adding multiple subwoofers


Thank you all for some of the advice I’ve received on the forum. As a result I've made changes to my room and speaker layout, added GIK room treatment and have Townshend bars. I am now considering adding 4 subwoofers after suggestions here and reading the Adding a Sub paper by Barry Ober.

Ober suggests adding a crossover like the dbx crossover sending low frequencies to the subs only and the rest to the main amp / speakers. I am considering going that route. I have a Primaluna EVO 400 and Klipsch Cornwall IVs. I am considering the SVS SB-1000 Pro subwoofers. SVS has received positive reviews here and I liked the price point  ($2000 for 4 subs) , the smaller footprint, lack of a port, and the ability to use the SVS app to make all the subwoofer adjustments the Ober paper suggests. Seems using the app could also be an easier way to make those adjustments?

There seems to be many ways to add multiple subs, such as the AK Swarm, for example. That would be more expensive and not clear on the specifics of setting them up or benefits. Have others gone my route? Is there a reason to go towards the Swarm or something else?

Thanks again for any help.



stalajkowski

Showing 1 response by oldhvymec

If you split the signal to the Behringer DBX before going to the mains, it's a great idea. 

Split the signal, one pair goes into the DBX the other pair go to the main speaker amp (s), then to the mids/highs terminals on the speakers. (remove the jumpers)

Use 2 channels (left and right) to "bandpass"  the amp for the mains, onboard bass drivers. The other 4 DBX outputs can be individually programmed to do what you want. Each output requires a power amp (s). If it's a plate amp onboard your subs or passive subs with bass amps in a different location (s). 

The passive XO for the mids and highs onboard your Cornwall aren't affected. There is no added crap in the sound path. You relieve the amp of bass duty too. If it's a tube amp, you'll notice the difference right away.

Full blown OTF correction, at the seated position via laptop or the DBX console. I've been using DBX2496s for crossover design and bass management sense 2012. I don't use them for anything other than bass management in my sound system, 300hz and below. The newer units are dead quiet too.  300.00 usd (close). A good light PC sure help. I use a 39.00 silver clad, teflon weave. :-)

I also like Behringer's NU12K power amps. 3-400. A single amp will run a dozen 12" drivers over 110 db for a long long time. 

I'll put that design up against ANY BASS system design including software designed servo control.. I have 2 different types, of servo and use one. GRs. It's a good system. Nice looking, I like it..

This system is just as effective without OB design and cost 1/3 the price. Fancy can cost a lot of money.:-)

It has just as much cone control (overshoot) without someone's digital intervention and THEIR idea of what to control, you still have to write the code to make the dampening respond or NOT.

Measure away find out for yourself. The DBX has an onboard mic input, you can SEE your correction in you room in real time.. 

It's just plain cool..