How to add a Subwoofer to 2 channel stereo setup?


I hope this doesn't sound stupid, but I am looking to add a subwoofer to my system, but am somewhat unsure about how to do so. I have both a stereo preamp(Classe CP-50) and amplifier(actually a couple of stereo/mono amps- Monarchy Audio SM-70 Pros) which I use to drive my front speakers. However, as they are small bookshelf speakers, they have rather limited frequency response only going down to about 70 Hz or so. I am looking to add a subwoofer to extend the bass response, but don't know how to connect my sub. To what output?

I have tried outputting the signal through a line-level sub/LFE interconnect directly from my DVD player's Digital Coaxial out, and the 5.1 channel analog audio output to my subwoofer's(Sony SW-M 500 or something like that) line-level input while of course outputting the front speakers from the Left and Right channel outputs to my preamp, but this doesn't seem to work as there is no sound coming from my sub although the front speakers apparently sound fine. My preamp being only stereo does not have an "extra" line-level input/output for a subwoofer, so I don't know what to do.

I don't know if it means anything, but I believe I have an "active" powered subwoofer, as I must plug in a separate AC cord into the wall. It also has a volume control, frequency response, phase control and everything.

I am hoping to upgrade my speakers to a more full-range model to match my recent amplifier upgrades(in both sound quality and frequency range), but until then is there anything I can do to add my sub?

Also, does anybody have any good speaker recommendations to go with my above mentioned equipment?

I am seriously considering Totem Arros, but they only reach about 40 Hz according to Totem's specs. I have given thought to some others, but given both aesthetic, space and budget constraints(maybe $ 1K for a pair of speakers used), it has been a difficult search.

Anyway guys, thanks for your help, and take it easy.

Thanks,
The Audio Novice in training ;-)
audio_obsessed_novic

Showing 1 response by audio_obsessed_novic

Thanks for your help guys. I guess I know what all that other "stuff" is for on the back of my sub now. I thought I could just use the speaker-level outputs to hook up some speakers. I tried to set up some rear surrounds from the subwoofer's speaker out terminals and nothing happened. It didn't work very well, needless to say. Also, I do have the manual for my sub and guess I should probably read it before setting everything up next time.

After reading your explanations though, I think I can take from here. Well, hopefully.

Reubent, I think I will try both ways just to practice and see if I can hear a difference. And, I'll probably have some fun with it. Hmmm... running speaker wires to both the speakers and the sub from the same binding post is something I would've never thought of, very interesting and ingenious.

Chashmal, I guess your pretty ingenious too. ;-) As for that sub "hole"... yes, it is a problem posing a noticable and rather pesky disturbance in some of my music. It's also bloated and boomy at times with SUBstantial overhang on many an occasion. At least on my sub, and forgive the pun, LOL!

Rbstehno, your half right. I don't have a good sub for music, but it does work fairly well for movies with the deep tone, boom and rumble. And this setup is half, half now for movies and music. I was running everything on a receiver before, then I upgraded my amp and preamp to separates and just need to upgrade the speakers to full-range to finsh a decent mid-fi/hi-fi audio system. And as for the Totem's, I hear you on the Arros, I was thinking the same thing about maybe not needing the sub. I have a fairly small room and will probably position the Arros close to the walls and corners, thus reinforcing the bass. I have heard the Hawks, and they're a very nice and sensual little speaker, but unfortunately I just missed out on a sale of them here for $1,000 or so, listed mabye only a couple of weeks ago or less, if I remember right. I was getting ready to write my email to the seller, when it showed up sold on the classifieds list... after I had looked at the ad about three times, darn.

Anyway guys, thanks again for all your help.

As always,
the Audio Obsessed Novice - in training. ;-)