Sub Dominus

M&K SOUND X15+ SUBWOOFER

- David Vaughn

LET ME state from the outset that I'm a fan of M&K Sound speakers. I have owned an M&K S-150 surround system for the past 18-plus years and have zero desire to change it out anytime soon. The first time I auditioned it in a Magnolia Hi-Fi store back in 2002 made me an instant admirer of the brand, and it took me two years of saving up to be able to afford a full 7.1 speaker package. I fully bought into M&K's-and THX'sprinciple that using a subwoofer/satellite configuration to separate and optimize the reproduction of low frequencies improves midrange purity and accuracy. Also, that filtering deep bass from the main speakers lets you achieve louder playback with less distortion while simultaneously expending less amplifier power. Another benefit to sub/sat systems: you can arrange your main speakers to optimize their performance, while the subwoofer (or multiple subs) can be separately positioned to maximize bass output.

Several years ago, I reviewed M&K Sound's X12 subwoofer and was impressed enough to award it a Top Pick designation. I really wanted to keep that sub permanently in my system, but had two kids attending college at the time and new A/V gear wasn't in the family budget. When I heard I had the company's latest-generation flagship sub, the X15+ headed my way for a review, I started to wonder: Would the upgrade bug strike again?