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HSU Research VTF-3 MK3 Subwoofer Review

by — October 22, 2007
HSU Research VTF-3 MK3 Subwoofer Review

  • Product Name: HSU VTF-3 MK3
  • Manufacturer: HSU Research
  • Performance Rating: StarStarStarStarhalf-star
  • Value Rating: StarStarStarStarStar
  • Review Date: October 22, 2007 18:25
  • MSRP: $699
  • Buy Now

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!
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About the author:

Mark's audio career, began in 1981 when he designed his first loudspeaker system for a client who had grown disenchanted with the off-the-shelf products then populating local audio emporiums. Since then, he has designed over 100 systems, now found in homes, studios, theaters and dance clubs in north America & Asia. Mark has done detailed analysis and reviews and tech articles related to loudspeakers and subwoofers for Audioholics.

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Recent Forum Posts:

Read the Complete Thread
j_garcia posts on February 26, 2013 11:28
ooobbbccc, post: 953911
Yea sort of. But I'm looking at the VTF-3.4 I heard they were the same.

Well, they are not the same, but I'd expect them to be similar in room size rating. The LFM-1 EX is closer to the VTF-3 MkII I believe.

I guess the question then is how big is your room? Unless you have a massive area to fill, this one should do well. I've heard the MkIII in a good size room (~15'x24') and I thought it sounded great.
ooobbbccc posts on February 26, 2013 08:59
shadyJ, post: 953895
Look at the review for the Outlaw Audio LFM-1 EX, the performance will be similar. Under those guidelines I would expect a VTF3 to rate a large room.

Thanks for help
ooobbbccc posts on February 26, 2013 08:58
j_garcia, post: 953894
Looking to pick one up used? Because the review and thread are rather old.

Yea sort of. But I'm looking at the VTF-3.4 I heard they were the same.
shadyJ posts on February 26, 2013 02:15
Look at the review for the Outlaw Audio LFM-1 EX, the performance will be similar. Under those guidelines I would expect a VTF3 to rate a large room.
j_garcia posts on February 26, 2013 01:49
ooobbbccc, post: 953695
Can someone please tell me the Bassaholics ratings is this certified “Medium” or “Large”?

Looking to pick one up used? Because the review and thread are rather old.
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