So, "sounds" like I'm bass-limited if I want to stick with the CM-4s, though they do offer superb resolution and articulation compared to the 1090s. But, being an empiricist at heart, and with a relatively low-cost outlay (raw cable, bare-wire termination), I can order up lengths of speaker cable of varying properties, and just run simple listening tests to see if any improvement in bass response can be achieved; however, I do share the opinion of "stereo5" that cables can't provide what speakers apparently lack, full stop.
Can cables of any cost and quality provide bass response missing in my B&W speakers?
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Thank you all for your considered responses. A few points to address: (1) Polarity of speaker leads rigourously maintained...checked and double-checked to be sure; (2) Speakers each back into a wall, and positioned ca. 12-18in. away; (3) Actually tried affecting bass response by dusting off a retired Carver C1 preamp with tone controls, and with bass fully engaged, a discernible gain in oomph noted...however, using same setting with aforementioned a/d/s towers, the pressure waves would crack drywall!; (4) Original query concerned music playback mainly...I have a sub which I utilise for DVDs/film streaming to capture LFE, but found it too boomy for music listening. So, "sounds" like I'm bass-limited if I want to stick with the CM-4s, though they do offer superb resolution and articulation compared to the 1090s. But, being an empiricist at heart, and with a relatively low-cost outlay (raw cable, bare-wire termination), I can order up lengths of speaker cable of varying properties, and just run simple listening tests to see if any improvement in bass response can be achieved; however, I do share the opinion of "stereo5" that cables can't provide what speakers apparently lack, full stop. |
Uhm, your B&W speaker's bass response is going to be a limitation on the design of the woofer (i.e. xmax, free air resonance, etc.) as well as the design of the cabinet/port. That being said, you can get stronger bass when you use speaker wire with larger solid-core conductors. You could try looking for some older Audioquest Midnight speaker cable. This is often available on ebay or usaudiomart. http://www.audioquest.com/archives/speaker_cables/spiraled_hyperlitz/images/midnight_c.jpg The Midnight is a 10awg cable and uses three 17awg conductors for each leg and has very strong bass transmission. Alternatively, you could also try something like Audioquest Type 8 if you want something newer. Type 8 may give you better resolution overall, but maybe not quite as strong bass. |
"auxinput"...I certainly understand the limitations to bass response conferred upon the speakers due to design specs, however I purchased the CM-4s new many years ago based not only upon reviews but actually listening to them in the dealer showroom. Really not sure why what was perceived by reviewers and myself re: more than adequate bass and what I'm experiencing currently. But do take your point re: 10 AWG (or bigger) cable to supply the woofers. Thank you for suggested cables to check out. One lives in hope. |
Compass, you actually hit on something. I was going to mention it but thought it was not worthwhile. The reviews I read say they have a minimum impedance of around 3.9 ohms in the bass. That should be fine, but if your amp was weak for some reason then a softening in the bass is what you would get. This can make a speaker seem more "discerning" - I call it more demanding. I would say changing amps is a better idea than cables. Best, E |
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