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Thoughts on Subwoofer set-up?

I'm considering getting my first sub woofer for my 2channel system. In doing my research I see there are two schools of thought on how to properly integrate a sub into your system: (1) Allow your speakers to run full-range and use the sub to augment the sound; (2) Allow the sub to take over the speaker's low frequency duties via crossover settings. I realize that in both methods proper placement and room equalization is critcal. Assuming placement and room issues are resolved, which integration method usually delivers the more satisfying musical experience?
shoff
mt10425
1,138 posts
 
You answered your question already. Your research showed both ways work for people. Now, you have to do the work.
zmanastronomy's avatar
zmanastronomy
738 posts
 
I found letting the speaker do as much as possible and the sub do as least as possible is a much better sound.
The sub wont sound as good as the speaker in most cases.
So keeping it to a minimum is better in most cases.
Mt10425 is correct, you have to try it both ways and let the voices in you head tell you which one to live with.
Unfortunatly, my voices never shut up.
tbromgard
814 posts
 
I agree with the above comments, and will add that I prefer my speakers running full range and sub to augment.One advantage to this arrangement is using the amp which powers th speakers to also power the sub (even if you have a powered sub) so the same amp is running all. IMO this arrangement leads to a more uniform sound.
xti16
1,525 posts
 
In my case I'm very satisfied with the bass my Dyn C1's can produce but want them to sound deeper. I run them full range and crossover at 32hz. C1's run 45 to 22khz. When I cross over higher the mid bass sounds bloated and because it adds to what the C1's do I loose the deepest octaves.

That being said when set up properly (phasing) the sub sounds as good as the speakers. FWIW I have a Rel B3. I will admit with Rel you really need to get a real cable and not use the stock aluminum one that comes with it.
soix
9,456 posts
 
I imagine it comes down to how well your particular speakers handle the lower part of their range and how well the sub handles the upper end of its range. Which method works better probably depends on how those two factors combine, which goes back to the others' comments that there's no absolute right answer and there's no getting around individual experimentation in this instance (as in most in this hobby). Be interested to hear what you find since I may be in this situation as well in the future.
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