Subwoofer insight.


This is new territory to me. Current speakers are 2 way with frequency response of 60Hz-20KHz with +/- 2dB.  Sensitivity rated as 86dB. Chance to purchase a pair of REL 7 tis. I feel like I am missing something but will have to buy the subs to try out. My basic question is this. Does this purchase sound wise? I know what I am willing to spend but do you think I will notice an appreciable improvement.  I know that no one can listen through my ears but this is my first time doing this. Source is 75 watt integrated tube amp, McIntosh MA-2275. Thoughts appreciated. I am leaning towards going forward with the deal but would appreciate some feedback. Room is large and open, 28X38 feet with 9 foot ceilings. Thanks for any feedback.
ricmci
I have a large room too.  It's not as large as yours, but larger than many.  Anyway, I have a pair of T/9i and Revel F208 mains.  I got a T/9i, but in the large room, it wasn't enough.  So, I changed to one R528 (moved from the HT room).  The R528 was good, but I really felt that 2 subs would be better.  I decided to put the R528 back in the HT, added a second T/9i to the stereo setup, and now I have spent some time with it.

My advice is to use the high level inputs as described in the REL manuals.  I have the mains plugged into the 4 ohm tap on my Primaluna HP Integrated, and the RELs are connected as stereo (see REL setup instructions) using the 8 ohm taps.  This is the way REL recommends, if you read up on their installation instructions from their web site, or in the manual.

Once it was all connected, I spent some time tuning everything.  Then listened.  And tuned some more.  And listened.  After doing this for a few days with a variety of music, I have it dialed in.  At first, I thought it would be better to crossover at a low freq, but then I found that it worked better if I raised the crossover, which is what the manual recommends.  I also found that it was better with the volume levels set higher than I expected.

Overall, the sound has improved for all frequencies.  Everything smoothed out, and the system sounds better than ever.  The subs energize the room, but are not boomy, and they don't overpower the main speakers.

IMO, the T/7i may not have enough power for your room.  But, then again, I don't think you need to jump to major subs, like 18 or 21 inches, as some suggested... unless you want hip-hop bass. 
  
Bottom line, watch the REL videos on how to tune, and follow what's on there web site.  You'll adjust them differently than you expect, and the SQ will definitely satisfy!
The REL's just aren't real subs IMO. They don't even go down to 20hz. I have a friend with a pair of the REL Carbons. Even he acknowledges they don't perform like mine. I personally own Velodyne DD15s and I love them but would go for the SVS 16's if I needed a replacement. But you are right about personal preference Ric.
For 99% of music, you don’t need to go below 20hz. Home theater is a completely different thing.  REL is great for music. 
Listen to My Compensation by Laurie Anderson and you will change your mind.