Choosing the right sub Velo or Def. Tech?

[jwoodall]

I'm trying to choose between 2 different brands of subs: velodyne or definitive tech.

The models that I am considering:

Def Tech Supercube Reference
Velodyne SPL1200R
Velodyne SPL1500R (new release)

I am strongly considering the SPL1500 but then I saw a review on the def tech reference sub.

I am looking for opinions from any forum members that have either the SPL1200R or the Def Tech.

The SPL1500R is newly released so I don't expect anyone to have it yet.

The Def Tech has had some fantastic reviews:

http://www.avrev.com/equip/definitivesupercube/index2.html

http://products.consumerguide.com/reviews/product.epub?productId=25248

http://www.definitivetech.com/reviews/ScubeRefRevDVD11-03.pdf

I have also seen good reviews on the velo.

The def tech has a lower freq. response than the velo but lacks the auto setup with the microphone and the remote that the velos have.

Do you really need the auto setup and remote? I may be able to kill the sub channel with the Denon 4306, so the remote on/off of the velo might not be needed.

Will the manual tuning of the def tech be enough or do I need auto eq of the velo?

I am also open to suggestions of other subs that I haven't listed.

I can have a max height of about 19 inches in my cabinet.

Thanks!

[Schris22]

Have you heard either one?

Is this based purely off reviews?
Reviews are so often deceiving and so often are postive. I would go and listen to both if possiable. Reviews are a good way to give you some direction, but not quite a definitive guide to what to buy.

I've heard the def tech reference subs and I was unimpressed at their price point. I haven't heard the Velodyne's but just like you "reviews" tell me they are good, but also one of my personal friends also recommends "some of them " and I trust his ears. I was at Magnolia and a thousand dollar def tech sub got stomped on in Music by a 700 dollar REL sub. That was for music, so once again it depends on what you might be listening too.

Also before anyone mentions it look into SVS subs, HSU subs, and Outlaw audio subs. All internet only stores, but have a big following.

Good luck,
Chris

[mantis]

I think Velodyne makes better subs then Def Tech. Every single Def Tech sub I have heard where better suited for movies then music. Velodyne subs can be used for music. The SPL series I have got them to sound really good with music. I have done alot of setups on Lsi/SPL combos with good results.

Dan

[jwoodall]

I am not able to listen to either sub locally, that's why I'm a little worried about spending that much money without hearing them.

I live in Little Rock Arkansas, so if it's not at Best Buy or Circuit City, I can't hear it locally, so I may drive over to Memphis to hear something.

I want a foward-firing sub because I'm putting it in a cabinet where the front will be exposed. I have never had a real sub before (just the crappy home theater in a box junk), so I'm sure that whatever I get will be great compared to what I have had.

My budget is around $1700 and I plan to use it primarily for HT.

Thanks for the replies.

[McLoki]

A sub in a cabinet is rarely a good thing. One other thing to keep in mind is that not only the driver has to be front mounted but also any ports in the sub. (unless it is sealed and does not have one.)

If possible, to get what you want, you may want to look into building a sub (not that difficult and if you are putting it in a cabinet anyway, you may not even have to work that hard finishing the outside) or building an Infinite Baffle sub. (If you have a closet, or attic available near where you want the sub located)

Good luck in your search,

Michael

[tonyb]

Subs can be tricky.Some are better for HT and some
for music.Try REL.legacy,and the revel b-15.ALL can be had
in your price range on Audiogon.And,please,don't just go
by a magazine advertisement,talk to people who own
what your looking to buy.:)
BTW- sub in a cabinet?? Best re-think that one friend.

[Schris22]

I would look closely at the Best buy listings. See if any have magnolia. IF they do then they should have REL and def tech there but also some others from good companies.

Chris