magnapans.7i and subs

bdp246,755 posts06-20-2020 10:09pm

"@johnnyaa, the statement above that REL subs connect "unlike anything else" is incorrect. Rythmik subs also provide for "High level" connection (from the main power amp, on binding posts), but unlike REL's offer the alternative "Low level" (from a pre-amp, on RCA jacks) capability, allowing one to try the sub both ways...."

REL also offers Low-Level RCA and LFE (0.1) RCA inputs in addition to High-Level inputs. Unlike most others, REL uses a Speakon connector for the High-Level inputs. 

I have the Magnepan LRS and two REL T5i and can assure you this is a wonderful and relatively inexpensive solution to deeper bass.  I would recommend monoblocks with this set up because it works well this way and what Magnepan designed with.  Bryston 7BSST2 would be dynamite but maybe overkill.  The mags do love power.  Now I have the LRS in another location with Bryston 4BSST with no subs.  The room is huge with an alcove behind the speakers and I must say the bass is acceptable in this room and with that amp.  The key to the REL T5i is twofold, it downfires, and at 8" won't go too deep to make blending less likely.

@turnbown, thanks for the additional REL info and correction. As everyone always mentions the "unique" REL high level connection, I assumed low level aren't provided. As they say about assuming..... ;-). Does the Speakon connector provide a better transfer than binding posts? A lot of guys who built the OB/Dipole Sub installed Speakon connectors.

Speakon connectors are great --they handle much higher currents than traditional bananas or spades.

bdp246,763 posts06-21-2020 2:00pm"@turnbown, thanks for the additional REL info and correction. As everyone always mentions the "unique" REL high level connection, I assumed low level aren't provided. As they say about assuming..... ;-). Does the Speakon connector provide a better transfer than binding posts? A lot of guys who built the OB/Dipole Sub installed Speakon connectors."

I don't think that the Speakon connector provides a better connection than binding posts but it does make connecting and disconnecting a breeze. Used in pro audio gear for that very reason.