Discover the Added Goodness of Augmenting the Soliloquy S-10

In Stereophile Vol. 24 No.2, February 2001, in his review of the VTL IT-85 integrated amplifier, Chip Stern experiments with the addition of a second VTL amplifier in bi-amp or 'double decker' mode and goes on to discover the added goodness of augmenting the Soliloquy S-10 active subwoofer [page 129]:

“Did I hear someone say "doubledecker"? If you can afford the extra $1750 for VTL's matching ST-85 power amp, and another $1395 for the clear, speedy Soliloquy S10 powered subwoofer, then you're talking layers of goodness — a Wendy's Triple Decker Bacon Cheeseburger with extra onions and all the fixings. Have it your way, indeed: immense, uncolored bass extension; taut transient response; uncommonly deep soundstaging; enhanced stereo separation and lateral imaging stability; a velvety, open midrange that never shortchanges detail for euphony; smooth high-frequency extension; and a lack of peakiness throughout the entire frequency range.”

He then compares the results without the subwoofer:

“Hey, forget the Soliloquy pipe dream if you like; a subwoofer represents a significant enhancement but it's hardly a necessity. While I loved the extra bottom-octave speed and heft, ultimately it was the enhanced headroom I achieved through the use of a dedicated power source for each individual driver that made the critical difference. Sure, there was a tradeoff in terms of absolute bass...”

Indeed, Chip has enjoyed the services of our S-10 for a good year now and as far as we know, it's not coming back any time soon. Happy subbing, Chip!