Short answer: the HSU Research VTF-TN1, if you are buying new. The HSU Research VTF-15H MK2 ranks higher than the Definitive Technology Descend DN15 (#57 vs #132 of 143 subwoofers) but is discontinued; its replacement, the HSU Research VTF-TN1, is rated 3.9/5 at $1,249 and is still sold new.
The HSU Research VTF-15H MK2 is the better-sounding pick. A 15 inch ported subwoofer from a long running series, with strong output for movies at a reasonable price. The catch: Ported enclosure prone to room modes at certain frequencies, mid-large 110.2 lbs (50 kg) size, and $1499 price point.
Why pick the Definitive Technology Descend DN15: A 15 inch subwoofer with two passive radiators, very low distortion and bass down to 20Hz. The catch: Output averages 112.9dB from 40 to 80Hz, which is lower than many other 15 inch subwoofers at this price, so very large rooms may want more headroom.
Buy the HSU Research VTF-TN1, the replacement for the discontinued HSU Research VTF-15H MK2; it is rated higher for sound quality than the Definitive Technology Descend DN15.
Want more options? Browse the full Subwoofers rankings.
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Specifications Side By Side
| HSU Research VTF-15H MK2 | Definitive Technology Descend DN15 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,499 Discontinued | $1,999.00 |
| Ranked | #57 of 143 in Large Home Subwoofers (Over 75 lbs) | #132 of 143 in Large Home Subwoofers (Over 75 lbs) |
| Enclosure | ported, front | sealed |
| Output SPL at 15 Hz | 101.6 dB | - |
| Output SPL at 20 Hz | 108.4 dB | 103.9 dB |
| Output SPL at 25 Hz | 114.8 dB | 107.3 dB |
| Output SPL at 31.5 Hz | 119.4 dB | 110.9 dB |
| Output SPL at 40 Hz | 122.9 dB | 113.6 dB |
| Output SPL at 50 Hz | 122.5 dB | 113.5 dB |
| Output SPL at 63 Hz | 121.1 dB | 112.8 dB |
| Output SPL at 80 Hz | 120.5 dB | 111.6 dB |
| CEA-2010-A Average (40-80Hz) | 121.8 dB | 112.9 dB |
| Dimensions | 24”H x 18”W x 26”D (609.6 x 457.2 x 660.4 mm) | 23.4”H x 24.1”W x 24.9”D (595.4 x 613.4 x 632.7 mm) |
| Weight | 110 lbs (49.9 kg) | 114.6 lbs (52.0 kg) |
| Warranty | 7/2(+3) | 5/3 |
| Cabinet Color | black, wood | - |
| Country | United States | United States |
| Measurement Source | Manufacturer | Audioholics |
| Drivers | 15” (381mm) driver | 15” driver + 2x 15” passive radiators |
| Output SPL at 12.5 Hz | - | 83.2 dB |
| Output SPL at 16 Hz | - | 97.4 dB |
| Output SPL at 100 Hz | - | 111.0 dB |
| Output SPL at 125 Hz | - | 110.6 dB |
| Frequency Response | - | 20-150Hz, ±3dB |
| Amplifier Power | - | 500W RMS / 1500W peak |
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