Hello,
I would appreciate some input/suggestions from fellow AV Forum members with regards to choosing a new subwoofer.
I have had a REL Stentor III since about 2005. It cost me around £2,500 at the time. The unit has developed a fault on Saturday whereby it now keeps producing a crackling sound which I have not been able to resolve (even with nothing connected to the sub). I am forced to accept that I now have to fork out for a replacement if I wish to continue enjoying the benefits of a subwoofer in my setup.
I cannot justify spending the aforementioned sum on a subwoofer these days. Its just too much. However, I am prepared to spend up-to £1,000 (my ideal limit) on a new subwoofer and would consider stretching to around the £1,500 mark if this proved necessary to get the desired performance/quality.
My system is used entirely for TV/Films. I am not really into music.
I understand that ported subwoofers are the best in terms of producing the low frequencies and shifting the air. It seems like a lot of the new makes/models on the market today are closed port designs.
I've been a bit out of touch with the AV market in the last few years and do not yet have a clear idea of what would be the best choice to replace my REL.
One thing which is very important to me is the quality of the electronics/drive units so far as the sub does not produce any unwanted buzzing/hiss/hum that would be detectable in a quiet room (unless ones head up against the sub). I have sensitive hearing. The REL is (or was!) silent in a quiet room when standing even just a few feet away.
I see that REL have rejoined the subwoofer market in recent years. However, they do in my opinion remain a highly priced brand and all their models appear to be closed box designs. It also disappoints me to observe that REL subs are now assembled in China. The other brand which stands out to me is SVS. There seems to be little to offer from B&W or KEF these days.
I have only spent a couple of hours looking into subwoofers thus far and the models which are standing out to me so far are:
SVS PB3000 Sub Woofer £1549.00
REL S/510 Series S £1699.00
SVS PB2000 Pro Black Ash Subwoofer £999.00
My room is only about 13 feet x 13 feet.
Any input/ideas would be most appreciated
Some details of my current subwoofer.