Vandersteen sub3 w high pass filters if your integrated has pre out / power in. Better bass and mids….especially the mids….
Sub Confusion
I've decided to add a REL sub to my in-den 2-channel system. My room is 12'-0 x 15'-6 x 10'-0h with PMC Fact 12 speakers 3'-0 out from the short wall. I have GIF corner base traps (43"h) in the front corners. My integrated is a DarTZeel LHC-208, and my DAC is an Aqua Formula xhd rev 2. When I go to REL's website to match a sub to my speakers, they recommend a 212SX (at $4,999). For my space, these seems to be overkill. Why not a single S510 (at $2,749) or two T7X (at $1,099 each)? Or? My goal is not more base- I'm looking to free my PMCs from having to expend energy to produce sound below 80 Hz and increase depth. Looking for input from our members. Thanks
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- 33 posts total
@thebingster IMO that last Hz matters more than it appears. Those measurements are at -6db. In reality, the S/812 is likely more like 24hz at -3db and the S/510 is probably 29hz at -3db. Both are not great measurements compared to many subs that dig much deeper, but Rel is known more for its speed than its ability to dig deep (aside from its reference products). |
Thanks @blisshifi for that info. And for clarification to others, the DarTZeel integrated does not have a pre out, so sub(s) will be connected to the main amp outputs. Looks like I should start with one S812, and save up over time for a second. |
Another company offering subs with high-level hookup capability (the sub taking it’s signal off the power amp’s speaker binding posts) is Rythmik Audio, in their non-XLR plate amps. Those plate amps offer both high-level and line-level (from a pre-amp’s outputs) connections. Available models include 12", 15", and 18" woofers, in both sealed and ported enclosures. All models employ servo-feedback circuitry. |
The claim that an amp-level connection is better than a line-level connection for subs is an opinion not universally held. I have heard really excellent systems with subs that were connected via line level. Line level allows the possibility of a line-level crossover for mains and subs, a very flexible way to arrange things. Also, in most domestic rooms, the EQ provided by subs with PEQ apps will be of real value in getting smoother bass. Another extremely valuable item on a sub is a continuously variable phase control. It is the only way of getting the smoothest (flattest) bass from a sub in a given position. The more overlap between sub and main, that more correct phase matters. I wouldn’t pay a lot of money for a sub without that feature. A +/- polarity switch is better than nothing, but no substitute for a proper phase control. I agree that in most cases, two subs are better than one. By better, I mean capable of providing flatter and more natural bass response. |
- 33 posts total