Stereo Subwoofer Pairing

I'm thinking about using either a used Rel T7 and a new Rel T7i or a used Rel T5i and a new Rel T5i with Magnepan .7's.  I have the T7 and the T5i in different systems right now.

Followup question on Rel's specifically.  Can I use a new i edition of the T series with the old T series?  Or are the model changes major enough that they won't sound similar.

I asked rel.  I'll post their response here.

I'm not expecting to here bass in stereo.  I just want a dedicated speaker per channel input so that the signal doesn't overlap.  A speaker can only play one analog signal at a time.  If you input two signals the speaker is only playing one of them. Whether it is a digital or analog summation of the two signals, I would rather have a 1:1 input output of the bass signal.  Even if it isn't a huge difference.

As promised, here is Rel's response about using the T and the T/i models together:

With careful tuning using the rear panel controls, it's very possible to tune in a T/I with an older T. Just remember that the T/I will sound much faster and more lear/forceful down low so it will be down to careful placement and tuning but, yes, with little good judgement, you should be able to pull them together into a very good result.

Because room acoustics take precedence I can't give you a "turn this knob to this setting" sort of cookbook set-up. Just take it slowly--get the first unit dialed-in to its speaker, then unplug the Speakon and do the same for the other side. Then it will just be down to turning the volume on each REL down util the combined gain is right since the subs will be a little hot once both RELs are plugged back in.

Thanks for the question!

noble100,

That swarm subwoofer system looks interesting.  I'll have to give it a listen at some point and keep it in mind for the future.  $3k isn't really out of my budget, but I was planning on using that $3k to split my 2ch setup from my HT setup and I don't currently have enough space for 4 subs as I live in a 1 bedroom apartment.  Plus those won't pass the WAF and toddler test with the exposed front facing cones.

One day when I own a home with a dedicated listening room, I will have to circle back to them.

I might be able to swing 4x T5 subs because the Paino Black Gloss finish and compact form factor are WAF approved.

I've heard of putting the subs speakers in the listening position and moving around the room to find the ideal spot for each speaker.  (Mostly for subs).