Best Subwoofer Connection


OK, so I'm waiting on delivery of a JL Audio e110 subwoofer. I have a 2 channel setup. The on-line manual recommends connecting the preamp outs to the subwoofer's line in (l/r), and then going from the sub's line outs to the power amp. OTOH, I could just go from the second set of preamp outs to the sub's line in and run the signal in parallel without using the sub's internal xover. Which connection is preferred and best for a music only setup? I've searched this issue here, but I haven't found an answer that makes sense to me. Thanks.
rlb61

Showing 6 responses by rlb61

Thanks, guys. I’m running a BAT VK-3i into a Musical Fidelity A300cr dual mono amp (225 wpc). Speakers are B&W N804s, and I’m looking for a bit more "oomph" in the bottom range. Does this make a difference in how to connect the sub?
Thanks to all who have commented and made suggestions. I now feel confident to proceed because of your assistance.
OK, now I'm a bit confused. If I go from the preouts to the line in (and run the mains full), then I can use the external xover via the controls. If I go from the sub's line out to the amp in, does that mean I have no control over the xover, and it just is what it is internally? Sorry to ask somewhat noob questions, but I have had very little experience with subs.
@dbtom2  ... thanks, man! That's exactly what I wanted to know. I'm going to experiment ... now, at least I have a clue. Thanks, again.
UPDATE: The e110 arrived today, and I've tried it both ways. Running the N804s full range with the sub filling in the bottom end is much more engaging amd satisfying to my ears. When I put the sub between the preamp and the amp, the sound became thin and lifeless. Perhaps that's because having one 10" sub to carry all of the lower bass makes little sense in a set up with full range speakers. I could see putting the sub between components when running monitors which don't go down below 60 Hz or if I had 2 e110s. By running the N804s full range, I get the benefit of four 6.5" woofers plus the e110. The sound is very full, although I think I need to get used to articulate bass instead of the boomy, flabby bass I've experienced with other subs. Different strokes for different
folks, I guess.

@dbtom2  ... thanks for the compliments on the system. I'm not a vinyl guy, though, it's purely CDs for me. And, yes, it will take some time to fine tune, but that's part of the fun. I think if you go with 2 e-subs, then you might have better luck than I with placing them between components.