Looking for the "better sub"

Couldn't agree less with the statement that lack of high-level inputs makes JL Fathom unsuitable for 2CH audiophile use. Line-level inputs from preamp to sub provides clear, articulated basslines-- as opposed to "room fill." This is particularly true if you're comparing the quality of deep LF from a transformer-coupled amp to a SS pre or to a direct-coupled tube pre like the Atma-Sphere.

"I am not sure that something linear is a good thing with panels".....you kidding right?

Dave,
I was just considering that panels don't play extremely loud and at some SPL level (as with all speaker designs) they inevitably begin to compress (the old Quads used to shut down whilst many others have protection circuitry or limiters as part of the design...we are often talking 1000's of volts here) - therefore I am suggesting that a sub that does not overwhelm them might work a bit better over a wider range of SPL that is all...even the JLF113 suffers serious audio compression at 20 Hz (although it is better than most)....smaller subs will compress more quickly and therefore may work better. Anyway - it is just a thought and I defer to your direct experience of what works with your setup.

Couldn't agree less with the statement that lack of high-level inputs makes JL Fathom unsuitable for 2CH audiophile use.>>>

After trying both hook-up methods, I'm always a little surprised when someone claims they are the same.
Using the high level inputs and connected to the speaker terminals of the amp, the subwoofer sees the exact SAME signal the speakers do and it's transmitted over the SAME type of speaker wire at the SAME time.
Using the low level inputs you're sub sees a signal different from the speakers and probably not even at the same time. On top of that the signal is transmitted over a different type of cable.
Considering all we make of tiny differences in gear and tweaks we make, I find it astounding that anyone even suggests that low level inputs in as good for 2 channel listening. I tried both using SVS and Martin Logan Abyss subs, and the difference in speed was noticeable right away.
Furthermore, I can connect my 2 channel system to the high level inputs of most other high-end subs, and run low level from my home theater system. One sub can work for two totally different systems. The Fathom can't manage that.
So now matter how good the Fathom is, they were shortsighted in their design both for flexibility and the high end audiophiles who prefer high level connections.
Even Martin Logan prefers high level for the reasons I described.

R.

Robbob

>>Considering all we make of tiny differences in gear and tweaks we make, I find it astounding that anyone even suggests that low level inputs in as good for 2 channel listening<<

I gather you are fairly new to audio reproduction, higher end audio, dipole speakers, and subwoofers in general (mostly a lot of reading?).

As time goes on, and you gain more hands on experience....you won't find things quite so astounding...or, absolute.

BTW...I saw a picture of your room at another forum (very nice looking). The curtains covering the wall behind the Maggies are a bad idea though. The rear sound wave is your friend (it's there to help you), it should strike a live wall...and not heavy curtains.

Dave