Both are rated Stereophile Class A for good reason. They are two of the finest sounding subs on the market today. While there are many other ported subs that best them in output or extension, very few are their equal for sheer musicality and sound quality. There are nuances of difference between the two subs with the FL having more output but slightly higher THD than the Velo.
When I say both sound quite close sonically, I'm comparing both subs similarly equalized with an SMS controlling the Fathom to put them on a more equal footing. However, when I compare the Fathom equalized only with its ARO function against the DD-18 with its built in equalization, the nod would go to the DD-18 for music but not by much. For HT it would go to the Fathom because of its much higher output especially in the low-mid bass.
The servo control feature is a neat way to control distortion on the DD-18 which I usually leave at its 8 setting for lowest distortion though lower output. If I listen very closely with repeated material, occasionally I hear a difference at the 8 setting but its tough to say. At the 1 servo setting on the Velo though, I'd say the Fathom might be preferable. I doubt there is any sub with lower distortion than the DD-18 at Servo 8 setting though that comes at the cost of output. But I'm splitting hairs in that what slightly more distortion there is in the Fathom is second order which as most tube fans know sounds quite pleasant and natural.
As far as which one is tighter or has better attack and decay, again it depends on where I have the servo setting on the DD. If I set it a max it favours the DD but the cost of output starts to swing things in favour of the Fathom with its massive 2500W amp.
As you can tell I couldn't decide which of these fabulous subs sounded best overall so I bought a pair of each. :scratch2:
.
) and I'm leaning towards the JL. Your review tells me I really can't go wrong! I guess one factor is the smaller size for easier (and better) placement.
