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Importance of phase and timing optimization when incorporating sub woofers ?

For incorporating a pair of sub woofers into a music system, how important is it to be able to optimize phase ( continuous adjustments and not just 0 or 180) and timing ( optimizing delay ) ? Reading on this subject, some say to get the best seamless integration, the two above factors are essential. REL is frequently mentioned as the most musical/fast/detailed sub woofers for music, however they only allow of 0 or 180 deg phase and no other room correction, as compared to Velodyne DD’s or JL Audio’s. I could utilize something like the JL Audio CR-1 crossover, but adding an additional piece of equipment into the audio chain wouldn’t be my first choice. On the other hand, the added benefit, might make the addition of a well made crossover a net plus ??? Regardless I plan on having my room/system measured to assist with incorporating what ever two subs I go with.
Thoughts from experienced users?
jim94025

Showing 2 responses by snbeall

snbeall
63 posts
 

I used to think and understand phase as delay in a sense but have come to understand that delay is not quite exactly the same thing as adjusting phase. Yes, by adjusting phase you will "match up" two overlapping sources in the crossover region. However, you may be as much as a full wavelength or more BEHIND in timing. So the impulse response and initial attack will be blurred.

That said, I don't understand why many of these EQ and sub management systems that allow you to adjust from your seat remotely do not have a continuously adjustable phase option to adjust from there as well. Nor do the auto EQ room correction devices seem to adjust phase automatically...

snbeall
63 posts
 
it seems that subs are generally delayed by positioning distance differences. Add even more delay if they have any servo processing/EQ being done. Seems that there should be the option to delay the mains to adjust phase precisely - rather than subs in some instrances. Do any room correction systems do so utilizing impulse responses and delay mains or subs as needed to match phase?
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