The new ASS R2U system.

Not all scoops are equal - there are some ( RX JNR's with the B&C would be one example) i have heard that have a relatively flat response and a smooth sound that would make a very good general purpose sub for more or less anything

Other scoops i have heard i would class as more of an instrument - I.E. a speaker tuned to have a distinctive sound ( almost a growl) that suits its place in the roots / reggae scene.

Where all scoops fall down a bit is their upper end response - we all know about the phase induced dip, and depending on where this lies, this can make the box unsuitable as a 1 box bass solution. I know that Tony and others would never think of the scoop as a one box bass / sub unit, but that is what most "PA" companies want and expect - one box that can rumble and handle kicks. 

So, i think it is about horses for courses - there are scoops around in the PA world, and there is no doubt that for dedicated sub use the scoop is a very effective solution - but it is not the only solution, and many of the other designs available are more versatile, making them more suitable for companies or operators that have to handle a wide range of program material and events, rather than having the luxury of being able to tune their rig to one particular genre.

Mike, I always try to base what I say on experience. I have heard plenty of 2x15/2x18 subs from reputable manufactures and Hire companies, and what I have heard sometimes sounded like speakers waffling around in a big box. And the larger the system, the worse it got. I can cast my mind back to one of the last gigs I was at before the Rainbow closed. Boston was playing, and they were on of my favorite bands at the time. My disappointment came when listening to the low end which had no definition and seemed to be pumped up just to show how much bass they could get out of the system. Only at their loudest did the balance come anywhere near reasonable.

I saw the Eagles at Wembly, and most of that was a waste of time.

What I'm saying here is that just because the PA doesn't use scoops for subs, it doesn't guarantee that it will be any better.

Engineering will always be the key. I don't defend scoops as a manufacturer, because in the overall scheme of things, I have built far more normal Reflex cabs than anything else.

growing.