Well, the 'magic' of the Vandy sub system is that the subs integrate with the crossovers(-the subs compensate for the 6db decrease the crossover applies). I don't think there are any other manufacturers that can do the same.
I own a set of HSU subs and run them in parallel with the speakers in my office. The sound is good, but not as good as the Vandies.
And, remember a larger (18") driver will not be as efficient as an 8" driver.
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The Audiokinesis swarm makes sense, but then if you could put 4 or more subs of any brand in your room, you would probably get the same result. The whole idea is to balance room aberrations.
As I posted in other threads, the new Vandy sub is probably going to make the 2wq prices drop. So, you might be able to pick up a pair with less impact on your wallet.
FWIW, I still own a pair of 2w subs. They function as they should and that despite being more than 20 years old. I asked Johnny Rutan if I should send them in for a checkup. He said if they work, don't worry.
Mr. V. really builds his speakers to last.
Bob |
@bondmanp ,
What is wrong with your system?
bob |
@noble100 ,
I think Johnny was referring to the integrated equalizer in the new Sub 3.
As far as I know, there are no subs with equalizers incorporated.
B |
@noble100 ,
I would not discount the Sub 3 until I listened to it. If Mr. V. discontinues a very good sub in favor of a new one, it must be a significant improvement.
And, Vandersteen's use of an external high pass crossover was very much 'thinking outside of the box' 30 years ago, so maybe Johnny isn't exaggerating.
I understand the concept of using multiple subs to eliminate/ reduce room nodes, but perhaps integrating an equalizer can achieve something the same. As I have not heard, nor know how they are set up, I can't say definitely how well/badly they work.
Maybe they will be in the store when I get some time to go later this summer-along with some other Audiogon members.
Bob |
@OP,
The Vandersteen M5-HP crossover comes in XLR config.
If you nail down the setting, you can buy fixed crossovers from Vandersteen for a couple hundred bucks from any Vandersteen dealer, or Johnny at Audioconnection.
B |
Nope, the balanced and unbalanced M5-HP crossovers are basically the same price (approx $700 used). The fixed crossovers are much cheaper (say $250).
In my opinion, using balanced connectors would be the best way to go as cable length and composition make less contribution to the sound performance.(Don't take my word for it, PM Ralph at atmasphere).
Bob |
I, too, have an issue with my McCormack DNA-1 monoblocks, in that they have pretty low impedance-like yours.
Using balanced, I can only get to 22Kohms. And, I think going lower would be beneficial. So, either I go to unbalanced or have SMc Audio redo their work. I am leaving it for a time when I can reconfigure my wiring.
Until then, I still have the Atma MA-1's and Ayre MXR's, so I am in no hurry. (It's nice to have options).
Bob |
Thanks for the link bstat. I was a little disappointed in the design of the subs. They seem a bit stark, but I guess after looking at the 2wq's for so long, any change would be unsettling. The good news is that they are a bit more compact (17x20x21 vs. 24x24x24), so should be much easier to place.
B |
@noble100 , you are preaching to the choir.
I have no doubt that the Swarm or Debra function as you say, but when others (ctsooner) give our opinions, it is just that, our opinions.
That you feel you have a scientific basis is beside the point, and whether I or ctsooner wish to agree is our prerogative.
So, can we just agree to not agree?
Bob |
They are on the website. Just click on Products and the dropdown shows subwoofers, click on that.
Bob |
Duh, that was what I was looking at...
From what Johnny wrote, I thought the 2wq was a thing of the past.
B |
