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How to add a Subwoofer to 2 channel stereo setup?

I hope this doesn't sound stupid, but I am looking to add a subwoofer to my system, but am somewhat unsure about how to do so. I have both a stereo preamp(Classe CP-50) and amplifier(actually a couple of stereo/mono amps- Monarchy Audio SM-70 Pros) which I use to drive my front speakers. However, as they are small bookshelf speakers, they have rather limited frequency response only going down to about 70 Hz or so. I am looking to add a subwoofer to extend the bass response, but don't know how to connect my sub. To what output?

I have tried outputting the signal through a line-level sub/LFE interconnect directly from my DVD player's Digital Coaxial out, and the 5.1 channel analog audio output to my subwoofer's(Sony SW-M 500 or something like that) line-level input while of course outputting the front speakers from the Left and Right channel outputs to my preamp, but this doesn't seem to work as there is no sound coming from my sub although the front speakers apparently sound fine. My preamp being only stereo does not have an "extra" line-level input/output for a subwoofer, so I don't know what to do.

I don't know if it means anything, but I believe I have an "active" powered subwoofer, as I must plug in a separate AC cord into the wall. It also has a volume control, frequency response, phase control and everything.

I am hoping to upgrade my speakers to a more full-range model to match my recent amplifier upgrades(in both sound quality and frequency range), but until then is there anything I can do to add my sub?

Also, does anybody have any good speaker recommendations to go with my above mentioned equipment?

I am seriously considering Totem Arros, but they only reach about 40 Hz according to Totem's specs. I have given thought to some others, but given both aesthetic, space and budget constraints(maybe $ 1K for a pair of speakers used), it has been a difficult search.

Anyway guys, thanks for your help, and take it easy.

Thanks,
The Audio Novice in training ;-)
audio_obsessed_novic
reubent
7,005 posts
 
AON,

Typically an active/powered subwoofer will have both line-level and speaker level inputs, speaker level outputs and sometimes even a line-out.

If the sub has a line-out, you can connect the subwoofer in a "loop" between the pre-amp and power amp by running a pair of interconnects from the pre-amp outputs to the sub line-level inputs, then another pair of interconnects from the sub line-outs to the power amps. In this configuration the low frequencies played by the sub are typically "stripped off" and the output to the power-amp/main speakers no longer contains this low frequency information.

If your sub does not have the line-outs, you can connect it using speaker level inputs. In this setup you may have the opportunity to put the sub in a speaker level "loop" by running speaker cables to the sub, then back out to the main speakers (low frequency information stripped off) or you can simply run speaker cables to the sub and main speakers from the same binding post on your amp.

I would highly recommend you check the manual for the sub to see what options they recommend. If you don't have the manual, you can usually find them on the Sony site for download. If none of their recommendations make sense, post back to the thread and I'll try to provide some more specific instructions....

Enjoy,

TIC
chashmal
605 posts
 
I have a set of Tetra rebels, which are sublime low bass speakers. I remedy this with a Rel sub. The Rel has a line with 3 connections: positive, negative, and ground. I simply wind the positive and ground wire around the amp's right speaker terminal and wind the negative wire around the amp's left speaker terminal. That's it! People dislike subs because there often is a 'hole' in the lower mid section. The Rel has a variable rolloff which adjust quite high, and the Tetras have good lower mid-bass, so it works. Hope this was helpful.
rbstehno
1,454 posts
 
doesn't look like you have a sub. if you don't, look at the rel's. i used a rel strata III with my totem model 1's. to hook up a rel, you actually hook them up straight from your amp along with your speaker cables to your speakers. in this setup, you run your speakers full range, and you tune the subwoofer to you speakers so there is no hole in your sound. rel is an excellent choice and 1 of the best crossover systems.
as for totem arros, lisen to them before you use a sub. i used a pair in my den without a sub and i was impressed. the room was 11x13 and i put the arros in the corners. wonderful sounding. if you are going to play the arros load or for home theater, than i would use a sub and crossover to the sub around 60 - 80 hz. if you like the arros, a little more $$$ and i would recommend the totem hawks. more full range and will play loud. no need for a subwoofer here.
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