Connecting monoblock tube amps to single subwoofer.


Hi all,

I have added a REL5TX sub to my system which is driven by VTL225 monoblocks.Currently the sub and amps are connected via the low level outputs on my preamp. I would prefer to use the high level connection to the REL by direct  connection to the the VTLs. I am concerned about creation of a ground loop that will cause hum on the system. I have been told that the ground loop can be avoided by running a ground wire directly between each amp. Is this a possible solution, and if so, where / how should the ground "jumper" be connected to each monoblock?

Many thanks in advance for any comments or suggestions.

128x128rbanathy

@ps   +1000

 

 

@ieales   I guess that depends on how you want a pairing to sound, if you just plop them down anywhere, yeah you are right... no problem. ( Nope). OTOH, IF you want an invisible blend with your mains...then yup! 🤔

I've been setting up subs in systems for decades. Today with room correction and tools like REW, setting up two subs is actually easier than one.

My room is ±5dB from 20Hz. Show me a plot of your room and then we'll talk.

Assuming the op means he has a T/5x, setup is going to be very, very difficult:

  • No continuous phase control
  • No polarity inversion
  • No crossover order
  • No delay

If he has ported mains, fuhgeddaboudit.

See Subterranean Homesick Blues Guide to Subwoofers

As a composer once said of one of my systems:

"Those little speakers aren't putting out all that gorgeous bass?!?!?!?!?"

- No, there's a Force subwoofer at the end of the sofa. - 

"Every other subwoofer I've ever heard just boomed!"

What we are talking about is two REL T5x’s. They do have a phase adjustment switch and adjustable xover settings. Nonetheless, I think you are agreeing with me that the set up is not easy. I am no fan of digital room correction tools, much prefer to just use my ears.

I may be dead wrong here but I was always told that the bass signal output is mono. This would mean that when running mono blocks you can tap the sub off just one amp and be ok. The key to this is where you cross over the sub at.

@sgreg1 Bass may be omnidirectional, which is a property of our hearing, but there is NO guarantee from recording to recording, that the signal below 80Hz has been combined and evenly distributed to the L&R channels.

The mastering engineer must chose to do this, and we have no idea when or if this ever happens.

In other words, bass may not be heard as directional but the bass in a recording is not necessarily monophonic.