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Sopra 2 Bass

New member, first post, and newbie in terms of diving into the world of nice things. This world is insane! I've already been spiraling for a few months researching what to buy, AB'ing countless speakers and amps. I now own a McIntosh MA9000 that's driving my new Focal Sopra N2s via Kimber 12VS. My "dilemma" is with the lack of BASS. I demoed the N2s, so I know it's possible, but absent in my home. I have to use the tone controls (this is where you tear me apart) to bump the low end. I do not know if it's my room, lack of bass traps, or equipment, but I'm failing to get down a little lower without tone adjustments. I stream Tidal Masters to my wired Bluesound NODE 2i (optical to the MA9000 dac). My room is 11'x20.5' with a low, 7.5' ceiling. I have tried as many speaker positions as possible with little change. I already know I need to eliminate room echo in the center of the room and have been researching various acoustic treatments. I feel like I'm off to a good start, but now stuck, not totally satisfied. Yes, it's the best I've ever owned and mind-blowing amazing, emotional, etc, but just short of perfect for me. In tracks where I expect a punch, I get an unmoving transition... Can I get "there" with different wire? Should I consider a sub? Why do folks on this site use two subs? Do I need to hire someone to properly sound-treat the room? Is my room a lost cause for what I own? Reaching out because I'm stuck, afraid to waste money chasing dead ends. My budget is thin after the McIntosh and Focals. Any help would be so appreciated! I hope to learn, grow and pay it forward some day. Thank you.
128x128izjjzi
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arnoldo
25 posts
 
I'm pretty new to this too, one thing I learned is to be patient and give things time to settle (ears and gear).  I got the Focal 1038's and initially thought they were weak on bass so got a Schitt Loki to boost it while contemplating subwoofers.  After months of slowly turning down the bass I just got rid of the Loki.  My Focal's are flat (not sure Sopras) and it takes time to adjust and appreciate, for newbies like me especially since most of the Bose and Sony gear I had boosts the bass significantly (Also admit to turning up bass on my vintage Pioneer gear).  But learned to appreciate how articulate and clean the Focal's bass is.  And when I play a bass heavy song like from the last Billie Eilish album I realize my speakers are capable of serious bass it just doesn't exaggerate it.
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allenf1963
276 posts
 
@izjjzi,

This was a very refreshing and rewarding post and thread to read this month.  I've enjoyed following "the enjoyment and discovery" you've had as a newcomer to the Audiophile World -- and I've especially enjoyed NOT seeing posts from the usual asswipes on this Forum that belittle newcomers relentlessly if they dare stray from their "always correct answers". 

Over the years, you will come to appreciate the impact your Sister-in-law made on your journey when she helped to get your wife "on board" during the listening session you described.  Buy her a bottle of good Bourbon...STAT!  She just made your future audio expansions and monetary outlays much easier during household budget meetings with your better half -- much easier.

Here's to your continued enjoyment! 
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