Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Home Theater Axiom Subwoofers

Just started looking at getting into home theatre again. Unfortunately, due to space constraints, I cant go back with the Magnepan home theatre, so I am considering a full set of Axiom, namely the Epic Grand Master "package". About 2 years ago, I was able to listen to a set of Axioms (M3ti's) and was very impressed.

One thing I havent seen too much discussion about it Axiom's subwoofers. My budget is right at $1500, so including the subwoofer, this would fit nicely. But I see most people avoiding Axiom's subwoofer's and going with another brand. If Axiom's subs are "lacking", what would you suggest in the $500 price range? I was lucky enough w/ my last home theatre setup to be able to purchase a used (and well taken care of) Velodyne HGS-10"...My budget (and probably my luck) does not have that luxury this time.

All opinions will be appreciated!

By the way, this setup will most likely be hooked up to a NAD T742 receiver. I have been way too loyal since I got my first integrated amp from them years ago.

I think the EP175 is an excellent sub, especially for music. It really integrates seamlessly with the rest of my new Axiom speakers (M22's, VP150, QS8's). Bass guitar, bass drum, etc. all sound the way they should. I have mine in a back corner, opposite my mains, but the bass still sounds up front, where it should be. I also feel for home theater, effects are very realistic sounding, not at all muffled or booming. I have never compared to SVS or HSU, just my old Kenwood sub. I am sure SVS and HSU are fine subs, but I think the Axiom gets a bum rap, especially when you consider that 5% is off the entire system price, not just the sub. It brings the EP175 down to around $410, making it an excellent value. Why not get the 30 day trial and check it out?
Barry

5% off? did I miss something?

***nevermind, just realized the "package" knocked 5% off the price

While Axiom subs aren't all that bad, most here will agree that you'll get better bang for your buck with SVS or Hsu Research.

If size is a concern, I'd definitely go with the Hsu VTF-2 sub. Great sound in a nicely "hide-able" package. If you don't mind having something larger, I'd go with an SVS -- either the 25-31 PCi cylinder sub, or their PB1-ISD box sub.

All of these three subs are within your budget, and all are great subs.

Hsu has some "b-stock" VTF-2's available for only $399 with free shipping. I have the VTF-2 and it's a great sub. You'll like it.

Thanks to my fellow newbie Twopecker for asking almost exactly the same question I was going to ask. I was similarly surprised about the extent to which other subwoofers were mentioned. I've got a Yamaha 5660 and am planning on 2 M60s, a VP150 and 2 QS8s for surround. I was originally planning on an EP350 sub, but would like to consider other options as well. The system will be in a 20x20 room with a cathedral ceiling, so I'd prefer to err on the more powerful side for a sub. And to my dread, I'm beginning to feel the inevitable "but it's only X dollars more..." demon whispering into my ear.

So, given the setup above, I'm thinking about the following potential choices for a sub:
- EP350
- SVS 20-39PCI
- VTF-2 or VTF-3
- TN-1220

I still have to ask my wife what her preference would be (I think I should at least ASK--"if Mama ain't happy...") but I think I'd probably prefer a box at this point. The VTF-2 would probably be fine, but given the room size and the desire to keep what I will be getting for a long time, I'd be leaning toward the VTF-3 between those two. And of course, that darn creature is still on my shoulder whispering--the "Animal House" imp has NOTHING on this guy.

So folks, thoughts?

Sorry for the long post, but thanks in advance; tremendous advice and expertise from all of you posters, and it's VERY much appreciated!

Take care all.

I have heard all the Hsu subs you have listed, and I own a VTF-3.

The TN1220HO is the best sub I have heard from Hsu. Very clean down to 16hz (cleaner than my VTF-3)...very accurate too. The VTF-3 can also get to 16hz, but not with as much output, and not quite as clean.

If I did not already have a VTF-3, I would seriously think about spending more money and then buying a TN1220HO with the Hsu 500watt amp.

curtis

Curtis:

Thanks for the reply...as I read the web site, the VTF-3 and the TN1220HO (250watt amp) are the same price. In that case would you still opt for the TN1220? I don't think I need to be in the $1100 range...$850 is probably as high as I'd like to go.

The reason I would go for the 500watt amp is for the ability to add a second TN1220HO in the future without having to buy an amp.

Would I do a single TN1220HO with a 250watt amp now instead of the VTF-3? Yes, because I know now, for my room, I do not need the placement options that a box sub offers. Also, I got a B stock VTF-3 at a great price, and I did not know about the TN1220 or hear one when I purchased the VTF-3. It is Hsu's unsung flagship.

The only down side I see to the TN1220 is the fact that it is not heavy, and it is tall, not hard to be pushed over. But it can be put on its side without any negative effects.

curtis