Sub Pairing With Harbeth 40.3 XDs


Hello all - was wondering if anyone can recommend a sub pairing that is commensurate with my Harbeth 40.3 XDs ...? I love it loud. Looking for tight , punchy thump from the kick drum that sounds like arena PA ...🥳 

my system : 

Manley Snappers , Manley Jumbo Shrimp Pre

 

Some of these Subs like the REL S/812 seemed kinda pricey....an Emminence $250 speaker in a shiny powered cabinet doesn’t seem worth $3200?

 

Thanks!

tommypenngotti

Showing 1 response by avanti1960

I had Harbeth SHL5+ with 2 RELT9i and the sound was very big and punchy.  I am well versed in technical subwoofer integration and ultimately the best I could do still had compromises.  A subtle but noticeable slowing down of the micro dynamics and transient speed of the main speakers, easily heard when the subs were switched out.  An occasional overbearing bass despite perfect level matching, basically either too loud or not loud enough as if the levels could not be finely enough tuned.  Granted I am a very particular listener and you might find these issues a compromise worth having.  You may be best served with an amplifier that can grip the 40s so that they can deliver the bass by themselves which they are capable of.  A Rotel Michi for example.  

My final answer was a pair of full range highly efficient british towers with special flared bottom port for sub bass and they do the job well. Â