2. speakers
  3. 189759-128813

Passive subwoofer amps help!

I acquired two massive subwoofers (over 230lbs each) that were mated to a $100k+ custom system and I need to power them somehow. In my limited research, I'm a bit confused about all this.  I'm used to my subs being powered.  The subwoofer amps I've found by Dayton Audio seem to be very lower powered.  Can I just buy an SVS PB16 amps off ebay and build a box and use that? That gives plenty of subwoofer power and the ability to control with phone. Or is that a big sin in the subwoofer world?  Why are there not more external high powered solutions for this with a volume knob, low pass knob, and phase switch on the front. 

I did look at the Klipsch RSA-500 but it specifically lists the subs this amp is to be used with.  Also, for $1k+, it's not that powerful.

 

dtximages

Showing 5 responses by dtximages

dtximages OP
364 posts
 

Ok those Crown amps are only amps though, what about volume control, crossover, and phase control?  I suppose I'd have to use the controls within the Anthem preamp section to control volume, xover, and phase?  That's fine, but it's just very limited on the volume as it only goes up/down 10db or so.  I would think i'd need a gain knob at least no?

I'm really surprised there isn't some kind of awesome external subwoofer amp that gives you flexibility and options kinda like most plate amps on subs with multiple inputs/outputs and controls.

dtximages OP
364 posts
 

Ok looks like I was wrong.  You can set the crossover from within the settings of the crown amps.. Ok I may try those.  Still though, why not just have a low pass knob. I like knobs and hate having to go into settings all the time. 

dtximages OP
364 posts
 

What if i don't want an amp with DSP?  What would you choose? Opinions? I'll just use the DSP in my Anthem.. Probably better to keep things simple.

dtximages OP
364 posts
 

These were some subwoofers designed and made by Destination Audio to be paired with horns on top. All together, the speakers were in the $50k range. They were a one-time build and apparently tuned down to 20hz.  If you look up the Destination Audio Nika speaker, the bass section is identical to that except without the horn tweeter built in.

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dagogo.com%2Faudio-news-destination-audio-nika-horn-launched%2F&psig=AOvVaw1Qu9MIGHevSASa4WujndVI&ust=1715221621452000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBAQjRxqFwoTCNjrn86A_YUDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

dtximages OP
364 posts
 

I just ran across a Behringer NX6000 locally I can grab for $400.  Doesn't have DSP but my Anthem has all that. I think I'll try this and see what happens.

FYI, the subs do already have dayton audio SPA250DSP amps built in but they're literally built into the cabinet. The builder drilled holes in the side with a usb, power, and RCA jack.  Strange way to do it, but the cabinet is curved and the owner comes to your house to calibrate.  All calibration is meant to be done through the usb connected to a computer.  

More to discover