Main differences between the VTF-3 MK2 and VTF-3 MK3?

[Matt_Smi]

I currently have an STF-2, I have owned it for almost two years now and it still impresses to this day. But seeing as I have some money to spend and HSU has these great new subs out I may be looking to upgrade. Now I might just go all out and get the VTF-3 HO, but then here I am looking at the VTF-3 MK 2 for only $612 with 18 Hz of rated extension, this would probably be more than enough for my medium (18Lx11W) room and it should still be a significant upgrade to my STF-2. But what is the main difference between this sub and the MK3? I know the MK3 is newer so does it have a better driver? Does it have the same one the HO uses? Or do they all share the same 12” driver? Also it has two ports, where as the MK2 has one right? I know the specs look the same on paper but my guess is that the MK3 will be able to play louder and cleaner at the lower frequencies than the MK2 because it can move more air correct?

But the way I look at it in my mind is this, the VTF-2 MK3 is $553 shipped, which based on the specs is an amazing deal, but for me it is a no brainier to pay and extra $60 and go for the VTF3-MK2. And on the same note if I am going to spend $774 shipped on the VTF3-MK3, then I mine as well go all out and spend the extra $200 for the top of the line HO model. So for me the VTF3-MK2 seems like the sweet spot for performance and value, and hey it used to be HSU top model and has gotten tons of rave reviews. What do you guys think? Will the VTF3-MK2 be a very nice/noticeable upgrade over the STF-2, or should I go all out with an MK3 or HO? Again to spend $612 on a sub is not a big deal for my right now, but to spend $980 is, I could do it, but its just a lot when I think the VTF3-MK2 would probably still blow me away in the room I will be using it in for almost $400 less.

[xcjago]

Hey Matt, I just replied to your post on AVS. I would say the VTF-3 MK3 is actually the sweet spot, considering the next step up is $200 more. The VTF-3 MK3, is much larger than the MK2 and has a four inch ports. It actually has the same exact cabinet and ports as the VTF-3 HO but with the amp and driver of the VTF-3 MK2.

The HO does perform a bit better in the really deep bass, but the MK3 has a bit better mid-bass.

[amdeutsch]

Matt, I also answered you over there. VTF-3.2 is discontinued. Also you might find a few stranglers, b-stock, showing up. Just a guess. Keep calling. A B-stock VTF-3.2 went for $553 shipped recently. HTH

There also was one on ebay recently that sold for $435(?) shipped with a buy-it-now option.

[Matt_Smi]

Matt, I also answered you over there. VTF-3.2 is discontinued. Also you might find a few stranglers, b-stock, showing up. Just a guess. Keep calling. A B-stock VTF-3.2 went for $553 shipped recently. HTH

There also was one on ebay recently that sold for $435(?) shipped with a buy-it-now option.

Really, well its looks like I will prob go with the VTF-3 MK3 then, I like the idea that I could add the turbo in the future as well...

[skriefal]

I have a VTF3-Mk2 in great condition (less than 1 year old) that is available if anyone is interested. Email me if interested, as I'd prefer to not clutter up the forum with this. Tnx!

[6/25/07 -- Sold this about a month ago... no longer available. Thanks.]

[Kpt_Krunch]

Gee - that's too bad - was going to buy the VTF3 MKII sub, but since it is so inferior to the MKIII - I guess I"ll look elsewhere :(

[Kingrsl]

Gee - that's too bad - was going to buy the VTF3 MKII sub, but since it is so inferior to the MKIII - I guess I"ll look elsewhere :(

If you are in the market for a 3.2, why not pick up a 2.3? If i'm not mistaken, the 2.3 has very similar performance to that of the 3.2. Either way, if you can stretch your budget a little, the 3.3 is an incredible deal.

[Kpt_Krunch]

Oh - I might. Sorry, my post didn't read all that well (I typed it quickly while doing some reading of past posts). There is a place in Canada liquidating the VTF3 MKII subs ($829 cdn + tax free shipping - no duties or custom charges). But since the new model is vastly superior - I want to call Peter and see how much the new model will be direct. I have a problem - I want the best - and if it's only going to be a moderate amount - to me it's worth the expense for it. But if it is going to be a substantial amount - then I still may go with the VTF3 MKII . Decisions Decisions :D

[Pete_Hsu]

Kpt_Krunch, feel free to email sales for a price quote. Note that I wouldn't say the VTF-3 Mk3 is superior to the VTF-3 Mk2 in general, but it is definitely stronger at 25Hz and below. Above that, the VTF-3 Mk2 is every bit as strong. The VTF-3 Mk2 is also noticeably smaller (2" less wide, 2" less deep). The VTF-2 Mk3 is similar in performance to the VTF-3 Mk2, but a bit less power.

[Kpt_Krunch]

Kpt_Krunch, feel free to email sales for a price quote. Note that I wouldn't say the VTF-3 Mk3 is superior to the VTF-3 Mk2 in general, but it is definitely stronger at 25Hz and below. Above that, the VTF-3 Mk2 is every bit as strong. The VTF-3 Mk2 is also noticeably smaller (2" less wide, 2" less deep). The VTF-2 Mk3 is similar in performance to the VTF-3 Mk2, but a bit less power.

Thanks for the info Peter - I did email sales and Candi responded with a quote. Quite accurate too - what I was expecting. Now I really have a tough decision :)

Peter - this sub has to go in a corner, but I do have room to turn it. Would a corner placement for the 3/3 mean I'd have to turn it sideways for best response. Kinda nervous about aiming that driver right into my wall. Room is 18 x 15 x 14 (vaulted ceiling - 14 feet at the peak - 8 feet at the walls). Room opens on one side (orientation is I sit on the width - the one side is mostly window - other side opens up to stairs leading to second floor and to main floor).

Thanks

[Pete_Hsu]

Hey Kpt,

As long as the side-firing driver has at least 1-2 inches of free space between the woofer and side wall, then you should be in good shape. Also, I would recommend at least 3-4" of space in between the rear-firing ports and the back wall.

Sincerely,