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How to optimize sub integration with 2 channel?

I’m at the point of wanting to integrate a proper sub into my 2 channel system.

Hey folks,
I understand that I can control the gain and frequency of the low end of the sub,via the sub.

But is there a way to do the inverse? Can I reduce the low end of the speakers to about 45 hz and use
the sub instead from about 44 hz and below?

If possible, how would that work? e.g., use an external crossover for the floor standers?
The problem is that there is too much output at around 3-50 hz if I use both the speakers and the sub.

thanks!! Gary

Rig: (Bel Canto DAC–> PrimaLuna Dialogue HP tubed integrated–>
Dali Helicon 400 floor standers, Spatial M3 Triode Masters, and coming soon Dynaudio S3.4 Contours (thanks Joe)
1graber2
ghosthouse's avatar
ghosthouse
4,321 posts
 
Some sub mftrs.  will let you run signal to the sub first, then use the crossover in the sub to send signal containing frequencies above the sub crossover point to the main speakers.  I've have seen this approach criticized however (crossover in sub is not very sophisticated???).  
willemj
1,036 posts
 
Most subs just have a low pass filter, and allow the main speakers to play at full range. This makes integration relatively easy. Other subs, however, also have a high pass filter for the main speakers, allowing you to relieve the main speakers from the stress of having to reproduce the lowest frequencies. The price for that, however, is more complex integration.
If the sub of your choice does not have an inbuilt high pass filter (these days few do), you will have to use an external cross over/high pass filter. Interestingly, many pro audio amplifiers have precisely such a high pass filter. And some of those pro audio amplifiers are very good, at least as good as some audiophile amps, though for much less money (thanks to economies of scale and lower mark ups). So that may be one way of doing this. Another far more expensive way would be to get the forthcoming DSPeaker X4 DAC/Preamp/crossover/room eq.
In any case, with subs I would always recommend having at least two (in mono) for a smoother in-room response, augmented by dsp room eq like the Antimode 8033.
imhififan's avatar
imhififan
2,225 posts
 
Since OP's PrimaLuna Dialogue HP tubed integrated does not has pre-out/power amp-in, high pass filter will be limited to speaker level connection. 
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