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 11 responses by tomic601

I guess I can relate.... when I go to 7 from Treo I certainly get visceral impact !

Audioquest makes a decent quality splitter
very affordable, you would really want the M5 also
some dealers have them used

Another option is electronic crossover , Music Reference has some old stock Beverige units that sound fantastic , reasonable $$$$

you could also try an ARC balanced line driver


IF the preamp has two sets of outputs, I would suggest a vandersteen M5- HP crossover on the 3a sig 
you may need to run Vndertones w SPL meter to tweak the high pass frequency....

also the 3a are flat pretty darn low with the rear wall facing acoustic coupler, are you really needing subs...?
and BTW do not give up....I had a pair of 3a sig with 200 wpc of McIntosh power...they will rock the Free World....for sure....
i had rdson to speak to RV today on a different topic...I asked he said you should call a dealer or the factory..
he started to walk me thru it..when he got to Dolby atmos....select large front speakers....my simple 2 channel mind went numb....

seriously there is a way, reach out to the factory on Tuesday...they will be there....
call Randy at Optimal Enchantment in Santa Monica, he almost always has both configuration used at reasonable prices as long term customers move between balanced and SE gear....
Kudos to Johnny R
OP
you IMO should buy that second sub and or filters from him
he is on here near 24/7 helping people

helping people

hpw cool