Obviously, the shear size and weight of these systems prevents me from doing an "A" Vs. "B" test in the same room with the same amps and same accustics.
There are many variables in my two systems including:
1. Box sizes and tuning (my 2245s are in slightly smaller boxes)
2. Amps/equalization - (my 2242 uses a plate amp with adj. equalization, my 2245s use a Crown w/ no adj)
3. Rooms - my TV room is 10 x 24 and is carpeted; my basement 24 x 30 and has a concrete floor and walls; ceiling is wood plank
4. Loading - my 2242 is firing downward about 10 inches off the floor. My 2245s are front loaded.
I suppose I could swap out drivers into the different boxes and do a similar "A" Vs. "B" test.
Anyway, I'm somewhat surprised that the 2242 can really crank and blow the doors off the rest of the system, if necessary.
The 2245s seem to require TONS!!!! of power. I even have these two boxes wired in a 4 ohm load for which the Crown should be able to produce >1000 watts and it is not capable of overtaking the rest of the system.