Audio Advisor is selling the Velodyne SMS-1 sub controller/PEq for $450.
Even if you were to use the SMS only to optimize placement of your subs it
would be worth the incremental cost. The video readout provides visual aid
that -IME- correslates very tightly with what you actually hear. You might
get there by ear alone (without visual feedback), but it will be a long, hard
slog. I just run the sweeps, move the subs, and watch the screen. Personally,
I wouldn't ever again attempt to deploy subs without such assistance.
Moreover, you will undoubtedly use the SMS-1 for much more than that. I'm
sure you'll find that the tremendously flexible low pass controls will allow
you to optimize the integration of your subs and mains with precision that is
otherwise (virtually) impossible. Further, if your room presents persistent
problems that can't be solved via placement -and it probably will - the
parametric EQ will be quite an effective tool.
If the $450 busts the budget, I'd go with a pair of less expensive subs (maybe
F110s if you're wedded to JL) and the SMS (or equivalent device). Since you
can return the SMS to AA.com if not satisfied, I think you'd be taking very
little risk to check it out.
Good Luck,
Marty
PS - The one caveat I'd offer is that the high pass is both very limited in
flexibility and digital in nature - it subjects the main signal to A/D/A
conversion. Therefore, I don't use the high pass function in my SMS. You
can either run the mains full range or use a different device to high pass - I
use a ($300) NHT x-2.
