SVS CS-Ultra or PC-Ultra? (1 Viewer)

[Brian>AM]

Here's my question. I currently have a pair of SVS 20/39 CS+ subs (with the Samson 1000), and am thinking of moving to a pair of Ultras. I already have a PB2+ as my LFE sub, so the Ultras will perform "stereo" sub duties, as well as handle all the bass (except LFE) redirected from my M&K S-150's.

Given the fact that I will probably add room correction to my Lex MC-12 soon, does it matter one way or another if I go with the CS or PC version of the Ultras? Are they basically going to perform the same? I really like the idea of not having to plug the sub in, since I ran my speaker wire through the wall - and it comes out exactly where I need to place the sub. The outlet is about three feet down the wall. Not a big deal, but I'll see the cord!

Let me know your thoughts! I'm dying to get that TV-12 driver!

 

[Eric Chong]

Brian,

Generally I prefer passive subs. I think Russ H aka Hometheatre guy prefers them as well. There was a similar thread a few weeks back and I believe Ron or Tom from SVS said that if you going with just one sub the PC is more economical but if running two, the passives are a better choice. Here is why I chose the passive CS Ultras:

+ I can use what ever power amp I want (dual Crown K1's in my case), you have a power amp already so bonus there
+ if using mutliple subs, the power amps can be daisy chained and or run in parallel mode (one input, same output to two channels - very handy when running multiple subs
+ bridging cababilities on the power amp
+ placment flexibility (don't have to be near a receptacle)
+ easier to move around
+ the power amps I use accept balanced inputs (XLR and TRS)
+ more flexibility to adjust gain
+ I can see if the amps clip

The compromises I live with are:

- I need the SVS black box for filtering and phase adjustments. And the Black box only comes with RCA inputs
- it is a bit more money for the extra amps and cabling

 

[Robb Roy]

Brian,

I see this question a lot, and I always recommend the PC-Ultra. Until now. Since you have the amp, and your wires have been run, you could get an EQ and the black box for less than the difference between the two. With an EQ and the black box, the performance should be virtually identical between the two subs.

-Robb

 

[Brian>AM]

Great feedback guys. Thanks!

I was leaning towards the CS Ultras, so now my mind may be made up!

Brian

 

[Evan H]

I'm not sure what your plans are for the old subs, but you could also buy the TV-12 woofer to upgrade the CS+'s to make them into ultras.