Velodyne DLS-4000 or 5000? Can't decide...

[BlueJayFan]

I've read some discussions on this decision on other forums, and it seems the battle rages on. FS is starting a sale on them today - 4000 (12 inch) for $499 and 5000 (15 inch) for $699. Since it is nearly impossible to easily get any SVS, HSU, Elemental Designs or other supposedly better subs here in Canada, I've pretty much decided Velodyne is the way to go.

Room size is 18 x 21 x 7.5 - not that room size is the determining factor, and main use will be HT. As previously noted elsewhere here, I've got a Yamaha RX-A800 receiver and just bought Boston Acoustics speaker package.

I am leaning toward the 15 inch, but some things I've read indicate it may tend to be boomy, and all of them basically say it will shake the house - so that makes me think maybe just stick with the 12 inch (the price of the 12" would certainly be more palatable to the wife).

Any thoughts appreciated. (The sale is on until August 11)

[AlienTech]

When I bought my HSU's I had them shipped to a friend in Buffalo, went over one weekend, declared them, paid some duty and was home for dinner not impossible

[Suave]

I've never listened to Velodyne subs before so I can't comment on their sound quality. If you've read that the 15 inch model can sound boomy that's not a good sign potentially for other models too.

What I can say is that I've listened to a few SVS subs (even owned one of the lower priced ones in the past) and was always impressed with their sound. I just looked on their website and it looks like they do have a Canadian distributor - http://www.sonicboomaudio.com

There's a lot to be said for good bass, and many lower priced subs produce boomy, rattly, one-note bass. I suggest looking at some reviews online. If you can find a review of product it's often an indication that it's not very good

[BlueJayFan]

I guess I exaggerated when I said it was impossible to get those others - but it's definitely cumbersome. I am aware we can get SVS in Canada, but I don't think I'm ready to pay north of $1k for a sub to go with my otherwise modest system.

Option #3 (that just occurred to me today) is to go with 2 of the 10" models in the Velodyne DLS line (DLS-3750R). This would actually have a cost directly in between a single 12" and a single 15".

Anyone have thoughts on the benefits or drawbacks of using 2 subs? Is this overkill for my room size?

[AlienTech]

2 subs is a good idea and several people on the forum (including myself) run 2 subs

[Suave]

Running dual subwoofer is definitely a good idea if you have the space

That being said, either way you'll be making a compromise. If you go with 2 subs, you should get a more even bass response in more seating positions in your room. However with a limited budget, if you go with one higher quality (and larger) sub, you'll likely end up with a deeper and more accurate bass. In my experience, I find that you have to invest at least $800 at $1000 to get some good bass performance from a subwoofer.

[BlueJayFan]

Thanks for all comments so far. Still struggling with the sub decision. I did not jump on the Velodynes as I was not certain. I can get some Boston Acoustics subs from Gibbys for a decent price, but again, just not sure of the quality.

I am considering trying to get into a "better" line of subs - namely SVS or HSU. I have no ability to listen to either of these, so looking for some comments. SVS SB-12NSD is about the only one I can fit into my budget unless they have a sale Is HSU VTF-2 MK3 or VTF-3 MK3 more comparable? Which might be better?

Room is approximately 3,000 cubic feet.

Thanks.

[AlienTech]

I bought my HSU's based on reviews by Tom Nousaine, he is considered THE sub guru. His website has an archive of some of reviews and lots of good info on subs.

http://www.nousaine.com/

He writes for S&V and has a page there as well
http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/person/tom-nousaine

If I'm looking for a specific review by Mr Nousaine I google something like "tom nousaine HSU VTF-2"

Here is a review by another party on the subs I have. http://www.vxm.com/TN-122HO.1.htm I currently use the single amp/twin tower setup and everything they say about it is true