“Let our rigorous testing and reviews be your guidelines to A/V equipment – not marketing slogans”
Facebook Youtube Twitter instagram pinterest
  1. Home
  2. Product Reviews
  3. Subwoofer Reviews
  4. HSU Research VTF-3 MK3 Subwoofer Review

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!
Next Page ⇨
Buy Now
Like This? Check out our other Subwoofer Reviews!

Confused about what AV Gear to buy or how to set it up? Join our Exclusive Audioholics E-Book Membership Program!

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.

View full profile
 

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.
Post Reply
subscribe to newsletterSubscribe to our newsletter


youtube
Subscribe to Our Channel