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 8 responses by larstusor

The two subs I'm looking at are the NHT Classic 10 and the Energy ESW8. Both of these have fully variable crossovers and they both have the black piano finish that would match my mains; not necessary but a bonus, all other things being equal.  Is there any advantage to connecting to the sub out of high level speaker outputs as opposed to going from low level preamp outs?
My OMD-15s are sitting a a very solid hardwood floor over a plywood sub-flloor  built on a concrete slab.  Contact between the speakers and floor is rock steady.  I wonder if I'd get more bass by putting the speakers on feet to isolate from the floor.  It's hard to imagine an 8" subwoofer going down into the 20s.  How does the HRS8 sound at moderate listening levels?
Well, I've been strongly considering trying to stretch my budget and get an SVS SB-1000 (piano finish) but I came across an excellent deal on a "like new" Sunfire HRS8 and, based somewhat on the praise for it on this forum,  I bought it.   I will play around with the set up and try to dial it in.  Meanwhile, I'll keep my eyes open for another good deal on a second one. If the right deal comes along, I'll have two HRS8s for a few bucks more than one SB-1000.  Time (listening) will tell if I went in the right direction.
Johnnyb:

Based upon your experience with OMD-15s, what length spikes or feet would be appropriate to enhance the bass?  How high off the hardwood floor should I go?
This set up is not in a dedicated listening room but rather in our living room and  I don't think my wife is going to stand for bass traps. Anyone else experience a similar problem? (lol)