Add a subwoofer?
I run a pair of Cornwall 1’s driven by primaluna, VPI, and Sutherland 20/20. Room is 34 x14 x 14 high. I love the Klipsch, but never felt like they were overly heavy bass. I’m curious about a subs ability to “fill in” the sound. I called a dealer regarding REL’s smaller products. I was told that the Cornwall has huge bass and I’d need a very large sub to notice a difference. Really can’t afford a quality big subwoofer. ie thousands of dollars. Not wanting thumping bass, just fuller sound. No experience with subwoofers so, ,,,,
Thanks for your input.
Larger subs just have more output but not needed for normal listening volume. Unlike most on this forum I am not a rel fan. Too much cost for not enough low output imo. For myself I like very large subs. HSU gets good reviews (and measurements) but are huge. If you have the space it might be an option. Rythmic is another good buy. |
I owned a Klipsch 120SW that I bought new for $300 a few years ago. As I didn't find it particularly musical. It provided some low (29hz) sound, but it wasn't quick or tight. I gave it to my dad to use with his small 2 channel tv setup. Recently, he upgraded the stock power cord to a $90ish Wireworld and uses the Wireworld oasis RCA cable with it. That definitely brought it to life, but I'm not sure I'd still want it for a music only listening system. Subwoofers add ambience regardless of what your towers can do. I had an interesting coversation with the tech at JL who told me that a subwoofer adds venue ambience even with a vocal only track. He had done blind tests and people preferred the subwoofer on when playing vocals... I found that interesting. That being said, you want a subwoofer that is quick and articulate for 2 channel listening. Those usually come with a higher price tag.... |
You were told wrong — the Cornwalls only go down to the mid 30Hz range, which is why you feel like you do about their bass capabilities. Especially for music you’re much better off with two subs, and as @damusicguy mentioned subs not only fill out the bass but also contribute substantially to producing a more voluminous soundstage with better imaging. Once you listen with good subs properly set up you’ll never go back — it’s that significant. I’d recommend these SVS subs as they’re very good performers, are only about 13” square yet go down to an honest 20Hz, include software to facilitate better/easier setup, and they offer a 45-day trial period including shipping both ways so absolutely no risk to try them. Plus you can get a pair of them for as little as $1149 (depending on finish), which is simply a no brainer to me to at least try. I’d bet big bucks you would not be returning them. Hope this helps, and best of luck. |
I would add an active crossover to what ever sub you choose. It is as important as the sub (more so IMO). this apologue model from Sublime acoustics is only $600. I use the K235 that adds balanced inputs/outputs for $1,100 but the units are 95% the same. In my system (McIntosh/JBL 4367) is it transparent with no loss of detail to my ear and no added hiss. https://sublimeacoustic.com/products/k231-stereo-3-way-active-crossover
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