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Vandersteen Sub woofers v Rythmik Subs

I really love the idea of the Vandersteen Subs where they are connected with the mains via extra speaker cable off right and left channels off the main amplifier, which is supposed to provide better bass transition from the mains while keeping the signature from the main amplifier. My question is with Vandersteen coming out with the SUB THREE and the price going significantly higher, I was wondering if there are other subs for less that you could integrate in the same way. (Most subs seem to rely on the line level input which is just a sub-woofer RCA going from the pre-amp to the amp on the sub). Can this same Vandersteen set-up be achieved with other subs?
I picked Rythmik since they are known (in the home theater community anyway) for being one of the best bang for the buck subs and the most "musical" of the bunch. (between Hsu, SVS, PSA).
And could I possibly achieve even greater sub-woofer nirvana since I could get an 18" for around $1500? Vandies only have 3 eight inchers.

I am a Vandersteen fanboy and I would like to support RV whenever I can, but don’t know much about my other sub-woofer options so looking for some feedback. Doesn’t even have to be related to Rythmik necessarily. If you know of other subs that can integrate the same way I want to know about it!

Thanks
bstatmeister
noble100's avatar
noble100
1,093 posts
 
Update:

     Just wanted to follow-up on my last post and provide the link to the new thread I stated I'd start on the Audio Kinesis Swarm and Debra distributed bass array systems:

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/anyone-else-using-an-audio-kinesis-swarm-or-debra-distributed...

Later,
  Tim    
stereonut007
2 posts
 
Just came across this forum...Looks like you guys have answered the original discussion about Vandersteen subs vs Rythmik subs.  Most everyone supports Vandersteen...For what it’s worth, I had 2wq with Magnepan 3.3 & while there was an improvement in bottom, it still seemed lacking.  I recently went with F18 servo controlled unit from Rythmik & have been extremely impressed.  To me, there is a night/day difference.  Apparently Vandersteen has a new sub.  (I’ve not heard it.)  Dr Ding has a PhD in EE & has a research lab in Austin area.  Audio is extremely subjective & I understand that many have various reasons for supporting the choices they make...Mine have been significantly influenced by economics.  The new 30.7 Magnepan might reproduce the most realistic, “live” sound.  No sub required.  But I’d rather not spend $30k for two speakers.  Current system is close, with much less $; but it’s taken many years to get here.
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
2,164 posts
 
i am rebuilding a set of Quad esl 63 and will probably try a Rythmic sub along w a Vandersteen 3
@noble100 not running you off, new thread seems to be thriving....
noble100's avatar
noble100
1,093 posts
 

@noble100 not running you off, new thread seems to be thriving.... : "


Hello tomic601,

Thanks for the welcoming words. I’ve been monitoring this thread on and off but haven’t felt the need to respond or add anything for awhile.
     I wish I could be of more assistance as to whether Vandersteen or Rhythmic subs perform best but I stopped thinking or caring about which single sub performs best once I learned of the significant advantages of multiple distributed subs.
     I envy you rebuilding a pair of the legendary ESL63and wish you the best in your project. 
     I think I’ve stated enough of my thoughts already but won’t hesitate to respond further if I think it might be useful to the OP or thread readers.

Thanks,
Tim
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,104 posts
 
I loved those Quads. I will never forget hearing them for the first time.  It was an eye opener.  I also remember falling in love with a large Maggie panel back in 1991 or so with my EX in Newport, RI if I recall.  Then the Apogees in the mid 90's.  Funny as I don't like the Martin Logan stats.  
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