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Subs - Installation
I am in the process of adding 1/2 subs to our 2 channel system. I am not entirely clear how you install/connect the subs. I assume they connect to my preamp. Is the bass still going through my speakers (B&W 804/3) and the sub is adding or is the sub taking all the low frequency? What is the thought of placing subs next to the speakers. I am looking at JL Audio Fathom 112 v2. I see that JL Audio also has an external crossover I am not sure what this does. Thanks for the help.
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@audiorusty, thanks for the link. Very informative and useful article. |
Sounds like you are using separate components, and if you decide to use an external crossover, which I highly recommend, connection is quite simple. You connect your preamp outputs to the crossover inputs, then two of your crossover outputs will go to your sub(s) and the other two will go to the amp for the main speakers. Some other crossover options are https://www.minidsp.com/products/minidsp-in-a-box/minidsp-2x4-hd ($, digital) https://dbxpro.com/en-US/products/223s ($$, analog) https://dbxpro.com/en-US/products/driverack-pa2 ($$, digital) https://www.xta.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/DP648-Datasheet-Prelim-v1_1.pdf ($$$, digital) There are other crossovers available, but I can’t remember what they are. You can place your subs next to your mains if you desire. You will lose some room gain which may not even be an issue depending on what and how loud you play it, and it may help with potential phase issues. Also, plug the ports on your B & W's |
Look at Rel subs. They have multiple ways to hook them up. Their preferred way is to use their high level connection which is connecting their supplied speakon cable to you amp. You run your speakers full range and the rels integrate perfectly with your mains. I’ve used rel with monitors and now using full range floor standing speakers |
