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Vandersteeen 2wq (or any sub) in small room

Hi everyone,

I have an 11x16x8 room for music, with Vandersteen 2ce's and Aragon 8008BB amp. Tried all manner of placement, but still feel the bass is a bit thin (I realize that Vandersteens produce musical and accurate bass, but this is my perception). I have been reading about the merits of the 2wq sub in improving the Vandersteen sound, but these advocates usually have much larger rooms. Is using a sub in a small room a fool's errand? Would teh 2wq be a particularly finicky addition? Should I return to my efforts at room treatment with bass traps? Thank you. 

Paul.
paulburnett
akg_ca's avatar
akg_ca
2,210 posts
 
The VANDY subs are no more "finicky" than any other high-end subwoofer. They are not the usual typical  home theatre AV subs with the latter's chuffy, wooly, and incoherent fuzzy (ergo  lousy) bass performance from cheaply built boom-boxes..

Yes, they are superior audio performers, and with a careful and proper calibration as detailed by the mfg.,, it will be  the ultimate pleasing extension of your existing VANDY speakers array.
csmgolf
885 posts
 
My room is 12 x 15 1/2 x 8 and when I place speakers on the short wall, no matter how I position them, the midbass is lacking. It has been that way with speakers that I know produce more than adequate bass. I use a Rythmik F12 SE to augment the low end without any issue. I mention that because my room is nearly the same size as yours. Don’t be afraid to put a subwoofer in there, be it Vandersteen or other brand.
gdnrbob
4,441 posts
 
Well, you've got gobs of power so no problem there.
A 2w or 2wq will be a perfect choice for augmenting base. A pair would be ideal.
I have the 2w's and am looking to go to the 2wq soon. (Paired with the 3a sigs).
I also have a pair of HSU subs that I find very nice for the price, but the Vandy's are much more subtle.
You should talk to Johnny Rutan (audioconnection). He can give you the best advice.
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,382 posts
 
Paul-

gdnrbob offers sound advice (no pun).  Happy Listening!
mb1audio02
188 posts
 
Before you do anything make sure you go through the Modle 2's manual and set the speakers up exactly the way they tell you to. 

Also, go to the link below. Vandersteen just got permission to make all issues of the Audio Perfectionist Journal available to anyone that wants them at no charge. APJ has the most complete instructions on how to set up Vandersteen speakers and subs. They leave absolutely no stone unturned. They also show you how to make your own room tuning devices for a small fraction of what you would have to pay retail.

http://vandersteen.com/audio-perfectionist-journal
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