Six different bass amps in the test

The test included a wide variety of bass transducers from small and inexpensive pucks to heavy-duty infrasound transducers. The differences were not limited to power or the ability to move mass, but also to how controlled and balanced the vibration behaves at different frequencies.

ButtKicker BK-LFE was clearly the most powerful of the bunch. It moves even large masses effortlessly, reaching down to infrasonic frequencies, but it requires even more from home theaters: a sturdy structure and a large budget. Its playback is neat at low volumes, but for example a smooth shot feels like it doesn’t bring the kind of impact that a faster and more responsive vibrator would. This is at its best in high-end home theaters combined with smaller vibrators, allowing for both a deep and distinct effect.

The Dayton BST-300EX offered excellent performance for the price. It extends down to about 25 Hertz and can move even a larger sofa, several chairs, or a small table. Its distinct resonance requires equalization with a frequency corrector, but when properly adjusted, the BST-300EX combines power and separation beautifully.

The AuraSound AST-2B-4 and the Dayton BST-1 showed very well how much frequency correction and the right settings affect the final result. The performance of AuraSound was quite balanced but lacked power. The BST-1, on the other hand, was effective in size and price, but its 38–42 Hz resonance peak must be controlled with the EQ to prevent the playback from being too emphasized in one area. Both are best suited for multi-vibrator systems or with smaller seats.

The Monacor BR-50 was perhaps the “nicest” one in terms of its subdued performance, but at the same time it was noticeably quieter at lower frequencies. It doesn’t move the chair as much as others, but the vibration remains neat and controlled. This can be an advantage if you just want to reduce the physical impact. Maybe more for gaming than for movies.