My system suggestions on improving bass - Totem

I added a Rel Storm III to my Totem Sttaf's about 6 montths ago when I was seeking more bottom end. It integrates perfectly and they are entirely new - incredible sounding.

I know the Sttafs aren't Hawks, but if you move them closer to the wall the imaging may suffer. That was my experience anyway.

Ben & Valinar:

Just a little levity about hearing loss gentlemen. The "over 45" remark was to set-up the anecedote about my buddy's and my experiences at the show.

My conversation with my buddy was getting to ... I no longer listen for the same things in sound reproduction that I did 25 or 30 years ago. And that is not to say that I no longer listen for accurate sound reproduction. But, the same things that I listened for 25 years ago are not necesarily the things that I listen for today. My musical tastes are certainly not the same and overpowering bass is not that important to me any more. I also happen to live in a 2 bedroom apartment with neighbors to the right, left, up, and down ... so, sub-woofers or extra deep bass that would lead to walls and floors vibrating is out of the question.

So, there were no disses intended.

Regards, Rich

I have the MF A3.2 integrated & CD paired with the Totem Hawks and a REL Storm III. The Storm integrates well with the Hawks and adds just enough to the bottom end. I purchased the Storm for around $900.

you have a couple different options..

sub- add a used rel

cables- xlo signature 2 interconnect- very neutral and incredible bass

speaker cables- the satori and a little bland imo. it is not a bad cable but a little closed off at both frequency extremes. would consider cardas neutral reference, xlo signature, or synergistic.

power cables - i have had really good success with the audience cables (power cables make a hugh difference)

I have Totem Hawks and a Totem Lightning sub, and it's a great combination. Sure, it takes a week or two for you to get the positioning and dials worked out, but once you do have it in the sweet spot it is seamless.

I've most recently upgraded my power amp to an Audio Research VS110 and although after the upgrade I did notice a huge amount more bass from the speakers. Let's face physics, though: there's no way the Hawks can produce bass as low as a Lightning no matter what is driving them.

Another reason I have the Lightning is that it matches my maple hawks perfectly from a visual angle, too. As you can probably guess by now, my (strong) recommendation to you is to push a little over your $1000 budget and get the Lightning.