Just my opinion on the matter.
Although I for one would prefer more unique designs to undergo the tests, there are still a lot of users that don’t have the means of transport or real estate to use anything larger than Double Eighteens. Yes, I agree. From owning a good portion of Double Eighteens they generally sound the same once the numbers start adding up. But, I do remember the Peavey QW 218’s review held in your last shootout, really helped a lot of potential customers looking to purchase subs that couldn’t get a Bassmaxx, or Sound Physics Design. And if I remember correctly, at the time of the shootout, the QW 218 wasn’t available to the public. So, any manufacture considering to offer something new may find the No-Double 18 invite a problem.
I agree on the amplification and DSP. IMHO a Powersoft K 10, I Tech 8000 or QSC 9.0 should be the three candidates. Crown MA 5000, & QSC 6.0 are no longer big amplifiers in the market. On the DSP side, Dolby’s Lake Processor seems to be creating a lot of buzz on the Lab, so it would be great to see one at the event. Possibly the XTA, or DBX 4800.
Best Regards,