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The Vandersteen 2Wq is a high-performance, powered subwoofer featuring three 8-inch, long-fiber cones, a 300-watt amplifier with feed-forward error correction, and an adjustable Q for room optimization. Designed for seamless integration, it operates from 20Hz-80Hz.- includes the Wx-2 crossover and all cables as shown in last photos Drivers: (3) 8-inch critically-damped long-fiber cones with butyl rubber surrounds and 1.5-inch 4-layer voice coils.Amplifier: 300-watt internal amplifierFrequency Response: -3dB @ 20Hz-80HzSystem Type: Second-order, slot-loadedCrossover: First-order, 6dB/octave @ 80HzFeatures: Adjustable Q, feed-forward error correction, and input for high-level signal from main power amp.Controls: Level control (for sensitivity matching 82dB to 92dB)Dimensions: 18"(W) x 17"(D) x 18.5" (H})Weight: ~90 lbs Service History: No service records were included from the prior owner. Here at the shop we did routine testing, cleaning and inspection.Cosmetic Condition: Overall we rated this at Very Good.In the Milwaukee Area? Stop in our shop to inspect/demo.
At USD825 with crossover and cables, this Vandersteen 2Wq looks like a solid fair deal on the used market—typical listings for clean examples hover around USD700-1,200, depending on condition and whether it's a single unit or pair. These 300W beasts with triple 8" drivers are music-first subs that integrate seamlessly via high-level amp taps, and finding one bundled with the essential crossover at this price beats chasing separates.
Before biting, verify the internal amp powers up cleanly with no hum, buzz, or channel dropout—those FET designs can falter after years of service—and confirm the drivers' surrounds aren't cracked or delaminating, as seals are critical for their critically damped response. Test the adjustable Q and sensitivity matching too; originals like this often date to the '90s, so push for service history.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Vandersteen Audio, founded in 1977 by visionary designer Richard Vandersteen in Hanford, California, embodies a steadfast commitment to acoustic purity rooted in American ingenuity. From its modest beginnings, the company has operated from this central California hub, midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, prioritizing engineering solutions that deliver faithful music reproduction over flashy aesthetics or excess cost.
The brand focuses exclusively on high-end loudspeakers, with iconic models like the longstanding Model 2 series and intermediates such as the Treo CT exemplifying its core philosophy. Vandersteen speakers employ time-coherent designs featuring first-order crossovers, precise driver alignment for phase accuracy, and innovations like reflection-free midrange drivers, minimal-baffle cabinets, and patented Perfect-Piston technology using carbon-fiber/balsa wood sandwiches. This singular dedication avoids diversification into amplifiers, turntables, DACs, headphones, or cables.
Positioned firmly in the high-end market, Vandersteen commands respect among discerning audiophiles for its rational, technology-driven approach and unwavering design principles sustained over nearly five decades. It appeals to buyers valuing soundstage precision, time-axis coherence, and long-term reliability rather than mere measurements, offering exceptional value through the founder's ethos of efficient problem-solving. While not the flashiest name, its cult following underscores timeless craftsmanship that elevates any serious hi-fi system.
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