There are a few issues here.
First, it SHOULD be possible to get nearly the same results with the HT1/HTS combination as with the HT3's. But it will take a little work to get there.
The phase and gain on the HTS sub modules will have to be set up perfect. This is all controlled in the crossover of the HT3's.
The midrange of the HT3's will probably be a little cleaner at high power since the W18 is only used for midrange duty - not bass duty. With the HT1/HTS combo, you would most likely run the HT1's down to meet the sub and normal plate amps only go up to about 150Hz. In this case, the W18's would be playing quite a bit deeper, thus impacting distortion levels somewhat more at higher volumes.
Finally, when you consider the cost of a pair of HT1's and HTS subwoofer modules, it almost makes more sense to go with the HT3's. Since everything is controlled in the crossover, it is basically plug and play vs. a lot of work tuning with the HT1/HTS setup.
The HTS subwoofers were designed primarily for customers who already had HT1's.
I hope that makes sense.
- Jim
