Martin Logan CLSIIz - adding more bass?


I have Martin Logan CLSIIz speakers, VTL-MB 125 mono block amps (RCA inputs only)and a Sony CDS-X7ESD CDP that is connected directly to my amps. I am thinking about adding a subwoofer and was wondering if anybody has any advice? My room is quite large (open floor plan) with a high slope ceiling in one part-like a loft. I don't know the volume but dimensions are about about 20 x 30ft with the highest part of the ceiling about 18ft. My budget is around $1000-1500USD and I only buy used! Thanks!
alexl9ba7
Hi Alex1, I tend to agree with Jab on finance and powercord. Check it out carefully with others who are familiar with the rest of your gear. Hybridizing electrostatics with a sub is always tricky and expensive. MLogan CLS11z specs read 35~22kHz which is in fact a FULL range music speaker (unless you intend a HT purpose). My own MLogan Aerius' bass is ample in a small room although it's low limit is 40Hz. What interconnects are yours? I've read that MLogan eng. development were in collaboration with Monster cables. That history is important to the end user. Monster do have some very good hi-end cables recently, maybe worth to check it out. My Aerius and amps are using mid & hi-end Monsters. I know the bass is there because the sound is 3D! Another thing to check is the amp, some tube amps have a hump in the upper bass, so giving a FALSE perception of a "suck-out" of lower bass in a "neutral" speaker. Consult other VTL owners about that. I sold my ARC VT60SE because of that phenomenon, but I'm not sure about your amp,Something you have to check. If the suggested cables work, you would have enough money left (from your budget)to buy another stack of audiophile music. Regards, Phil.
re: x-over, definitely go active. i don't think you'll touch the quality of db systems or marchand electronics at anywhere near their prices. use at least a 24db/octave slope w/electrostatics.
Hi Alex1@astound.com - Please post your progress in your checking, I'm curious for your results. Sorry our responses might have caused you much travel & again more time for research. Warm Regards.
Spend the money on larger amplifiers - you'll get far more satisfaction for the expenditure. I have the same speaker and recommend a minimun of 225 watts (I'm using the VTL 450's). Also have the REL Storm III and have been very dissatisfied with its performance with the CLS.
hello I agree with Mig007 the kenergetics 800 system was invented by Tony DiChiro specifically for his pair of his Martin Logan CLS speakers. The key is the woofer size anything bigger than 10in isn't quick enough to match the eloctrostatic panels quickness but requires about 10 woofers to accomplish enough bass output. The crossover is very transparent also. A good high current at low impedance amplifier is required a Levinson 23.5 works really well.