Sub replacement/upgrade/DIY

Leer

I have to admit that I'm securely in the "enough knowledge to be dangerous" phase of home audio and would appreciate nudge or two.

Current setup:

Room 14x 30 feet (really only using 14 x14 not a great acoustic setup)
Center: CSi30
Front: RTi38
Rear: R15 (not liked all that much)
Sub PSW 202 (dead, and seemed weak when it was alive)
Receiver: Pioneer Elite VSX-21

I was planning on a nice well researched upgrade when the sub decided to eat the green weenie. I tried asking about repair parts from csPolk with no luck (or reply).

Now that I'm looking at replacing it I have been offered a Klipsch KSW-12 (made 2003-ish) for $200. I expect this will be an upgrade on the bass impact but will it be an upgrade on the bass quality?

To be honest I wasn't impressed with the PSW 202 or the R15's, they worked but that was about it.

I think my questions are:
PSW 202 any ideas on aftermarket DIY upgrade to Frankenstein it back to life with better quality and impact?
Is the KSW-12 a decent replacement or a loud muddy rattle trap?
Suggestions for going new with a $400 limit (wife imposed limit of death)

Comments on the reset of the equipment is nice for future planning...If you don't like talking about subs.

Thanks

TECHNOKID

Good day and welcome to CP Leer;

1. From what I get from your post you have tried to contact them via email and you would have much success contacting by phone: 1-866-764-1801. This is your first step and you might be happily surprised as Polk customer service is great. From there, you can make an informed decision on your next move.

2. I am not familiar with the PSW202 but the specs are pretty close to the PSW10 (not to confuse with the PSW110) therefore if you were not impressed with the 202 you might want to consider a more powerfull subwoofer. However are you familiar with proper placement which can at times be the problem rather than the speakers per say.

3. You do not state where you are from but if you are from the US, have you considered buying from Polk direct (eBay store) as this may allow you to acquire much more for your money.

4. From the same series of your 202, the 110, 125, 303, 404 and 505 could be easily acquired within your budget or...

5. Even some of the newer Polk line (DSW) might be within your budget if purchased refurbished from Polk direct (very good comments/testimonies from various Polkies here at CP).

6. Here are some links that might be of some use for your quest:

http://www.polkaudio.com/homeaudio/psw/specs.php

http://www.polkaudio.com/homeaudio/dsw/specs.php

http://stores.ebay.com/Polk-Audio-Direct__W0QQ_sidZ686154689?_nkw=subwoofer&submit=Search

7. Once you have made a decision, you should stick around and learn furthermore about your Polk speakers by reading, asking and getting involved. You would be very impressed about what Polk can provide you through this site. Many wizzards, nerd and knowledgeable people on this site.

Good luck with your quest!
TK

Leer

Thanks, I'll give cs a call and see what they think.

I don't think it was placement (I hope) it has had a number of homes around the room and I've changed wiring setups a few times as well. Having said that, I definitely have more to learn.

Thanks for the comments on alternatives. I'll have a look and keep reading through the forums.

cheers.

Oh, I'm in Vancouver so a run to the boarder PO is not a problem.

TECHNOKID

Leer wrote: »

Thanks, I'll give cs a call and see what they think.

I don't think it was placement (I hope) it has had a number of homes around the room and I've changed wiring setups a few times as well. Having said that, I definitely have more to learn.

Thanks for the comments on alternatives. I'll have a look and keep reading through the forums.

cheers.

Oh, I'm in Vancouver so a run to the boarder PO is not a problem.

Greetings from Quebec then

TECHNOKID

I forgot, since you are in Canada you will not be able to take advantage of Polk Direct (ebay) unless you have relatives in the US. If it is somewhat easy for you to shop in the US and sneak the product back easily (family etc.) then you've got it made.

Correct me if I am wrong but I beileve their might be some Visions Electronics store in your area? I know they are offering the PSW110 (same as I own) at a slight rebate: http://www2.visions.ca/catalogue/category/ProductResults.aspx?categoryId=0&searchText=subwoofer but I would suggest you go to their store since they often have great deals. I've dealt with them (online) in the past and they are great to deal with. I also visited 2 of their stores when in Calgary for business and they don't have much to envy FS or BB.

Talking about FS, many people seem to recommend the PSW111 and PSW125 on this site. If you look at the FS online offer http://www.futureshop.ca/search/searchresult.asp?logon=&langid=EN&search=KWS , the 111 & 125 might border but close to your price range.

Cheers!
TK

Leer

Lots of friends and family in Seattle so shipping isn't a issue. I had to borrow their address to get my receive on black Friday as well. Thanks for the link to the ebay store and the soul crushing last few hours of an auction.

I've seen the question on speaker size asked a few times but not really answered. I was looking at a low end microPro 8inch and was also thinking high end PSW125. From my understanding the PSW will be a felt more and sound a little muddy. The microPro would sound more musical (clear sound) with less impact?

Am I off base? Does the monster extra wattage in the micro makeup for the lack of size still produce a strong low rumble?

after looking at teh ebay I'm rolling around the idea of PSW 125, DSW 400, DSW microPro 1000 and that old Klipsch KSW-12. At the moment I'm thinking the microPro 1000 will produce the best sound and the KPSW 125/Klipsch the strongest thump.

Sound quality would be my first want and a chest thumping rubble a not so distant second.

Amherst

I own the DSW Micro Pro 1000. I am amazed every time it's playing what the capabilities of this sub really is. It replaced an older 10" unit. No comparison.

I would say the juice the unit pumps itself up with is part the reason it's so good the other is the radiator,
If you like music get the Micro Pro line.

TECHNOKID

Leer, the above comments seems to come back quite often when referring to the DSW line. Your best thing is to go out and audition some subs making sure the demo is performed in the proper environment. You can also start a different thread asking Polkies advice on the subwoofers of interest. Proceeding as such will provide you with great info and peoples experience on the various products. This will definitley allow you to make a sound decision on your next purchase. Have you had a chance to contact Polk about your PSW202 (as this should still be your first step)?

Cheers!
TK