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How does high-pass filter requirement affect system decisions?

I've been thinking about my Ayre AX-7e that drives my Vandersteen Quattro CTs (the AX-7e had the required high-pass filter installed by Ayre). Other than the obvious, how does that filter affect system choices?

For example, I'd assume the current-delivery requirements are reduced, the need to damp back-EMF is reduced, and perhaps the speaker cable characteristics change (since they are not carrying as much low-frequency, high-current information). Are massively overbuilt amplifiers really necessarily to bring out the best from the Quatros?
128x128nrenter
erik_squires
16,346 posts
 
I'm not sure it affects choices so much as dynamic range.

Since bass signals soak up most of the voltage swing, eliminating that from the amp's output means all of the voltage/power swing is available for the mid and treble. Also, the amp acts more "stiffly" than otherwise. Like you mention the high current requirements are reduced, so the power supply sags less.

In general, no, you don't need massive amps for the top part of a bi-amped system. As for the rest of the quality, I don't know. :) I mean I really like the sound of Ayre, but bi-amped, Parasound A23's may work just as well.

Best,


Erik


gdnrbob
4,458 posts
 
I would contact Mr. Vandersteen and ask for his opinion. There's nothing better than from the 'horse's mouth.
goheelz's avatar
goheelz
297 posts
 
Glad you asked this question, as I'd been pondering it myself.  Doesn't it make sense that going bi-amped with Vandersteen powered loudspeakers is an invitation to go with tubes for the upper range?  I say this as a curious Vandersteen 5A owner with a SS McIntosh stereo amp in the mix.  
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