What are the advantages, if any, to having a cylinder sub, like those over at SVS, compared to having a typical box sub like those from Axiom or Hsu?

I know they were all the rage for a while in the early 90s for isobaric applications (and city water and waste kept losing piles of pipe to DIYers)... but I haven't actually seen anyone use one since then.

Bren R.

Hsu actually had cylinders before SVS, and their top of the line sub is still a cylinder, the TN1220.

Cylinders are structrurally more stiff and do not need the extra bracing that boxes need. This keeps costs and weight down.

Cost of manufacturing, weight, shipping all favour the cylinder. If you want multi drivers then you go for a box. Due to the increased height it must be a lot easier to design a vented application for a cylinder than a box.

But when it comes to your ears if the internal volume is equal then there is no audible difference at all between the two designs.

Above are all correct. Cost savings is probably the main advantage. To me, with kids, they are a disadvantage.

Some are top-heavy, fabric covering on the outside (a cat would tear it up too), kool-aid spill into the top would be directly on the driver.

Not ALL models have these characteristics, the ones I looked at did and I stayed away.

I recently bought one from SVS and it's one of the most impressive subs I have ever used. I have had lots of compliments on this sub. It blends great with the Axiom M80's. I only have the sub turned up about 1/3 of the way and reach 100db with ease. This is the 25-31pci sub. My wife has asked many times "what was that" or "is there a plane flying over". This sub is so easy to place in the room and make it transparent to the listener.
They are down firing subs, and are not top heavy. I have also been very impressed with their support. I have emailed them a few times and had immediate responses.

They have been a great company to deal with. I would put them on the level with Axiom.


Rick