2. amps-preamps
  3. 192738-115924

Vintage Audio Research subwoofer connect.

I am thinking about a powered subwoofer for my vintage system. Just mulling it over primarily because the room is somewhat restricted in terms of positioning. I don't hear any problems but you know how audiophiles are.

I am wondering if it is reasonably possible to even connect a subwoofer.

The system is this: Audio Research LS-16 tube pre-amp via balanced cables into Proceed Madrigal HPA2 (Levinson) amp (500w into 4 ohms) via Transparent Cables bi-wired to Aerial Acoustics 7B towers.

There is an Oppo blu-ray player that I use for CD transport and DAC.

I'm assuming the preferred route to the subwoofer is through the AR LS-16 but I'm not very sophisticated with this stuff. Output sets on the back of the LS-16 include "Main 1" which are RCA and "Main 2" and "Main 3" which are balanced. Only "Main 2" is in use. There is also a "Record" output set which is RCA.

I'm hoping it is possible just run L and R RCA cables from "Main 1" to the L and R line level inputs on the sub.

Is that right?

There are no output selection switches on the front of the LS-16 so I'm assuming all 3 of the "Main" outputs are always 'on'?

 

 

n80

Showing 2 responses by n80

n80 OP
2,133 posts
 

@whart Thanks. That is very helpful. In all probability I am not going to put a sub or subs in this system but I just wanted to look into feasibility. It is in a fairly small room and the Aerial Acoustics 7Bs seem pretty solid in terms of bass to my ear.

However, I have decided to put a modestly priced sub in the living room where I have a pair of Aerial Acoustic 6T speakers driven by a Sonos Amp (don't ask, its a long story). These are well positioned in the room but still seem like they could use a little more bass. Fortunately the Sonos AMP has a dedicated LFE output for a sub and the sub I'm looking at has LFE input so that will be simple. I will also get my wife to help with tuning it up. (Sometimes I think her ears are better than mine so I might be the one doing the tweaking).

 

 

n80 OP
2,133 posts
 

Thanks @docknow . I have pretty much decided not to add a subwoofer to this system.

After suppressing the urge to fix a problem that probably isn't there I have done  some critical listening and really don't think I even need one. Thanks to all who replied.

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