I have been pondering this same question for some time. I posted a similar thread and got many helpful answers, but the usual range of opinions on either side. It's also worth noting that you can spend $400 on the NHT HPF or $2000 on the Bryston unit.
I tried a passive XLR high pass filter from ACI (no longer offered by them for sale) and it actually messed things up pretty badly in my system -- I have decent measurement software, and the rolloff of the passive filter created integration issues with subwoofer.
Anway, I was able to get a good looking response (which doesn't address possible distorion issues) by running the floor standing speakers full range, and using the SMS correction on my Velodyne DD12 subwoofer.
I am generally happy with how the bass sounds, but there is a little bit of boominess that has me wondering -- should I try an active unit, and if so, is it worth it to spend 5X the money on the Bryston unit or should I try the NHT or maybe I should go all the way and get a TACT.... another little slice of audio hell.
FWIW, I will probably try the NHT unit -- in the grand scheme of things it is relatively inexpensive experiment. At least it's cheaper than the other alternatives, except for the passive filters, which didn't work.
I tried a passive XLR high pass filter from ACI (no longer offered by them for sale) and it actually messed things up pretty badly in my system -- I have decent measurement software, and the rolloff of the passive filter created integration issues with subwoofer.
Anway, I was able to get a good looking response (which doesn't address possible distorion issues) by running the floor standing speakers full range, and using the SMS correction on my Velodyne DD12 subwoofer.
I am generally happy with how the bass sounds, but there is a little bit of boominess that has me wondering -- should I try an active unit, and if so, is it worth it to spend 5X the money on the Bryston unit or should I try the NHT or maybe I should go all the way and get a TACT.... another little slice of audio hell.
FWIW, I will probably try the NHT unit -- in the grand scheme of things it is relatively inexpensive experiment. At least it's cheaper than the other alternatives, except for the passive filters, which didn't work.