How do SVS subwoofers compare to REL?

As for DSP in subwoofers, it is used for two things and it is important to distinguish them.
1 As a means to shape the frequency response (boost the lowest frequencies), and as a way to manage the demands put on amplifier and drive unit. Mostly, this is done by reducing the deepest bass output at higher volume, to limit distortion and potential damage to the driver. DSP can also be used as a more refined digital crossover.
2 To measure and then correct in-room response. For this, the system has to measure in-room response with a test tone sweep and a calibrated microphone, construct a correction curve, and then apply that curve.

These days, many subwoofers do 1) and some also 2), such as the bigger models by Velodyne and B&W, but rarely as well as the Antimode 8033.

Here is the URL of the SVS subwoofer top-level web page:

https://www.svsound.com/pages/subwoofers

SVS do a good job of explaining their line and the hierarchy within the line of subwoofers.

Most folks like sealed subs for music-only or music-first, home theatre-second systems and ported for increased output and lower roll-off for home theatre systems. That said, this is very much the conventional wisdom and as such should be subject to your own preferences. I

n my two-channel music only system I can't imagine needing more SPL or deeper extension than the sealed SB16 Ultras provide, and I do listen to pipe organ, EDM and trap in a large open-plan home. The system sees about 9000 ft3 of volume and the Ultras have absolutely no problem pressurizing the open area.

Hope this helps.

I had a quick look at the SB16 specifications. From what I can see it can do some basic manual equalization, but it does not measure response, let alone correct it automatically - but correct me if I am wrong. Beyond that, I think is is an enviable subwoofer for people with really large rooms.

@steve_zettel  thanks. I have to say I am leaning toward SVS subwoofers. The Sumiko also look interesting to me. But SVS's 45 day free trial (free shipping both ways) makes it so easy to give them a try first. Unless I learn something new in the next few days, I think I'll order something from SVS.

@axememan suggested the PC-2000. Does anyone else have thoughts on the cylindrical subwoofers. I believe they are ported. But the compact footprint is very attractive to me and would work well in my room.

@willemj: You are correct. There are three available manual eq bands. No auto eq, so some other means of measurement are required. I use StudioSixDigital AudioTools app and their iTestMic (http://studiosixdigital.com/) or REW and a minidsp.com UMIK test mic for determining in-room response. The SVS iPad app makes adjustments very easy and allows adjustments from the sweet spot with a graphical representation of the amplitude and Q of the cut or boost being dialed in.

I use two bands to knock down the two most prominent peaks in my room and one band to raise the lowest bass roll-off. Plenty of headroom in the powerful SB16 Ultra amp to tolerate a reasonable amount of boost in the very lowest octave.

And I think you are absolutely right about the Ultras being best suited for larger rooms. I can't imagine being in a small room with one, let alone the two Ultras I have in my largish volume. Then again, there are folks who really, really like sledgehammer bass (check out the insane auto sound bass videos on Youtube for a sample).

@lowoverdrive: You are welcome. I can't speak to the PC-2000 but I do understand your concern about footprint. The SB16 Ultras are basically a 19 to 20" cube. A very attractive black cube in their gloss black finish, but there is no overlooking them in the room, unless you hide them behind something or use them as end tables. I had a piece of dark gray smoked glass cut to size to place on top of each sub to protect the finish so I can put something on top of the subs and not worry about marring them. And I am very glad I opted for the SVS isolation feet to decouple the subs from my hardwood floor.

SVS have super customer service, are very responsive with questions and have a great trade up policy, along with the in-home trial period and free shipping.

Good luck with your subwoofer hunt and let us know how it works out for you.