Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Stereo Powered sub to use with Audiobytes

Hi everyone,

I recently received my Audiobytes as well as the EP0 subwoofer. I've also had my Epic Grandmaster 500 system for a couple years now and love it.

I guess I've gotten to used to my EP-500 sub. The EP0 seems pretty weak in my opinion (I knew it's no comparison to the 500 ). It also seems to pick up a lot of midrange sound. I'm looking for a good powered sub to plug into the Audiobyte amp. I'd like to not spend over $200.

The EP-125 is maaaaaybe a possibility, however.

Thanks everyone!!


PS the sound quality of the Audiobytes alone is amazing!!!!

Check the subs at outlaw audio and HSU.

Thanks for the reply!

I recently bought the Hsu VTF2.3 -- works very well with the axioms I have (M60, vp100, QS4). I was surprised at how much difference it makes -- even with the M60s. They have some smaller units that might be more suitable for an under desktop scenario.

you could always make a computer desk OUT of the bigger subs.

Ran into the same issue. Ended up expanding the budget and adding a Mirage S8. I tried to keep it under $300...but ended up spending about $350. I love how stereo equipment improves in $50-100 increments

For a 12 x 12 study the Audibytes paired with this sub sound fantastic.

I find the EP0 to be well matched with the audiobytes if used as intended. Mine are on my desk in front of me right beside the speakers.

I use a $150 Sony Sub (150W) in my 1000 cubic foot office. It blends beautifully and gives just the kind of kick that the Audiobytes lack. Right, Jason?

I must agree with Mojo, the Sony sub did add considerably to the audiobyte experience, without it they sounded like the best computer speakers I have ever heard but still computer speakers; with the sub they sounded like a very good 2.1 system.

Any of you two compared it with the EP0?

No, but it would be difficult for an unpowered EP0 to compete with a 150W, 12" powered sub. The 150W spec on that Sony is very conservative. That particular sub can reach 107 dB levels in my main room (although not cleanly and at 40Hz and above as I've reported in the past). In my office it just rocks! This particular sub wasn't designed by Sony so it's actually really good. And for $150, it was a total steal. With MojoMods (varnish on the back of the driver and polyfill on the inside), it sounds good and tight. Actually, I can't take credit for the mods. They were recommended by the sub's designer .

Thanks for the clarification. I am not convinced using watts is valid for linearity, which is what I look for in a sub for music, especially when paired with low sensitivity speakers like the M0.

Question: Is the 150$ current? In the sense, do you know what model is currently descendant from your non-Sony sub? Could be interesting to find that trail.

Here is the link for my Sony sub:

http://www99.epinions.com/Sony_SA_WM40_626383/display_~reviews

Linearity goes out the window below 30Hz with this sub. That's good enough for me for an office application .

I'll take your word for it (the chart in the link only shows range and not the linearity). Reviews are pretty enthousiastic.

Eric, I thought you had an EP0. I was initially disappointed with mine, until I pulled it out from under the desk, whereupon it went from boomy and mediocre to quite decent. It filled out the bass nicely. Of course, it won't compete with a powered sub, but for near field listening, it's excellent.

I do have an EP0 and it works great for me (I never put it under the desk). I only listen to music at my desk.

Given that at this time, the only chance I have to play games on that computer is on the weekends when The Boy is sleeping in the other bedroom, it's at pretty low volumes. Works nicely for that.

I'm about two seconds away from pulling the trigger on some Audiobytes, and was going to go ahead and get the EP0. If I am reading correctly, most of you EP0 owners are placing the sub on the desk next to a speaker?

Mine is under the desk, but pulled out to be a little farther out than flush with the desk

Ahh I see. I currently have a set of Klipsch ProMedia 4.1's and have the sub situated in the corner of the room behind an L shaped desk unit. It's certainly not ideal as the sound is very boomy. I think given the dimensions of the EP0 that I may be able to position it in a different spot. Are the cords to/from the amplifier long enough to allow for freedom of placement?

I think they're fairly long; I haven' had a problem with the amp placed above my monitors.

The cords are at least 8 feet. I can't advise you on the EP0 but the audiobytes kick butt! They're God's gift to office workers. They're great HTIB speakers too.

Cool, 8ft should be ample for my situation. These will be in my office, so I don't think I'll need to go the active sub route that you have, Mojo. I'm looking at the real wood cherry finish, and am probably going to place my order tomorrow. Thanks for the feedback, guys.

When you get them that is a must post pic situation, they sound like it will look awesome.

Oh man, that means I will have to clean up my desk! I suppose that is as good an excuse as any. I just placed my order, so I will now wait (im)patiently for my delivery

I'm audiobyting right now to Clapton: Unplugged and it's freakin' awesome!

I still can't believe people go through life without M80s and audiobytes .

I shall be audiobyte-less for a very long time, then again my main PC is only a 10 ft away from my HT so I just crank it up.... when noboby's home.

Well, that's easy to fix. Just move it upstairs .

Already have one on each floor, too many PCs in this house and the wife doesn't want any more stuff upstairs.

Just got my Audiobytes hooked up yesterday. I've moved the EP0 all about and the output doesn't suit my taste. I think I'm going to look at a powered solution. I also have a problem with distortion in one Audiobyte at 80+ dB when listening about 5 feet away. As usual, Axiom has great customer service. They're sending me a replacement soon. Pics are forthcoming.