How to Hook Up Vandersteen 2W Subwoofer


Hi All,

I have a Vandersteen 2W sub that I plan to add to the system listed below--it's a hybrid stereo/HT setup. So far I've been using a powered sub that plugs into the Arcam's sub pre-out RCA jack. The 2W is an entirely different beast though and has the following connections:

regular speaker wire inputs (via banana plugs)
a WX-2 crossover with one set each of RCA ins/outs

The Arcam has tons of connections, including 3 RCAs for subs, but I'm not sure those will be helpful with the 2W. Here's a screenshot of all the Arcam's connections

http://gyazo.com/6cd34a7393d5aea5f20108ca5759cca6

Ideally I'd like to use the 2W sub for stereo (2.1) and HT (5.1) but I realize that may be impossible. At the least I'd like to use it for HT via the Arcam. Here's my setup. I would very much appreciate any specific advice on:

1. how to connect the 2W and its crossover.
2. which wire/interconnects to use

I have read all the manuals and can't make complete sense out of how they apply to my exact setup. THANKS very much!

Vandersteen 2ceSig IIs (mains; bi-amp/bi-wire capable)
Vandersteen VSM-1 (surrounds)
Vandersteen VCC-1 (center)
Vandersteen 2W (the sub I'm adding now)

Cary SLP-05 (for stereo pre): the Cinema In RCAs go to the Pre Outs on the Arcam

Adcom GFA-555 (for stereo amp): the mains go into the inputs on this; the RCA outputs go into the inputs on the SLP-05

Arcam AVR-600 (for HT/surround): powers the VSMs and VCC-1 surrounds (and I think will power the 2W)
meowist

Showing 7 responses by gdnrbob

@OP.  
You are going to need a step down transformer to bring the 220 volt current to the subs 110 configuration.
The other equipment doesn't need to be included.
I recall other thread on this issue, so you may want to do a search on Audiogon. If I remember correctly, there a some step down transformers which work better with audio than others.
Perhaps Almarg will see this thread. He give some great advice on things related to this ( as well as other things audio).
Johnny (audioconnection) gave you some information that needs correcting. The Adcom 555 version 1 has an impedance or 100 Kohms, the 555 version 2 has an impedance of 22 K ohms.
The final settings are what you find to be most accurate. (Here Johnny can give you some more specific advice). For me, I find using a setting a bit higher (say, for 100K ohms, a 200K ohm setting) works best. So, if you find the bass lacking, just move a setting down.
Bob
Your speaker/subwoofer cables don't care about line voltage.
Only your connected equipment needs to be powered at the respective correct voltage.

So, yes, you will be connecting both the speaker cable and the subwoofer cable to your amplifier outputs.-Either stacking the spades or using a combination of spades and banana plugs (I don't know if your amp binding posts allow for that).
Just follow the directions that Johnny gave you regarding set up of the subs and use the WX-2 to dial in the proper settings. Once done, either get the Vandersteen M5-HP or call Johnny and get the fixed crossovers.
The WX-2 is for determining the correct settings and is not supposed to be used as a permanent crossover. When in doubt, either call/email Johnny or Vandersteen. Of course, we'll always try to help...
Bob
@mr_m 
I think the OP has the fixed crossovers, but used the wrong model number.
@foghorn,
You are correct concerning the speaker hook up. The wires for the speakers and the sub are stacked on the amp output. Though I would use spades rather than bananas, as they provide better contact.
Your issue is that you need to connect the crossover between the preamp and amp of your integrated. I googled your receiver and see that it does have a 'Pre Out', but I don't see an 'Amp In'. 
As I have no experience with home theater, I suggest you call John Rutan at Audioconnection. He is a Vandy dealer and very knowledable about lots of different brands. He is also on Audiogon-audioconnection is his tag.
Bob