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

By the way, have you ever played around with DSP?

@navyachts not so much in my main system. I've played around with it in my car and have experimented with it in Roon, but it usually ends up sounding not quite right.  I've also experimented with the DSP functions in the Parks Puffin.  None of it is really to my liking.  

I have a friend that uses a Trinnov processor as a preamp for his system and it sounds quite nice, so I do believe it can work well and be a useful tool.

As far as cables, I tend to use higher end stuff for most of my cabling, but for subwoofers, BJC should be fine.  I think I have a couple of their cables in use with my subs.

I like that the newer SVS subs provide the app and DSP to help you tune them, that could be very useful.  If you can get the subs in opposite corners of the room, that is often best, but work with what your room gives you and experiment with placement.  They might sound fine at the front of your room.  Every room is different and you won't know until you try.  If you're using single-ended or balanced cables, you only need one cable for each sub.

@big_greg  ok, thanks for your feedback. I’m working on it. Speaking of working, have a great Labor Day!

@big_greg LOL, nothing worse than sitting at home, by yourself, on the computer looking at long weekend sales. $150 each off, plus another 5% for two SVS 3000 Micros and guess who bit...UGH!

Sending my cables to BJC tomorrow for cutting a re-termination, which will be a third of buying new.

Best part, as you said, 45-day trial, so now I’m all set.

If I don’t like it, I can still try mijostyn’s route, but hey, that’s gonna be $7 grand all in with DSP. I don’t think I can come up with that kind coin any time soon.

Thanks again for your help.

Please post after you get them and let us know how it goes.  Feel free to PM if you have questions.