You can make things better with the crawl method but you can not dial the subs in perfectly. The computer takes all of several minutes to make the measurement and generate filters that match the subs to the mains perfectly. No need to crawl around. Another benefit is you can put the subs where they function best, in corners and against walls and dial them in perfectly. If you have a sub against the front wall, but keep your mains 5 feet in front you have a delay of almost 5 milliseconds. The effect is to call attention to the subwoofers and they do not disappear. This and the shallow slopes of the crossovers forces people to use very low crossover points negating many of the benefits of using subwoofers. In most situations the best results could be achieved with crossover points between 80 and 120 Hz. You have to use a very steep slope to keep the sub out of the midrange which is poison. This can best be done digitally. The high crossover point allows you to EQ the bass just by adjusting the volume of the subs. Boosting bass below 100 Hz by around 6 dB gives a more realistic sound and the visceral effect of music come through clearly at less than ear shattering levels.
can subwoofers make things worse?
What tiny subwoofer should i mate with my Aerial 5T? I have a small room with very little space to put a subwoofer. I am very happy with my current sound, but I've read that adding the missing bottom end to stand mounts can add enjoyment).
I've been reading about:
1) Kef Kc62 (very expensive)
2) Rel T5X
3) SVS 3000 Micro
4) Do nothing because they aren't good enough and will make things worse.
Anyone own any of these or have an educated opinion?
(Associated equipment: Parasound Hint 6 integrated, Bluesound Node 2).