[john1970]

Dear Audiocircle Members,

I am considering upgrading my SVS PB10-ISD sub to a HSU ULS-15 sub early next year.  I am doing this partly for looks (maple finish will match my other speakers) and I would like to try a large sealed design.  I am also open to other subs.  The only limitation is on size.  It can't be larger than 18" in width or 19.5" in height.  I would like to keep the price to less than or equal to $2K.  Speaker level inputs would also be nice so I can run it with my VMPS RM40s from my Bryston 4B SST outputs.

Please advise.

Thank you,

John

[john1970]

Any advice?

[BradJudy]

That's a tight size requirement and the ULS-15 is right at those dimensions, so double-check if you're shoe-horning it into a cabinet. 

The other one I'd be looking at is the Rythmik F15 servo 15", but it's slightly larger than your required dimensions (19x19x20).  http://www.rythmikaudio.com/F15.html

If you're happy with SVS, there's always their SB12-Plus, but the specs indicate it won't reach as deep as the Hsu or Rythmik. 

[john1970]

That's a tight size requirement and the ULS-15 is right at those dimensions, so double-check if you're shoe-horning it into a cabinet. 

The other one I'd be looking at is the Rythmik F15 servo 15", but it's slightly larger than your required dimensions (19x19x20).  http://www.rythmikaudio.com/F15.html

If you're happy with SVS, there's always their SB12-Plus, but the specs indicate it won't reach as deep as the Hsu or Rythmik. 

My opening is 18.25" in width and 20.125" in height so the ULS-15 just fits.  Other subs that I am considering include:

1) Definitive Technologies Supercube Reference. 
Although not a wood finish three sides are covered by grill cloth and only the top (which is covered by an end table) is gloss black.  A very compact (less than 17") in all dimensions and very dense (100+ lbs.) subwoofer.  Although not sealed (it has two passive 14" radiators) it does not have ports which should reduce the port noise over my current PB10-ISD sub.

2) Paradigm Reference Servo-15. 
I would have to add feet in order for the feet to clear.  However, it is out of my price range and does not have speaker level inputs.  Excellent amp and woofer.

3) VELODYNE HGS15X.
Some authorized on-line dealers appear to have it in stock.  The dimensions are 19.75" x 18" x 17-7/8 so it should also fit.  Unfortunately, it is in a black cabinet.  If it were in a different cabinet (cherry or maple) it would be very difficult to not purchase. 

4) VELODYNE SPL-1500R (cherry)
Would easily fit and has built in DSP for better in-room acoustics.  I do question its output capability.  It is also quite light weight (65 lbs.) give the size of the diver.  In contrast the Supercube Reference has similar dimensions and tips the scales at 100+ lbs. 



I would be purchasing a Velodyne SMS-1 unit for any unit that does not have built-in DSP corrections.  I would definitely purchase a rythmicaudio sub if only the cabinet was 1" less in width.  For the price of $1000, it appears to be a very good subwoofer.  I wonder if they could do a custom cabinet for an additional fee?


Cheers,

John