[Jay Decker]

The question is what are the relevant considerations when deciding to whether to build servo subs for my XLS Encores or to just build a set of Bullies?

Contextual Background:  I love my XLS Encores, finished them with all the upgrades, and have had a blast using the little Encores to learn about modern amplification, streaming, and now tubes.  The next stop on my journey speaker-wise was going to be building a set of servo subs to get the bass, but then GR Research introduced the Bully.  I’m getting old enough now that a set of servo subs or Bullies will more than likely be my last speaker build, so that is that consideration as well as old dude hearing.

If anyone else is considering the Bullies, I’d appreciate any illumination you might be able to cast on the subject.

[Early B.]

Do both!!! One doesn't preclude the other.

I'd suggest building a pair of double troubles because, regardless of what speaker changes you make in the future, the subs will be there.

[VinceT]

I'd build the servo subs

This option gives you endless versatility.

[corndog71]

One thing to consider is weight.  Bullies are around 100 pounds each.

[Danny Richie]

The simple solution is add a servo sub.

What you gain with the Bullies might be worth considering though. The sensitivity shoots up to 94db. So they are easy to drive and have a ton of output capability. The dual M-130/16 woofers are high passed. So they are never seeing any of the really low signals. So the pair of them are power limited thermally rather than mechanically. This means really high power handling on top of high sensitivity. The result is the capability to play really loud while still being really clean. Oh and flat to 20Hz at the same time.

I know of no other speaker in the industry that will legitimately play flat to 20Hz and have high sensitivity and high power handling.