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subwoofer setup problem

I am trying to mate an ACI Titan II with my Thiel 22. The Thiels go down to 30 hz but the lowest crossover on the Titan is 35hz. Thus, there is an annoying overlap in frequency. I am considering several possible options and would appreciate some input. They are (1) get a REL sub whose lowest crossover point is 28 hz. (2) get an active crossover and cross my mains at a higher point. (3) use a passive 65hz filter between my preamp and amp that ACI has.
The passive filter is the cheapest route but will it do more harm (to the sound of my thiels) than good?

Thanks
Greg
kadlec
sdcampbell
2,136 posts
 
The general rule-of-thumb for integrating subs and main speakers is to allow a one-octave overlap. Hence, if your main speakers were flat to 40 Hz, you'd want the subwoofer's crossover point to be about 80 Hz.
maxgain
526 posts
 
Scott, is that the case when the main speakers are not rolled off?
That was my idea as well but I have no experience with subs that are not really bi-amped with some sort of slope on the main speakers.
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
Really depends you how the sub and crossover workds. REL subs work best with no overlap. For a speaker that goes to 40Hz, most REL users would set the sub at 34Hz to 38Hz depending on placement. The REL owners guide acutally sais most user make the mistake of setting the sub too high. They recommend a low setting and turning up the volume until it integrates.
maxgain
526 posts
 
Sugarbrie, should I assume from what you are saying that the REL uses a steep slope so that there is not much output above the x point? Hum?
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
I really don't know about the technical details. The Stratus and Storm has settings down to 22Hz (not 28). The Stratus has room response down to 18Hz, the Storm 16Hz. They were built to compliment the main speakers, not replace them. Call and talk to the folks at Ambrosia Audio in LA (www.ambrosia.com), or the distributor Sumiko.
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