If the subs you get don’t have built-in integration software I agree with @kota1 that the 8033 is a very good option as is its bigger brother the Anti-Mode 2. Will save you a ton of work/headaches and probably sound better in the end.
Adding Subs to a 2 channel system. Wiring advise
I'm considering adding 2 subs to my existing system.
Current system is a Innuos Zen Mk3 to a PontusII and Luxman 509X out to a pair of Focal 948's.
My thinking is that I will run speaker cable out from the Luxman into a pair of PSB 350's then out from the 350's to the Focals, setting the crossover at 80ish,
Lots of ways to wire in subs, and lots of information and opinions, but IF I'm thinking correctly this wiring method using a pair of subs that have High Level Input and Output allows this type of wiring method to make the most sense in terms of better separation between the subs and the speakers VS wiring them through a Pre-out (Luxman only has one pre-out)
My question is how much of the Luxman sound character will I lose (if any) by running through the sub and out to the Focals?
I'm still pretty new at all this, so if I'm wording all of this correctly I would appreciate any advise or feedback. Thanks in advance!
Showing 3 responses by soix
No, you pretty well nailed it. Which is better really depends on your tastes, room, and speakers. If you feel your speakers struggle with lower bass there may be a big benefit to using low-level inputs to the sub and cut off the low frequency to your speakers to 80Hz or preferably a bit lower depending on your speakers. Using this connection will also let you use a sub’s integration software, which is not a small consideration if you’re not experienced in seamlessly integrating subs or just don’t wanna mess with that involved process. Another benefit is that your amp will not be working as hard to drive your speakers as the sub will be handling all the power needs below 80Hz. Of course the downside is that you will need to run the preamp signal thru the sub before going to your amp, but my opinion is that if you benefit from reducing the demands on your speakers and amp that’ll far outweigh any small signal denigration that might occur. The high-level input will require your speakers to run full range and in theory make the subs a bit easier to integrate, but you won’t be able to use any integration software. Both the Rhythmic and SVS subs offer both high- and low-level inputs so you can experiment and choose whichever works better for you in your situation (which is a big reason why I recommended them). If you want ultimate speed and performance I’d go with the Rythmics, but if you think having an app that’ll make integration relatively easy/painless (and integration is critical to getting good sub performance) and you don’t wanna fuss with researching a lot and devoting considerable time to successfully integrating subs the SVS subs might be a better fit. Do I think the Rhythmics will sound better? Yes. Do I think you’ll be thrilled with the sound you get from SVS? Yes. So it comes down to personal preferences/goals and convenience. That’s as best as I can sum it up, but I totally applaud you for going with two subs as that alone will put you head and shoulders over using just one sub. Goodonya! BTW, just read @gdnrbob post and completely agree. Vandy recently introduced new subs, but their prior models are extremely good and are being offered used at almost absurdly low prices. If you can deal with their size and their unique crossover implementation this would hands down be your best performance value. Case in point, here’s one available now for only $550 — absurd, and prob won’t be long before another one comes available if you have the patience to wait. Definitely another option to consider as performance and integration with Vandy subs is absolutely top notch and worth some effort IMHO. FWIW. https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649909363-vandersteen-2wq-subwoofer/ |
Sorry, but I just can’t get behind your choice of sub when there are dedicated sub manufacturers that offer a lot more performance and value. For instance, the Rhythmic F12G is similar in size and the same price as the PSB 350 (including shipping) but goes down to 14Hz vs. 25Hz, has 23% more power, and weighs 50% more. Not even a comparison IMHO. On the value side there’s the SVS SB1000 Pro that is smaller but still goes down lower to 20Hz, has 8% more power, and comes with an integration app so you can optimally integrate the subs from your listening chair with your phone (huge benefit). Plus, you can get TWO SB1000 Pros for less than ONE PSB 350 with free shipping. If you’re only going to use a high-level input I’d add REL to the list as well. Not sure why you’re looking at PSB, but I don’t see why it’d be a good choice given other much better options available. Hope this helps, and best of luck.
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