Sub Pairing With Harbeth 40.3 XDs

I highly recommend 2 subwoofers.  This has improved my system immeasurably.  I had big problems with base at 60 and 120 hz. due to room sizes. I use 2 Definitive Technology super cubes 4000. I have tried KEF, SVS and Sony but can hear nil difference. Using 2 smaller subs helps with speed and balance, I also use a Minidsp, whilst I resisted for years this has been a revelation. Removing the bass to my main speakers below 70 Hz has improved their dynamics and pace, I cut the room node frequencies by 6dB and roll off the bass starting at 40dB.  You can also try altering the phase of 1 or both subwoofers.  

I can’t really comment on the 40.3’s but I did sub my SHL5+’s. Two B&W ASW-610 subs directly underneath definitely did the trick. It took a little while to hone them in but it seriously added the punch you so desire. For the 40’s you may want to size up a little. Since my Mac C2700 allows for additional outputs I activated a second output and can turn them on or off at will. Most of the time I leave them on but there are a few Lp’s and especially CD’s out there where the bottom end is pretty enhanced already. Best of luck.

deadhead1000 04-29-2022 at 04:49pm 

 I had a Volodyne that did not sound good with the Harbeth, it was a good sub, it just didn't blend well. 

willy-t 04-30-2022 at 04:42pm 

I just replaced a Velodyne with a RELS812.  

Willy-T

Which model Velodyne subwoofer did you use?

@jheppe815 

I like that set up....bet it thumps !

Mr. Penngotti,

You and I are kindred spirits. I also like the music loud with a good thump from the kick drum. The good news is that it is doable. The bad news is that it is not quite as simple as just adding a subwoofer, though that is a good start.

In my opinion you do not need to buy expensive subs. I like the SVS SB4000. I also like Rythmik, but they don’t do loud as well as the SVS.

Regardless of what brand you end up liking, multiple subs will help minimize a lot of the room acoustic issues you could run into when you introduce powerful low end into your system.

Liking it loud with a strong low end will more than likely cause you to push your system too it’s limits so I would also be looking at subs (as well as all of your gear) that have actual balanced inputs. If you really want to achieve arena levels, you will need every bit of gain you can find and having a balanced system really helps with that.

Down the road I would look into some type speaker management system to limit the band width that your Snappers need to reproduce so they don’t get eaten alive trying to drive those Harbeths full range.

You can pm me if you have questions.