Bass Issues


I have an Arcam SA-20 integrated amp, B&W CM5 speakers and an SVS SB1000 sub. I previously had 20 yr. old B&W DM602 speakers. I sold them. The 602's 7" drivers were great with bass but lacked in other areas. The CM's (6.5" driver) are much better in midrange and treble but I'm having trouble getting the bass dialed in. They can get a little boomy and lack a clean drum punch like the 602's had.

I've got them 26" from the rear wall and am using the outer foam plugs in the ports. You can plug the entire port or take out the middle part and just use the sleeve. I've spent days inching the stands around, toed in, not toed in. I was using an AVR as a preamp with the 602's so I had crossover capability. With the Arcam I don't. I'm a little lost without that feature. The CM's sound best when I can cross them over at 80Hz. Do I have options to manage bass like an outboard crossover or something else?
128x128brian_holmes
Hello brian_holmes,

     It seems like you're receiving some elaborate advice on possible solutions.  I just thought I should chime in again and let you know it's highly unlikely that any drastic action, such as disconnecting the bass section on your main speakers, will be required.
     The most elaborate possible solution I would suggest you even contemplate trying is utilizing a pair of subs rather than just one. If your budget is low, however, I would suggest trying the possible solutions that cost the least or nothing first.  For example, my earlier advice to try repositioning your existing sub utilizing the 'sub crawl' method.
     Please resist taking any elaborate. drastic or costly action at this point in your search for a viable solution.

Tim 
1. I used the Vandersteen method to position my speakers. It is available on their web site. You basically divide the distance from the rear wall and side wall by prime numbers. 3,5,7 etc. You can use these results to set your speakers to work around your room limitations. You will need to find the center of your speakers to measure these distances.   I would use the port plugs in their default if that is such a thing to start with. 

2. Multiple subs will help with bass boom or peaks and nulls. At least two will solve some of your problem. The DBA is a great solution if you have $$$ and room.  You could get another of the one you have and notice great improvement.  In my case they are between my speakers firing toward the front wall.  Others recommend having them near your listening position, so you will need some longer cables??

3. Room treatments as much as you can work into the decor. I used GIK and was surprised that all the bass traps, diffusers and first reflection panels are bass traps as well. This not only helps your bass but will improve imaging and soundstage.  Cost was about $1500 for me. 

4. You should have volume adjustment on your sub and not need an external crossover.

Your problem isn’t as "bad" as you think. I my situation I thought I already had good bass, but afterwards I could hear much more detail in the bass notes which surprised me. I did not go to the effort of using a mike and program.  i figured I would be forever tweeking.

I agree. I'll get it figured out. I'll read up on the Vandersteen method. Thanks. I can get another sub. I have room but my models grill has been changed/discontinued and can't purchase just a grill. I'm more than a little anal about things. I do weekly searches for an identical used one.