Short answer: the HSU Research VTF-3 MK5 HP, if you are buying new. The Paradigm Defiance X15 measures as well as it (#45 vs #59 of 143 subwoofers, 4.2/5 vs 4.2/5) but is discontinued, so only consider it used; the HSU Research VTF-3 MK5 HP is still sold new at $1,049.
What the HSU Research VTF-3 MK5 HP does well: 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 Paradigm Defiance X15: A 15 inch ported subwoofer with strong, deep bass for movies in a large room, a solid value pick used. Watch for: The 625.3H x 588.8W x 625.3D mm cabinet and 91.9 lbs (41.7 kg) mass make this a serious placement and moving commitment.
Buy the HSU Research VTF-3 MK5 HP if you want one new; the Paradigm Defiance X15 is discontinued, so only look for it used.
Still deciding? The full Subwoofers rankings cover every ranked option.
A 15 inch ported subwoofer with excellent output for the money, a strong value pick for movies and music.
A 15 inch ported subwoofer with strong, deep bass for movies in a large room, a solid value pick used.
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Specifications Side By Side
| HSU Research VTF-3 MK5 HP | Paradigm Defiance X15 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,049.00 | $1,499 Discontinued |
| Ranked | #59 of 143 in Large Home Subwoofers (Over 75 lbs) | #45 of 143 in Large Home Subwoofers (Over 75 lbs) |
| Enclosure | ported, front | ported, bottom |
| Output SPL at 15 Hz | 100.8 dB | 102.8 dB |
| Output SPL at 20 Hz | 108.2 dB | 109.2 dB |
| Output SPL at 25 Hz | 113.4 dB | 112.2 dB |
| Output SPL at 31.5 Hz | 118.2 dB | 116.2 dB |
| Output SPL at 40 Hz | 121.9 dB | 121.3 dB |
| Output SPL at 50 Hz | 122.3 dB | 123.4 dB |
| Output SPL at 63 Hz | 121.1 dB | 123.8 dB |
| Output SPL at 80 Hz | 120.4 dB | 123.1 dB |
| CEA-2010-A Average (40-80Hz) | 121.4 dB | 122.9 dB |
| Dimensions | 25”H x 17.2”W x 24”D (635.0 x 438.1 x 609.6 mm) | 24.6”H x 23.2”W x 24.6”D (625.3 x 588.8 x 625.3 mm) |
| Weight | 85.1 lbs (38.6 kg) | 91.9 lbs (41.7 kg) |
| Warranty | 7/2(+3) | 3 |
| Cabinet Color | black | black |
| Country | United States | Canada |
| Measurement Source | Manufacturer | Audioholics |
| Drivers | 15” (381mm) driver | 15” (381mm) driver |
| Output SPL at 100 Hz | - | 121.9 dB |
| Output SPL at 125 Hz | - | 121.2 dB |
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