@OP Integrating subs with all-planar speakers might be a lot easier than with hybrids like the Martin Logans.
Alternatively:
EDIT: I prefer stereo subs on the inside of your main loudspeakers.
Subwoofer Advice
I am running a pair of Martin Logan ESL 13A speakers (24-23,000 Hz). I would have thought with two 10" woofers there would be more bas (the base level dial on the rear of the speakers doesn’t seem to cut it either).
In the past I had a pair of ML Spires (29-23,000 Hz) with only one 10" woofer that had so much base, I sold my pair of ForceField 30s. Not the case with the 13A’s.
I don’t have a lot of room, maybe 16" or so square and I was wondering about a pair of SVS Micros. Do you think they would complement the 13As or do I need something bigger?
Martin Logan has come out with a few new subs lately; do you think I should keep in the ML family?
Hoping to come in under $2K, so used is fine. Thanks all!
I should also mention I’m limited on space so placement would likely have to be on the inside or the outside of the main speakers (same back wall).
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I have a single ML BalenceForce 210 in a substantially bigger room (20x24) than you do and it does the job with my ML CLXs. It might be nice to have a pair for stereo bass, like I had with my Entecs, but it eats up floor space I need. The Ml BF subs have the advantage of being able to use a ML supplied crossover for your 13As. There are two, one if you want to run the 13As full range, and another if you want to roll them off in the bass. I run my CLXs full range. Then, with the PBK kit and Anthem software, you can create a custom BF output profile that can give you a much flatter in-room bass response. I can’t imagine using a sub that can’t do this. The before and after is night and day. I don’t know much about their new subs, maybe they do all this for less money. I would call them and also look on the ML forum. |
@docknow thanks for the insight, I'll check it out, for sure. |
@navyachts The ML Balanced Force speakers are great, but they are even larger and more expensive. I think the KEFs will do the job, fit in better and cost about 1/2 as much. Warning, one sub is never a good solution. You are better off without any. If you do a lot of listening from one listening position just keep the microphone at the listening position for all measurements. If you tend to listen more as background music then use the 5 locations as per instructions. Now, you have level controls for bass and midbass. Run the program then turn the midbass down just a little and the bass up as far as it will go. Then start decreasing the bass a little at a time until things sound right to you. I am not sure if this will work, but give it a try. It costs you nothing. A thing to remember is a balanced sound at lower levels with have too much bass and treble when you turn it up. I recommend balancing the system at the loudest levels you listen. When you turn it down the bass and treble will seem a little low unless you have a loudness control. |
@mijostyn Thanks so much Mike! I will try this when I have some time this coming Saturday. I’ll post back here with the results. In the meantime, I will start saving up for an additional pair of subs, lol.
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