Help wanted: Bass!
I just saw this here on Audiogon and I think could help you. Dave https://www.audiogon.com/listings/equalizers-emerald-physics-bass-manager-add-1-2-octave-of-bass-to-... |
I agree that a sub is a less than perfect solution. I cheated by using identical amps and preamps, respectively for my mains and some good woofers for subs. I have complete control of how much bass I use without any crossover distortion. After many premade crossovers, after learning how to design them myself, and after years of matching subs, I finally tried dual, identical electronics and three inch thick foam for high frequency roll off for my subs, try it. you'll like it. Experiment with towels first, a layer at a time. You will be amazed how much better bass can be with no crossovers and a separate volume control that does not change the amount of power by frequency, like a bass control. |
To really get a handle on what's happening in your room, you'd need a sound pressure meter and someone who knows how to use it. Then again, I look at the dimensions of your room (enormous, incl. height); read reviews of your speakers (clearly not intended for a room that large), and it become simpler. You may not want subs, but that's your answer. Subs would relieve your system of the need to fill this giant space below 50-60Hz (a losing battle). If I were you, I'd get a used Marchand crossover (XM9, crossed over low, ~400/500US used); plus 1 X SVS SB1000 ($499 US) to start. You can always get a 2nd sub later. Remember, you're not looking for massive SPLs from the sub, just enough low-Hz presence to lift the rest of the system (which BTW is really excellent in quality). If/when you finally had the $$ for a 2nd sub, the whole picture would be complete. |
Subs seem to get a bad rap because they are almost never integrated properly. It is crucial to get them time aligned with the main signal. You need a sub with continuous phase adjustment. And the right method for adjusting it. http://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/subwoofer-basics/?page=3 If you do manage to get bass output for your room, by whatever method, you will have room modes. The average bass trap doesn’t work very well. Easiest way to manage modes is to get a sub with auto EQ. Just knock down one or two modal frequencies and you are good to go. I feel sorry for my purist friends who have do without bass because subs are not a part of their religion. Listen to the JL Audio Fathoms properly adjusted and you will want to change religions. They aren’t cheap but, considering all the $$$ you’ve put into the rest of your system, to do without such an essential component of true SQ is a tragedy IMHO. Dogma is a b---- |
