Finally Learned: Subs serve much larger role than adding more low bass

My main speakers don't benefit as much from subs as they are good to 20 Hz on their own. Obviously the limitation there is that you are locked into the manufacturers set up as the low bass isn't independently adjustable as it is with separate subs.

I also operate an audio system that incorporates my main speakers plus a pair of powered subs that are 3 dB down at 16 Hz and so of course had the opportunity to try my stereo set up along with the subs. Other than slightly boosting really low bass - which matters if you are into organ music - there wasn't much advantage to adding the subs over without subs.

Another system  I have is one I'd really like to integrate a sub into - ML CLS, but electrostatics are a bitch to blend with subs especially with a smaller room.

Can't recall if anyone combined Quad ESLs really successfully with subs....

Subs open up the sound; enhancing the quality of deep bass is a bonus. Especially true with the REL attached to amp's speaker taps which is like bi-amping.

At Deer Creek Audio, we believe adding a subwoofer to your system is one of the most powerful ways to increase clarity, imaging, dynamics and all the attributes audiophiles associate with a high fidelity full range system.

A primary reason is that excessive energy and driver excursion is eliminated in the range speakers, resulting in better utilization of amplifier power and reduced Doppler distortion.

Proper subwoofer integration and calibration are the keys to success.  Following are some highlights.

Crossover Setting

The crossover between the main speakers and subwoofer(s) is a skill that goes beyond applying the symmetrical textbook high and low pass filter. We have found the asymmetrical filter slopes and shapes can produce significantly enhanced results.  See image below for an example of a crossover we use with JBL 4349s and a high power 12-inch subwoofer.

Delay Setting

Next, delay needs to be adjusted so that the gross arrival time between the subs and the mains is aligned to achieve the tightest non-interfering response.

Time Domain Correction

The Dirac room correction process attempts to improve the impulse response of the combined main speaker and subwoofer system.  When properly performed, a Dirac project results in the seamless integration between the subwoofer and the main speakers, allowing the system to achieve the bottom octave of music without the undesirable effects of an untuned subwoofer installation.  Here's a graphic example of impulse response optimization.

It's an amazing high fidelity musical experience when you seamlessly add the last octave. Feel free to contact us at Deer Creek Audio if you'd like to discuss these concepts further.

I just upgraded from the REL T-Zero mkIII to the new T-9X. Very excited to hear what it brings to my system. 

Hi Folks,

Not much to add that hasn't been stated in adding refined, deep bass.  I lived with good monitors in many rooms, discovering the added benefits of quick, sealed subs later in the journey.  My solution in a small dedicated studio is a pair of monitors atop a pair of subs, digging down into the 20's.  I have Auralex isolation platforms to float the subs and IsoAcoustics monitor stands separating the monitors and subs.  I split the incoming signal with a Focusrite Pro DAC which removes the heavy lifting of bass from my main tube amp to the monitors, letting the active sealed subs do their thing from 80Hz down.  This results in a large, deep, full stage, the disappearing act of great monitors and the heft of full range without limitation to genre nor volume levels.  I have nearby friends with astounding, full systems in large rooms.  I'm never sad to come home.  More Peace, and Happy Holidays.  Pin