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Subs/Monitors vs Full-Range Speakers - Pros/Cons

I've enjoyed a variety of full-range (near full-range) speakers over the years, but I recently decided to give some monitors a try. Inevitably - as would be expected - I like the strengths of the monitors (imaging, sound-staging, ability to disappear...), but I do miss the extended bass response.

I am currently running the Pioneer S-2EX (truly exceptional monitors ' "junior TADs"). I like them well enough to either keep them and incorporate a sub(s) or trade up to the S-1EX floor-standers - they sound great too (with the extended bass I want), but they just don't image quite as well in my room) - I could live with them though, if a sub setup with the S-2EXs doesn't pan out...

I'm looking at JL audio subs. I would rather utilize one sub ("cost" factor) than two... My concern is whether or not a good sub can truly ever be effectively integrated with monitors. I’m hoping so…

Can those of you having had successful integration with subs provide me with some guidance…Can I get by with one sub or is a stereo pair truly necessary. My monitors go down to 38Hz – is that “40Hz range” crossover point low enough provide a seamless integration (i.e.: will I be able to tell where the sub is when it “kicks in”)? How difficult is placement? General pros/cons…etc…?

Thanks.

_Ben
2chnlben
acoustat6
357 posts
 
Hello, you said "Can I get by with one sub or is a stereo pair truly necessary. My monitors go down to 38Hz – is that “40Hz range” crossover point low enough provide a seamless integration (i.e.: will I be able to tell where the sub is when it “kicks in”)? How difficult is placement? General pros/cons…etc…?"

One sub works , especially when crossed over low for music. There is no stereo signal that low. Crossover below the main speakers 38hz, try 32hz so the sub does not interfere with the purity of essence of the monitors. For seamless intergration do the sub crawl (place sub in the listening position and move yourself around the room, while listening for the most even bass). Do this and you can't go wrong. No downsides just intergrated bass with extension dow to 20 hz flat.
needfreestuff's avatar
needfreestuff
572 posts
 
Have integrated JL subs with monitors many times with great success. You should have no problems as long as you cross over low enough so the bass will not intefere with the midrange. Agree completely with acoustat6. JL Audio is an excellent choice and very easy to use but for proper set up it does take time and patience don't be afraid to try different sub locations, one sub should be more than adequate and you could always add another if funds permit. Keep us posted and Good Luck.
mechans
3,048 posts
 
I have never been able to find subs that integrate truly naturally with monitors. I even went to a JL demo last Winter and yes the bass was prodigious and as musical as sub 50-45Hz tones can be but I still liked the floor standers better. Is there any way to set up the floor standers so that they image the way you want? Maybe you have to deal with the dreaded "its the room problem" I sure hope not for your sake.
2chnlben OP
595 posts
 
Thanks guys...appreciated!

I am glad to hear from some who have had success with even one sub. I've heard that it can be done. I do remain skeptical though based on the known issues associated with integrating subs. I hope my dealer will allow me to demo one so I can be sure.

Mechans, The monitors just disappear soooo well and they look good! They actually look really great in my room (my wife even likes them). I really want them to work. The S-1EXs are really big in my room - they look a bit gaudy. But, overall, you're likely right that the floor-standers will provide a better solution.

Thanks again...

_Ben
tgrisham
1,291 posts
 
My experience with modestly priced systems is that setting up the monitors for the best imaging and ambience and then separately setting up the one or two subs for low end is rewarding. The midrange and high range is what you hear, the low range is what you feel. It helps to have a room analyzer but nothing takes the place of careful listening. First set up the monitors where they sound the best. Then, the subs to fill in. The subs should never be "heard". If you hear them while listening to music, the crossover is to high or their gain is too high. You should only notice them if you turn them off. I use an REL and their tuning advice on the Sumiko website is very helpful. Good luck.
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