[Q]

I'm still debating this whole purchase....I've auditioned the older versions of the RM40s...and loved the midrange.  Now with the latest tweaks, I'm sure I'll love the upper bass/lower mids too.  I had considered the Alpha LS from GR, but crossing that system in the middle of the mids has to have some negative effects   THe new MLS cabinets also look awesome in the pics.  Now with all the glowing reviews of the RM30, and a 215 sub on each side to mate, as designed, with it, I wonder how that will compare.  You see, I listen to blues, jazz, rock, vocals, and even metal.  I'm not looking to squeeze the last tiny bit of detail from the speakers.  I'm looking for a really smooth response, with impact in the upper bass/lower mids.  I want them to be more warmer than brighter.  When Neil Peart smacks a roto-tom or a snare, I want to feel it.  When Carlos Santana's band beats the bongos, I want to feel it.  I'm not going to be sitting in the sweet spot that much...or maybe i will after the purchase!?  I'm also going to use these for HT, and will likely purchase the LRC to match.  So..Those who have heard both the 40s and 30s, what would fit my bill better?  I also really find the Deqx to be a potential next purchase...biamping these as some have done here, with a steep xover and then time aligning with room correction should be awesome!  Its likely I'd purchase subs with either speaker.  AND, I want a sub next to each main for sure.  BUT, id rather not have subs with the 40s due to the required floor space.  Any input is appreciated!
Q

[jermmd]

Q,

Where are you located?  If you're in the NYC area, you can demo each and decide for yourself.  I personally don't think you need dual subs, but you also can't have too much bass.  The RM30's are significantly smaller (More WAF) and significantly cheaper.  For me, the RM30's and the Maestro subwoofer from ACI was the right choice.  I have heard the RM40's sound better than my system but that was with significantly better electronics.  How big is the room these will be in?

Joe M.

[John Casler]

 I'm looking for a really smooth response, with impact in the upper bass/lower mids. I want them to be more warmer than brighter. When Neil Peart smacks a roto-tom or a snare, I want to feel it. When Carlos Santana's band beats the bongos, I want to feel it....

Hey Q,

I know how hard it is to make the decision, since I have to make the same one myself (and I'm back and forth)

But do let me assure you that with the right electronic compliment you can get the "impact" you are looking for with either of your choices.

BUT...As you have already mentioned you need the sub.  Especially now that B, has added the 1000megawatt sub amp.

Let me tell you, I was just listening to "MY" system and it only has a pair of 626Rs!!!!! (well of course there are also a few Subs )

And I am getting high impact on all the things you want.  I'm listening to Jim Keltner's DRUM cut from the Sheffeild Labs disc, and I can feel the leather (really vinyl) of my listening chair moving on each snare and kickdrum strike.

When the cowbell and drums crescendo on the Hugh Masekela cut called Coal Train (Stimela) I can even feel my "carpet" moving!!

If you have the clean power needed, and get either the RM40 or RM30, mated with a 1000 w mega powered 215 or LARGER (I like at least a pair, but who's counting) you will be able to quit taking any digestive aids, if you listen after a high fiber meal.  

[Q]

Q,

Where are you located?  If you're in the NYC area, you can demo each and decide for yourself.  I personally don't think you need dual subs, but you also can't have too much bass.  The RM30's are significantly smaller (More WAF) and significantly cheaper.  For me, the RM30's and the Maestro subwoofer from ACI was the right choice.  I have heard the RM40's sound better than my system but that was with significantly better electronics.  How big is the room these will be in?

Joe M.

I'm in OHio.  I definitely prefer stereo subs...i have a single now, and can pinpoint its location even if set at 40hz crossover.  Most likely id cross over the stereo subs at as high of freq as practical...to give as much depth as possible.  Thanks for the offer...if i get the urge to take a 9 hour drive, i might have to take you up on that!
Q

[BradJudy]

Especially now that B, has added the 1000megawatt sub amp.

1000 megawatts, eh?  

[porsche951]

"When Carlos Santana's band beats the Bongos." FYI, Carlos Santana's band doesn't "beat the bongos", Raul Rekow plays the Congas. Can you tell I teach latin percussion?

[John Casler]

Especially now that B, has added the 1000megawatt sub amp.

1000 megawatts, eh?  

Yeah, I just can't leave well enough alone

I "meant" 1024 megawatts     (talk about mega-hyperbole )

[zybar]

I'm in OHio.  I definitely prefer stereo subs...i have a single now, and can pinpoint its location even if set at 40hz crossover.  Most likely id cross over the stereo subs at as high of freq as practical...to give as much depth as possible.  Thanks for the offer...if i get the urge to take a 9 hour drive, i might have to take you up on that!
Q

Nobody could locate the dual Largers yesterday when mated with the RM 40's using the Tact.

George

[John Casler]

 I'm not looking to squeeze the last tiny bit of detail from the speakers. I'm looking for a really smooth response, with impact in the upper bass/lower mids. I want them to be more warmer than brighter. When Neil Peart smacks a roto-tom or a snare, I want to feel it. When Carlos Santana's band beats the bongos, I want to feel it ...

Q,

Just got off the phone with Big B, and I might have a "BIG" surprise for you next week, in the RM40 department.

Right now it is in development, but it should geve you "everything" you want and then some.  Can't disclose it until it is well tested but if it works like I think it will work, I will have some RM40s 4 sure.

[Q]

Hmmm....wonder what that is?  
Maybe I'm the 10,000th vmps AC poster and won a complete set of VMPS speakers?  

Waiting anxiously!

But, I probably wouldnt notice any difference in performance anyhow from one speaker to another....hell, i dont even know the difference between a CONGA and  BONGO!
Q

[John Casler]

But, I probably wouldnt notice any difference in performance anyhow from one speaker to another....hell, i dont even know the difference between a CONGA and  BONGO!
Q

According to Brian, Bongo makes Ampzillas