Short answer: the HSU Research VTF-3 MK5 HP. It ranks #59 of 143 subwoofers by sound quality (rated 4.2/5) at $1,049 and is still sold new; the HSU Research VTF-3 MK3 ranks #130 (rated 3.7/5) and is discontinued, so it is only an option used.
The HSU Research VTF-3 MK5 HP is the better-sounding choice. A 15 inch ported subwoofer with excellent output for the money, a strong value pick for movies and music. Watch for: Ported design requires careful room placement, mid-size 86 lbs (39 kg) cabinet, and mid-range output.
The case for the HSU Research VTF-3 MK3: A rear ported 12 inch subwoofer with useful deep bass output for its size, now discontinued. Watch for: Deep-bass output is more limited than the strong 40-80 Hz result suggests, so it is not the right choice when the lowest movie effects are the priority.
Buy the HSU Research VTF-3 MK5 HP. It is rated higher for sound quality, and the HSU Research VTF-3 MK3 is discontinued, so it is only available used.
Want more options? Browse the full Subwoofers rankings.
A 15 inch ported subwoofer with excellent output for the money, a strong value pick for movies and music.
A rear ported 12 inch subwoofer with useful deep bass output for its size, now discontinued.
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Specifications Side By Side
| HSU Research VTF-3 MK5 HP | HSU Research VTF-3 MK3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,049.00 | $1,499 Discontinued |
| Ranked | #59 of 143 in Large Home Subwoofers (Over 75 lbs) | #130 of 143 in Large Home Subwoofers (Over 75 lbs) |
| Enclosure | ported, front | ported, rear |
| Output SPL at 15 Hz | 100.8 dB | 88.5 dB |
| Output SPL at 20 Hz | 108.2 dB | 104.3 dB |
| Output SPL at 25 Hz | 113.4 dB | 108.7 dB |
| Output SPL at 31.5 Hz | 118.2 dB | 109.7 dB |
| Output SPL at 40 Hz | 121.9 dB | 112.1 dB |
| Output SPL at 50 Hz | 122.3 dB | 113.7 dB |
| Output SPL at 63 Hz | 121.1 dB | 114.0 dB |
| Output SPL at 80 Hz | 120.4 dB | 114.0 dB |
| CEA-2010-A Average (40-80Hz) | 121.4 dB | 113.5 dB |
| Dimensions | 25”H x 17.2”W x 24”D (635.0 x 438.1 x 609.6 mm) | 21.5”H x 17”W x 25”D (546.1 x 431.8 x 635.0 mm) |
| Weight | 85.1 lbs (38.6 kg) | 89.9 lbs (40.8 kg) |
| Warranty | 7/2(+3) | 7/2 |
| Cabinet Color | black | - |
| Country | United States | United States |
| Measurement Source | Manufacturer | Ilkka Rissanen |
| Drivers | 15” (381mm) driver | 12” (305mm) driver |
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