2. amps-preamps
  3. 190574-2439

Do No Harm ... well the least harm anyway

I want to insert a high pass filter between my preamp and amp (both Benchmark) so I can limit the frequencies going to my full range speakers (Ref 3A Nefes II) to over 100Hz with a 24 db/oct. slope. The 3 possible ways are passive, active, or digitally (A to D then D to A where this is done through software). I am seeking opinions on which method would be the least intrusive to the original signal (ie. best sounding). Thanks for any replies.

koestner
helomech
1,680 posts
 

The only way to do it with least detriment is digitally. And even then you’ll need to carefully choose the product. 

desktopguy
371 posts
 

When I had to integrate a subwoofer to a high quality desktop audio system, I had already worn out the passive alternatives. I knew it was time to get serious, so I purchased a gently used Marchand XM66 electronic crossover. I have used this with great success for the past 10 years.

It has a variable (user selectable) crossover point, and both the high pass and low pass outputs going through a 24 dB/octave circuit. It sounds utterly clean, transparent, and unaltered as compared to no crossover.

It’s a steal. Of course, you could spend 4-5X the $$ on an electronic crossover by one of the audiophile names, but I"m not sure how much better it would be than the XM66.

https://www.marchandelec.com/xm66-electronic-crossover.html

koestner OP
669 posts
 

Yes, The XM-66 is probably the highest on my list of possibilities.

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