BIC America VK-12 vs. Energy Take subwoofer

[txlonghorn]

After lots of research and many glowing reviews, I decided to purchase a set of Energy Take Classic 5.1 speakers. I ordered it from Acousticsounddesign.com on 9/1. The speakers came today. However, instead of the 8" Energy subwoofer, I received BIC America VK-12 subwoofer. I called Acoustics Sound Design immediately and was informed that it was an upgrade. I got exactly what I ordered. If I didn't want the VK-12, they will be happy to exchange it for the Energy sub. The catch is, they claim that Energy is not shipping the sub shown in the picture any more. It is shipping to them an upgraded sub. If I make the exchange, I'll get the new sub.

(I went back to web site and sure enough, there is the upgrade notice next to the original Energy Take Classic photo. But, the notice was dated 9/2, a day after I placed my order.)

So, my questions are:

A) Is BIC VK-12 any good?

B) All the glowing reviews I read are about the set of Energy Take Classic 5.1 speakers. Even if the BIC VK-12 is an upgrade to the Energy sub woofer, will it sound as good with the other energy speakers?

C) What was the Energy sub shipped with the Energy Classic? Was it ESW 8 with glossy finish? What can possibly be the new sub that is being shipped now? ESW 10?

Finally, should I make the exchange?

 

[Slick5150]

Yes, that set traditionally came with a shiny version of the ESW-8. My guess is the "new" sub they're shipping with the system is the ESW-C8, which is a front firing 8" subwoofer. I think technically its higher powered, but I haven't seen any reviews.

The Bic VK-12 is a much bigger sub (12" vs. 8"), that frankly I'd be concerned would be too boomy for the Bic Take speakers. I haven't heard one but I understand they tend towards the "boomy" type of sound.

If it were me, I'd probably sell the Bic sub, and either find the ESW-8 on sale somewhere, or buy the tSc ASW-8 (which my understanding is the exact same sub as the Energy ESW-8). You can get it for $100 shipped from them here

 

[s44]

No. The low-end 8" Energy won't beat any decent 12".

 

[Slick5150]

Originally posted by: s44
No. The low-end 8" Energy won't beat any decent 12".

Define "beat". If you mean it can match power? No. If you mean sound good paired with those speakers? You're completely wrong.

 

[txlonghorn]

Originally posted by: s44
No. The low-end 8" Energy won't beat any decent 12".

So, is BIC VK-12 decent?


I have not hooked it up yet because it is just too big for my listening space. I have to rearrange 1/2 of the room just to find space for it. The listening area is 15' X 15'. That sub looks out of proportion with the room.

The only hitch on buying ASW-8 is its finish. I'd like to get a sub with glossy black finish matching the Energy Take 5.0 set. I need to call Acoustic Sound Design and find what is the replacement sub

 

[s44]

If it's too big for you, there's your answer.

The Take Classics, like most satellites, need to be crossed fairly high (they drop off around 120hz) which means that you need the sub to be fairly flat to about 150-200hz for it to fit (some subs reproduce little above 100hz). The BIC specifies it's within 3db up to 200hz, so the sound should work... It will also give you more clean power and deeper low extension. But yes, if you're sitting in a small space, a big sub is a pain.

(I wouldn't consider 15'*15' small though.)

 

[Slick5150]

Originally posted by: txlonghorn

Originally posted by: s44
No. The low-end 8" Energy won't beat any decent 12".

So, is BIC VK-12 decent?


I have not hooked it up yet because it is just too big for my listening space. I have to rearrange 1/2 of the room just to find space for it. The listening area is 15' X 15'. That sub looks out of proportion with the room.

The only hitch on buying ASW-8 is its finish. I'd like to get a sub with glossy black finish matching the Energy Take 5.0 set. I need to call Acoustic Sound Design and find what is the replacement sub

A small can of glossy black paint is pretty cheap.

 

[txlonghorn]

If it's too big for you, there's your answer.

I really want the ASW-8HG to make up my speaker set. If I can't get a similar replacement from ASD, then I am going to sell the VK-12 and buy ASW-8HG from some where else.

A small can of glossy black paint is pretty cheap.

True. But I rather spend my time adjusting the speaker/receiver settings than watch paint dry. It is hard to get that piano black finish without a quality spray gun.

 

[txlonghorn]

Update. Just heard back from Acoustic Sound Design. The replacement sub is ESW-V8.

 

[Slick5150]

Originally posted by: txlonghorn
Update. Just heard back from Acoustic Sound Design. The replacement sub is ESW-V8.

Oh. THe V8 is a more powerful version of the C8 that I mentioned above (and assumed was the replacement). I've seen a couple reviews that were very positive. I'd definitely make that swap.

 

[txlonghorn]

I'd definitely make that swap.

Done. The replacement process is under way.

I was kind of ticked off when I didn't receive the "correct" sub. But I have to say my customer service experience with ASD has been great. When I called, I think I talked to Mike, the CEO. He gave me no hassle in exchanging the sub. Free return shipping with pickup from UPS. When I get the "correct" sub, I need to give them a positive review.