If you'd like Rel owners to chime in at this point, I for one would be happy to do so. I've had my Stadium 2 for about 8 years so far. It's worked flawlessly the entire time and is typically left ON for 24/7 most of the time. Have had no experience with Sumiko (I bought it from a local dealership back then), and if it continues its winning ways, I probably won't have to, so I can't attest to them. My experience has shown me that a well designed, well built subwoofer (as these Rel's are) will very often add that last bottom bit of bass extension which even the most extended full range speakers didn't know they'd appreciate in your room. The other really nice advantage I find even more compelling is the added degree of "locked in place" imaging reinforcement they have on the soundstage. Not subtle; remarkable. 2 subs may certainly be better if perfectly matched in performance and dialed-in placement but definitely NOT necessary to fully enjoy the benefits just described. YMMV of course, just my personal experience with the product line. One thing for sure... I've been through 3 different speakers in three different listening rooms (each one happily in their own ways) and they have all benefited from the one constant: my Rel. New speakers are upcoming soon and I have very little doubt again, the Rel stays. Good luck and happy Lissn'n.
