music does not go below 30Hz. At least that is what I have heard. Can anyone confirm? Thanks for any help.

Yep. You have the idea.

Anyway I can guarantee that the best tuning configuration will be the one you like, when you try out the two...

In my experience, on the 2.3 and 3.3, max output mode is good for the largest rooms since it provides the most output, or for showing your equipment capabilities to your friends(HEHEHEH), and max extension mode is better for smaller rooms or pipe organ music.

On the VTF-1, I only used the max extension mode, as I liked it the most for every material.

[terpsfan59]

Yep. You have the idea.

Anyway I can guarantee that the best tuning configuration will be the one you like, when you try out the two...

In my experience, on the 2.3 and 3.3, max output mode is good for the largest rooms since it provides the most output, or for showing your equipment capabilities to your friends(HEHEHEH), and max extension mode is better for smaller rooms or pipe organ music.

On the VTF-1, I only used the max extension mode, as I liked it the most for every material.

Thank you, cacihome...!!! I appreciate the information.