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Incorporating sub into my 2 channel / HT system

Iv'e been reading many blogs but still can't find exact answer to my question. I have a Marantz SR-18 receiver that I use for my HT. This only runs my center channel and sub......I don't use surround speakers as it's only a 3.1 setup.

I use a Cary CAI-1 integrated for my 2 channel listening. The Cary is also used to run my L/R mains during HT via cinema bypass loop. My mains are JM Lab Electra 926's my sub is a Velodyne SPL-800R which is currently run off my Marantz using the LFE. I want to augment my 926's during 2 channel listening as well. How do I connect my sub so that it performs double duty weather 2 channel listening or HT. Also, I want to add another SPL-800 to augment both L and R sides. I am a babe-in-the-woods when it comes to this stuff. How do I tie everything together? which in/out do I use? Do I need Y-splitters? Help!
128x128freddy50
jedinite24's avatar
jedinite24
1,503 posts
 
Hi Freddy50

I have my HT set-up and 2.1 channel set-up in the same room. I have a Velodyne SPL 1500R subwoofer that I was using for the 2 channel part of my system. I took a look at the back of the Velodyne amp and there is a 2 channel inputs and one of the inputs also said LFE only. I took a male RCA to 2 female RCA Y adapter and plugged it into the LFE input jack.

My 2.1 channel preamp doesn't have a subwoofer output just another pair of outputs. My HT Pre Pro has an LFE output. One channel from my 2.1 channel preamp and the HT LFE output is plugged into the Y adapter.

If this doesn't make sense you can e-mail me and I'll send you a picture of the set-up.

Now I was able to use the same subwoofer in both systems BUT it was at different times like others have said above. Another issue I ran into was that I had to keep adjusting the volume and equalization on the sub to match both systems. The Velodyne doesn't have the ability to store 2 separate equalization/volume settings. I have some flexibility with my HT Pre/Pro so I can try to figure something out with the sub.

Good luck with your search.
moose89's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
moose89
170 posts
 

I find SVS Micro 3000 allows current-time listening through my phone app, and through a Bluesound Node, you can also adjust ALL sub crossover settings,sound settings, etc. ,etc. combining these two jewels in any set up. 

femoore12's avatar
femoore12
683 posts
 

Some of the REL subs allow two separate inputs. Separate level controls for HT and 2 channel. 

soix
8,681 posts
 

This might be a little nutty, but if you’ve got the budget and the space you could buy another sub and hook one up for HT and the other for stereo.  The added benefit is you have the ability to optimize each sub for its specific purpose.  You can get an SVS SB1000 Pro that has a small footprint yet still gets down to an honest 20Hz (-3dB), and it also comes with integration software you can adjust from your chair that is really convenient and helpful and all this for $599 with a 45-day, risk-free trial and free shipping both ways.  Just a different thought outta left field FWIW, and best of luck. 
https://www.svsound.com/products/sb-1000-pro-subwoofer

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