Am I Better Off With Limited Low Frequency Speaker In A Small Room?


In my 12'x12'x11' room, am I better off with limited low frequency speakers, such as those which only extend down to 40-50hz, or will the mere introduction of a speaker that extends down to 35hz be potential for trouble (The extent of my knowledge is that lower frequencies need larger spaces to truly breathe, and the wavelength goes up exponentially). My listening space is my living room, and there's not a lot of space for room treament. I'm auditioning a single GIK Soffit bass trap. I'm not sure how much it will help. 

analogj

I only use DSP in my car audio, but in this case I strongly agree.  I think you either use DSP or forget it and save a bunch of money by going for some of the highest end stereo Bluetooth speakers in there.

@theaudiomaniac , Yes they are higher, right where you can clearly hear them. The best solution here is to find another room in the house or move to a place that has a decent room for audio. I lived in apartments for years with rooms that were compromised but I knew that in time I would be able to build my own house with a purpose designed media room. You never want a room with equal dimensions. They should vary as much as possible. It is important for everyone to realize this. There are times when you are forced to live with a damaged situation. Just keep it in mind for the future that the OP needs a better room if he wants the best performance. It can be small just break up the dimensions. 

Agree with those saying bookshelves plus sub(s) as well put by Soix. 

Could also consider JL Audio e-112 sub(s) for clean bass foundation. 

 

Good Luck!

["analogj    I'm aware of what subs CAN do,  but I have never heard a sub, even in an audio salon, where I didn't ultimately prefer the sound of the main speakers without them, at least for music."]

 

If you heard the sub, even in an audio salon, I believe it wasn't, or simply incapable of being properly set up. 

In my experience the upper frequencies benefit from more space not the bass. The earlier 18" version of my current Room Optimization equipped 10" subwoofer used in my 10'x10'x8' studio are only distinguishable when turned off during play. 

All the best with your search.

I have the same size two channel room. McIntosh C-47 pre, MC152 amp, B&W 805d3 and REL T-7x. Room is GIK treated. Added the REL last and by far was the greatest improvement to overall sound; especially at low levels.