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Sub Question

I tried to do a search, but could not drill down on this. Anyway, I have never owned a sub. I never really felt the need. However, I had a friend tell me that a sub does more than just enhance bass output and perhaps bass quality. He went on to say that having a sub takes pressure off the driver thus making the speaker do less work. Because of this, the speakers will sound better or have better clarity. Thoughts?
128x128kclone
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
A properly selected and integrated powered sub will reduce distortion in the mains in 2 ways:
1. You can cross-over to the mains at a frequency that will keep the main woofer from working at its extreme lower limit;
2. If you cross over to the sub BEFORE the main amp, you can reduce the power demand on the main amp, which will most likely allow it to operate more in its linear region.
mabonn
181 posts
 
I also have a sub-woofer (JM Labs SW900) and mains (Acoustic Zen Adagios), but my sub does not have crossover outputs to the main amp. My pre has 2 sets of main outs, I use one to the sub and one to the main amp. Therefore, the full frequency range goes to the main amp/speakers. What is the best way to roll-off the lows to the mains in this situation ?
stanwal's avatar
stanwal
3,147 posts
 
There is a widespread school of thought that I subscribe to that it is better to run the main speakers full range rather than use a crossover. If you do use one it is better to insert a passive attenuation one in the signal going to the main speaker amp. While rolling off the main speakers will allow you to play them louder the crossover will degrade the sound. This does not bother the HT fans who value dynamic range and think special effects are more critical than music. I would look on the DIY audio sites for advice on constructing a passive attenuation network. They will also have info on who could build one for you.
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