Still planning my HT, and I wanted to know everyone's thoughts about the different subs. I've read about the benefits of 2+ subs in a HT, but I've also read the great reviews of the EP500 and the EP600. If you had to choose, would your rather have the pair of EP350s, or just the one EP500? EP600?
Room is about 2300 cubic feet, with an arched opening to the next room. I'll never get the WAF for more than 2 subs, and I probably can't afford it either. Any help is appreciated.
-Tyson
For myself I know I prefer the lower extension of the EP500/600 vs the EP350. I would go for an EP500 or 600 depending on your budget and if the much larger 600 would fit. Then add a second if I so desired or felt something was amiss in the FR with just one sub.
Tyson - my room is right at 2500 cubic feet. I started with one EP600 and had to play with placement quite a bit to find a position that sounded good (ok, great) in my main listening position. What really helped me was adding a parametric equalizer (Behringer Feedback Destroyer - ~$150).
If your room allows for several different placement options for a single sub, you should be able to find one location that sounds good in your primary listening position. If you're stuck with only one or two spots where you could position a sub, then two subs would give you smoother response and rely less on perfect placement.
If you're concerned with smooth bass response throughout the room, you'll probably prefer two subs. If you just want it to sound awesome exactly where you sit, you're more likely to be happy with a single sub.
The compromise position is to get one sub now, the biggest/deepest sub you can afford, and to enjoy that one until you can afford a second that matches the first. Like Jay said, you may find you're just fine with a single sub and never look back.
Jason
Tough call. Until Axiom upgraded the EP350 I would have said "EP500 as a no-brainer", but I do like the EP350 v3. I'm not sure how loud you plan to play or how 2x EP350 compare to an EP500 for total output... my guess is that the two are pretty close in which case the deeper response of the EP500 would tip the balance.
What are the room dimensions like and where are the seating positions in the room ? Wondering if the room dimensions will be "friendly" or "hostile" - two subs can really help if you have "bad" room dimensions...
If I had a choice between 2 350 or 1 500 I would probably go with 1 500.
It seems you have a decent budget, maybe even consider 1 EP 800
I would try to start with one EP500 and if after experimenting you just feel you must have another subwoofer then add another EP500 later. That’s assuming you get buying another one by the WAF later as she may feel one is more than enough.
I love my twin 350's and big brother 600.
Who doesn't love some BASS?!
Thanks for the advice! I'm going to hold out for an EP500.