I'm thinking about ordering an EP125 sub to complement my M2s. They're part of a moderately powered system that will be playing music only (not theatre).

I've read in many posts here, people recommending either HSU or SVS subs rather than Axioms lower powered subs. I do agree that the specs on the HSU SFT1 or SFT2 look better for the price, and the reviews the HSU get are great. However, I'm leaning toward the EP125 for two reasons.

1.) The sub will be in a formal living room that has cherry wood furniture...as well, the M2s are in cherry wood. I just can't seem to find any lower powered subs in the SVS or HSU (or other sub manufacturers for that matter) line that come in a cherry finish...everyone seems to offer black matter or gloss, which would stand out terribly in the room. The idea is to keep the speakers and sub low key and blended with the furniture.

2.) The EP125 seems to be one of the most compact of all competitive subs. I can't seem to find others in it's range. Again, this is part of the aesthetic concern with this room.


I know my reasons may sound trivial, and many would shake their heads at those decision criteria.

Can anyone tell me any good or bad experiences with the EP125 sub, that might convince me to either buy the EP125 or go elsewhere?

I'm not going to be rocking the room with this system....in this particular location, it will be playing mostly soft jazz or classical at moderate volumes. The room is 8'x12'x20'

If anyone has any opinions, it would be much appreciated.

Many thanks,

Kaz

What is your budget? That is a fairly large room, and possibly the EP125 won't be able to move enough air to satisfy that space. You may want to consider one of Axiom's newer 350's or 400, that will give you better performance, even at lower volumes.

I can say that for a music only only system the EP400 is the way to go, I had one here to test out and it is magnificient for music. It blends seemlessly with out even trying and still has good bottom end to fill things out.

Most of the recommendations for SVS or Hsu were for home theater, where those subs tended to go deeper than the smaller Axiom subs. For music, I don't think that is really an issue.

Based on the reviews I have seen, I think the EP125 would be fine. I went with a larger sub for my M2s but IMO the real benefit was movies not music.

I've tried my 12", 150W Sony sub in my 4,000 cubic foot area. Although it doesn't compete with the 600 for depth, smoothness and SPL, it's perfectly acceptable for filling in the bottom end for music. I haven't heard the 125 but if it's rated 125W average and has headroom for peaks, then I think it should serve you well for music.

Kaz, it's likely that for the same amount of money you could get a sub with response that extends lower, but the question would be whether that would be more significant for your use than the aesthetic factors(which are valid considerations)which you describe. My own music listening is almost entirely classical and a sub as capable as the EP500 which I now use with my M22s certainly is necessary for full enjoyment of many pipe organ recordings. Most music however, has little content below about 40Hz and almost nothing below about 30Hz. The EP125 has good response to at least 30Hz and would substantially benefit your M2s on most music.

Thanks to all for the responses...many insightful comments! I placed the order yesterday for an EP175. I thought it would be wise to have a little more power and slightly lower frequency range. The free high gloss cherry upgrade helped me make the decision to go ahead and purchase now. I'll post how I like the setup with my M2s in about a month's time when the sub is ready.

Thanks again.

Kaz