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Sub wiring help, high level speaker terminal to RCA line level Sub inputs

I just received a new Rhythmic L12 sub, and surprisingly did not realize it only has RCA line level inputs. I had purchased it thinking it also had high level speaker inputs to connect it directly to the speaker posts on my power amp.

I have a Cambridge CXNv2 connected to a Schiit Aegir Power Amp through the line level RCA. Now, the CXN does have an additional balanced XLR out, but I can only connect the Schiit Aegir through RCA.

So these are my options and questions:
1. Connect the Power Amp to the Sub using a custom cable with speaker terminals on one end and RCA on the other end.
2. CXN XLR --> Power Amp RCA, and CXN RCA --> Sub RCA
3. CXN RCA --> Power Amp RCA, and CXN XLR --> Sub RCA
4. Return the Rhythmic and get an SVS SB1000 with high level speaker inputs.

In this case I’m not sure what the positives and negatives are about trying to connect the Sub via speaker terminals or RCA line level on the CXN. Or is it even advisable to use a cable that goes from the speaker terminals to the RCA line level inputs of the Sub?

Appreciate any help!
rhern213
nsm1979
14 posts
 
Bring back an old thread from 2019 to get clarification.

I am researching the viability of adding a pair of Rythmik L12 subs to my system that is based on shortest signal path.  I run a DAC directly into mono amps that sit at the base of my speakers.  No preamp, no LFE or subwoofer connections in my system.  My speaker cables are only 12” in length.  I prefer high level input connections.

Miller Carbon suggested a solution to connecting a subwoofer to high level signal source when a high level signal source input is not available on the subwoofer.

The clarification I am looking for is the “Parts Express” LOC, that is mentioned earlier in this thread.  It states that it has a 30 watts max rating.  If my amplifier is rated at 400 watts, what reliability concern is there due to the vast differences in ratings?

Hopeful the Electrical Engineers and millercarbon will chime in and provide clarification on why the difference in ratings would not be a potential reliability issue.  These electrical concepts are above my pay grade.

Thanks in advance for sharing your wisdom.
 
Neil

audiorusty
309 posts
 
@nsm1979

Hi Neil, the last time I checked, Rythmik did offer an amp option that contained a high level input. I would contact Rythmik with your questions.
imhififan's avatar
imhififan
2,227 posts
 
The clarification I am looking for is the “Parts Express” LOC, that is mentioned earlier in this thread. It states that it has a 30 watts max rating. If my amplifier is rated at 400 watts, what reliability concern is there due to the vast differences in ratings?
Of course max wattage rating matters, otherwise they won’t state that specs. For example, the Russound ADP-1.2 Speaker-level to Line-level Adapter is rated 250watts rms/ 500watts peak by using 1/2watt and 1watt resistors. If you apply power higher than the rated power to the LOC, its resistors will burn out!

https://images.crutchfieldonline.com/ImageHandler/trim/1736/1129/products/2008/543/x543ADP12-f.jpeg

BTW, be very careful using high level connection for subwoofer if your amplifier speaker negative output is not grounded (balanced, BTL or some class D amplifier), best to confirm with your amplifier manufacturer.
If your amplifier has floating speaker negative output, a Jensen Transformers speaker to line converter is one of the solution.

https://www.cs1.net/pic/jensen_transformers/SC-2NR_manual.pdf

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