Velodyne HGS-15X Measurements and Conclusion
To measure the subwoofer's
frequency response I placed the unit outside, set the gain to the THX setting (about 1-4 volume) and
bypassed the variable crossover. Using the
Rives
Audio Pro Test Kit, and placing the microphone at ground level approximately one foot from the
woofer cone, I conducted the frequency response and SPL test as shown in the accompanying
graph.
As you can see from the frequency response, the Velodyne HGS-15X had very impressive low-end extension with useable high SPL starting at about 18Hz. The frequency response between 25Hz and 150Hz is fairly flat as shown in the below graph , confirming what I heard during the listening evaluation and explaining why the Velodyne HGS-15-X was able to integrate seamlessly and smoothly with my main speakers when crossed over at 80Hz.
The frequency response graph and charted SPL levels show that this subwoofer can play ridiculously low frequencies with high SPL 舗 s and have a very flat response between 25Hz and 150Hz +-3dB. Low, loud and smooth equate to an audiophile subwoofer with slam.
Conclusion
Concluding this review, I must admit that I knew that the Velodyne HGS-15X was going to be a stellar performer even before I opened the box. I have installed various Velodyne subwoofers in various custom installations for the better part of 10 years and they have never let me down. This level of Velodyne subwoofer always seems to provide a very large performance to cost ratio.
There is a big difference between a good subwoofer and a great subwoofer. Good subwoofers can play low and loud. Great subwoofers can play low, loud and still maintain a high level of accuracy The Velodyne HGS-15X is a great subwoofer. Its placement flexibility and stellar performance with both two-channel and multi-channel make it an easy recommendation. The fact that it is entirely built here in the USA is icing on the cake.
Despite my installation experience, this is
the first time I have had the Velodyne HGS-15X incorporated into one of my own systems. I must say it
was an impressive display of force and finesse. If you are a die hard two-channel audiophile looking
for a subwoofer to keep up with your exotic main channel speakers, a Bassoholic addicted to huge
dynamic high impact LFE, or a custom integrator looking for a flexible solution for custom audio video
placement, the Velodyne HGS-15X is the subwoofer you need to audition.
As I conclude this review,
I am reminded of a button I picked up at the Velodyne booth at CES about 10 years ago. It simply stated
"got bass?"
My answer to this is: I do now!
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
— Excellent
- — Very Good
- — Good
- — Fair
- — Poor
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension | |
| Bass Accuracy | |
| Build Quality | |
| Ergonomics & Usability | |
| Performance |  |
| Value | |
