2. speakers
  3. 173971-117640

What do you guys think of adding a subwoofer to this system?

I am just getting back into 2 channel music and critical listening. My system is comprised of B&W 805 Diamonds and a Hegel H390 integrated amplifier.  My audio source is primarily Tidal MQA files streamed thru a Bluesound Node 2i.  I stream digital out of the node 2i using a decent coaxial cable into the Hegel.  I use decent cables from the Hegel to the speakers.  
 

The rom is quite large 15x20’ with quite high sloping ceilings.  16’ over speakers and  12’ to the rear behind me.

the system (imho)sounds very good.  In fact I think it is the best system I have ever assembled.  Imagining, detail and separation is excellent . Midrange  is detailed and sharp.  Low end is tight.   I think the speakers roll off at 49 hz.

I can’t say enough positive about the Hegel H390. That is one fine piece of audio equipment and is certainly a keeper.  I gush every time I turn it on!

I have tried subwoofers in the past but have always been disappointed.  I know subs have come a long way and would be interested in your thoughts especially people who have a similar system.

I have found some discussion on this subject but thought I might ask the question directly.  I apologize in advance if I missed some relevant discussion.

Thanks for any advice.

 

Bob-

 

 

bobo2006
fiesta75
1,378 posts
 

+1 for two subs.

rocray's avatar
rocray
1,448 posts
 

At least two subs. 

knotscott
920 posts
 

Get an active sub or two, and use them just to augment the bottom octave. Don’t feature them. Keep the gain low enough so that you barely notice them, and set the low pass frequency at its lowest frequency setting. I prefer to drive subs using the speaker output connected to the high level inputs.   Work on placement and the phase setting until it sounds right to you.

erik_squires
16,051 posts
 

I have tried subwoofers in the past but have always been disappointed.  I know subs have come a long way and would be interested in your thoughts especially people who have a similar system.

It's not really the sub as much as the room and the integration. The question isn't can you get a good sub, it's can yo make the room accepting of one.

 

fredcdobbs
128 posts
 

Due to my  listening preferences I'm not a big subwoofer guy but they do add some heft and meat on the bones of your music. I don't have to have the lowest depths plumbed so I'm happy with a good eight inch that is both quick and articulate. 

I just ordered a SVS Micro 3000 sub. What sold me beside the good reviews is the ability to control the sub with a iPhone app. It also has an auto setup mode using a microphone. You have the ability to save different curves for different sets of speakers and because I'm old and screwed up, I don't have to kneel down or bend over to check settings. All controlled from my listening space. It's also not expensive at $899. 

More to discover