Looking for a non-powered sub

Hi Steve,

Well, I just read up on the Maggie 1.6 and now I fear that my previous advice may be worth exactly what you paid for it. :)

I did not realize that the 1.6 is a 2-way planar design with bass extension down to the 40's. In that case, since you are 100% music, why do you think you need any subwoofer at all? If you like the sound that Maggies are famous for, why risk messing things up with a big old-fashioned cone? You could start with the Maggies by themselves, and then add a sub later only if you feel like you are missing something.

If you do decide you need a sub, you might be able to get away with a single sub, since it would not need to go higher than 60 or 80 Hz.

Among VMPS subs, the "New Original" would probably mate well. I have not heard any of the other models mentioned in this thread, so I can't offer any comparisons.

I don't have any suggestions for a crossover either. Your Maggie dealer or the Maggie website could help with that. The website seems to indicate that the Maggie 1.6 can handle a full-range signal and doesn't need to have any bass withheld, so the crossover would only need to consist of a low-pass for the sub.

Also, disregard my idea of placing the Maggies on top of the subwoofer. They are much too tall for that.

I have read nothing but fabulous reviews of the Linkwitz Orion, but even in kit form, it is substantially more expensive than the Maggie 1.6.

Bottom line: for 100% music, the Maggie 1.6 might very well be a complete solution for you, with no subwoofer at all.

Have fun!

P.S. -- Also see the "Panels and subwoofers don't mix" thread for a lively relevant discussion.

SCm:

Dipole sub does not mean "more" bass, and therefore it is not an overkill. However, a pair of dipole subs, which is what I have, may be an overkill for a small room. BTW, 14 by 18 is a not really small.

Personally, I prefer Stereo subs, if at all, even though my big Apogees generate enough bass without even a single sub in my 16 by 26 room.

Good luck.

I currently use a Canton passive sub for my centre channel. It's push-pull thing that sounds wonderful. Beutifully built inside with its own crossover.

SVS also sells several different passive non-powered subwoofers.