FWIW - I’m running a pair of SVS SB1000 subs alongside Totem Forests (2 ways and similar sensitivity as your speakers). The subs are receiving a speaker level signal from the amp. Both subs and Forests run "full range" via parallel runs of speaker cable. The subs are dialed back such that you only know they are in use due to the blue LED lights or if they are switched off. Definitely, bass is improved but what shocked me was the improvement to midrange clarity and "openness" running the subs brought. I can’t explain why this is so but this was further enhanced when I upgraded power cords running to the subs. Given the Forests by themselves go a little deeper than what you cite for your speakers and given the audible benefit (not just better bass) I’m hearing from the SB1000s, I’d encourage you to try a pair of subs. (I’m assuming the RELs you are considering are self-powered). Hope this is helpful.
Subwoofer insight.
This is new territory to me. Current speakers are 2 way with frequency response of 60Hz-20KHz with +/- 2dB. Sensitivity rated as 86dB. Chance to purchase a pair of REL 7 tis. I feel like I am missing something but will have to buy the subs to try out. My basic question is this. Does this purchase sound wise? I know what I am willing to spend but do you think I will notice an appreciable improvement. I know that no one can listen through my ears but this is my first time doing this. Source is 75 watt integrated tube amp, McIntosh MA-2275. Thoughts appreciated. I am leaning towards going forward with the deal but would appreciate some feedback. Room is large and open, 28X38 feet with 9 foot ceilings. Thanks for any feedback.
Showing 3 responses by ghosthouse
Hi @cheeg - The SB1000s offer good flexibility input wise. See the photo at the link here. They can accommodate speaker or line level input. I’m running 2 sets of speaker cable...one pair to the Forests, a second pair to the subs, both from the outputs of the integrated amp. Don’t know why speaker level input doesn’t overload the subs but it doesn’t. When running a low power amp (e.g., First Watt F7) I can use output from the pre to line level input on the subs and then line level out from the subs into the power amp; only 1 pair of speaker cables from power amp to the Forests in this case. The fixed 80 Hz high pass filter in the subs will limit the low frequency signal the amp has to handle and lessen the load on it. Not an option with the integrated amp as I don’t have a separate pre-out on it. I’m thinking because speaker level input impedance of the SB1000s is 2000 ohms the amp isn’t stressed. https://www.svsound.com/products/sb-1000 |