HSU STF-2.. Better Option?

Assuming 8' ceilings, thats a rather large area for the STF-2. Also, being square, you may need to look into room treatments.

At that price, for mainly HT, I would consider the Cadence CSX-12 mkII. It should have similar or better deep bass extension and a bit more output above that. With a room that large you are going to need it.

http://www.cadencehometheaterspeaker...6&idcategory=2

Here is a recent review:

http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/art...k-ii-subwoofer

The reason you don't hear much chatter recommending it is because it has a frequency response curve that peaks at 50hz and looks like a ski slope. At around 30hz, it's already over 12db down from it's peak at around 60hz. Even with room gain helping the <30hz frequencies, you may not get much usable output unless you have it cranked up so loud that the midbass is too much. And most likely, as in other 12" budget subs that have that much of a drop, the <30hz frequencies are probably highly distorted. They make sound and create vibrations, only not the right sound and vibration effects.

At that budget level, it would be better--if possible--to save a little longer and buy a 12" sub from HSU, Rythmik, Epik, or Outlaw Audio where you would get a much flatter response down to 20hz. Compare that curve for the Cadence from the review to the one here posted by Rythmik for the FV12 and you'll see what I mean by how different they are.

Now with the STF-2, note that HSU recommends it for rooms that are 3,000 cubic feet or less (click the loudness level icon). A good 12" does seem a better choice.

I own multiple Hsu Stf-2's. They're terrific performers. I had at one time...triple STF-2's in my room. (phenomenal!!!) I now have twin Hsu's and added a Mirage Omni s12 to the mix. Compared to the Cadence.....the Hsu's will dig into the lower frequencies better. Mine in room were flat to 23 hz. I swapped for the Omni because it hits a little lower. My room is about 19x19, so a little smaller than yours. I think you will be quite disappointed with a single Stf-2 in your room. I would definitely save and put the money towards one of the big boys! I think you will definitely be happy you did! I am about to start a DIY venture, so my subs may be on the market before too long

I still feel the cadence is a good choice if you are firm on price. Unlike the lava or bic, the cadence will have usable output down to 25hz. Indeed the STF-2 is more linear and perhaps musical but it won't be enough for your room IMO. Your best bet however is to save up to get a larger HSU, Outlaw or Rythmik.

My room is 18x15 with 9ft high ceilings and a 5 x 8 nook in the back. Would the HSU STF-2 fill it up well enough? I just ordered the Pioneer SP-PK52FS 5.0 minus the subwoofer for about 500 including wires. Don't really wanna spend more on a sub than I did on all the speakers

http://www.hometheaterforum.com/forum/thread/189521/hsu-research-stf-2-subwoofer-test-review - STF-2 review by Ed Mullen

The OP's room is too large. Two STF-2s might work or something like the Hsu VTF3.4.

#9's room is slightly too large but he could try an STF-2.

You can also look into the Premier Acoustic PA-150. See Josh Ricci's review at www.data-bass.com. The PA-150 will have very substantial output above 40Hz. If you search around, you should be able to get it at a price comparable (or very slightly higher) than the STF-2.

You could also consider the Klipsch RW-12D which is again on sale for ~$300 at Newegg.com. Very nice review by Achaea.
http://www.avsforum.com/t/1390563/klipsch-rw-12d-omnimic-frequency-response-graphs

I have a thread going here http://www.avsforum.com/t/1438078/best-sub-to-go-with-the-pioneer-sp-pk52fs-5-0-system-for-400

I read the HSU STF-2 review already, It was a well written review. Would you say my room is too big for one?

Ive been recommended two RW-12Ds

I have a STF-2 in a 12x11ish room with 8' ceilings. The reports of it being a musical sub and not an output monster are valid. I will be upgrading to a ported 12" sonosub soon. I'm pretty positive your room is far too large for the STF-2. I'd venture to say even 2 STF-2s would be lacking severely. Don't get me wrong, it's a great sub... just not for your application.

EDIT: That was in response to the OP with the 24x24 room. Sealteamz6 room is IMO too large for a STF-2 as well.
Edited by Zestforlife - 11/8/12 at 6:02pm