Buying older higher end subs?

which older models are you looking at vs. which new models?

Unless you are looking at the Mirage Substrata/Energy Microstar series, don't bother. The older Mirage "high-end" subs, while decent for the time, simply do not compare to the low end subs from todays to brands.
JP

If one could get a microstar 12, would it be comparable to a new HSU? Obviously, a sealed enclosure has different characteristics than a ported one.

Will it really hit <18Hz as advertised? I couldn't find too much about it online. They don't even have specs on the Energy site!

It "might" have the output of something like the VTF-3 MkII without the turbo, and obviously the low-end roll-off would be different. If you want a solid sub for music, I would get the Energy (if the price is right). If you want a sub for movies/music I would get one of the new Hsu subs. They are of course larger, but their performance will be better than the 10 year old Energy sub.
JP

Same question... Different subs..

What about an old infinity SSW-210 vs. new HSU STF-1 or maybe STF-2?

The concern I have about old subs is foam rot around the cones. I know some are rubber, I think those would last longer than foam.