HSU Research VTF-3 MK3 Subwoofer Review
by
mark
— last modified October 22, 2007
Summary
- Product Name: HSU VTF-3 MK3
- Manufacturer: HSU Research
- Performance Rating:
- Value Rating:
- Review Date: October 22, 2007 18:25
- MSRP: $699
- Specifications
-
Primary Use: Subwoofer
System Type: Powered, Bass-reflex
Ports: Dual 4”, flared at both ends
Amplifier Output Power: 350 Watts, rms
Phase: Switchable O° - 180°
Crossover Frequency: Lowpass, Continuously variable, 30 - 90 Hz, Bypassable
Crossover Slope: 4th-order, 24dB/Octave
Drive Units: (1) 12” (nominal) driver
Sensitivity: 90dB (2.83 Volts @ 1 Meter)
Nominal Impedance: 4 Ohms
Frequency Response: 18 -3dB (Max. Extension Mode)
25 Hz -3dB (Max. Output Mode)
Color: Black or Maple
Grille: Black
Video Shielding: Yes
Dimensions: 17” W x 22” H x 25” D
Weight: 90 Lbs. /unit
Max. Power consumption: 430 W
Warranty: Driver/cabinet: 7 years; Amplifier: 2 years
Pros
- Surprisingly clean output
- Excellent extension for a system this size
Cons
- Very Limited choice of finishes
- Port noise tendencies when used in bass extension mode without turbo option
Introduction
The Hsu Research VTF-3 Mk3 is a well designed product, packing a terrific driver, obviously crafted with an emphasis on the basic features that are important to deliver maximum bang for the buck in a product in its price class. Within its limits, it did a number of things exceptionally well. Add to all that product support, a very useful, interesting manual and small enough to fit comfortably in all but the tiniest locales and in the VTF-3 Mk3 you find a truly top-flight product and an excellent investment for the discerning movie and music lover. I was consistently surprised by how well Dr Hsu managed to get this thoroughbred with a 12” driver to perform on a consistent basis. I’ll close with a strong buy recommendation; buy two if the budget allows for it!
Recent Forum Posts:
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bigbangtheory posts on October 30, 2007 15:48
I've been doing a lot of research and talking to manufacturers lately about subs. My conclusion has been that HSU and SVS Sound probably offer the best bang for the buck performance of ANY sub company. I also know from word of mouth and some anecdotal evidence too that these companies are in it for the long haul and know how to take care of their customers.
paulf7509 posts on October 29, 2007 09:35
thanks for that review - it was very helpful as I am currently searching for subwoofers for my home theater system
annunaki posts on October 25, 2007 11:15
The bent ports in this patent-pending design were engineered specifically to reduce turbulence associated with the port bend.
Mark did not review the turbocharger. He mentioned port noise tendencies only in the extended bass mode with port plug, which is exactly the situation we were trying to move away from with turbocharger. Port noise is definitely not an issue with the turbocharger.
Sure one could design a larger enclosure, but even that would see a performance benefit from using turbocharger instead of plugging a port to reduce port tuning. The idea was definitely to make the unit install in a modular fashion.
That makes sense.
Mark did not review the turbocharger. He mentioned port noise tendencies only in the extended bass mode with port plug, which is exactly the situation we were trying to move away from with turbocharger. Port noise is definitely not an issue with the turbocharger.
Sure one could design a larger enclosure, but even that would see a performance benefit from using turbocharger instead of plugging a port to reduce port tuning. The idea was definitely to make the unit install in a modular fashion.
That makes sense.
Peter Marcks posts on October 25, 2007 01:55
The bent ports in this patent-pending design were engineered specifically to reduce turbulence associated with the port bend.
Mark did not review the turbocharger. He mentioned port noise tendencies only in the extended bass mode with port plug, which is exactly the situation we were trying to move away from with turbocharger. Port noise is definitely not an issue with the turbocharger.
Sure one could design a larger enclosure, but even that would see a performance benefit from using turbocharger instead of plugging a port to reduce port tuning. The idea was definitely to make the unit install in a modular fashion.
Mark did not review the turbocharger. He mentioned port noise tendencies only in the extended bass mode with port plug, which is exactly the situation we were trying to move away from with turbocharger. Port noise is definitely not an issue with the turbocharger.
Sure one could design a larger enclosure, but even that would see a performance benefit from using turbocharger instead of plugging a port to reduce port tuning. The idea was definitely to make the unit install in a modular fashion.
annunaki posts on October 24, 2007 15:32
The turbo is a good idea but I don't like the idea of so many bends in the ports. There is one bend inside the enclosure and then two? outside if using the turbo. The bends just increase the likely hood for port noise. This seemed to show up in the review.
It is a great product and innovative design, no doubt though. Why not make a new sub that is a bit bigger (enclosure to house everything) with longer, straighter ports? Problem solved. I can see it as a great add on to existing sub systems though.
It is a great product and innovative design, no doubt though. Why not make a new sub that is a bit bigger (enclosure to house everything) with longer, straighter ports? Problem solved. I can see it as a great add on to existing sub systems though.
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