[BJT666]

Hi all, looking for a bit of practical feedback and maybe a balanced view from those of you who've done comparative evaluations on the small sub side.

I've a seperate thread running ragarding a new AV setup, link below:

Small speakers and Sub for AV setup...

Part of that thread takes in the sub side of things, which is very much pastures new for me.

Basically I'm looking for something small (taking into account the the "Spouse Effect"), and also a downward firing cone - my house is also possessed by an evil demon of terrifying destructive powers (also known as my 17 month old daughter), and I don't think I could handle the site of a dented cone or a chocolate-encrusted smiley face!

I'm looking at the BK Electrics Gemini II, Rel Quake, and MJ Acoustics Pro 50 MkII, and can't really pick a difference in any, apart from the price. They're all downward firing, sealed units, so are as demon-proof - sorry, child friendly - as I can think of and looks/dimensions wise won't incur too much frowning from wifey.

Could anyone give me thoughts on build quality, reliability or any advantages/disadvantages? I'm particularly interested in upward range - everyone seems to mention depth, but I don't want a hole between the upper level of the sub and the lower level of the satellites - I'm a complete novice with this sort of thing, so if it just isn't an issue then could some kind soul put me straight.

It's going in a 15ft sq room and will only be used for TV/Gaming, not music. Driven by a Denon 1910, sats probably B&W M1's or Q Acoustics 1010i's and budget isn't an issue.

Many thanks guys, the world of subs all seems a bit eclectic and sprinkled with black magic, so any advice greatly appreciated!

[softsorter]

your room is a bit larger than mine (15ft x 11ft) and i was going to buy a Gemimi from BK but have since upgraded it and ordered a BK 200. I'm sure you'll get advice that the Gemini would be a good choice and has high and low lever inputs, and being down firing is kiddie proof with little to press!

The BK also has a 2 year guarantee but not sure on the others? and are they in the same price bracket £200 as the Gemini, if more expensive then what about a BK200 ? i'm sure you'll be pleased with either one.

BK's on the forum hare are widely used by members and well thought off in the price range of the ones you listed.

[pwood]

I have a Quake and musically it is very good but recently I have noticed especially with DTS HD Master audio film tracks its out of it depth which draws attention to itself all to often. Yesterday whilst listening to a few speakers as I was considering a sub sat setup I heard large REL, Monitor Audio R370HD, Monitor audio RSW12 and the difference was easily heard. The RSW12 was far better in depth and musicality blending in better.

BK Gemini would be the choice of the ones you have listed as they made REL subs in the past and Quake hasn't changed much if any in design over the years. I have had dealers recommend Velodyne microvee in the past which is very small however I have never heard it.

Edited a bit as mixed Op up with another forum member