Question: Is the WIslon XS the largest/loudest subwoofer built today? (1 Viewer)

[Keir H]

I wonder how many SVS subs it would take to match it in SPL/HZ?? Anyone ever wonder the same thing? Are subs built like this used in commercial theaters?

 

[AjayM]

Well the XS doesn't offer any real "value" per say, you could probably get more SPL (although 112db+ at 16Hz isn't very wimpy) out of other companies subs for less money. But that thing is a work of art, and certainly will make a statement in a room (providing you have a big enough room). SQ wise, I'm sure it's pretty far up the scale.
A good review of it is here http://www.soundstage.com/revequip/wilson_xs_sub.htm
Andrew

 

[Jack Gilvey]

I can't guess at how many SVS (although it would be much less $$$), but it would make an interesting DIY goal. I'd be pretty confident in two big tubes using Blueprint 1803's, big ports, a Crown K2 (or an even bigger QSC), and a Symetrix 551 eq giving it a good run at a tiny fraction of the price.

 

[John Kotches]

Perhaps the Krell Master Reference Subwoofer would exceed the Wilson, but I don't know.

They rate the MRS at 120dB@20Hz, but no rating for 16Hz.

Regards,

 

[Jack Gilvey]

Now there's a Battle of the Titans. I'd think, though, that the ported Aura/Seismic 18's of the Wilson would have a distinct advantage in output over the sealed 15" TC15's of the Krell. Just an assumption, obviously.

 

[Larry B]

I think the Bose subwoofer outperforms the XS.

Larry

 

[Greg_R]

The loudest single enclosure commercial design I've seen is the ContraBass. This excludes horn-loaded designs. As for the Wilson, it's strange that they underported it (considering the size of the overall product). As Jack mentioned, there are many DIY designs that would easily beat the Krell or XS...

 

[Jack Gilvey]

As for the Wilson, it's strange that they underported it (considering the size of the overall product).

That never surprises me anymore . In a less rarified region, even the ~$4000 Ariel SW12 just uses the ubiquitous $15 4" flared Aeroport.

 

[Tom Vodhanel]

I'd put a dual CS_U/S1000 package up against the wilson or the krell anyday of the week.
As far as ultimate woofage...Hsu has that 80k multiple 18" system available...his next sale might be the first...but it sounds cool
TV

 

[Tony Stirling]

The XS is scary. I heard that someone cracked the foundation of thier house with one that hadn't been calibrated yet! Don't know how reliable that story is, but it came from an installer that knew what he was talking about. Whatever. It was humorous (except, perhaps, to the person who miused it!!)... whatever...

tony