VTF in Max output mode

[Liaury]

I like to get some input from the VTF owners.

Contrary to typical recommendations, I have read some people prefer the max output mode even for music...and vice versa for HT.

What is your preference?

[Liaury]

Opps, didn't notice there was a polls section on this forum.

Moderator, if you find it necessary, please move the poll to the proper section.

[vbjeff]

I read that VTF-2 owners typically use max extension and VTF-3 owners typically use max output (some claim flatter response and already plays low for the VTF-3). That is why the STF line was supposed to be configured with the STF-2 tuned in max extension mode and the STF-3 tuned to max output (although there seems to be some uncertainty as to whether the STF-3 is tuned to max output or max extension). You probably need to specify which VTF sub you are asking about (or have 2 polls).

[Liaury]

Originally posted by vbjeff
I read that VTF-2 owners typically use max extension and VTF-3 owners typically use max output (some claim flatter response and already plays low for the VTF-3). That is why the STF line was supposed to be configured with the STF-2 tuned in max extension mode and the STF-3 tuned to max output (although there seems to be some uncertainty as to whether the STF-3 is tuned to max output or max extension). You probably need to specify which VTF sub you are asking about (or have 2 polls).

The points you made about the VTF-3 are exactly what drove me to create the poll.

If VTF-3 owners are finding the max output mode more to their liking, it may be a good idea to just go with the STF-3 and save the money.

I can’t edit the poll anymore. Maybe we can limit the voters to VTF-3 owners only.

[vbjeff]

Here is a poll that Sasha posted in the beginning of December:
http://www.hsuresearch.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=371&highlight=VTF3

It only has 9 responses, but shows that 7/9 VTF-3 owners use the max extension mode. Maybe that is why the STF-3 was changed from max output to max extension mode (if that is how it is configured)?? Web site implies STF-3 is max output, but some owners think they have a max extension mode.

[Liaury]

Originally posted by vbjeff
It only has 9 responses, but shows that 7/9 VTF-3 owners use the max extension mode. Maybe that is why the STF-3 was changed from max output to max extension mode (if that is how it is configured)?? Web site implies STF-3 is max output, but some owners think they have a max extension mode.

I guess that makes my poll redundent. The STF-3 was changed from max output to max extension? Wow. I agree that the web site implies that the STF is in max mode by the specification. Didn't know some people actually thought the opposite.

This is crazy. I just got to think there is some misunderstanding. I hope someone who knows for sure will verify.

[Sasha_G]

The first batch of STF-3s were accidentally specified with the amplifier parameters for max. extension. Hence, the first batch of STF-3s have had their ports tuned for max. extension and are basically equal to the VTF-3 in max. extension.

Future production runs will be set to max. output mode, so if you want to get a STF-3 in max. extension, now is your chance.

[Mlee]

Sasha,

This concerns me, I based my purchase on the fact that I would be using primarily for HT and that since little was available under 25hertz it would play louder with less distortion.

Perhaps I am sitting on a real gem and just don't get it but so far I am not able to get my STF-3 loud enough for my taste, I am definately not a bass punk, I just want to feel it kick like a mule as you once quoted about your VTF-2.

Perhaps I could sell it on Ebay as a collectors item and purchase the MKII. :D

[Michael Bain]

Most people do not realize that quite a few VTF-3 owners prefer maximum extension. Remember that the VTF-3 can hit at least 112db's cleanly at 31.5Hz, SPL at the listening position. In many rooms, the extra 3db's of output is not needed, so extension is preferred. At other times, maximum output is preferred, and measurable extension is still hovering near 20Hz. I suggest that you talk to Dr. Hsu or Sasha directly, because maybe the STF-3 with both ports open is the most appropriate choice for you. There are plenty of people who would bend over backwards for an STF-3 tuned for maximum extension, so you definitely have options at your side.

The VTF-3 MKII gives the best of both worlds, and that is one reason it is a tad more expensive.

[diad98]

"The first batch of STF-3s were accidentally specified with the amplifier parameters for max. extension."
Is it changeable on the AMP plate( for example, jumper change)?

[Ddavidson]

I have had a VTF-3 since they began and max extension mode is my prefered mode for both HT and organ / classical music. The 3 dB difference above 25 Hz in max output mode is not a hit you across the back of the head type of difference.

If you are talking 8-10 dB then sure you will notice but remember we are not talking mid range or treble here so you really need more like 10 dB to be perceived as having noticable more grunt. Where things get confusing is talking clean bass not measuring at high distortion levels which are perceived as having more punch.

Takes a while to get used to a low distortion non boomy bass response, and a corrected measurement soon shows the real levels rather than just the perception of the real level.

Ddavidson

[smartbot]

Originally posted by diad98
"The first batch of STF-3s were accidentally specified with the amplifier parameters for max. extension."
Is it changeable on the AMP plate( for example, jumper change)?

I was wondering the same thing about internal changes?!?! Of course one port is pluged but are the rest of the internal changes to spec?

It seems like a wierd accident. Doesn't it? How does something like that happen? Unless, it is such a simple internal seting issue and they had played with setting it to M.E. before prodution. Or, the Chinese set it using the same method as the S1's and S2's??? It all seem a bit crazzy.

I had thought it was set to the max extension seeing that it was playing soooo lowww. This was a great deal and don't see why HSU would change the setting. It seem that most owners prefer the VTF-3 in M.E. If this is not loud enough for you I'd be abit concerned with ones set up. This sub in the max extension will get clean loud sound at completely uncomfortable levels.

[smartbot]

As far as sound is concerned... I hate to beat on you VTF-3 owners but the STF-3 basically beats out the VTF-3. It plays as low, has more power and high current BASH amp. Hundreds less. Uhoh!!

[tafguy]

Here is my short-lived experimentation with maximum output mode:

I did give a try to use the VTF-2 Mk2 in maximum output mode. I could not see any difference until I borrow a CD from my friend who likes a lot organ music. Personally, I don't listen too much this kind of music but only from time to time.

But listen carefully to organ music, I can clearly see some difference using maximum extension mode. After I played only the first awesome track titled "Toccata and Fugue in D minor, BWV 565" of Organ Works Vol. 1 CD from Kevin Bowyer, by trying first in maximum output mode then in maximum extension mode, the difference is obvious that the maximum extension mode is much more to my liking. So a quick shut down the sub, put back the foam in to the port, and turn the switch back to 1 open port and you are right back to the greatness of sound you have been listening and feeling so good for months which is *MAXIMUM EXTENSION MODE*. Frankly, I don't know if I want to change this back again to maximum output not because of fear not having my basement becomes a small cathedral but of loosing the quality of very deep bass I both do feel both in music and in HT.

CD link:

http://www.arkivmusic.com/classical/album.jsp;jsessionid=095294B80E190A0BE702A1949966E 28D?album_id=15239


tafguy