Thanks for all the great responses. I understand that a lot of people don't use this approach because they want a simple system with as few pieces of electronics between source and speakers as possible. My first system follows that idea and I don't have any problems with it. Just want to see what an active system will sound like. Looking for very low distortion and flat response from 20 to 20. I may build my own speakers if I can't find a deal on something I like. Considering the Zaph Audio ZRT 2.5 build. Very clean from 25khz down to 60 where it starts to gradually roll off. I do have an old Martin Logan Grotto sub that has line level inputs and outputs and I was wondering if the line level outs are high passed or full range...couldn't find anything in the manual. Also need to look further into miniDSP. I just don't want raise the noise floor or introduce more distortion than I'm saving limiting the signal to the mains.
Suggestions for active crossover setup please.
Thinking about putting together a second 2.1 or 2.2 system using a sub(s), two tower mains and running it with a preamp of some sort into an active crossover sending 50hz and up to an amplifier and on to the mains and letting the sub fill in the bottom. A couple questions...
1. Why isn't this setup more common? It seems like most people just send a full range signal to their mains and add a sub. The thing is, the vast majority of speakers don't do very well below 40 or 50hz so why let them and/or the amplifier struggle?
2. I have looked around a little and it seems like there a not a lot of options for active crossovers that can be used this way. Either they are made for pro audio, or they are designed for actively crossing over each individual driver or they are prohibitively expensive (as in the case of the JL Audio CR-1). So, for those who have a setup such as this, what component(s) are you using?
This is still in the planning phase so I am really open to thoughts and suggestions.