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How do you know if you need to add a sub (without auditioning one, I mean)?

I like my speakers, I like the SQ of my system, so I'm not asking this question because I'm seeking a remedy to a deficit. I just wonder if it would sound even better with a sub. and I don't want to buy/audition anything based on mild curiosity. Also, like many of us, I don't have an unlimited budget and wouldn't care to stretch it unnecessarily.
How does anyone else decide whether to add a sub or play a pat hand?
My speakers are ATC SC40v2s. By specs, they don't go low. To my ears, the bass is much more satisfying than anything else I've listened to in my limited experience.

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millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
How do you know? Very simple. Count your speakers. If you count less than 4 subs, you need to add subs. At least until you reach 4.

Yes it really is that simple.

(Add "a" sub. Good one. Like I would go for that. Just one sub. Chuckle. Snort.)
russ69's avatar
russ69
3,529 posts
 
There is low frequency info in a lot of recordings that you are missing if your system cannot go down to 20 Hz. So the answer is you need a sub. I prefer a forward facing sub between the speakers, a stereo pair is better, and stereo towers are best. 
gdnrbob
4,458 posts
 
Though most speakers will go down to 50hz, the addition of a subwoofer adds thae very low bass notes that a speaker is unable to reproduce.

Do you 'need' it, probably not. But, if you are looking to get every bit of sound you can, then a sub is what you want.
When dialed in properly, as subwoofer offers that 'je ne sais quoi'.

My pick for a sub would be a Vandersteen. It utilizes a crossover that relieves the amp from reproducing the power demanding bass notes, and integrates quite seemlessly.
B
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