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How to optimize sub integration with 2 channel?

I’m at the point of wanting to integrate a proper sub into my 2 channel system.

Hey folks,
I understand that I can control the gain and frequency of the low end of the sub,via the sub.

But is there a way to do the inverse? Can I reduce the low end of the speakers to about 45 hz and use
the sub instead from about 44 hz and below?

If possible, how would that work? e.g., use an external crossover for the floor standers?
The problem is that there is too much output at around 3-50 hz if I use both the speakers and the sub.

thanks!! Gary

Rig: (Bel Canto DAC–> PrimaLuna Dialogue HP tubed integrated–>
Dali Helicon 400 floor standers, Spatial M3 Triode Masters, and coming soon Dynaudio S3.4 Contours (thanks Joe)
128x1281graber2

Showing 4 responses by 1graber2

1graber2's avatar
1graber2 OP
303 posts
 
@imhififan 
Thx. But let me try and clarify.
The PrimaLuna has a mono out that is used for the sub. I'm not sure if it is the best solution, but I Currently use a single RCA cable to run from the Mono out of the PrimaLuna to the LFE in my current sub (a 10 year old Martin Logan Grotto, 10", 200-250 watts or so). 

Also, the PrimaLuna does have an HT Bypass that only uses the Amp section of the PrimaLuna. Is that what you mean? 
thx
1graber2's avatar
1graber2 OP
303 posts
 
@willemj . thanks for info on hi pass filters and XOs. 
that is my weak point. need to do some research. 
Im interested in the Zu Audio Undertone Sub:

I am interested in this sub: the Zu Audio Undertone subwoofer http://www.zuaudio.com/subs/undertone.
It does say there is a Signal Processing Bypass, but I dont know how it works.

here is a pic of the backside, and connections options: 
From Zu's website:

 "Line-Level Input: yes, RCA (left and right summing)
Sub Line-Level Input: yes, RCA
Speaker-Level Input: yes, 5-way binding posts (L/R summing)
Tunability: yes, very
Signal Processing Bypass: yes, switched for those that want to integrate more elaborate signal processing but desire to take advantage of the excellent amplification of Undertone."

Also: from Zu website, "It is a down-firing subwoofer with active signal processing and built in amplification. It accepts line-level feeds (RCA left and right summing), sub feed (RCA) and speaker-level (five-way binding posts, left and right transformer isolated and summing)."

Here is the best image I could find for the back of the sub, and its connections/options: 
https://static1.squarespace.com/static/51dd8a95e4b0ff2f7c9874ae/59e64781f43b55b96d873030/56d0d5d286d...

1graber2's avatar
1graber2 OP
303 posts
 
@erik_squires .
thx Eric. I have tried stuffing the ports of my Dali Helicons before.
And tried a variety: 1/4 stuffed, 1/2 stuffed, fully stuffed.
I found that beyond 1/4 stuffed (or so), there seemed to be too much loss of mid frequencies. 
but I'm willing to try again when I get a new sub.
1graber2's avatar
1graber2 OP
303 posts
 
Thank you everyone for all the info and helping me get to the next level. 

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