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What do you guys think of adding a subwoofer to this system?

I am just getting back into 2 channel music and critical listening. My system is comprised of B&W 805 Diamonds and a Hegel H390 integrated amplifier.  My audio source is primarily Tidal MQA files streamed thru a Bluesound Node 2i.  I stream digital out of the node 2i using a decent coaxial cable into the Hegel.  I use decent cables from the Hegel to the speakers.  
 

The rom is quite large 15x20’ with quite high sloping ceilings.  16’ over speakers and  12’ to the rear behind me.

the system (imho)sounds very good.  In fact I think it is the best system I have ever assembled.  Imagining, detail and separation is excellent . Midrange  is detailed and sharp.  Low end is tight.   I think the speakers roll off at 49 hz.

I can’t say enough positive about the Hegel H390. That is one fine piece of audio equipment and is certainly a keeper.  I gush every time I turn it on!

I have tried subwoofers in the past but have always been disappointed.  I know subs have come a long way and would be interested in your thoughts especially people who have a similar system.

I have found some discussion on this subject but thought I might ask the question directly.  I apologize in advance if I missed some relevant discussion.

Thanks for any advice.

 

Bob-

 

 

bobo2006
tweak1
3,679 posts
 

@mijostyn +1. You nailed it, as did the @ejr1953  using calibration mic and software

 

I finally sold a 10+ YO pair of SVS powered subs; an Ultra and a Plus (the tall round cylinders). I was never able to get a seamless blend, mostly due to the volume control settings being too coarse, virtually impossible to dial in. In fairness they were not designed for quality 2 channel systems. May be better now, but...

One of the biggest issues I had was because polarity on many discs is out (especially with greatest hits, or multi- recording studios) compared to the rest of the frequencies, and while they have phase/polarity adjustment, it is manual. IMHO, having remote control over volume and polarity is essential to get seamless blending. IMO to achieve great sub bass, you need a separate beefy amp + active XO=$$$$+ SIGH

 

mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,570 posts
 

@tweak1 , I am a fan of passive subwoofers. Most of the amps included with subwoofers are of inferior quality and they interfere with the rigidity of the enclosure. All of the digital preamps that include bass management have separate level controls for all four channels and they all operate by remote. Mine is unique in that I can change crossover frequencies and slopes by remote, very useful.

tweak1
3,679 posts
 

I too am not a fan of built in woofers, or powered subs. I am currently using Emerald Physics 3.4s (open baffle), which have a 12" mid-bass with 1" concentric polyester tweeter. These would be sufficient in most rooms, but mine is ~35 x 21 with an 12’ open beam vaulted ceiling; front and rear walls are mostly glass. I am long awaiting Emerald Physics 2.8s (open baffle), same 12" mid-bass with 1" concentric polyester tweeter, plus a total of 4 @ 15" carbon fiber woofers. Should they ever arrive, they will present a new integration challenge. Im hoping the OB will mitigate the cabinet resonance issues inherent in most/all box speakers.

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