Sub DIY vs mass produced?
If the receiver has a subwoofer output (RCA out) then you already have a built-in crossover and don't to need to buy another -- unless you are not satisfied with the sound quality, and want to move up to a newer preamp-processor. Anything (receiver or pre-pro) with a dedicated subwoofer output will have a subwoofer level adjustment among the volume controls, so you don't need that feature in the sub itself, nor do you need to buy a separate crossover. www.diyaudio.com has a whole section devoted to DIY subwoofers. I would not spend megabucks on an 80 pound driver -- those are mainly just for bragging rights, or subwoofer envy if you will. I bought a "New Larger Subwoofer" kit from www.vmpsaudio.com and have been very happy with it. I don't know if they still sell them as kits or not. It has a 12 inch driver, a 15 inch driver, and a 15 inch passive radiator in one big cabinet, which I disguised as a pedestal for a sculpture. You could also disguise it as a coffee table. My only complaint is that the subwoofer causes nearby plastic objects like my computer tower to rattle loudly during heavy sound effects, which is not the subwoofer's fault. I power my subwoofer with an Adcom GFA-555, the predecessor of the 5500. It works great. Have fun and give us a followup. |
hmmm... I assumed her receiver didn't have one & that the sub itself had the x-over. I beleive her receiver does have rca outputs... but I will need to go look I guess... thanks! I definantly cannot swing that for a sub... let alone the amp to power it :) The subs I am looking at are under $300 ea, just trying to make sure the box size I was told is correct. I will check out DIYaudio.... |
I get the picture You want to get your hands on her receiver. Damn, Shadorne, this one FINE woof woof. 80 lbs. - whoa! $1800, WHOA! Looks like it's worth it, though... Yes...unfortunately, if you really really want to zig-a-zig-ahh with extremely high quality sound reproduction then, for an equivalent sum of money, it is better to pay for high quality high performance drivers rather than the exotic woodworking and stunning finishes that you typically find on the high end showroom floor....(Viggen is wise to be wary of what is out there if he simply wants sound quality) |
If you're goung to use the LFE output on the receiver,check out the D-sub kit.15" with 240W plate/amp at around $300 ea (www.parts-express.com). They offer the 12" Reference series with 500W PL/amp,which insorporates the parametric EQ (Mo money). Been happy with the 240W units powering 12+15" woofers.They offer crossover,level and variable phase. |
