Subwoofer Advice

Just another quick couple of things. I have had the speakers in lots of different positions with little effect on the sound, so I have them in ML’s recommended position with the backs 10" from the wall and 24" off the one of the side walls, the other side is wide open to the kitchen.

I’ve also found treating the room with dipole speakers doesn’t have a large effect on the sound quality. I have tried acoustic panels behind the speakers, and it didn’t sound good at all. I have no side wall to the left and on the right side, I can pull the curtains closed.

ML say ceiling treatment aren’t needed but do recommend treating the back wall (behind the listening position) which I have done.

ML also says there is no set measurement for the space between the speakers. I have mine 6’ apart and my listening position is approximately 11’ back from them. Toed in via ML's flashlight recommendation. 

I think REL overstates what is truly needed in their room guide.  I have a HT room that is similar in size to your room.  I'm running a pair of SB4000s and it's all the bass I need.  The sound is smooth and the room is fully pressurized.  If you want to go the REL direction I think that the SB2000 or SB3000 will get the job done.  The SVS subs are very popular and can usually be found on the second hand market.  Good luck and cheers.

@rick_n thanks

."@russ69 are you saying move on from the MLs and hook up with some Infinity RS1B towers or Tektons?"

No, the ML13A are fine speakers. My brother ran ML Requests for a long time. A stereo pair of towers does amazing things. You will get entirely new and deeper sound stage.

EDIT: I prefer stereo subs on the inside of your main loudspeakers.

@navyachts OK, I reviewed your pictures. Does the Anthem program have EQ capability? Can you increase certain frequencies manually? I assume you measure the speakers with a microphone? You should put sound absorption directly behind the speakers. It will improve your imaging and dampen sibilance. 

I also use ESLs and have been since 1978 along with subwoofers. If we can advance the low end 10 dB at 20 Hz keep it flat to 60 Hz then curve it down to zero dB at 100 Hz you should be fine without added subwoofers as long as the drivers and amps can handle the volumes you like to listen at. If not then we have to fill in with subwoofers from 80 Hz down. There are not many commercial subwoofers that are clean enough for your system. Martin logan has its balanced force subs, but you will need two subs. Do not even think about one. In your situation I think the best subs would be the KEF KC 92. They are also balanced force and you can get them in white which would fit your decor. They are quite small. I would put one right next to each ML, either side will do. I am hoping you will not need them. 

Bricasti Design just loaned me an M1 DAC to play with. Nice unit! I live about 30 minutes from the factory in Shirley, Mass.