Which Sub for HT

[chrixx]

I am looking to spend @400 on a sub. It will be used almost exclusively for HT (movies & television). I was just about set on purchasing the STF-2, but was lurking on avsforum and found the eD A2-300. They are similarly priced (free shipping at Elemental Designs though).

Here are the differences that my novice eyes could point out:
1. The woofer for the STF-2 is 10" and the A2-300 is 12".
2. The box for the A2-300 is few inches bigger all the way around and a lot heavier (44lbs - 72lbs).
3. The finish on the A2-300 is a bit undesirable.
4. From what I've read, the STF-2 is more musical.

Since the sub will be tucked in a corner behind the listening couch, looks don't really matter much. Both subs have a 200 watt amp. Because of the larger footprint and woofer I am assuming that the A2-300 will go lower/louder (may sound boomy). The SFT-2 has been around for a few years and is a proven solid performer (plus 30 day in home trial). Another possible deciding factor is that my current surround system consists of 5 satellites that don't have much bass at all. I will have to cross over at 100 (maybe higher :eek: ). The room is 19'x15'x9' and is open on one side to a large kitchen.

Which of the 2 subs would do the best job?

Sorry about the lengthy post.

[feisty]

you are going to have a problem with mid-bass, regardless of which route you go.

[chrixx]

That didn't really help. Could you suggest a $400 range sub that would be better?

[cacihome]

I am looking to spend @400 on a sub. It will be used almost exclusively for HT (movies & television). I was just about set on purchasing the STF-2, but was lurking on avsforum and found the eD A2-300. They are similarly priced (free shipping at Elemental Designs though).

Here are the differences that my novice eyes could point out:
1. The woofer for the STF-2 is 10" and the A2-300 is 12".
2. The box for the A2-300 is few inches bigger all the way around and a lot heavier (44lbs - 72lbs).
3. The finish on the A2-300 is a bit undesirable.
4. From what I've read, the STF-2 is more musical.

Since the sub will be tucked in a corner behind the listening couch, looks don't really matter much. Both subs have a 200 watt amp. Because of the larger footprint and woofer I am assuming that the A2-300 will go lower/louder (may sound boomy). The SFT-2 has been around for a few years and is a proven solid performer (plus 30 day in home trial). Another possible deciding factor is that my current surround system consists of 5 satellites that don't have much bass at all. I will have to cross over at 100 (maybe higher :eek: ). The room is 19'x15'x9' and is open on one side to a large kitchen.

Which of the 2 subs would do the best job?

Sorry about the lengthy post.
If you want more slam the 12", but if you want more musicality the STF...
However for a few $200 more.... the 3.3 is awesome...

[cacihome]

That didn't really help. Could you suggest a $400 range sub that would be better?

With that price...no...
There are a lot more... but are lesser subs...

[bsoko]

Your space is just under 2600 cubic feet with a large opening to the kitchen area. In my experience you would be better to go with the 3.3. I know it is more and it is tough to justify the $$$, epecially to the WAF. However, you will be very unhappy with anything less. I went through 4 subs in a 18 month period before I got my 3.3 Turbo and my space is 2X larger than yours. Bite the bullet and you will be a happy man!

Bill

[chrixx]

I could never justify spending that much. My limit is $400. I could probably squeeze to $450. I am sure that either the STF-2 or the A2-300 will be a big improvement over what I have now (nothing).

[Pete_Hsu]

chris, I'd say that you might get acceptable results using the STF-2 in the nearfield (next to the couch). The VTF-2 Mk3 would be even better in filling the room if you could save up a bit for that.

[chrixx]

chris, I'd say that you might get acceptable results using the STF-2 in the nearfield (next to the couch). The VTF-2 Mk3 would be even better in filling the room if you could save up a bit for that.

Thanks for the reply. My plan was to set the sub next to the couch (in the corner) or possibly behind the couch (centered). I would love to go with the VTF-2 Mk3. The 12" would probably make a huge difference, but another $150 would never get by WAF.