What JL Subs to pair with Harbeth SHL-5 Speakers?


Room is 27x16x8, and considering SHL-5 speakers with a pair of JL Subs instead of going with the 40.1 Harbeth. Trying to decide betwen F-112 and F-113. Leaning towards a pair of Fathom 113 Subs with the SHL5. Any comments.
viveka

Showing 4 responses by valinar

Your room seems to be plenty large enough for the 40.1. As far as total cost and space needs, wouldn't the 40.1 without the subs be a better choice. I use a REL Strata iii sub with my 30.1's, but even then I find integrating the two can be a challenge to get the sub set for every type of music.
Bob reynolds,
Good question. No I would not adjust "level controls for the tweeter and midrange drivers". The crossover is designed for the speaker and best left alone. The speaker has its specific limitations as far as bass extension. I know this is elementary but obviously the subwoofer is only to complement the existing speaker as it is designed. As far as me finding it a challenge to set the sub to accomodate every type of music, I would use a quick example of a couple of different recordings. Beck's new release "Morning Phase" has in my estimation been produced rather bass heavy. That said, I really like the album.There are other albums somewhat similar, such as Robert Plant and Allison Kraus' "Raising Sand". To go from "Morning Phase" to Ralph Vaughn Williams "Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis", a delightful recording by Academy of St. Martin in the Fields orchestra conducted by Sir Neville Marriner,a bit more of a lower bass boost would be pleasing.
There are times I get sucked into a analytical listening mindset instead of just relaxing and enjoying the music. The Harbeth 40.1 would most probably eliminate the need for a sub. Hence any need to integrate a sub is eliminated as well. Thanks for the question Bob.
Bob reynalds,
I use the high level inputs on my REL Strata iii, so the cable is hooked up to the speaker out terminals on the amp.I see where you heading, and you present an interesting consideration. However for my setup it isn't applicable. Thanks