JBL S1S-EX/2242HPL the "most frightening" subs out there???
Hi guys. I need your advice.
My situation: I currently have a pair of K2-9800SE (which I love) - for stereo purposes only. I use a Klipsch THX2 Ultra 7.1 System in my HT ATM. I would like to sell the Klipsch, buy a SK2-1000 Center and build up a full 7.1 Synthesis system.
My question is regarding the S1S-EX subwoofers. I would run them with matching JBL S800 monoblocks.
What do I want: The meanest, most powerful, spectacular, deepest and all around frightening bass money can buy - I think you get the point. Restrictions: I don't want to build it myself (if thats what some of you DIY guys where going to suggest), Initially I'm going to use at least 2, further down the road 4 subs, I'm not on a strict budget BUT I want the most bang for the buck - and I mean BANG!
So on to my question: How does a S1S-EX/S800 combo compare to "alternatives" like SVS Ultra/2, Velodyne DD18/DD1812, Klipsch THX Ultra2 KW120, ... ??? I like my Klipsch but want MORE. I have heard DD18 but they are too "gentle" for my liking. I want something "violent, brute". Super high potential SPL, low distortions. But it should be able to dig really deep (usable 16Hz-18Hz output) at the same time.
Where to look for something like that? Are there any subs out there that are comparable/competitive considering what I want bass to sound - "fierceful" ? Thanks in advance for your opinions.
Big Bass while you wait for Array
Welcome to the LHS. I will suggest a sub for you until those JBL's are available for you to purchase. This sub will definately fill the tall order you specified: http://www.servodrive.com/contrabass.html . Some time back, I watched a video clip of an experiment being performed by a university on the effects of different types of noises on the average city dwelling. They used a row of these subs (modified I believe for this test) lined up outside a house and then played various recorded sounds at various db levels. They used a DAT recorder for their source and stated that some of the sounds contained content as low as five hertz (5hz). They simulated the effect of a jet airplane flying directly overhead. My jaw dropped as these mighty subs were able to violently shake the outer walls of the house, I mean violently, like an earthquake!. I want to add that I would stay with JBL's new stuff when it becomes available, after all, this is the Lansing Heritage Site and I love JBL, sounds like you do too, so you know what I mean. We'd love to see some pictures of your current set up if possible. Good luck with your sub search, Steve G.
...and now back to subwoofers...
I use JBL Sub1500s which are no longer available but have been replaced with the very similar Array 1500s. I find their ability to produce extremely deep and still musical bass outstanding. I own an older HGS Velodyne and find it too artificial sounding... it does pound the house, but I am not crazy about it's sound character.
As far as the S1S subs, I recently built 4 dual versions of them and found them to be much more powerful than the Sub1500 but not quite as deep sounding... they are also huge! They will certainly pressurize the room and damage the foundation given enough power... they are actually quite efficient, but they handle gobs of power and if they are given it, they will scare you... that said I would prefer to use more Sub1500s or Array 1500s in a domestic space... I personally prefer their sound. It is very deep, clean, and surprisingly articulate. They will do sub 20Hz quite well, but you will need a few of them if you are after crazy SPLs.
I am not sure if you were seriously considering the Velodyne 1812... if so than the cost of 4 or 8 Array 1500s shouldn't be a problem... another nice thing about the Array 1500s is that they are self powered so you won't need to get extra amplification.
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