Subwoofers.... one 10" or two 8"?


I'm looking to fill out the bottom of my simple 2 channel system  (Musical Fidelity X-Ray CDP through Peachtree Audio Grand Integrated amp to a pair of Mirage OMD-15 full range speakers).  I occasionally will play the TV audio through the system for movies, but not interested in an HT setup. Music is the prime focus. The room is "medium" size.  I know that will not give the deep bass feel of a 12", but the difference should not be too great, and a 12" may be overkill for that room.  I've also considered getting two 8" subs to keep the sound balanced between the left and right channels. I think the  8" may be enough bottom for my room and tastes. I'm on a budget so getting a pair of anything bigger than 8" may not be in the cards.

Any opinions or suggestions as to whether I'd be better off with one 10" or two 8" subs?

















larstusor

Showing 1 response by ggc

Go for the two 8". They will compliment the drivers in Mirage OMD-15. You want a seamless integration of components that work together to accomplish your goals.  Rel - especially older models will sound more musical. JLs are solid.   

I initially never believed in subs until I read a paper from a professor at MIT on how humans process frequency response. Generally the standard - it lays within 15hz - to 20khz, however there are ambient environmental vibrations that other nerve endings in our bodies / brains pick up that also affect how humans process sound - Therefore extending this actual frequency response to lay within the 10hz - 120khz range.  

If the goal of the audiophile is near perfect sound replication then ... how does one achieve the goal? There are no speakers that can achieve this task alone, and the ones that are somewhat close in one way or another, cost as much as if not more than a house.

I realized that the most economically way to work towards the goal was to invest in Subs as an extenuation of my speakers limitations. I make this obviously sounding statement because I have seen systems where there is overkill that produces Noise, not music. So my two 6.5" mid/bass drivers on each speaker are complimented by a 10" sub driver on each speaker.   
 
There is nothing simple about a 2 channel system. The difference is in the details. Work within your means, enjoy this hobby.