VTF-1 Conclusions and Recommendations
The Hsu Research VTF-1 has proven to be a solid performer that, relative to its price point, does most everything well with very little wrong. I found it to be both musical and responsive to the source material I threw at it while still capable of very respectable output levels. While the VTF-1 did balk at some of the more demanding LFE at high volume while in extension mode, one must remember that this sub gives the owner the option to switch to the higher SPL mode. However, when levels are less dynamically intense, the VTF-1 does go fairly low, to where other subs at this price point typically just can’t.
Sonically, the VTF-1 is similar to the STF-1, retaining the best qualities while making sonic improvements with key differences consisting of the larger driver, an increase in amplifier power, and the ability to play lower. The end result is that the VTF-1 sounds like a heftier sub, sonically, than the STF-1. The price performance ratio between the two subs is comparable; one will basically get what they pay for, dollar for dollar, when considering the value of purchasing either the STF-1 or the VTF-1.
If the reader is in the market for a high value subwoofer then Hsu should be on the list of products to investigate; the VTF-1 is a good sub that is hard to beat at the price. After spending time with entry level products in both the STF and VTF lines, I can say these products fit the bill of anyone looking for musicality at this price range, and in the case of the VTF-1, good luck finding another four hundred dollar sub that can cross the 30 Hz threshold and still make a good showing.
Hsu Research Inc.
3160 E. La Palma Ave,
Unit D
Anaheim, CA
92806
Toll free
(U.S.)
1-800-554-0150
International
1-714-666-9260
Canadian
Distributor 1-800-387-9101
www.hsuresearch.com
The Score Card
The scoring below is based on each piece of equipment doing the duty it is designed for. The numbers are weighed heavily with respect to the individual cost of each unit, thus giving a rating roughly equal to:
Performance × Price Factor/Value = Rating
Audioholics.com note: The ratings indicated below are based on subjective listening and objective testing of the product in question. The rating scale is based on performance/value ratio. If you notice better performing products in future reviews that have lower numbers in certain areas, be aware that the value factor is most likely the culprit. Other Audioholics reviewers may rate products solely based on performance, and each reviewer has his/her own system for ratings.
Audioholics Rating Scale
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Shouldn't this be in the "Subwoofer" section?
Thats odd, I must have scrolled too far the drop down when linking it up. thanks.
Otherwise, I have heard an STF-1 before and was very suprised at what it could do for the price and size. The VTF-1 seems to go a bit farther according to the review.
