Surprised


Every time I listen to my system I am delighted with the sound, realism, imaging, tonal quality etc. First to describe my system in 2-channel since it seems most people who read these forums listen to either 2-channel or 2.1 channel.
I have a pair of Paradigm Signature S2’s and compliment each of them with a REL R-528. The REL’s are connected high level at the binding post of the amplifier (Anthem P5). It took awhile but I have them dialed in pretty good to the point when I watch something, even a movie streamed from my computer (Amazon) which comes through in 2-channel, I’m fooled thinking my center channel is active. When low frequency information is delivered, I forget there are subwoofers and the whole soundstage comes alive.
I just wonder why more people don’t opt for quality bookshelf speakers each complimented with it’s own dedicated subwoofer. Keeping in mind the REL is different than conventional subs in the way it gets the same exact signal signature as the main speakers.
I’m interested in hearing others thoughts on my scheme as opposed to floor standers with a single sub with appears most popular.
oldschool1

Showing 4 responses by bondmanp

I had no trouble integrating my Vandersteen 2Wq subs (each with the M5-HP crossover) with my Ohm Walsh 2000s. No, these are not stand-mounts, but still, it could not have been easier. I plunked the subs in the corners, where they are designed to go, adjusted the output level and Q control, a process that took just a few minutes, and - bam! - deep, tight, powerful, and completely integrated bass that sounds like it is wholly a part of the music, not eminnating from the two boxes in the corners. I did mass-load each sub as recommended by Vandersteen, but it was really easy. I don’t have the time or the patience to fiddle too much with my system. I want to spend my precious and rare free time listeing to music.
@wspohn - Good point.  However, it depends on what you're after.  My mains go down to the mid-30 Hz range on their own.  The bass is clean, extended, and not at all boomy.  Nevertheless, for a bass freak like me, they just cannot pressurize a room the way my subs can.  Maybe if I had more than 150 watts per side feeding them they would put out a bit more bass, but my two Vandy 2Wqs put out a total of 600 watts RMS to six 8" woofers in pretty solid cabs.  No full-range speaker that I could ever afford will pressurize my room the way these subs do, and without calling attention to themselves at all.  I guess my point is this:  If you can't afford really good full range speakers, a well integrated subwoofer (or, better, pair of subs) is an economical short-cut to full range sound.
@wspohn - Well, sure, you basically turned the 4's into a full-range tower with powered woofers.  That works as well, even though the argument can be made that being able to position the subs and the mains independently has some advantages.  To go that route, there are now affordable options, such as Golden Ear Tritons, some Legacy models, and others.  But here's another consideration.  I had my 2Wqs before I got the speakers I have now.  I loved the 2Wqs; my old speakers, not so much.  I was able to upgrade my mains to something I like much better, while keeping the bass I love.  Try that with a full range tower!