Paradigm Ref. Setup - Ready to add a SUB (1 Viewer)

[Dean Mar]

I am now ready to add a sub to my current setup. I use this for 75% Music and 25% Movies. I am most interested in getting a sub that I will be happy with for Music. I have a large great room 24 X 18 (approx 8000 cubic feet). I know that to get to ref. level I would need two subs, but the wife is not going to allow that.

The two subs that I am looking at are the Paradigm Servo 15 and the SVS 2531CS+. I can get a good deal on the Servo 15 (about $850). The SVS runs about $550 plus I can use an existing 130 watt amp to power or purchase a more powerful used amp for around $300.

The rest of my system is as follows:

B&K AVR305

Paradigm Ref. Studio 100's, Ref. CC & ADP's

Panasonic RP91K DVD

Based on these factors and that I don't want to spend any more than about $850 - $900, which sub do you think I will like better for music?

 

[Greg_R]

Dean,

I have a Studio 40 setup and used to use the servo-15 as my sub. It is extremely musical and capable of significant output and extension. Although I ended up replacing it with an extreme performance DIY design, I'd still recommend it (esp. at the price you quote).

 

[Cam S]

I think the Servo-15 might be a good idea, and the price is fairly decent. Have you thought about making a treck to Canada to purchase the Paradigm subs? that might save you some money

 

[John Dunlap]

I just picked up the PW-2200 last weekend and it is awesome!! I upgraded from an Energy EPS-12. Never heard the Servo so I can't tell you whether the higher price is justified. From everything I have heard, either of the 2 subs you mentioned will make you very, very happy.

 

[Dean Mar]

I can get the Servo 15 for about $850 US by going over to Canada to purchase. Though if the SVS 2531CS+ will work just as well with my 130 watt amp, then I just as soon go that route.

Remember my first concern is how will it work with music, I know that by just adding a sub to my system and properly calibrating it that the home theater experience will improve.

 

[Yohan Pamudji]

A Servo-15 for $850?! Personally I would jump all over that deal! Plus I have a feeling that 130 watts won't be enough to drive the SVS to your satisfaction. Maybe somebody else can confirm/deny this for you, but that's my thinking. I agree with John that the PW-2200 is a great sub. I have one myself. When I bought my PW-2200 for $700 I also listened to the Servo-15. It was better and sounded quicker, but it wasn't worth twice the price. But for an extra $150 I definitely would've taken the Servo-15.

 

[Dustin B]

Another option would be a low Q sealed Tempest with a 250W plate amp from Acoustic Visions either fully assembled (should be less than $600, more if you want to try an exotic laminate or veneer finish) or in a flat kit that you assemble. Or if you have the tools you could build the enclosure yourself and save even more money.

The great thing about either of these options is you can choose whatever shape you want (as long as it has the right internal net volume and can be braced strong enough). And you can finish it however you want to match your decor.

Ron P recently completed a sealed Tempest and is very happy with it. Get in touch with him if you would like to hear more from him on it. You can also search the DIY Adanced section for others who have built Tempest subs.

 

[Chip E]

Or, you could buy an SVS 20-39PCI which is a powered cylinder @320 watts... about $750.00 i think? I have a 20-39PC, it's predicessor..(190 watt built in amp).

 

[Martice]

For the money, it'll be hard to beat Acoustic Visions 'turn key' subs especially if you go the Tempest route. Also, I have personal experience with Brian Bunge from Rutledge Audio Designs. He built my speaker cabinets (he also builds subs)which I absolutely love and Acoustic Vision built my sub. Both could be seen by pressing my link at the bottom.

Good Luck

 

[Michael R Price]

OK reference level in a large room and you have only $900? Go DIY. Maybe something with the upcoming Adire superdriver (36mm Xmax) would do the trick. How big of a box can you manage?

 

[Zbigniew]

Servo1-5 great sub. Works for me, together with Active-40 x4 and Studio ADP.
It is for music only - no display. I tried before PW-2200, but it was unable to deliver )fighting with room modes, etc). Well, PW went back to HTF room, and few month later one of admins here was selling his Servo - I bought it (Thanks, Steve S . Works beautifully - after a week of tuning, even without BFD or X-30, just level, phase, distance, and you can forget it is here - but music gained lot of ground, saturation, meat.
Reference levels - rarely. I usually go up to 85-90-95 on some tracks. Music is a mix of rock, jazz, blues, classic, techno.
For me it was Servo, or dual ultra (or at worst dual 16-46+). I do not belive in small jumps in quality - and in order to beat Servo1-5, I would have to spend twice as much buying a pair of Ultras or 16-46+.
If you do not need reference levels, go with Studio. great resale value. If you want to be able to shake house and kill mouses with great sound and quality, go with SVS - but get 2 of + or Ultra.
Take a look at http://www.pbase.com/kleks/ht/
_zjt