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).

 

128x128navyachts

@mijostyn I would hope it doesn't have to cost 36K to solve all these problems. My solution with my very entry level Polks is low gain, that still produces the live sense of "beat in my chest" 

@mijostyn If you scroll down to the SHD Studio on this page:

https://www.minidsp.com/products/streaming-hd-series/shd-studio

It has a picture showing only a power amp after the SHD Studio and before the speakers and no power amp between the SHD Studio and the subs. You mention that I need a power amp for the subs. Can you please clarify?

You also mention Benchmark DACs. They currently have 3 models, which one would you recommend for the KEF subs?

Thanks!

@navyachts The Coda looks like a fine amp for the MLs. I would not change that. The SHD does not show an amp with the subs because most subwoofers have a plate amp installed in the subwoofer. You would use the Benchmark DAC 3B to drive the subs. If you get a MiniDSP you would disable all processing in the MLs and run them flat, the MiniDSP will take care of everything else.