2. amps-preamps
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Willsenton R8 Tube Amp with REL Subwoofer

Hi, my setup is the Willsenton R8 with PS Audio Direct Stream Memory Player CD/SACD and Bel Canto DAC 3.7 going into Sonus Faber Sonetto VIII speakers.

I play a wide range of music Classical; Jazz; Rock and Electronic.

What I'd like help on is anyone who has added a REL subwoofer to the Willsenton R8 and if possible Sonus Faber Sonetto speakers and what if any benefit they saw? It's not that I don't have bass definition as I do, it's just if adding the subwoofer produces a worthwhile improvement?

128x128sparksgja

Showing 3 responses by sparksgja

sparksgja's avatar
sparksgja OP
43 posts
 

Thanks for responding. Since this post I've moved on setup wise and went to a new Pathos hybrid amplifier. Still not bought a subwoofer but think I definitely will.

For me its less about getting a thumping bass but as you said filling in and getting that more realistic sound stage.

 

sparksgja's avatar
sparksgja OP
43 posts
 

The room is large basement  - 29' x 25' widest about 14' up at the narrow end and low ceiling of mixed height of 7' to 7'9. I have the speakers set up at the narrower end and pulled out about 4' from the rear wall.

 

sparksgja's avatar
sparksgja OP
43 posts
 

Thanks to both of you for responding. I'm really agreeing with both of you.

I think a more powerful amp will help drive the SF's better with more control and detail, but to do that probably means going the tube mono-block and pre-amp route. Right now the Willsenton is probably the weakest main component.

I do think the using amps output and amplification in the REL sub via the high level input was the way I was thinking of going, and dialing in so its barely detectable.

I can try the REL for 60-days through a local dealer so I'll probably start there but start saving for a new amplification approach. 

Thanks again, George

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